Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
Ahead of repolling in 15 booths in South 24 Parganas, Special Electoral Roll Observer Subrata Gupta said the security deployment will remain at the same scale, but vigilance will be heightened. The repoll follows reports of possible EVM tampering during the April 29 elections. Officials are preparing revised safeguards to address concerns and ensure a fair vote.
President Donald Trump said on Friday that it is “treasonous” for critics to claim the United States is not winning its war with Iran. He further argued that Iran’s military capability has been significantly degraded and that Iranian leadership has been weakened, framing the conflict as moving decisively in America’s favor despite public criticism.
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Trinamool Congress leader Shashi Panja has written to West Bengal’s Chief Electoral Officer, alleging intermittent CCTV disruptions in strong rooms. She says the lapses could jeopardize the security of electronic voting machines and asks for immediate access to complete surveillance records. Panja also flags the possibility of agitation if concerns are not addressed promptly, pressing for corrective action.
The US has approved more than $8.6 billion in military sales to Israel and Gulf allies as tensions with Iran remain high. In parallel, President Trump escalated rhetoric by calling criticism of the US war effort against Iran “treasonous,” while claiming the US has delivered major success and substantially weakened Iran’s capabilities.
Apple CEO Tim Cook said the company is seeing strong double digit growth in India for iPhones, iPads and Macs, even as the broader Indian smartphone market declines. He pointed to Apple’s growing aspirational appeal that is drawing new users into its ecosystem. Apple is also working through higher memory chip costs while maintaining momentum in one of its key growth regions.
India’s power market surged in late April as heatwaves drove electricity demand sharply higher. Indian Energy Exchange data shows tariffs in non-solar hours climbed to the ₹20 per unit regulatory ceiling. The capped high-price segment helps bring in costlier power sources to meet demand, while peak requirement hit a record 256 GW.
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India’s home interior startups are increasingly betting on AI to fight soaring customer acquisition and day-to-day operating costs. Firms such as Homelane and Livspace say AI helps improve designer productivity and streamlines internal workflows, helping them compete more effectively against the unorganized market and move toward profitability.
GameStop and eBay shares jumped after a report claimed GameStop is preparing a takeover offer for eBay. The plan is tied to CEO Ryan Cohen’s push to boost market value and expand GameStop’s online business. Investors reacted in extended trading, with eBay climbing and GameStop gaining, while markets weigh financing, shareholder response, and what it could mean for retail and e-commerce.
The eGaming regulator has taken charge as new online gaming rules come into effect, with an in game portal going live today. The immediate focus is on bringing eSports under the registration framework, signaling a tighter compliance push for platforms and operators. The rollout marks a shift from guidance to active regulation and verification from day one.
India kicked off the new fiscal year with a broad-based consumption lift despite West Asia war tremors. April GST collections hit a record, passenger car sales rose sharply, and UPI-driven digital transactions expanded strongly. Together, these indicators point to resilient consumer and spending momentum, suggesting limited immediate fallout from the conflict—at least for now.
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A bridge under maintenance in Jammu’s Thathar area collapsed during repairs on Thursday afternoon, crushing labourers and trapping around five to six workers. Three labourers died, one was rescued, and officials said the victims were from Chhattisgarh and Odisha. The J&K government suspended two engineers, attached an Executive Engineer, and blacklisted the contractor.
The finance ministry has authorized force majeure for government contracts disrupted by the West Asia conflict, classifying the situation as war. Under the order, affected suppliers—such as drone manufacturers—can seek case-by-case deadline extensions as supply chain disruptions and delays of roughly two to four months are reported. Crucially, penalties can be avoided only for firms that had not defaulted by Feb 27.
At TechCrunch’s StrictlyVC in San Francisco, Replit CEO Amjad Masad tackled the biggest industry question: if Cursor is reportedly in talks to be acquired by SpaceX for $60 billion, is Replit forced to sell too? Masad also addressed how he’s handling pressure from Apple and why, despite the market buzz, selling is not his preferred path.
Musely, the DTC brand for skin, hair, and menopause care, has secured $360 million from General Catalyst via non-dilutive capital. The company says it will use the funding to accelerate customer acquisition and growth without giving up equity, highlighting a financing approach designed to scale faster while limiting founder and investor dilution.
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A federal appeals court has restricted access to mifepristone by blocking the mailing of prescriptions for the abortion pill. The ruling effectively requires patients to obtain care through in person clinic visits, affecting telemedicine abortion access, enforcement of state bans such as Louisiana’s, and related miscarriage care, while intersecting with FDA rules governing use of the medication.
Roblox shares fell after it cut bookings guidance, citing safety-related changes and mounting competition risk. Reddit climbed on expectations that AI is boosting advertising growth, alongside a solid revenue outlook. Atlassian also gained momentum after raising revenue forecasts, driven by stronger cloud and AI demand. Markets are now weighing users, ads, enterprise demand, and competitive threats.
Meta says it has acquired humanoid startup Assured Robot Intelligence, betting the deal will strengthen its AI models for robots. The company frames the move as a way to accelerate development of humanoid systems that can learn and operate more effectively in the physical world, building on its broader push toward AI embodied in machines.
Bharat Khera has assumed charge as the MSME Secretary, backed by over three decades of administrative experience. He previously worked in key central government roles, including the Ministry of Defence and the Cabinet Secretariat, and also held significant positions in the Himachal Pradesh government. His appointment signals continuity of experienced civil service leadership for the MSME sector.
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Goa’s Forest Department has mapped 6.72 crore square metres along the Mandovi and Zuari rivers as ecologically sensitive. It has now sent the demarcation maps to the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, urging regulatory measures to curb unregulated development and protect the river ecosystems. The move targets stretches deemed environmentally critical.
MAC cosmetics owner Estee Lauder says it will cut up to 3,000 additional jobs, bringing planned layoffs to 10,000. The company expects the restructure to add about $200 million in savings. Estee Lauder is also reallocating resources toward online channels, including TikTok Shop, betting that digital demand will offset store-level pressure.
Delhi Capitals snapped a three-match losing streak with a dominant seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur. After the victory, KL Rahul emphasized that personal milestones are secondary to team success. He pointed to disciplined execution of the game plan, with key contributions from both the batting and bowling units sealing the win.
Novo Nordisk is relaunching a diabetes tablet in the United States under the Ozempic name, starting with select adult doses this Monday. The strategy banks on Ozempic’s blockbuster brand recognition to lift sales and help Novo regain market share from rival Eli Lilly as competition intensifies in diabetes care.
Riyan Parag’s 90 powered Rajasthan Royals, but Delhi Capitals held firm to win the match. Parag, amid vaping-related criticism, said his focus is on winning rather than silencing critics. The spotlight also returned to Mitchell Starc, who made a successful comeback for Delhi by taking three wickets as Rajasthan fell short.
Magnum Ice Cream is ramping up in India, planning to expand factories from one to four to handle rising demand. The move follows a business revamp featuring more dairy-based products and lower pricing. Even as the company faces profitability pressures, it’s betting on stronger supply chains and cold-chain infrastructure to scale efficiently.
Gold and silver prices rose as oil prices slipped and the US dollar weakened, making metals cheaper for global buyers. Market mood also improved after reports that Iran has sent a proposal for talks. Investors are now weighing the path of inflation, interest rates, and growth signals—while analysts debate whether upside targets like $4,800 gold and $90 silver are realistic.
Oil prices fell after Iran proposed new talks with the US via Pakistan, boosting hopes of improved supply. Brent and WTI initially dropped before a partial rebound. Meanwhile, US natural gas futures rose as domestic output declined and LNG exports hit records. Storage levels, pipeline constraints, and weather-driven demand further influenced gas prices.
Maruti Suzuki expects strong growth this financial year even as global challenges persist, with demand in local markets running ahead of available supply. The company says it will ramp up production to clear pending orders, while new capacity additions come online. Maruti also plans to introduce fresh products and grow faster than the industry, supported by favorable economic conditions.
After 25 years as a trusted legal database, Manupatra has rolled out an AI suite that expands it into a full-stack legal intelligence platform. The offering blends research, compliance, contracts and litigation tools built on Manupatra’s proprietary 340-journal database, aiming to move legal work from search to guided execution for modern practitioners.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has wished a speedy recovery to Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai, who is reportedly unwell. Modi shared the message on X, invoking his support for Rai’s health. Rai, a veteran political figure, previously challenged Modi for the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat in three general elections.
India’s electric vehicle market started the new fiscal year on a strong note in April. Sales of both electric cars and two-wheelers rose sharply year-on-year, supported by new model launches and growing consumer interest. Though April figures slipped from March’s peak, the bigger picture points to sustained momentum for electric mobility as fuel-price concerns push buyers toward EVs.
The Supreme Court granted anticipatory bail to Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, prompting the party to accuse the Assam government of trying to intimidate him. Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi pointed to the court’s remarks on the Assam Chief Minister’s conduct, urging him to reflect and express regret. The ruling permits an inquiry without arrest.
Iran’s biggest crypto exchange, Nobitex, is reportedly controlled by the sons of the influential Kharrazi family—after years of keeping their involvement hidden. Investigations say it handled millions in transactions for sanctioned entities, including IRGC-related bodies and Iran’s central bank, effectively functioning as a bridge to global crypto markets. Nobitex denies any direct state role.
The BJP is preparing a significant organizational shake-up as teams are set up at the national and state levels, with key decisions expected in May. In Uttar Pradesh, a cabinet reshuffle may introduce new faces and rework portfolios. In Bihar, a cabinet expansion is expected to keep BJP and JDU in equal representation, reshaping the coalition balance.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Leh for Buddha Purnima, praising Ladakhis for patriotism and sacrifice. He inaugurated dairy projects and urged faster development aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s push for a self-reliant Ladakh. Since becoming a Union Territory, Shah said the region has transformed, including greater administrative recognition for local languages, with dairy expansion now a key priority.
Rahul Gandhi and Congress leaders attacked the government over a sharp rise in commercial LPG cylinder prices, calling it an “electoral bill.” They say the increase comes right after assembly polls and warn that petrol and diesel prices could rise next. Congress argues the costs will hit small businesses and everyday households, urging the government to cushion people from price shocks.
Coforge has officially completed its acquisition of Hyderabad-based Cigniti Technologies. The company said the takeover moved forward after receiving required shareholder approval and clearance from the National Company Law Tribunal, along with completion of all regulatory requirements. The deal marks another step in consolidation within the IT services sector as both firms align operations post-closure.
The Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board (HSAMB) has dismissed its suspended Controller of Finance and Accounts, Rajesh Sangwan, over alleged involvement in a multi-crore fraud. The claim is being investigated by the Haryana Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, and the case has now prompted directions for a CBI inquiry, escalating scrutiny inside the state agriculture finance system.
C.V. Anand assumed charge as Telangana’s Director General of Police on Friday, meeting public representatives and senior officers after the swearing-in. Speaking at a press conference, he thanked Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and the state government for their confidence. The appointment marks a new leadership phase for the Telangana police force with expectations of tighter focus on enforcement and public safety.
Nipun Aggarwal is emerging as a frontrunner for Air India’s next CEO, with Tata Sons reportedly nearing a decision. Current CEO Campbell Wilson is expected to leave once a successor is named. The change comes as Air India grapples with major financial strain and operational hurdles, even as Aggarwal is credited with driving parts of the airline’s expansion push.
British exports to the United States plunged by about £800 million after US tariffs took effect, according to official data. Car and pharmaceutical shipments were hit hardest. Yet President Donald Trump removed tariffs on Scottish whisky, giving a rare pocket of relief. Still, the US remains the UK’s biggest goods export destination.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared a video of himself working out at the gym days after information about his prostate cancer surgery and radiation treatment became public. The clip is widely viewed as a direct response to political rivals who have raised concerns about his age and health, as he tries to project strength and shut down the criticism.
A five-year-old boy, convinced something sinister was under his brother’s bed, dialed 911 late at night while his parents slept. Police rushed in prepared for the worst, but what unfolded quickly became a heartwarming moment that melted hearts online. The child’s fear was met with calm reassurance, turning panic into a feel-good memory.
US President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s newest proposal aimed at ending the war between Washington and Tehran. While tensions remain elevated across West Asia, Trump said he was still “not satisfied” and criticized Iran’s leadership as “fractured,” adding that its approach appeared confused and disjointed, stalling diplomacy again.
GAIL has moved to the Delhi High Court challenging PNGRB’s push to unbundle gas transportation from gas marketing, a reform mandated in 2017. GAIL says the separation would damage its integrated business strategy, while a committee report backs PNGRB, arguing India’s gas market has evolved and needs structural changes.
Militants used a drone to attack a cricket ground in Bajaur, Pakistan, injuring three children during an ongoing match and triggering panic among spectators. The attack comes after earlier mortar shellings and claims of cross-border firing from Afghanistan. Pakistani forces are responding on the ground to protect civilians and stabilize the region.
A Mumbai family of four died within hours after dinner last Saturday, and investigators say watermelon contamination is unlikely. Forensic findings reported organs turning green and morphine detected in the father’s body have shifted the case toward suspected poisoning. Police are probing possible foul play, while chemical analysis is awaited, leaving the exact cause yet to be confirmed.
Delhi is set to declare leprosy a notifiable disease under the Delhi Epidemic Diseases Act, meaning hospitals must report cases to authorities. The move aims to strengthen surveillance, speed up early MDT treatment, and help trace patients who may be hidden from the system. India accounts for a large share of new global leprosy cases, driving the urgency.
Delhi Capitals ended a painful losing streak with a seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, completing a record-breaking chase of 226. In a pursuit that became their highest ever in IPL, KL Rahul and Pathum Nissanka laid the foundation early, while Riyan Parag’s 90 couldn’t prevent Rajasthan from falling short. The victory lifts Delhi up the table.
India’s decade-long push to expand oil and gas production has delivered little on the ground. In 10 years, the government awarded 172 blocks and saw extensive exploration, yet only one marginal field produces. Experts cite geological hurdles and a shift of risk to companies, deterring global capital, while state-run firms dominate auctions—leaving imports as the default supply.
Moderna’s first-quarter revenue topped expectations, powered largely by strong international COVID-19 vaccine sales. While the company expects lower-than-anticipated revenue in Q2, it is betting on longer-term growth, targeting a major slice of Europe’s respiratory vaccine market. Its mCombriax launch is planned for 2027, shifting investor focus beyond COVID.
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