Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
The Ministry of Education is set to write to West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, urging them to sign a Memorandum of Understanding for the PM SHRI scheme. The programme targets upgrading schools into model institutions aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. The Centre expects smoother implementation after recent election outcomes.
Mysuru City Corporation has installed a mirror-finish steel wall near the Suburban Bus Stand to tackle public urination. The shiny surface is designed to make anyone attempting to relieve themselves face their own reflection, discouraging the behavior without direct confrontation. Officials say the move targets a long-running nuisance by shifting it into an uncomfortable visual consequence.
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Indian banks are facing an unprecedented five-week standstill in gold and silver imports, leaving domestic prices to surge and jewelers worrying about shortages. Shipments have been hit since April 1 due to administrative hurdles and tax uncertainties. An alternative through the India International Bullion Exchange exists, but it is slower and demands more capital, delaying restocking after Akshaya Tritiya.
A major academic journal reports AI assisted submissions jumped 42% since November 2022, alongside a noticeable decline in writing quality. Researchers say peer review is under heavier strain as more manuscripts arrive, often using AI to speed drafting. The pattern points to a faster growth in volume of research rather than improvements in rigor or reliability.
The BJP has delivered a historic victory in West Bengal’s assembly polls, winning 207 seats and signaling the end of the Trinamool Congress’s 15-year rule. The party’s win was powered by dominance in constituencies with very large victory margins, suggesting support spread well beyond a narrow set of seats and reshaping the state’s political map.
India and South Korea are set to meet on May 25 to review their economic partnership agreement amid a growing trade deficit. India has proposed negotiating a new bilateral trade deal to make trade more balanced and tackle the widening gap. Both sides also aim to double bilateral commerce by 2030, turning the review into a possible reset for negotiations.
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Meesho reported a standout Q4 as its loss narrowed 88% year on year to Rs 166 crore. Revenue from operations surged 47% to Rs 3,531 crore, up from Rs 2,400 crore in the same quarter last year. The update signals a stronger operating performance despite earlier profitability pressure.
Bihar is preparing for the swearing-in of Nishant Kumar, son of former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, on May 7 at Gandhi Maidan. Reports say JDU leaders and close associates persuaded Nishant late Tuesday, arguing it would boost the party’s electoral prospects. Nishant reportedly agreed, setting the stage for his induction into the expanded state cabinet.
Cognizant is preparing for a major workforce reset under Project Leap, with potential cuts of 12,000 to 15,000 jobs worldwide. The company earmarked up to $270 million for employee related expenses within a $230 million to $320 million restructuring budget. With AI and automation driving a shift toward a “future operating model,” India is expected to face the heaviest impact.
Brent crude fell below $100 a barrel on fresh hopes of easing Middle East tensions after renewed US-Iran deal talk. The North Sea benchmark dropped 9.3% to $99.64, while US West Texas Intermediate plunged 10.7% to $91.33, signaling a sharp shift in market expectations toward a potential end to hostilities.
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Sanjay Raut of the NCP (SP) backed Mamata Banerjee’s decision not to resign as West Bengal Chief Minister, alleging democratic processes were subverted. He accused the Centre and central agencies of being misused to tilt the assembly poll result, while targeting the Election Commission’s conduct as partisan. Banerjee, meanwhile, says the verdict was engineered.
After facing major setbacks in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, the Samajwadi Party has signaled it will sever ties with political consultancy firm I-PAC for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls. Founded by Prashant Kishor, I-PAC had earlier been approached to support the party in 2022 where defeat margins were narrow, but the latest decisions suggest a major shift in strategy.
Actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam is struggling to prove it has the numbers to form government in Tamil Nadu. Sources say Governor Rajendra Arlekar received TVK’s claim letter but is reportedly not convinced yet. Vijay met the Governor to discuss government formation efforts, raising doubts over a possible oath-taking timeline.
Climate NBFC Ecofy has raised $15 million from Mirova to expand lending for rooftop solar and electric mobility, including two- and three-wheelers. Founded in 2022, it claims to be India’s first green-only NBFC and will use the funds for onward lending to residential and commercial customers. It already serves 130,000 users across 26 states.
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China’s foreign minister Wang Yi told his Iranian counterpart that Beijing will play a “greater role” in ending hostilities in the Middle East. Speaking in Beijing ahead of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled meeting with Xi Jinping next week, Wang said China will intensify efforts to ease tensions, support peace talks, and help restore stability and tranquility.
Wednesday’s rally lifted India’s Nifty and Sensex by over 1% as crude oil moved below $100. Amid the broad upside, a handful of stocks delivered outsized gains and losses, including Vodafone Idea and ONGC, reflecting fresh buying and selling across sectors rather than one single driver.
TVK leader Vijay met Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Arlekar at Lok Bhavan on Wednesday to officially stake his party’s claim to form the government. After TVK’s historic win of 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly, the swearing-in is set for Thursday, May 7, at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Janhvi Kapoor playfully teased Varun Dhawan’s upcoming box office battle, posting about their June film faceoff. Varun responded with warmth, saying it’s “never a clash with you,” as both actors emphasized camaraderie. Their movies, Peddi and Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, are set for consecutive-day releases—turning competition into mutual support.
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A three-day Chakka Jam announced by Delhi truck operators from May 22 to May 24, 2026, is expected to disrupt logistics after they opposed an increase in the Environmental Compensation Charge for goods vehicles. Residents across Delhi NCR could face delayed deliveries of milk, fruits and vegetables, along with possible price hikes and daily inconveniences.
Marico MD Saugata Gupta says the company is on track for double digit revenue growth, aiming to reach Rs 15,000 crore by FY27. He points to Parachute’s continued resilience even as prices rose and input costs eased. Value added hair oils and foods are driving diversification, while Saffola’s premium push targets profitable growth as Marico keeps a close watch on El Nino risks.
Movies give T rex a roaring soundtrack, but scientists argue that fossil clues don’t match loud calls. Instead, they suggest it likely produced low-frequency, resonant sounds—something closer to certain modern animal vocalizations. By comparing T rex-like traits to living birds and crocodiles, researchers narrow down how this giant may have sounded, even if the exact “voice” is still unknown.
Operation Sindoor was launched as a swift response to the Pahalgam terror attack, highlighting tight coordination across India’s Army, Navy, and Air Force. The operation reportedly targeted terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, triggering a four-day exchange of retaliatory strikes. A ceasefire was later agreed to halt hostilities and limit further damage and loss of life.
India is not planning to restrict sugar exports for now even as weaker demand emerges. While output is expected to be lower, stable local prices suggest the demand slowdown is offsetting the supply gap. Government sources say available stocks are sufficient, and new export deals have slowed as firmer domestic prices meet global disruptions. Output is forecast to broadly match consumption in 2025-26.
reMarkable has introduced the Paper Pure tablet, aiming to simplify the experience with a monochrome screen. The company says it is lighter and faster than the reMarkable 2, which is set to be retired about six years after its launch. For fans of distraction-free reading, the new device focuses on core note-taking and e-paper performance.
A new AP-NORC poll finds most US adults think the country no longer feels welcoming for immigrants, with many connected to aggressive enforcement. About one third of Americans say they have firsthand or known experiences involving immigration status changes, detentions, or routine disruptions tied to someone’s legal standing under Trump-era crackdowns.
Bayern Munich host Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their free scoring Champions League semifinal after PSG edged the first encounter 5-4 in Paris. With the tie poised on a razor thin advantage, both defending champions and their German rivals head into the match expecting another frantic, goal packed thriller that could shape who faces Arsenal in the final.
GCC-based NRIs are cutting back on Indian real estate and increasing allocations to equities and other financial assets. The shift is being driven by geopolitical uncertainty and a growing preference for structured, disciplined investing strategies. Even with lingering concerns, Indian equities are gaining traction as the go-to option for wealth creation.
The Supreme Court will hear pleas on May 20 over who has the power to tax mineral rights in India. A nine-judge bench previously ruled that states can levy such taxes and rejected review requests. Now the Centre has filed a curative petition seeking reconsideration, setting up a high-stakes decision that could reshape state revenue and mining taxation.
Hyundai Motor India is celebrating 30 years in the country, reiterating its long-term commitment to India’s mobility future. The automaker says it has invested heavily so far and plans further expansion in manufacturing and electrification. With sales milestones and growing exports, Hyundai aims to strengthen India’s role in its global strategy, while rolling out new products and expanding service networks nationwide.
BMW’s Greer-area manufacturing hub in South Carolina is set to lose about 100 jobs as contractor Univar Solutions exits onsite waste management services. The state received notice of 99 permanent layoffs tied to June 28. The timing suggests the production line may continue, but the contractor network around the plant is reshuffling—another hit to the Upstate auto supply ecosystem.
Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) has released the JAC Class 12 board results for 2026 on May 6. Students can download their scorecards online via jacresults com and also through DigiLocker. A minimum of 33% is required to pass. JAC also outlines its grading system and allows students to apply for improvement exams for theory papers.
JD(U) in Bihar is pushing for 16 ministerial positions in a cabinet expansion set for Thursday. The current cabinet has limited JD(U) clout, with only two party leaders serving as deputy chief ministers. The reshuffle is also expected to give more space to NDA allies, as Nishant Kumar prioritises party organisation for now.
Coforge shares jumped on Wednesday, adding more than $500 million in market value after the company delivered a stronger-than-expected earnings outlook for fiscal 2027. Improved operating margins further fueled investor optimism, surprising analysts who had not expected Coforge to outpace larger IT peers. Trading activity reflected bullish sentiment as investors bet on sustained momentum.
In Tamil Nadu’s race to consolidate power, TVK is pushing alliance talks to secure government support, but the big uncertainty remains over VCK, a DMK ally. While Left and IUML have backed DMK, VCK’s leadership has not yet reached a decision, leaving TVK’s path to forming the government tightly tied to VCK’s final call.
State-owned NMDC has increased its iron ore lump and fines prices by Rs 200 per tonne, effective immediately. Baila lump is now at Rs 5,500 per tonne and fines at Rs 4,700, excluding taxes and fees. The move is likely to raise input costs for steel manufacturers and could ripple through downstream pricing.
Uber reported Q1 revenue up 14% year over year, but it narrowly missed expectations. Even so, the stock rose after the company lifted confidence with a strong outlook for Q2 gross bookings and adjusted earnings per share. Analysts say Uber’s steady pricing and push into higher-margin delivery and new geographies, especially internationally, are paying off.
KPIT Technologies’ Q4 profit fell 33% year-on-year to Rs 163 crore, even as revenue rose 12%. The company said its earnings improved sequentially, offering some relief after the YoY decline. KPIT also announced a final dividend of Rs 5.25 per share for FY26, signaling shareholder returns despite pressure on profitability.
The Allahabad High Court ruled that the honorific “Hon’ble” should be used only for constitutional functionaries such as MPs, judges, and ministers, describing it as tied to sovereign roles. Civil servants, it said, are not entitled to the title. The clarification followed a case where an FIR failed to use “Hon’ble” for MP Anurag Thakur.
SEBI has unveiled a new rule that labels an index “significant” when mutual funds track it with more than Rs 20,000 crore in daily average AUM for six straight months. The framework is designed to improve transparency and strengthen accountability in index governance. Providers of such significant indices must register with SEBI under the new process.
In Haryana’s Nuh, children at 19 government primary schools are taught in cattle sheds, open fields, and village chaupals because proper school buildings are missing. Reports say students face severe gaps in basic facilities including toilets and safe drinking water, alongside shortages of teachers. Land for new schools has been identified, but construction remains stalled, prolonging unsafe learning conditions.
Since 2014, the BJP has expanded its footprint across India, more than doubling its total MLA strength from 773 to 1798 over the past decade. The party’s momentum has supported its growing dominance in multiple states, culminating in major breakthroughs that include landmark victories such as its first win in West Bengal’s Assembly.
HDFC Bank’s governance review is nearing completion, with law firms reportedly expected to find no major issues. That would clear the way for the reappointment of CEO Sashidhar Jagdishan, with the Reserve Bank of India likely to grant approval. The process could restore certainty for the country’s largest private lender after the chairman’s exit.
SpaceX has filed plans to invest $55 billion in a new semiconductor manufacturing complex in Texas called Terafab, designed to boost domestic chip production. The project is multi phase and could grow to as much as $119 billion. Local officials in Grimes County are set to review a property tax abatement agreement tied to the facility.
Abhay Gupta, from Sidhi in Madhya Pradesh, stunned his state by scoring 498/500 and securing the second rank in Class 10 board exams. Living in a dilapidated house with a daily wage labourer father, Abhay credits discipline, consistency, and persistence—not privilege—for his success. His story is a sharp reminder that grit can outperform circumstance.
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief Vijay has formally staked a claim to form the government in Tamil Nadu after TVK emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly elections. Vijay met Governor Rajendra Arlekar to present the claim, with Congress pledging support and AIADMK reportedly being approached to close the gap needed for a majority.
LinkedIn warns that Gen Z job seekers are among the most exposed to online recruitment scams. Despite rising awareness, many young professionals continue to fall for fraudulent job listings and deceptive hiring messages. The platform highlights that scam tactics persist and evolve, leaving early-career candidates especially vulnerable when they act quickly or skip basic verification steps.
In Kolkata’s Rajarhat-New Town, the BJP’s victory rally turned tragic when BJP worker Madhu Mandal was allegedly beaten to death. His body was later found in a patch of mud, and the family claims TMC rivals targeted him. The family is demanding an immediate arrest, as police investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and rival allegations.
The government has tightened enforcement of the “one household, one connection” LPG rule, especially affecting homes using piped natural gas (PNG). If a household also has an LPG cylinder, authorities are pushing for surrender of the cylinder to comply. The move comes amid global energy pressure and could bring penalties for non-compliance, impacting consumers’ monthly gas choices across India.
India’s CTV and smart TV adoption is rising quickly, with Southern regions ahead in smart TV ownership. The shift is being driven by improving internet access and growing demand for larger screens to stream content. While many Indians still use phones to get online, video viewing and social media consumption are pushing entertainment habits toward connected TVs.
India’s information and broadcasting sector attracted sharply lower FDI inflows in Q3 of FY26, but the overall picture improved across the first nine months. Cumulative inflows rose meaningfully, supported by sizable investments in major companies such as Prime Focus, alongside multiple smaller deals that added up to the stronger mid-year total despite the late-quarter slowdown.
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