The central government's new GST rates on popcorn—5% for salted, 12% for branded, and 18% for caramel—have sparked widespread criticism. Former economic advisers slammed the decision's complexity and minimal revenue gain, while opposition leaders called it absurd. The finance minister defended the caramel popcorn tax, citing its sugar content, but public sentiment remains largely negative.
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Tanaji Shinde, a retired bank peon from Maharashtra, fights for an emergency visa to join his comatose daughter in California following her critical accident. Support from politicians and the academic community has expedited the process, with an interview scheduled at the US Consulate in Mumbai, offering hope for reuniting with his daughter soon.
India's Washington Sundar remains hopeful despite his team being in a tough spot at 164 for 5 by the end of the second day of the fourth Test against Australia. Sundar, who is expected to contribute significantly with the bat, emphasized the positive energy in the dressing room and expressed confidence in a strong comeback on the improved pitch.
Russia announces the development of an mRNA cancer vaccine, slated for a 2025 launch. Pre-clinical trials demonstrate tumor suppression and metastasis reduction. AI integration promises to personalize vaccine creation within an hour, significantly accelerating the current lengthy process. The vaccine aims to bolster the immune system's ability to target and eliminate cancer cells.
Telangana police, led by the Cyber Security Bureau, have registered nine FIRs against agents involved in trafficking individuals into Myanmar's cybercrime hubs. The crackdown follows the return of 24 victims and focuses on deceptive recruitment and coercion tactics used via social media. Further cases and identifications are underway.
New findings from the Chandrayaan-3 mission indicate potential ice deposits just beneath the Moon's polar surface in more areas than previously thought. Researchers highlight the impact of temperature variations and slope angles on ice formation, emphasizing the importance of ice for future lunar exploration and habitability.
A Delta Air Lines flight 1213, bound for an undisclosed location, experienced an engine fire at Orlando International Airport before takeoff on Monday. Prompt evacuation of all 282 passengers, 10 flight attendants, and two pilots was conducted with no reported injuries. Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting team responded swiftly.
India's economic growth in 2024 remains strong with a projected 6.5-7% GDP growth rate, driven by industrial, trade, and employment gains. The country achieved a record in digital payments and led Asia in IPOs. Significant diplomatic efforts and defense investments further bolstered its global stature. Women and youth workforce participation surged, highlighting economic empowerment and job growth.
Elon Musk-led Tesla views India as a promising market but is concerned about the 100% tariffs on imported automobiles, which create customer anxiety. Despite securing showroom locations and advertising job positions, the company is carefully evaluating the timing of its entry.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who retired from T20 internationals six months ago, are now struggling in Test cricket. Rohit has had a poor year with low scores and questions about his captaincy, while Virat faces technical challenges and lack of confidence. India's Test cricket transition faces a critical moment.
Rohit Sharma will not lead Team India in the final Test against Australia due to his poor form with the bat. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are set to open, while Jasprit Bumrah will captain the team. Shubman Gill returns, and all-rounders Jadeja and Washington Sundar retain their spots. The SCG Test lineup aims to revive India’s fortunes.