India's space program is set for significant milestones with the confirmed launch of the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite in June 2025, designed to monitor Earth's surface changes. Furthermore, Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will journey to the International Space Station as part of Axiom Mission 4, conducting crucial research in microgravity and marking a new era for Indian astronauts.
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The central government plans to table the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in Parliament, amidst opposition resistance. The bill seeks to improve the administration of Waqf properties, introduce technology-driven management, address legal complexities, and ensure transparency and accountability in Waqf management while incorporating key reforms.
Flipkart, owned by Walmart, has ended its work-from-home policy, requiring all employees to return to the office five days a week. This transition, occurring in phases, aims to foster community and shared goals. Flipkart joins competitors like Amazon, Meesho, and Zepto in mandating full-time office presence.
USAC announced the termination of Whitaker, Nijjar and Gona in February this year after their ethics committee corroborated the charges of ‘wreaking havoc on other board directors, including by disrupting meetings, ignoring their obligations, breaching confidentiality, publicising false allegations about the board and putting their interests above the organizations’ leveled against the trio.
YesMadam, a Noida-based salon home service startup, clarified that recent social media posts about firing stressed employees were part of a campaign to raise awareness about workplace stress. They apologized for any distress caused and introduced a "Happy 2 Heal" program and India's first "De-Stress Leave" policy, offering six paid leaves and a complimentary spa session annually to each employee.
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi emphasized that the boundary issue between India and China should not define their bilateral relations. During a press conference, he highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and stressed that both nations have the wisdom to address differences while fostering cooperation and partnership.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav took a holy dip in the sacred Sangam during the Maha Kumbh, urging for the event to remain free from divisive politics. He emphasized the need for better arrangements for elderly visitors and pledged to work for people's welfare. Uttar Pradesh deputy CM Brajesh Pathak assured that proper arrangements are in place.
India’s GDP growth is expected to slow to 6.4% in the fiscal year 2024-25, down from 8.2% in the previous year, as per NSO estimates. Real GDP and GVA growth rates are projected to decrease, while nominal measures see slight improvements.
The Enforcement Directorate has attached over 140 properties worth approximately Rs 300 crore in a money laundering case involving Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah. It is alleged that Siddaramaiah used his influence to secure 14 sites for his wife as compensation for land acquired by MUDA, significantly inflating its value.
Pakistan cricket is facing turmoil after an early exit from the Champions Trophy 2025. Mickey Arthur criticises the instability despite talented players and quality coaches like Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten. Internal conflicts and media agendas are blamed for undermining efforts. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been dropped for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.
India and China's Special Representatives held their first talks in five years, marking significant progress in normalizing ties. They affirmed the recent border disengagement agreement, discussed maintaining peace, and agreed on a roadmap for improving relations. Resuming the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and boosting cross-border cooperation were also key outcomes.