Amidst ongoing border tensions, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is seeking to bolster its surveillance capabilities by acquiring three High-Altitude Platform System (HAPS) aircraft. These unmanned 'pseudo-satellites' will operate in the stratosphere, providing persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). The IAF has issued a request for information, aiming for delivery within 18 months.
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India may reduce income tax for individuals earning up to Rs 15 lakh annually in the upcoming budget to support the middle class and drive consumption. This potential change, under the 2020 tax system, could alleviate financial pressures on millions and stimulate economic growth, particularly in urban areas struggling with high inflation and living costs.
Comedian Pranit More was assaulted by supporters of actor Veer Pahariya after making jokes about him during a performance in Solapur. Pahariya condemned the attack, expressing his shock and sadness, and denied any involvement. An FIR has been lodged based on the restaurant owner's complaint.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz in Washington, engaging in discussions that included top officials like External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval. Modi also interacted with US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and will meet Tesla CEO Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma is set to return to his opening role in the fourth Test against Australia, with KL Rahul moving to No.3 and Shubman Gill being excluded for this match. Australia's top-order, led by teenage opener Sam Konstas' explosive 60, took command on day one, finishing at 311/6 at the MCG.
Mark Zuckerberg criticized Apple on Joe Rogan's podcast, claiming the company is no longer innovative and is profiting solely from the iPhone's success. He argued Apple overcharges developers and restricts compatibility for competitors. He also disparaged Apple's VR headset, suggesting Meta offers better alternatives, and accused Apple of stifling competition through security excuses.
PM Modi sought special blessings from Goddess Lakshmi for the middle class and poor during the Budget session. This gesture, emphasized by President Murmu, hints at potential tax reliefs and increased welfare measures to fulfill the aspirations and boost the consumption of the middle class.
Chinese EV maker Xpeng is eyeing the Indian market, acknowledging its potential and unique challenges. While a formal entry isn't imminent, the company is closely monitoring the evolving EV ecosystem. Xpeng believes its AI-powered EVs, like the X9 MPV, could offer competitive pricing and advanced technology, including ADAS, even with import duties, though adaptation is required.
Virat Kohli unfollows Ranveer Allahbadia amid a controversial remark, stirring online reactions. Banita Sandhu and AP Dhillon face breakup rumors after social media changes, while Vivek Agnihotri defends comedian Samay Raina. The Housefull 5 trailer release and a possible rift between Ram Charan and Allu Arjun also create buzz.
An engineer from Hingoli, Maharashtra, who had been missing in Iran for almost two months, is currently in a Tehran jail for taking photographs. He informed his wife via WhatsApp that he is expected to be released next Tuesday with the help of the Indian embassy.
India and China have agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025, aiming to rebuild bilateral relations. Key measures include increasing people-to-people exchanges, resuming direct flights, and enhancing cooperation on trans-border rivers. High-level talks discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest.