Stories from Delhi · India

India has currently produced only one gigawatt hour of battery capacity despite an announced ambition of 178 gigawatt hours. Most electric vehicles sold in India rely entirely on imported battery cells. This represents a small fraction of the country's stated energy goals. The reliance on imports persists despite the scale of the domestic EV market. Indian manufacturers rely almost entirely on imported battery cells for production. This dependency creates a obstacle for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal to increase manufacturing to 25 percent of India's GDP. China currently shares older technology but maintains strict control over more sophisticated battery innovations. The lack of domestic high-end cell production hinders India's industrial growth ambitions.

Listed companies in India reported a 14.7 percent increase in net profit for Q3 FY26. This represents the fastest growth rate recorded in two years.

India currently possesses only 1 gigawatt hour of battery capacity despite an announced goal of 178 gigawatt hours. The country faces challenges in accessing manufacturing technology compared to rivals like Japan and South Korea. This technological gap threatens India's ability to scale its electric vehicle industry. Experts note that the country is attempting to build many of these industries from scratch.

The Safdarjung meteorological station in New Delhi, India, recorded a maximum temperature of 42.8 degrees Celsius on April 25. This is the highest recorded temperature for April in recent years for the city. This reading significantly exceeds the average for the same period and meets the India Meteorological Department's criteria for a heatwave, defined as temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Authorities have implemented a vigilance protocol, specifically regarding schools, due to the early and violent heat. A report from Adoula and Rally noted the extreme conditions in the capital.

An Indian official has proposed a trusted traveler scheme to assist with visa verification processes. The proposal aims to help prevent scam artists from obtaining visas through the IRCC system. The official suggested that authorities check the legitimacy of applicants before issuing visas to mitigate system abuse. This discussion follows concerns regarding the exploitation of asylum systems.

Renowned Indian photographer and photojournalist Raghu Rai has passed away at the age of 83. Observers noted his ability to witness rather than just record historical moments. He was considered a major figure in global photojournalism and a key visual witness to contemporary India. His career spanned over six decades, during which he documented historical events including the Bangladesh War of Independence in 1971. He was recognized for capturing the country's social contrasts and shifts. His work has been considered a chronicle of modern India since the 1950s, covering both political and social themes. He was notably recognized for his photographs of the 1904 Bhopal disaster. The photographer had previously faced controversy regarding social media accusations involving a sandal design based on traditional indigenous Mexican community patterns.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed security and health wishes to US President Donald Trump. The message follows recent violence involving the US President. This communication comes amid international reactions to the assassination attempt on Trump. The statement was reported following the incident in the United States. Modi expressed wishes for Trump's continued security and good health. Canadian and Mexican leaders also expressed relief regarding the safety of the President and his spouse. The message comes as international leaders, including the President of Mexico, react to the violence in the United States. Canadian officials also provided commentary on the event.

Under a new Free Trade Agreement (FTA), 70% of Indian goods will enter New Zealand without duties. Indian Minister Piyush Goyal stated the move provides a boost for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). New Zealand has removed tariffs on all exports from India. The deal, which the Trade Minister is set to sign in New Delhi, includes up to 5,000 temporary work visas for Indian professionals in IT and engineering sectors. Additionally, the agreement provides 1,012-month working holiday visas. Immigration consultant Paul Janssen stated that most skilled visas target roles on the in-demand occupation list.

An aviation incident occurred involving a flight with 232 passengers and 13 crew members. The Swiss aircraft aborted its takeoff early in the morning due to an engine problem. Initial reports indicated six passengers were injured, and a flight attendant was also injured during the incident. Remaining passengers have been rebooked on other flights and accommodated in hotels. A Swiss Airbus A330 aborted its takeoff in New Delhi during the early morning hours due to an engine issue with one of its two turbofans. Approximately 230 passengers were evacuated from the aircraft following the incident. The incident involved a 31-year-old male from California, though specific roles were not clarified. One of the two engines failed, leading to the evacuation of approximately 230 passengers.

More than 230 passengers were evacuated from a Swiss aircraft following issues with one of its two engines. All established safety protocols were immediately activated during the incident. Passengers were safely evacuated from the aircraft following the emergency. Swiss technical experts are traveling to New Delhi to inspect the aircraft damage and begin the investigation. One flight attendant sustained a sprained ankle during the event. Remaining passengers were rebooked on other flights and accommodated in local hotels. Four passengers are currently receiving treatment in a hospital. An airline representative confirmed the incident and stated that the aircraft is undergoing inspection. An Airbus A330 operated by Swiss International Air Lines experienced an engine failure and fire during takeoff or taxiing at New Delhi airport around 2:00 AM on Sunday.