Stories from New Delhi · India

The Ministry of Power has issued an order modifying previous mandates for High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology. The new provision implements a phased localization plan to increase domestic value addition requirements.

The Indian government has implemented a reduction in export duties on diesel and aviation fuel effective today. The Ministry of Petroleum announced the new rates for diesel at 15 rupees per liter and aviation turbine fuel at 10 rupees per liter.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has expanded its powers to suspend or revoke authorizations for foreign airlines. The new authority covers safety, security, and ownership-control non-compliance.

The wellness market in India, driven notably by yoga, reportedly generated more than $32 billion in 2024. This figure is based on reports from the Time of India regarding traditional retreats and ashram stays.

Indian President Droupadi Murmu issued a message marking Buddha Purnima, describing the day as commemorating the advent, enlightenment, and Mahapari Nirvāne of Lord Buddha. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to inaugurate a Sacred Holy Relics exposition.

A court has rejected a petition by the Trinamool Congress regarding the appointment of election staff. Justice Krishna Rao ruled that the Election Commission holds the authority to appoint counting supervisors and assistants. The ruling stated that the central government or central public sector undertakings cannot appoint these specific roles. The decision impacts how election personnel are assigned during the counting process. The Supreme Court refused to intervene in the Trinamool Congress's plea challenging the appointment of central government employees for the West Bengal assembly election counting. A special bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi stated that the Election Commission has the authority to appoint personnel for vote counting.

India's indigenous Tejas MK2 light combat aircraft is entering a critical development phase. This aircraft is described as a deep reconstruction rather than a simple upgrade to the Tejas MK1. The MK2 variant will utilize a new aviation engine provided by the United States. The Tejas MK2 medium fighter jet is scheduled for its maiden flight in mid-2026. Liang Yongchuan noted that the MK2 represents a deep structural upgrade over the MK1, specifically improving safety and reliability. The aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of 17.5 tons, which is higher than the Tejas MK1. It is expected to be equipped with an Indian-developed control radar that was previously rejected by the Indian Air Force due to performance issues. The aircraft will also feature canards to improve maneuverability, though the source notes improper use could lead to loss of control.

The Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that India is not preventing or slowing initiatives aimed at reducing dependence on the US dollar within intra-regional cooperation. The Ministry urged citizens to remain cautious regarding unverified information.

A government survey indicates that artificial intelligence could displace 1.5 million technology jobs in India by 2031. The report also suggests that up to 4 million new roles could emerge due to the technology. The findings suggest a shift in the labor market landscape. The source noted that the AI story remains complex regarding worker protection and rights. The report suggests these roles are part of a value chain vulnerable to the AI economy. The full extent of the disruption remains uncertain according to the report.

India's Defense Minister stated at a national security summit in Delhi that the country will not tolerate terrorist activities under any circumstances. The minister noted that India has moved beyond the era of merely issuing diplomatic statements regarding terrorism.