Stories from India

The OBC Commission in Gujarat has announced the dates for the 2026 local body elections. Voting is scheduled to take place on April 26. The announcement follows the recent delay of the UP Panchayat Election 2026.

A speeding car rammed into a stationary lorry at exit 16 in Ladakh, according to police. The impact left the car badly mangled and trapped under the truck. Several people, including children, were critically injured in the collision.

Maersk has pledged $2 billion to enhance India's port and maritime ecosystem.

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.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has published new standards for medical assistive technologies. These standards cover items including elbow crutches and walking sticks, including those with three or more legs. The initiative is part of a national list of essential assistive products led by the Indian Council of Medical Research. The standards were released following the publication of over 2,300 dates across the country yesterday. The National Eligibility Come Entrance Test (NEET UG) for undergraduate medical education admissions is being conducted today. The examination is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. and conclude by 5 p.m. The National Testing Agency has been conducting the exam since 2019 with approval from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Education. Admission center entry permissions are expected to be completed by noon.

The new Manipur government conducted its first round of discussions with Kuki-Zo insurgent groups.

Archaeological remains are being displayed in Ladakh to showcase India's long history of peace and coexistence. Following the exhibition, the items will be moved to Gaya and Bara Mangela.

The Andhra Pradesh state government has released its 2026-27 budget with an outlay of Rs 3.32 lakh crore. The fiscal plan focuses on capital growth and maintaining fiscal discipline.

The Namiya Foundation held a graduation ceremony for women from underserved communities who completed an AI course near New Delhi. The organization aims to help workers find meaningful jobs by mastering artificial intelligence. At a Bengaluru-based BPO with 10,000 workers, AI workshops have become routine for all staff members. The program addresses fears that AI will make existing roles redundant while creating new positions like AI quality and governance specialists. The workshops address fears regarding AI displacing BPO roles and prepare workers for new positions such as AI-enabled customer experience specialists and AI quality and governance specialists. Data indicates a 42% gender gap between men and women equipped with AI skills, with 71% of men currently equipped.

The government has increased raids to combat fuel smuggling and black market activities. The Ministry of Petroleum stated that operations are being conducted to secure national fuel reserves. Authorities are working to ensure complete preparedness amidst changing regional conditions. The raids are targeting illegal fuel distribution networks.