Stories from India

The state of Maharashtra will develop AI cities across five innovation areas. Initiatives include the establishment of a state AI Data Exchange and the Maharashtra Advanced Center for Artificial Intelligence training.

Twelve labourers were killed and 20 others were injured when a pickup van overturned in the Dhar district last night. The vehicle was carrying 35 labourers returning home from Bagar near the Chiklio crossing.

The Indian government plans to increase the application of artificial intelligence within industries, governance, and public services. The initiative aims to promote the integration of AI technologies across these sectors.

A crew member on an Indian vessel reported that he and his crew have become collateral victims due to regional tensions. The crew member noted that an attack on a nearby vessel seven weeks ago left the crew devastated and scared.

Piprahwa relics of Buddha have arrived in Leh, drawing large crowds of people gathered to pay their respects. The arrival follows a religious procession.

A heatwave sweeping across multiple regions in India has significantly impacted local residents and the tourism industry. High temperatures forced tourists to shorten planned visits, including one group that left a site after 30 minutes due to extreme heat.

Indian Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is set to inaugurate the Vande Bharat rail service between Jammu and Srinagar this week. The service will operate from Jammu Tawi station to Srinagar Katra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister Jitendra Singh are expected to be present for the launch. The service aims to improve connectivity between the two regions. The service is currently running on the route connecting these two locations. According to Shivshakti, the railway service is scheduled to operate on a regular basis starting this Saturday. The number of coaches has increased from 8 to 20 to meet rising passenger demand. The service was previously inaugurated last year. The train departed from Jammu towards Srinagar.

The move targets the existing digital payment landscape to increase competition within the country's fintech sector. Amazon and Meta have joined efforts to challenge the market dominance of Google Pay and PhonePe in India.

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

The two-phase assembly elections in Gujarat registered a record 92.47% voter turnout. The second phase recorded 91.66% participation, following a 93.19% turnout during the first phase on April 23. This figure represents the highest voter turnout in the state since independence.