Scientists transform waste bottles into battery-grade graphite for electric vehicles

‘Emission reduction’: Centre issues fresh draft targets for iron and steel sector

India Approves Rs 52,000 Crore Defence Upgrades to Boost Border Security

India's Defence Ministry has approved equipment acquisitions worth Rs 52,000 crore aimed at strengthening military capabilities across land, air, and naval domains. The package includes advanced protection systems for T-90 tanks and indigenously developed anti-tank missiles for infantry units. High-altitude pseudo-satellites will also be procured to enable continuous surveillance along sensitive border regions. The approvals are designed to significantly enhance air defence and naval readiness while reducing India's dependence on foreign military imports.

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar Sets Up New Department for Public Grievances

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has launched a new department called Praja Seva to address public grievances. The initiative aims to provide citizens with a dedicated institutional channel for resolving their complaints. The move reflects the state government's commitment to improving service delivery at the grassroots level. Through this department, authorities intend to ensure that citizen grievances receive timely and structured redressal.

Maharashtra introduces framework to ease redevelopment of Pagdi system buildings

Maharashtra's Pagdi system grants tenants long-term occupancy rights through a one-time premium and minimal ongoing rent, while landlords retain legal ownership. Tenants under this arrangement are strongly protected by the Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999. Redeveloping older properties governed by this system has historically been difficult, frequently hampered by disputes between landlords and tenants. To address these challenges, the state government has introduced a new policy framework designed to simplify the redevelopment process. The framework includes special Floor Space Index incentives and improved dispute resolution mechanisms to accelerate stalled projects.