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Vande Bharat and Gatimaan Express trains connecting Delhi and Agra set for speed upgrade as Kavach installation is completed; services to return to 160 kmph from current 130 kmph after successful safety trials
Vande Bharat recent news: Gatimaan Express and Vande Bharat services are expected to return to their original speeds of 160 kmph. This enhancement follows the successful installation of the Kavach Automatic Train Protection system on the Delhi-Agra route. Currently, eight trains operate at a reduced speed of 130 kmph due to safety regulations. Safety trials are currently being conducted to ensure the system's effectiveness before the speed increase.
South Africa expands Electronic Travel Authorization to Indian travellers
South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorization system now allows online visa applications for 53 countries including India. The new ETA system simplifies the visa process for eligible travellers and their families. Minors can now apply online, enhancing accessibility for younger visitors. The expansion aims to support tourism growth ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027. The transition from the eVisa system to ETA will be completed by December 1, 2026.
Michael Jackson vs Elvis Presley: Which estate earned more after their deaths?
Michael Jackson’s business interests generated an estimated $140 million in the latest annual earnings ranking, well ahead of Elvis Presley’s $75 million. The success of Jackson’s billion-dollar biopic helped boost his earnings, while Presley continues to make money through Graceland, music and licensing.
India has never allowed import of GM products, will never open dairy sector: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized India’s commitment to safeguarding its dairy sector from free trade agreement pressures. He reiterated the nation's opposition to imports of genetically modified products, considering them sensitive. Goyal mentioned efforts to unlock new employment opportunities and promote domestic agriculture for competitive exports.
Jammu Airport initiates consultations for commencement of international flights
Jammu Airport has commenced discussions with various stakeholders to assess the feasibility of international flights. A planning meeting involved representatives from airlines and regulatory agencies to identify potential international destinations. The Airport Director highlighted religious tourism and strategic location as key factors for successful operations. Suggestions were made to prioritize routes to West Asia and Europe based on passenger demand.
Cordelia Cruises targets top-five global cruise market status for India by 2032
Cordelia Cruises intends to expand its fleet to enhance domestic cruise tourism and increase capacity. The company currently operates two ships and plans to introduce a third earlier than expected. It emphasizes the potential of the Indian market, noting significant opportunities due to the coastline. The impact of rising fuel prices has affected operating costs, yet the company remains profitable.
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Modi calls Opposition ‘Avrodh Paksh’, raises questions over ‘secret’ meetings abroad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Opposition of obstructing national progress and attempting to divide the country, dubbing it "Avrodh Paksh" instead of "Virodh Paksh". Addressing Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations in Gujarat, he also flagged infiltration, demographic changes and border security as key national priorities.
PM Modi inaugurates, lays foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 400 crore in Ekta Nagar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. These projects are designed to enhance infrastructure and boost tourism in the region. Significant improvements include a sewage and water treatment plant, and the development of eco-trails. Floral tributes were also paid to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity.
PM Modi's Gujarat visit: Rs 14,000-crore projects, Rs 19,000-crore PM-KISAN payout, new trains and Ahmedabad Metro expansion on agenda
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a two-day visit to Gujarat, during which he will inaugurate and dedicate development projects worth Rs 14,000 crore, release the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN payments worth Rs 19,000 crore and flag off two trains. His itinerary includes laying the foundation stone for Ahmedabad Metro extensions and road upgrades, inaugurating child-friendly Anganwadi centres and participating in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at Ekta Nagar.
PM to visit Gujarat on Oct 30-31, inaugurate projects worth Rs 14,000 crore
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin a two-day visit to Gujarat, where he will inaugurate significant development projects. He will dedicate over Rs 14,000 crore worth of initiatives, including child-friendly Anganwadi Centres and agriculture infrastructure projects. Modi is also set to participate in cultural celebrations, notably Bharat Parv 2026, aimed at showcasing India's diverse heritage. Additionally, he will lay the foundation stone for the Ahmedabad Metro phases.
Road ministry to assess and rate all national highways
In a notification issued on Thursday, the ministry of road transport and highways said it will assess the overall performance of highways on three main parameters including highway efficiency, highway safety and user experience
PM Modi reviews projects worth over Rs 16,000 crore across 31 States, UTs at 54th PRAGATI meeting
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 54th PRAGATI meeting to evaluate infrastructure projects worth over Rs 16,000 crore. The meeting focused on enhancing railway station redevelopment and boosting local pharmaceutical manufacturing. PM Modi emphasized the importance of timely execution of projects and inter-agency coordination. He also highlighted the need for supporting local artisans through Ekta Malls and maintaining close monitoring on these initiatives.
Uttarakhand government presents supplementary budget of Rs 7,844 crore
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has presented a supplementary budget of Rs 7,844.18 crore. This budget prioritises sectors such as roads, drinking water, power, and urban development. Significant funds are allocated to farmers and rural economy initiatives, including Rs 1,100 crore for food procurement. Allocations include Rs 500 crore for infrastructure expansion and Rs 270 crore for power projects. The total budget for 2026-27 will reach Rs 1,19,547.39 crore.
Delhi to Haridwar in 1.5 hours next month? Nitin Gadkari says new road projects will boost tourism, jobs
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the opening of new road projects next month. Travel time from Delhi to Haridwar will be reduced to just one and half hours. Increased road connectivity has led to a significant rise in tourist traffic at religious destinations. Gadkari highlighted the economic impact of infrastructure investment, promoting job creation in the sector.
Road ministry introduces concessional local pass for FASTag user living near toll plazas
The pass, which will cost Rs 1500 or Rs 3000 depending on the location of the toll plaza, will be effective from November 1, 2026 and will help eligible residents living within 20 km of the plaza and who regularly travel through nearby toll plazas for work, education and other local needs.
Ashwini Vaishnaw and MP CM inaugurate two rail sections spanning 118 km, connecting Sidhi district to the railway network for the first time since Independence, through 53-km Satna–Devendranagar and 65-km Rewa–Churhat lines
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated two new rail sections on Saturday. These new connections between Satna-Devendranagar and Rewa-Churhat will improve regional transportation. A new passenger train service was also launched to facilitate travel in the Vindhya region. Ongoing railway projects with significant investment aim to enhance infrastructure and connectivity statewide. The developments are expected to boost local economies and transportation efficiency.
India, Uzbekistan discuss bilateral ties during foreign minister Jaishankar's Azerbaijan visit
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov in Azerbaijan’s Baku to discuss bilateral issues and stress the timely implementation of agreements reached at the highest level. The meeting follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s August visit to Uzbekistan, during which the two countries upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and set a $5 billion bilateral trade target.
India, Russia aim for $100 billion trade by 2030 as Modi, Putin push cooperation
Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar announced collaboration plans between India and Russia to increase trade significantly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin have directed efforts toward enhancing mutual investments. India is ready to provide qualified workers to meet Russia's industry requirements by training specialists. The leaders reviewed these plans during their recent meeting at the BRICS summit in New Delhi.
Piyush Goyal asks ministry to identify AI-proof jobs, eyes handlooms, handicrafts and tourism, says India can lead in traditional sectors
Union Minister Piyush Goyal is guiding efforts to identify AI-proof professions that leverage India's skilled labor force. He emphasized the nation’s strengths in sectors like handlooms, handicrafts, and tourism. Goyal plans to attract Indian scientists and engineers from overseas to contribute to India’s growth. Discussions are ongoing regarding how to create a supportive ecosystem that encourages talent to return home.
India eyes a $20 billion pot of gold in New Zealand as its trade pact goes live
The free trade agreement between India and New Zealand promises to promote trade and enhance professional movement. While some goods may enjoy duty-free status, a significant rise in merchandise exports might take time. However, New Zealand's engagement in several service sectors holds potential benefits for Indian companies. The agreement also opens up new job opportunities for Indian students and creates pathways for skilled professionals.
World Bank should focus on mobilising greater private capital and creating jobs, says FM Sitharaman
Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the importance of private capital in creating jobs and boosting productivity during her address. She outlined six priorities for the World Bank Group to enhance its development impact, integrating private sector engagement. Sitharaman highlighted the need for affordable financing and addressing market failures to foster job creation. She advocated for a review of governance indicators to better represent developing countries.
India building own strengths, establishing trusted partnerships amid evolving global landscape: EAM Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar participated in a panel discussion on global connectivity in Abu Dhabi. He highlighted India's strategy to bolster domestic capabilities and establish reliable international partnerships. Jaishankar also held meetings with officials from Georgia and the UAE to discuss expanded collaboration. The discussions focused on trade, tourism, culture, and strengthening diplomatic ties between the nations. The engagements reflect India's proactive approach to navigating the evolving global landscape.
Mizoram seeks to boost tourism by relaxing Protected Area Permit during winter and Christmas festivals
Mizoram is seeking to promote tourism by easing regulations during upcoming winter and Christmas festivals. The state reported significant growth in tourist arrivals during the first eight months of 2026. Investments in tourism-related infrastructure are expected to support the sector's development in the coming years. A series of cultural festivals and initiatives aim to extend visitor engagement beyond Aizawl.
Chenab railway bridge to open new tourists viewing deck; vistors will see Himalayan peaks from the world’s highest railway arch bridge standing 359 metres above riverbed
World's highest rail bridge: Indian Railways is setting up a dedicated viewing deck and an engineering museum near the Chenab bridge in Jammu and Kashmir. Standing 359 metres above the riverbed, the world's highest railway arch bridge will now offer tourists sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks alongside detailed exhibits on how the structure was built.
Nurturing a tiger economy, literally
The reintroduction of a tigress in Buxa Tiger Reserve marks a significant step in conservation efforts. This initiative aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that supports the local economy and tiger population. Enhancing tourism through tea cultivation and integrating timber industries will promote economic growth. The success of this project relies on strict adherence to conservation practices within the reserve.
Chhattisgarh CM Sai secures Rs 43,600 crore FDI commitments from Singapore
Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai successfully attracted INR 43,600 crore in foreign direct investment from Singapore. During the visit, an AI-ready data centre campus commitment worth INR 41,750 crore was secured. Additionally, a skilling MoU was signed with ITE Education Services to enhance vocational training. The Chief Minister engaged with various global leaders to discuss investment opportunities and partnerships.
Buxa to get its first tigress as Bengal begins tiger reintroduction drive in north
A tigress translocated from Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve will be released into West Bengal’s Buxa Tiger Reserve on Friday, marking the first such exercise in Bengal and eastern India. The move aims to restore the reserve’s tiger population, strengthen the ecosystem and boost tourism in the Dooars region, officials said.
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