INDIA NEPAL
Indian Railways approves weekly train service connecting Nepal's Janakpur Dham with Ayodhya
Indian Railways has approved a new weekly train service connecting Janakpur Dham and Ayodhya, enhancing cross-border travel. The service will operate once a week, facilitating pilgrimages and tourism associated with the Ramayana tradition. It covers approximately 604 kilometres and will include stops at significant towns in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Officials from both India and Nepal are coordinating on customs and passenger security measures for this service.
SCO meet: Russia, China, Iran to attend; minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat 'hopeful' of Pakistan's participation
From November 20-22, New Delhi will be the venue for the first-ever Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Civilisational Dialogue Forum, bringing together delegates from 15 nations. This forum is designed to foster cultural exchange, focusing on the interconnectedness of art, architecture, and language among the member countries, ultimately celebrating their rich shared heritage.
China, Iran confirm participation in SCO Civilisational Forum; Shekhawat 'hopeful' Pak will attend
Fifteen countries have confirmed their participation in the upcoming SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum in New Delhi. China, Kazakhstan, and Iran are among the confirmed participants, with hopes for Pakistan's attendance. The event will take place from November 20 to 22 at Purana Quila, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the opening ceremony. Discussions will focus on reinforcing cultural relations and promoting dialogue among participating countries.
Crystal Crop Protection IPO GMP signals 18% potential listing gains. Key things to know before issue opens on Nov 18
Crystal Crop Protection's unlisted shares are commanding a 16-18% grey market premium ahead of its Rs 455.5 crore IPO. The public issue opens on November 18, with a price band of Rs 259-272 per share.
Crystal Crop Protection sets price band for Rs 455.49 crore IPO, issue opens on November 18
Crystal Crop Protection has fixed a price band of Rs 259–272 per share for its Rs 455.49 crore IPO, which opens on November 18. The agrochemical company plans to use part of the proceeds to repay debt and fund strategic growth initiatives.
"Very salient": UN climate chief backs PM Modi's remarks on clean energy cushioning India against oil price shock
UN climate chief Simon Stiell has endorsed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks that clean energy investments helped India withstand the oil price shock, calling them "very salient". Stiell also welcomed India's Green Energy Corridor, emphasising the role of renewable energy, stronger electricity grids and battery storage in protecting economies.
Chhath Puja 2026: Ghat Preparations, Traditional Songs and Evening Rituals
Chhath Puja 2026 will bring vibrant celebrations with beautifully decorated ghats, traditional folk songs and age-old rituals. As devotees prepare for Sandhya Arghya on November 15, families will gather near rivers and ponds to offer prayers to the setting Sun. From bamboo baskets and traditional prasad to devotional music, explore the festival's cultural and spiritual significance.
UP BJP chief says upcoming election about "defeating those who want to destabilise India"
Pankaj Chaudhary condemned the opposition's recent protests, stating they aim to destabilize the country. He emphasized that the upcoming 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly election is critical for national stability. Chaudhary accused the opposition of seeking to mimic political movements seen in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. He noted the support from the youth and citizens in rejecting the opposition's efforts.
India drawing up list of export snags in South Asia
India is identifying regulatory and market-access barriers in seven South Asian countries to expand exports and reach its $1-trillion target. Merchandise exports to these markets fell 1.3% to $25.7 billion in FY26. The government is examining certification delays, tariffs and product standards while exploring opportunities in chemicals, pharmaceuticals and textiles.
Suvendu Sarkar rolls out Diwali bonanza for Bengal babus, hikes IAS allowances by 50%
The Suvendu Adhikari-led West Bengal government has announced a range of benefits for its IAS officers, including a 50% hike in monthly sumptuary allowances for senior officials, education loans of up to Rs 50 lakh for children's studies in India and abroad, and expanded foreign travel benefits under LTC. The package also includes housing, electricity and post-retirement benefits, along with allowances for official work-related expenses.
Soaring fares fail to ground year-end international travel plans
Despite a 25% increase in international airfares, bookings for year-end overseas holidays among Indians have risen by one-third. Many travelers are opting for more affordable destinations, especially in Southeast Asia and Japan. Airlines are reporting full flights, indicating high demand for international travel from India. Some international carriers are increasing their flight capacities in response to this demand.
Nepal PM seeks $2B package ahead of visit
Nepal is preparing to request a $2 billion economic package from India during Prime Minister Balen Shah's upcoming visit. The package includes $1 billion in credit for infrastructure projects and $1 billion in grants for highway upgrades and post-flood reconstruction. Additionally, Nepal will advocate for new air routes between the two countries during the visit.
Govt eases passport, visa rules for foreign nationals residing in India
The Union home ministry has announced relaxed passport and visa requirements for certain foreign nationals. These amendments apply to individuals including Pakistani citizens and minority refugees. Exemptions also cover members of religious communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan on humanitarian grounds. Registered Sri Lankan Tamils and Tibetans who entered India under specific permits are included in the amendments.
India ready to help Nepal rebuild flood-hit infra, deepen energy ties
India's foreign secretary Vikram Misri communicated support for Nepal's infrastructure rebuilding after the recent floods. During meetings in Kathmandu, Nepal's PM Balen Shah thanked India for its disaster response assistance. Discussions also focused on expanding energy cooperation, with Nepal seeking new investments in various sectors. Several India-funded projects are set to be inaugurated during Shah's upcoming visit to India. This visit marks Shah's first bilateral overseas engagement as Prime Minister.
India, Nepal reaffirm commitment to all-round enhancement of partnership as FS Misri meets PM Shah
India and Nepal have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Prime Minister Balendra Shah in Kathmandu ahead of his expected visit to Delhi later this month. Discussions covered trade, energy, connectivity, sports and new areas of cooperation, including AI and digital connectivity.
Centre relaxes passport, visa rules for select foreign nationals; revises Nepal, Bhutan travel norms
The Centre has announced amendments to immigration rules for several categories of foreign nationals residing in India. Pakistani citizens who entered India before December 31, 2009, may be exempt from renewing their passports. Additionally, certain refugees from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan fleeing persecution are included in these exemptions. Registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals and Tibetans with specific entry permits also benefit from relaxed requirements.
SJVN holds talks with Nepal government to expedite 1,569-MW hydropower projects
SJVN Ltd chairman Bhupender Gupta met various Nepal government officials to expedite hydropower projects. The discussions focused on the Arun-3 project and the challenges it faces, including land issues. Necessary approvals were also discussed for the pre-construction activities of the Lower Arun project. SJVN aims to strengthen energy security and promote sustainable power generation in Nepal.
NHAI will dig up rivers to build highways: 1,078 lakh cubic metres of silt identified to tackle Bihar floods & speed up roadwork
The Centre and Bihar government have launched the 'Nadi Sanjivani' initiative to tackle recurring floods through river desilting while supporting highway construction. Under the agreement, NHAI will use 1,078 lakh cubic metres of excavated silt and sand in ongoing and upcoming national highway projects. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said the initiative could serve as a model for other states.
BCCI announces India A squad led by Tilak Varma with Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
In an exciting announcement, Tilak Varma will lead India A at the ACC Men's Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 in Doha, scheduled from November 19 to 29. With eight teams in play and a shift to a 50-over game, this tournament promises to showcase a blend of experienced players and rising stars, such as 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Load More
