Author: Deshwale Editorial Desk

Paul Kapur, a recognised expert in South Asian security, has been nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary of State for South Asian Affairs. If confirmed by the Senate, Kapur will oversee U.S. diplomatic relations with countries in the South Asian region, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and others. Background and Expertise Kapur is a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval Postgraduate School. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago and a B.A. from Amherst College. His academic career includes teaching positions at Claremont McKenna College and a visiting professorship at Stanford…

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in partnership with the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), has launched the Disaster Risk and Resilience Assessment Framework (DRRAF) to enhance disaster preparedness in India’s telecom sector. This initiative is part of a comprehensive study on disaster risk assessment for telecommunications, covering five states: Assam, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and Gujarat. The study examined disaster risks, resilience strategies, and vulnerabilities within the telecom sector. DoT coordinated efforts with State Governments, Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), and Infrastructure Providers to facilitate data collection and analysis. Strengthening Telecom Resilience Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary (Telecom) and Chairman of…

The Amrit Sarovar Scheme, launched in April 2022, has made significant strides in tackling water scarcity through the construction and rejuvenation of water bodies across the country. Originally planned to create 50,000 Amrit Sarovars (ponds) by developing 75 in each district, the initiative has surpassed expectations, with over 68,000 Sarovars completed as of January 2025. Impact of the Initiative The initiative has played a key role in improving both surface and groundwater availability, providing sustainable water sources for local communities. The completed Sarovars have not only addressed immediate water concerns but also contributed to long-term environmental stability. Phase II: Strengthening…

In a recent decision, the Bombay High Court has dismissed a petition seeking unlimited attempts for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) and Other Backward Classes (OBC) candidates in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE). The petition was filed by Dharmendra Kumar, a Mumbai resident with 57% multiple benchmark disabilities, who challenged Rule 3 of the Civil Services Examination Rules, 2024. Under the current rules, OBC candidates are limited to nine attempts, while PwBD candidates from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) categories are granted unlimited attempts until they reach the age of 37. Kumar argued…

The Indian government is set to introduce the Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025 in Parliament, proposing stricter penalties for foreign nationals entering or residing in India without valid documentation. The bill aims to bolster national security by addressing illegal immigration. Tougher Penalties for Illegal Entry The proposed legislation outlines severe punishments for unauthorised entry into India. Foreign nationals without a valid passport or visa could face imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of ₹5 lakh. If the entry is facilitated using forged documents, the penalty could increase to seven years in prison and a ₹10 lakh fine.…

Apple has expanded its streaming service accessibility by launching the Apple TV app on Android smartphones and tablets. Previously limited to Apple devices and select smart TVs, the app is now available for download on the Google Play Store for devices running Android 10 or later. With this release, Android users can stream content from Apple TV+, including popular originals such as Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and Severance. The app also offers the MLS Season Pass, providing extensive coverage of Major League Soccer matches without blackout restrictions. Key Features of the Apple TV App on Android Subscriptions can be…

“Are yaar, kitne machhar hain! Aaj puri raat neend nahi aayi, in machharon ne sone hi nahi diya.” This is a complaint heard from almost everyone in the past few days. Mosquitoes are biting and disappearing, leaving residents frustrated. Many suburbs are struggling with this issue, and even people living on the 17th or 18th floor of high-rise buildings are clueless about how mosquitoes are reaching such heights. Despite staying in clean and well-maintained areas, residents continue to face this growing mosquito menace. Mumbai is facing an alarming and persistent rise in mosquito populations, creating discomfort for residents across the…

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the release of new Rs 50 denomination banknotes as part of the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series. These notes will feature the signature of the newly appointed RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra, who took office on December 11, 2024, for a three-year term. He succeeds Shaktikanta Das, who completed a six-year tenure as Governor. The design of the new Rs 50 notes will remain identical to the existing ones in circulation. The RBI has also clarified that all previously issued Rs 50 banknotes will continue to be legal tender, ensuring a seamless transition for…

Actress Indraxi Kanjilal, currently seen as Prarthana in Pushpa Impossible, shares her thoughts on relationships, privacy, and how social media has changed the way people perceive love. Speaking about Valentine’s Day, Indraxi says the day holds no special significance for her at the moment. “Since I don’t have a partner, it’s just a normal day for me. If I get a day off, I’d probably go for a movie with my mum and granny. However, when I do have a partner in the future, I’d prefer to keep my love life private rather than public,” she shares. In an era…

The UK-India Young Professionals Scheme 2025 is set to offer 3,000 visas to Indian nationals, allowing them to live, work, and study in the United Kingdom for up to two years. The application process will begin with a free online ballot opening at 2:30 PM IST on 18th February and closing at 2:30 PM IST on 20th February. Who Can Apply? The scheme is open to Indian citizens aged between 18 and 30 who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification recognised by UK standards. Applicants must also show proof of at least £2,530 in savings (approximately INR 2,70,824)., maintained…