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Weekly News Platter |
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17 Jan, 2026, 05:14PM IST, PTI |
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Hello Reader,
In case you had a busy week, these are the top stories you need to get caught up to speed...
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 Defence Procurement Board clears 114 Rafale jets in biggest ever deal |
| India Rafale Jets News: India's Defence Procurement Board has approved the purchase of 114 more Rafale fighter jets. This significant deal, valued at approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore, will involve France. A substantial portion of these aircraft will be manufactured in India, incorporating about 30% indigenous components. This move aims to boost domestic defence manufacturing capabilities. Read more |
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 BMC Elections 2026 Winners List: Who won the BMC polls? Check seat-wise key winners |
| Mumbai Elections 2026 Winners: The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance has achieved a significant victory in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. Results declared late last night show the alliance securing a majority in India's richest civic body. The BJP emerged as the single largest party. This outcome marks a historic shift, ending the long-standing dominance of the Shiv Sena over the BMC. Read more |
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 India's UPI miracle has a money problem; can Budget 2026 fix it? |
| Union Budget News: India's UPI digital payment system faces a crucial decision ahead of Budget 2026. While UPI has revolutionized transactions, its zero Merchant Discount Rate policy is straining payment companies and banks. Urgent action is needed to ensure the system's long-term viability and continued growth across the nation. Read more |
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 US visa: Indians can skip the long wait for interview slots in this city |
| US visa interview wait times for Indian applicants show significant variation by city and visa type as of January 14, 2026. While some locations offer faster appointments for student and employment visas, visitor visa wait times can extend up to eight months in New Delhi. Applicants are encouraged to monitor the official system for earlier slots. Read more |
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 Budget 2026: EV incentives, step up R&D, localisation push on wishlist |
| India's upcoming Union Budget is expected to boost electric vehicle adoption. Measures will likely focus on strengthening domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports. Incentives could be recalibrated to encourage investment across the EV value chain. This aims to support sustainable transport and conserve foreign exchange. Read more |
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 At least 15 Hindus murdered in 45 days in Bangladesh: Report |
| A report highlights 15 Hindu minority murders in Bangladesh by Muslims between December 2025 and January 2026. The Interim Government, led by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, is reportedly dismissing these attacks as disinformation. Minorities fear increased violence during the upcoming election campaign, with such acts potentially labeled as political. International observers are urged to intervene for inclusive participation. Read more |
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 Labour Codes may become effective from April 1 |
| Sources said the ministry of labour and employment is considering making Labour Codes effective only from the next financial year (FY’27) to coincide with India Inc’s financial cycle as the change in salary structure under the Codes could result in higher outgo towards provident fund and gratuity, thus impacting the balance sheets of the companies. Read more |
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 75% of Indian higher education institutions still not industry-ready: Report |
| A new report reveals a major gap in India's higher education. Most institutions struggle to prepare students for jobs. Curriculum often lacks industry relevance. Practical training and internships are limited. This prevents students from gaining essential job skills. Experts call for a fundamental shift to make education more industry-aligned and boost employability. Read more |
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 Tesla’s India letdown spurs discounts on unsold Model Y SUVs |
| It’s an early sign of challenges as Tesla attempts to crack the world’s third-largest passenger-vehicle market with one of its cheaper entry-level models. The carmaker, which debuted in India in July, was relying on its brand power to drive sales despite local levies touching 110% for imported cars. Read more |
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 Trump Tariff Case: US Supreme Court puts off decision again |
| Trump Tariffs US SC Verdict: The US Supreme Court has again postponed a ruling on President Donald Trump's global tariffs. These duties, implemented in 2025, imposed significant charges on imports. Critics argue the President exceeded his authority. President Trump warned that overturning the tariffs could destabilize the US economy. He stated that refunding collected revenue would be a major disruption. Read more |
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