India Energy Week 2026: Mapping India’s Energy Transition in a Fragmented World
EVENTS India Energy Week 2026: Mapping India’s Energy Transition in a Fragmented World Newsyaar February 1, 2026 11:15 pm New Delhi: India Energy Week (IEW) 2026 emerged as a pivotal platform for India to articulate its energy priorities at a time when global energy systems are undergoing rapid transition amid geopolitical uncertainty, climate imperatives and shifting technology landscapes. Bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, innovators and global stakeholders, the event reinforced India’s ambition to position itself as a key driver of the global energy transition while safeguarding energy security and affordability. Held with a sharp focus on collaboration and execution, India Energy Week 2026 underscored the idea that India’s energy journey will be defined not by a single fuel or technology, but by a balanced, multi-pathway approach. Why India Energy Week Matters India Energy Week is designed as India’s flagship international energy forum, aimed at bridging dialogue between government, global energy companies, clean-tech innovators and investors. As one of the world’s fastest-growing energy consumers, India sits at the centre of global energy conversations, both as a market and as a solutions provider. With India targeting net-zero emissions by 2070, while simultaneously meeting the needs of a growing population and industrial base, the event plays a crucial role in aligning policy intent with industry execution. IEW 2026 continued this mandate by spotlighting policy clarity, investment opportunities and technological pathways across conventional and clean energy sectors. Central Themes and Focus Areas India Energy Week 2026 revolved around a few clear pillars: Energy Security in an Uncertain World: Discussions highlighted the need for diversified supply chains, domestic production and strategic reserves to shield economies from global disruptions. Accelerating the Clean Energy Transition: Renewable energy, green hydrogen, biofuels and energy storage were central to conversations, with India positioning itself as a scalable clean-energy hub rather than just a consumer of imported technologies. Technology, Innovation and Digitalisation: Artificial intelligence, smart grids and digital monitoring systems were presented as key enablers for improving efficiency, reducing losses and optimising energy distribution. Just and Inclusive Transition: Policymakers stressed that India’s energy shift must remain affordable and inclusive, ensuring that growth, employment and access are not compromised in the pursuit of sustainability. Key Highlights from India Energy Week 2026 A major highlight of IEW 2026 was the strong participation from both domestic and global energy players across oil & gas, renewables, power, hydrogen and emerging technologies. The event featured: Policy Dialogues: Senior government representatives outlined India’s evolving energy roadmap, emphasising reforms, infrastructure expansion and investor-friendly frameworks. Investment Conversations: India showcased opportunities across upstream and downstream energy, renewable manufacturing, electric mobility and green hydrogen ecosystems, reinforcing confidence in long-term capital deployment. Hydrogen and Bioenergy Push: India’s ambitions under the National Green Hydrogen Mission were discussed in detail, alongside progress in ethanol blending and bioenergy adoption to reduce import dependence. Energy Transition Showcases: Technology exhibitions and innovation zones demonstrated advancements in storage solutions, clean fuels and digital energy platforms. Global and Domestic Voices on the Same Stage India Energy Week 2026 featured participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including senior Indian ministers, global energy executives, international organisations and climate experts. The presence of global industry leaders reinforced India’s growing relevance in shaping future energy markets. International delegates engaged in dialogues on climate finance, technology transfer and collaborative innovation, while Indian public sector enterprises and private companies presented transition-ready business models aligned with sustainability goals. Strategic Significance for India The significance of India Energy Week 2026 lies in its timing and context. As global energy systems face volatility, from supply disruptions to policy shifts, India is positioning itself as a stable, predictable and scalable energy partner. The event highlighted India’s dual strength: Its ability to anchor traditional energy markets responsibly, and Its growing leadership in renewables and low-carbon solutions. By aligning policy, capital and innovation under one platform, IEW 2026 strengthened India’s narrative as a country that is not choosing between growth and sustainability, but integrating both. Looking Ahead: The Final Insights While India Energy Week 2026 focused heavily on ideas, partnerships and vision, the underlying message was clear: execution will define success. The emphasis on infrastructure readiness, regulatory clarity and market depth suggests a shift from aspirational announcements to delivery-oriented outcomes. As India advances towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, energy will remain at the core of its growth story. India Energy Week 2026 reaffirmed that India’s approach, pragmatic, inclusive and forward-looking, could well serve as a blueprint for other emerging economies navigating similar transitions. In a world searching for balanced energy solutions, India is increasingly positioning itself not just as a participant, but as a shaper of the global energy future. About the Author Events Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Economic Survey 2025–26: Know the key highlights of Stable Growth & Inflation
GOVERNMENT Economic Survey 2025–26: Know the key highlights of Stable Growth & Inflation Newsyaar February 1, 2026 10:41 pm New Delhi: The Economic Survey 2025–26, tabled in Parliament on January 29 ahead of the Union Budget, presents a picture of an Indian economy that remains resilient amid global uncertainty, while urging policymakers and businesses to proceed with caution rather than pessimism. Prepared by the Department of Economic Affairs under Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) V. Anantha Nageswaran, the document sets the tone for the government’s economic thinking going into FY27. At its core, the Survey projects real GDP growth in the range of 6.8% to 7.2% for FY27, signalling steady momentum despite a challenging external environment marked by trade tensions, tariff pressures, and geopolitical risks. Growth Outlook: Steady, but Not Without Risks According to the Survey, India’s domestic economy is on a stable footing, supported by strong macro fundamentals. For FY26, growth is estimated at 7.4% as per the first advance estimates. Looking ahead, the government expects India to remain one of the fastest-growing major economies globally. The Survey notes that while domestic drivers such as consumption resilience, public investment, and improving private investment intentions continue to support growth, global conditions remain fragile. Trade conflicts, particularly tariff-related disruptions, could weigh on exports and investor sentiment intermittently. Importantly, the Survey introduces a nuanced stance: growth prospects are steady, but policymakers must maintain buffers and credibility. As the document puts it, the outlook requires “caution, but not pessimism.” Inflation: At Historic Lows, With Firming Ahead One of the most notable takeaways from the Economic Survey is the sharp moderation in inflation. Retail inflation has remained well below the Reserve Bank of India’s target of 4%, aided by food price corrections and improved supply conditions. The RBI has estimated CPI inflation at 2% for FY26, with projections of 0.6% for the December quarter and 2.9% for the March quarter. While inflation is expected to firm up gradually in FY27, it is likely to remain within the targeted range. Healthier balance sheets across households, firms, and banks, combined with controlled inflation, have helped preserve macroeconomic stability, the Survey notes. Global Context: Headwinds Persist The Survey flags a dim medium-term outlook for the global economy, citing modest growth, lingering geopolitical tensions, and risks related to global financial markets. It warns that if the much-hyped AI boom fails to deliver productivity gains, it could trigger corrections in asset markets. Despite these risks, India’s economy has demonstrated resilience. Total exports, including goods and services, reached a record $825.3 billion in FY25, even as merchandise exports faced tariff-related pressures, particularly from the United States. Investment, Reforms, and Deregulation The Economic Survey places renewed emphasis on systematic deregulation as the next phase of reforms under what it calls Ease of Doing Business 2.0. It argues that small, targeted deregulation efforts can trigger a “butterfly effect”, leading to entrepreneurship, investment, and innovation. Public capital expenditure continues to play a critical role, with Centre-led infrastructure spending acting as a key growth driver. At the same time, private investment intentions are improving, though the Survey stresses the need for regulatory certainty to translate intent into execution. Social Sectors and Emerging Themes Beyond macroeconomics, the Survey reviews progress across employment, health, education and agriculture. It reiterates the importance of skill development as services now account for over 55% of India’s Gross Value Added. The document also raises concerns over excessive social media use among younger populations, suggesting that age-based access limits may need consideration. On artificial intelligence, the Survey proposes the creation of an AI Economic Council to calibrate the pace of adoption and balance innovation with societal risks. Setting the Stage for Budget 2026 Presented just days before the Union Budget, the Economic Survey serves as a crucial backdrop for upcoming fiscal decisions. It highlights FY26 as an “unusually challenging year,” but frames FY27 as a year of adjustment, where firms and households adapt to regulatory changes and global shifts. In sum, the Economic Survey 2025–26 paints a picture of an economy that is resilient, reform-oriented and cautiously optimistic, positioning India to navigate uncertainty without losing growth momentum. About the Author Government Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Serendipity Arts Festival 2025 Marks a Decade With Its Most Expansive Edition Across Panjim
ENTERTAINMENT Serendipity Arts Festival 2025 Marks a Decade With Its Most Expansive Edition Across Panjim Newsyaar February 1, 2026 10:24 pm Panjim, Goa: As it completes ten years, the Serendipity Arts Festival (SAF) returns to Panjim with its largest, most ambitious and accessible edition yet, reaffirming its place as one of India’s most significant multidisciplinary cultural platforms. Running from December 12 to 21, 2025, the festival will feature over 250 projects, led by 35+ curators, spread across 12 venues across the Goan capital. What makes this tenth anniversary especially significant is that SAF’s celebrations began months before its official opening—spanning cities across India and even reaching overseas, signalling how far the Goa-born festival has travelled since its inception. A Year-Long Prelude to a Landmark Edition The tenth-year celebrations kicked off in May 2025 with a Mini Edition in Birmingham, UK, marking SAF’s growing global footprint. Over the following months, the festival made artistic interventions across the country: an evocative performance at Ahmedabad Cultural Week, a ghazal evening at Delhi’s Safdarjung Tomb, the much-loved River Raag sunset cruise in Varanasi, a curated celebration of Tamil culture in Chennai, and electronic B-Side Sessions in Gurugram. “These were not standalone events,” curators emphasised, “but preludes to a much larger artistic takeover.” Panjim as a Living, Breathing Cultural Canvas From riverfronts and promenades to beaches, parks, jetties and historic buildings, Panjim itself becomes the festival’s canvas. The Old GMC building at Campal—now dominated by artist Diptej Vernekar’s towering Narakasur installation, acts as SAF’s nerve centre, anchoring the festival’s visual identity. The festival officially opened with large-scale concerts by Clay Play and Palette(s) at The Arena, Nagali Hills Ground, with Motown Madness and The Revisit Project headlining subsequent nights. While music sets the tone, exhibitions and experiential venues open to the public from December 14, inviting visitors into a multi-sensorial, cross-cultural exploration of art, craft, performance, and food. SAF 2025’s performance programming spans continents and centuries, reconstructing Mumbai’s early jalsa music clubs, tracing divine feminine energies through Goddess Bhagavathy, revisiting 180 years of Marathi theatre, and reimagining puppetry traditions. Artists from across South Asia and beyond blur disciplinary boundaries, creating unexpected collaborations. Yet, Goa remains at the heart of the festival. Highlights include Goa’s Smallest Big Tradition: The Mini Narkasur Archive, the Terra-Grove terracotta pavilion crafted from kulhads at Miramar Beach by architect Vinu Daniels, and Not a Shore, Neither a Ship, But the Sea, an exhibition curated by Sahil Naik exploring Goa’s oceanic and maritime histories through intergenerational voices. Food as Memory, Culture and Performance Food takes centre stage as both art and archive. The Culinary Odyssey of Goa, curated by Odette Mascarenhas, traces the state’s layered culinary history, from Hindu artisans and Gaud Saraswat Brahmins to Muslim descendants of the Bijapur dynasty, Indo–Luso influences and Christian kitchens. Meanwhile, Goa is a Bebinca, curated by chef Manu Chandra with sensorial design by paChaak, offers an immersive dining experience where food, sound and memory unfold together. In a first since 2017, a docked barge at the Captain of Ports Jetty, Old Goa, has been transformed into a floating gallery, curated by Veerangana Solanki, encouraging slow, mindful engagement with art against the rhythm of the Mandovi river. Craft, Memory and the Museums of Making At the Old GMC Complex, exhibitions foreground craft as living knowledge. Hands, Tools, and the Living Thread, curated by Sandeep Sangaru, offers an intimate look into Kashmiri craft ateliers, presenting everyday tools, sketches and materials as carriers of generational wisdom. Complementary workshops introduce visitors to Namda felting, papier-mâché, and Kari-Kalamdani Naqqashi, led by master artisans. Other highlights include Home is Where the Heart Is, curated by Kristine Michael, exploring memory and migration through handmade materials, and Stepwells: Poetry in Craft, curated by Anjana Somany, which immerses audiences in the mythic and architectural worlds of Gujarat and Rajasthan’s stepwells. Designer Rashmi Varma’s Infinite Drape reimagines sari draping as an evolving, living craft, while The Voice of Fashion, SAF’s art partner, will host guided craft walkthroughs led by editor Shefalee Vasudev. An Inclusive Festival by Design Inclusivity remains central to SAF’s vision. Therefore I Am, curated by disability campaigner Salil Chaturvedi, features seven artists from across India working across media to document how disability shapes creative practice. The programme also includes performances in Indian Sign Language, bird-watching trails for blind audiences, operatic satire on Ambedkarite youth experiences, and Cinema for Every Sense, enabling blind and low-vision audiences to experience Hindi cinema through audio descriptions. With participation from leading artists, musicians, chefs, thinkers and craftspeople, Serendipity Arts Festival 2025 is not merely a celebration of a decade, it is a statement of intent, positioning Panjim as a global crossroads of art, culture and lived experience. About the Author Entertainment Reporter Share via Copied Share via Copied
India-EU Free Trade Agreement: Full Breakdown, Numbers, Timeline and Economic Impact
GOVERNMENT India-EU Free Trade Agreement: Full Breakdown, Numbers, Timeline and Economic Impact Newsyaar February 1, 2026 2:22 pm India and the European Union (EU) are intensifying negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that could reshape bilateral commerce, investment flows and economic strategy in the decades ahead. Officially referred to as the EU-India Trade and Investment Agreement (TIA), the proposed pact aims to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers, deepening economic cooperation between India — one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies — and the world’s largest trading bloc. Negotiations for the FTA have been ongoing for over a decade, and recent diplomatic momentum suggests both sides are serious about concluding a “high-ambition, high-standards” agreement in the medium term. Analysts and industry leaders see this as a strategic priority, especially as global supply chains and geopolitical alignments evolve. Bilateral Trade at a Glance: Current Numbers and Potential Growth Trade data underscores the scale of the economic relationship: Two-way merchandise trade between **India and the EU stood at around ₹11 trillion (approximately $130 billion) in 2024-25. India’s goods exports to the EU reached close to $70 billion, while EU exports to India were around $60 billionin the same period. Services trade adds another significant dimension, with India exporting approximately $30–35 billion in services to the EU annually, driven by IT, professional and business services. Under an effective FTA, many experts believe this bilateral trade could grow substantially. Some projections suggest India-EU trade could double to $250–300 billion by 2030, contingent on market access, tariff elimination and regulatory alignment. Specific forecasts also indicate that India’s exports to the EU could touch $100 billion or more by decade end, helping India pursue its broader goal of achieving $2 trillion in total exports by 2030. What the India-EU FTA Will Cover This proposed FTA is not merely about reducing import duties. It is expected to encompass a broad range of modules: Tariff liberalisation: Both sides are discussing phased or immediate elimination of customs duties on a significant share of goods. For India, priority sectors include textiles and apparel, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and engineering goods. The EU has emphasised its interest in greater access for agricultural and processed food products, wines and spirits. Services trade: The EU seeks greater market access in professional services, financial services, digital services and movement of skilled professionals. India’s services competitiveness, particularly in IT and business process services, stands to benefit substantially if barriers are eased. Investment and business facilitation: The pact is expected to include investor protection clauses, dispute settlement mechanisms and provisions to promote cross-border investment in sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, logistics and manufacturing. Regulatory cooperation: Reducing non-tariff barriers — including technical standards, sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, testing and certification procedures — is a central objective. Regulatory alignment or mutual recognition agreements in key sectors could significantly lower trade costs. Sustainable development and labour standards: The EU traditionally incorporates provisions related to environmental protection, climate commitments, labour rights and responsible corporate behaviour; India has indicated support while seeking flexibility in implementation timelines. Key Sectors Impacted Textiles and Garments India’s apparel and textile industry is one of the largest globally, with exports worth around $40–45 billion annually. Preferential access to the EU market could boost textile shipments by making Indian products more cost-competitive against competitors in Bangladesh, Vietnam and Turkey. Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals India’s pharmaceutical industry — valued at over $50 billion in domestic turnover — is a key exporter of generics, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and bulk drugs. EU market access could lower costs for Indian exporters by reducing duties (currently up to 6–7% on some products) and harmonising regulatory standards. Engineering Goods and Auto Components Engineering goods and auto parts — long recognised as India’s strength — could see enhanced export growth. Engineering exports to the EU were already around $25–30 billion annually, and an FTA could further these shipments by reducing tariffs and facilitating supply chain integration. Services India exports a large volume of services to the EU, particularly IT and corporate/business services. Improved mobility and mutual recognition for professional services could significantly increase services trade, which already accounts for roughly 25–30% of India-EU trade. Challenges in Negotiations Despite clear benefits, several key differences remain: Agricultural market access: The EU wants greater access for its dairy, meat and processed food products. India, in turn, seeks protection for its small farmers and tariff safeguards that prevent a surge in imports that could disrupt local agriculture. Rules of origin: Determining how much production must occur within India or the EU to qualify for tariff benefits is a sensitive issue. Strict rules may limit benefit realisation, while more flexible rules could risk diversion. Services and labour mobility: The EU emphasises liberalisation in professional services and easier movement for skilled professionals. India supports services access but remains cautious about commitments on short-term mobility and domestic regulatory autonomy. Standards and compliance: The EU has stringent regulatory standards across multiple sectors. Indian industry seeks mutual recognition, capacity building and technical cooperation to meet those norms without prolonged delays. Geopolitical and Strategic Dimensions The India-EU FTA is also significant beyond economics. It aligns with both partners’ strategic imperatives as global trade patterns evolve: Diversification and resilience: For India, the FTA represents a diversification of export destinations beyond traditional partners such as the US and Middle East. For the EU, it enhances engagement with a rapidly growing market in Asia. Strategic autonomy: Deeper economic ties with the EU support India’s broader foreign policy objective of strategic autonomy — maintaining balanced relations with multiple global powers. Global standards and reform: Negotiations with the EU could encourage India to further align with international best practices in digital trade, data flows, sustainability commitments and IP frameworks — strengthening its global integration. Business and Industry Reactions Industry bodies in India — including
Parakram Diwas 2026: Remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Spirit of Fearless Nationalism
EVENTS Parakram Diwas 2026: Remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Spirit of Fearless Nationalism Newsyaar February 1, 2026 2:07 pm Parakram Diwas, observed every year on January 23, marks the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of India’s most formidable freedom fighters. As India commemorates Parakram Diwas 2026, the day serves not merely as a tribute to a historical figure but as a reminder of an uncompromising vision of freedom, courage, and self-reliance that continues to resonate with the nation. Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, Subhas Chandra Bose was a brilliant student who topped the Indian Civil Services (ICS) examination in England. Yet, in an act that defined his life, he resigned from the prestigious service to dedicate himself entirely to India’s freedom struggle. His decision reflected a core belief: freedom could not be negotiated; it had to be seized. Unlike many leaders of his time, Bose believed that political independence required direct action, not prolonged compromise. His ideological differences with the Indian National Congress leadership eventually led him to chart his own path, driven by urgency and revolutionary resolve. The Formation of the Indian National Army (INA) Netaji’s most defining contribution was the revival and leadership of the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj). With the iconic call of “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,” Bose mobilised thousands of Indians across Southeast Asia to take up arms against British rule. The INA was not merely a military force, it was a symbol of defiance. It challenged the myth of British invincibility and ignited a powerful sense of national pride among Indians, including those serving within the British Indian Army. Historians widely agree that the INA trials played a significant role in accelerating the British decision to leave India. The word “Parakram” means courage, valour, and decisive action, qualities Bose embodied throughout his life. Parakram Diwas was officially instituted by the Government of India to honour these values and inspire citizens, especially the youth, to act with conviction in nation-building. In 2026, as India navigates complex global challenges, economic uncertainty, technological transformation, and geopolitical shifts, Netaji’s ideas on self-reliance, unity, and national confidence feel strikingly relevant. His emphasis on discipline, leadership, and sacrifice offers a counterpoint to complacency and apathy. Bose’s vision extended beyond the mere end of colonial rule. He envisioned a strong, socially just, and industrially advanced India, where freedom translated into dignity for every citizen. His advocacy for women’s participation in the freedom struggle, exemplified by the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, was far ahead of its time. Even today, his ideas provoke thought, about leadership that demands accountability, patriotism that requires action, and freedom that comes with responsibility. Parakram Diwas 2026: A Call to Reflect and Act Parakram Diwas is not just about remembering Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose; it is about questioning ourselves. Are we bold enough to stand by our principles? Are we willing to act when circumstances demand courage? As India observes Parakram Diwas 2026, Netaji’s life stands as a reminder that history is shaped not by comfort, but by conviction. His legacy urges the nation to move forward, not cautiously, but courageously. About the Author Events Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Indian Archery Championships 2025: Historic Success, Full Results and Key Performances
SPORTS Indian Archery Championships 2025: Historic Success, Full Results and Key Performances Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:46 pm The year 2025 proved to be a landmark season for Indian archery across domestic and international competition, highlighted by commanding performances at the Asian Archery Championships 2025 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, strong showings in World Cup events and breakthrough achievements at national championships and para archery trials. Indian archers demonstrated depth, balance and historic breakthroughs across both recurve and compound disciplines, underscoring India’s emergence as a serious contender on the continental and global stage. Asian Archery Championships 2025: Historic Record Performance The 24th Asian Archery Championships 2025, held from 8 to 14 November in Dhaka, was one of the most successful outings for India in the history of the sport. India topped the medal table with 10 medals — 6 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze — surpassing perennial powerhouse South Korea, and announcing a new era of competitive strength. Indian success at the championships was spread across both recurve and compound categories, reflecting strong team depth and international competitiveness: Gold Medals (6): Included individual and team triumphs across recurve and compound events. Silver Medals (3): Strong performances in closely contested finals. Bronze Medal (1): Notable podium finishes amid tough competition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly congratulated the Indian archery contingent for this historic performance, highlighting the individual and team achievements that contributed to India’s best ever result at the tournament. Recurve Highlights: Historic Individual and Team Golds One of the standout narratives from Dhaka was India’s recurve double gold, a feat never before achieved at the Asian Championships. On a memorable final day: Ankita Bhakat clinched the Women’s Recurve Individual Gold, stunning Paris 2024 Olympic silver medallist Nam Suhyeon of South Korea with a 7-3 victory in the final. Her composed performance included precise shooting under pressure, delivering key arrows at crucial moments. Dhiraj Bommadevara captured the Men’s Recurve Individual Gold, defeating compatriot Rahul 6-2 in an all-Indian final — marking the first time an Indian man has won this title. India’s recurve team also delivered a historic Men’s Team Gold, defeating a Korean side in a dramatic shoot-off to secure the title — the first Indian men’s team gold at the Asian Championships in nearly two decades. In the Women’s Recurve category, Sangeeta added to the tally by edging out veteran and former world number one Deepika Kumari 6-5 in a shoot-off to claim the bronze medal. These victories underscored the growing strength and competitive parity of Indian archers against traditional Asian powerhouses. Compound Success: Multiple Golds and Mixed Team Triumphs Indian compound archers were equally impressive: Jyothi Surekha Vennam continued her dominance in the women’s compound events, winning Gold in the Compound Women’s Individual final in an all-Indian contest against Prithika Pradeep, securing the podium sweep for India. The Compound Women’s Team — comprising Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Prithika Pradeep and Deepshikha — captured Gold, defeating Korea 236-234 in a closely contested final. The Compound Mixed Team of Abhishek Verma and Deepshikha added another Gold medal, beating Bangladesh 153-151 in the final. These results highlighted India’s commanding performance across compound categories, with the mixed team victory showcasing strong team chemistry and precision under pressure. National Championships and Domestic Standouts At the National Archery Championships 2025 held in Hyderabad, Indian archers delivered exceptional performances that further illuminated the strength of the domestic circuit. Among the most prominent was Ojas Pravin Deotale, India’s first compound world champion and Asian Games triple gold medallist, who matched a world record with a perfect score of 150 and 13 inner-ring X’s in a 15-arrow compound match, demonstrating world-class precision on home soil. Domestic results also saw strong showings from: Deepika Kumari, one of India’s most decorated archers and a multiple Olympian, who continued to remain a key figure in recurve competitions. Emerging talents who performed consistently in national circuit events, bolstering the pipeline of competitive archery talent across age groups and formats. These national championships play a crucial role in selection for international assignments and provide a competitive foundation for athletes advancing to continental and world stages. Para Archery Milestones India also made strides in para archery in 2025. Sheetal Devi, a star in the para circuit born with phocomelia, achieved a historic milestone as the first Indian para archer selected for the able-bodied national compound team following trials in Sonipat. Her selection for the able-bodied squad for the Asian Cup underscored not just her extraordinary talent but also the growing opportunities and inclusivity within Indian archery. Youth and World Cup Competitions Indian archery’s momentum extended beyond Asia. At the World Archery Youth Championships, young archers continued to shine, contributing medals and valuable experience to their competitive resumes. Meanwhile, in World Cup circuits, archers such as Deepika Kumari and Parth Salunkhe continued to represent India with podium finishes, including bronze medals, reflecting sustained international competitiveness. Structural Growth: Archery Premier League and Recognition In 2025, the Archery Premier League (APL) — India’s first franchise-based archery competition — was recognised as the Emerging Professional Sports Event of the Year at the India Sports Awards. The tournament, featuring six franchise teams and both compound and recurve formats, was lauded for enhancing competition exposure and advancing performance standards among Indian archers. Why 2025 Was a Breakthrough Year Collectively, India’s performances in 2025 — from national championships to continental dominance — marked a watershed moment in the country’s archery narrative. India’s 10-medal haul at the Asian Archery Championships, including historic recurve gold medals and strong compound victories, reflected the depth, balance and maturity of the national archery setup. With world-class performers, emerging talents and strong team cohesion, India’s archery ecosystem is now well positioned for major international events in 2026, including World Cup stages, Asia Cup competitions and multi-sport games where archers
Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur Birth Anniversary: Nation Remembers Champion of Social Justice
SOCIAL WORK Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur Birth Anniversary: Nation Remembers Champion of Social Justice Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:37 pm Tributes were paid across Bihar and the country on the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur, one of India’s most influential socialist leaders and a key architect of social justice politics in the Hindi heartland. Political leaders, social organisations and citizens remembered Thakur’s enduring contribution to inclusive governance, backward class empowerment and ethical public life. Born on January 24, 1924, in Samastipur district of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most respected mass leaders of the state. His political life was shaped by the freedom movement, socialist ideology and a deep commitment to the upliftment of marginalised communities. He passed away in 1988, but his legacy continues to influence India’s political and social discourse decades later. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, leaders cutting across party lines highlighted Thakur’s role in institutionalising social justice policies at a time when such ideas faced strong resistance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national tributes, recalling Thakur’s simplicity, integrity and lifelong dedication to the poor and backward classes. In a message, the Prime Minister described him as a visionary leader who devoted his life to empowering the marginalised and strengthening democratic values. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, along with several senior state leaders, paid floral tributes at Karpoori Thakur’s memorial and emphasised that his policies laid the foundation for social equality in the state. Similar commemorative events were held in Patna, Samastipur and other parts of Bihar, with public meetings recalling his governance model and personal conduct in public office. Karpoori Thakur served as the Chief Minister of Bihar twice — first from 1970 to 1971 and again from 1977 to 1979. His tenure is particularly remembered for the implementation of reservations for backward classes in government jobs at the state level, a move that preceded and later informed national-level policy debates on affirmative action. His decision to include extremely backward classes within the reservation framework was considered path-breaking and remains central to Bihar’s social justice structure today. Often referred to as “Jan Nayak” (people’s leader), Karpoori Thakur was known for his austere lifestyle and incorruptible reputation. Despite holding high office, he lived simply and maintained close contact with grassroots workers and ordinary citizens. His refusal to accumulate personal wealth and his insistence on clean politics set him apart in an era marked by increasing political competition and power struggles. In recognition of his exceptional contribution to public life and social equity, the Government of India conferred the Bharat Ratna — the country’s highest civilian award — on Karpoori Thakur posthumously in 2024. The honour was widely seen as long overdue and was welcomed across the political spectrum, particularly by leaders and communities who regard Thakur as a symbol of empowerment and dignity. Political analysts note that Karpoori Thakur’s relevance has only grown over time, especially as debates around social justice, representation and inclusive growth continue to shape Indian politics. His emphasis on education, reservation, linguistic accessibility in administration and decentralised governance remains influential, particularly in Bihar and neighbouring states. As the nation marks his birth anniversary, Karpoori Thakur is remembered not only as a former chief minister or socialist leader, but as a statesman whose ideas were rooted in equity, humility and democratic participation. His life and work continue to serve as a moral and political reference point in contemporary India, reinforcing the values of social justice and public service. About the Author Social Work Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Indian Startups at CES 2026: Homegrown Innovation Takes Global Spotlight in Las Vegas
TECH Indian Startups at CES 2026: Homegrown Innovation Takes Global Spotlight in Las Vegas Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:21 pm Indian startups and technology firms significantly expanded their presence at CES 2026 — the world’s largest technology showcase held in Las Vegas from January 6 to 9, 2026 — reflecting the country’s evolving tech ambitions and increasing global competitiveness. The annual event, organised by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), attracted more than 4,100 exhibitors from around 150 countries, underscoring its role as a launchpad for next-generation innovations spanning artificial intelligence (AI), digital health, robotics, mobility, enterprise technology and immersive entertainment. According to CTA executives, Indian participation has steadily grown, with a broader range of startups and established firms using the platform to showcase their products, engage with global partners and position themselves for international expansion. Indian delegations this year included innovators from healthtech, wearables, robotics and automotive systems, signalling the ecosystem’s transition from domestic focus to global impact. Ultrahuman: Metabolic Health and Wearables One of the headline Indian participants at CES 2026 was Ultrahuman, a Bengaluru-based health technology firm co-founded by Mohit Kumar, Vinay Bhargava and Vatsal Singhal. The company displayed its suite of wearable health devices and preventive care platforms, including what it bills as the world’s lightest sleep-tracking wearable, a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system and a preventive blood testing solution designed to empower users with metabolic insights. Ultrahuman’s presence marked India’s growing footprint in consumer health tech at global forums. Noise: Smart Wearables Designed for Global Markets Noise, headquartered in Gurugram and led by founders Amit Khatri and Gaurav Khatri, was another major Indian exhibitor. The company, recognised as one of the third-largest smartwatch brands in the world, showcased its latest wearable technologies at CES, emphasising advanced health metrics, design innovation and global compatibility. Noise’s participation highlighted India’s emergence not only as a producer of affordable wearables but as a designer and manufacturer capable of competing with established global brands. “We are proud to come here and compete on a world stage,” said Hamish Patel, Vice President – Product Devices at Noise, noting that the company’s R&D and manufacturing are largely based in India, enabling it to present products that match global benchmarks. aabo: MedTech Innovations Among the Indian startups at CES 2026 was aabo, a MedTech firm focused on AI-driven health solutions. Although not a household name, its technology emphasises the intersection of machine intelligence and healthcare delivery, an area of rising relevance as global health systems integrate data-led diagnostics and monitoring. The specifics of aabo’s product suite were highlighted among Indian exhibitors but details on founders and product characteristics are linked to its positioning as a healthtech innovator on the CES show floor. ArvyaX Technologies: Robotics and Pseudo-Reality ArvyaX Technologies, founded by Shalabh Bhatnagar, showcased its robotics and pseudo-reality solutions at CES’s Eureka Park — an innovation zone dedicated to emerging startups. The Bhopal-based firm has developed technologies that blend digital and physical environments, targeting enterprise sectors such as industrial training, simulation and collaborative experiences. Shalabh Bhatnagar described participating at CES as a moment of pride, emphasising that ArvyaX’s innovations were both made and innovated in India, reflecting the nation’s rising capabilities in robotics and immersive technologies. Sona Comstar: Automotive Technology and EV Systems The automotive technology company Sona Comstar was another Indian participant at CES 2026, presenting its advanced electric vehicle (EV) components and systems. With a strong focus on R&D in high-power density EV motors, differential assemblies and lightweight drivetrain systems, Sona Comstar’s technology underscores India’s potential in automotive core technology development and global mobility solutions. The company’s products cater to modern EV performance requirements and highlight a broader shift toward electrification and smart mobility. Zoondia and Industry Collaborations In addition to standalone startups, Indian participation included Zoondia, a global technology partner offering enterprise solutions and services. Though not a startup in the strictest sense, Zoondia’s presence further reflects the breadth of Indian engagement at CES, spanning early-stage innovation to established tech services with global delivery capabilities. The Significance of Indian Participation Executives at CES 2026 noted that India’s presence was broader and deeper than in previous years, building on momentum from the first dedicated Indian pavilion introduced on the CES show floor in 2024. This year’s participation spanned startups, industry bodies such as the CMAI Association of India, and firms showcasing products that compete with global innovations rather than just representing emerging market offerings. Industry observers have highlighted several key implications of India’s growing CES footprint: Global Visibility: Participation at CES elevates Indian startups to international buyers, investors and collaborators, helping them secure partnerships, pilot projects and market entry opportunities. Innovation Credibility: Demonstrating products at a major global venue signals maturity and readiness to compete on performance and design quality. Ecosystem Confidence: The increasing number of Indian participants reflects confidence among founders and investors in showcasing innovations on a global stage. Cross-Sector Representation: Startups at CES 2026 represented health tech, wearables, robotics and automotive systems, indicating that India’s startup ecosystem is diversifying beyond software into deep tech and hardware innovation. What This Means for India’s Startup Ecosystem The rising participation of Indian startups at CES 2026 comes at a time when the country’s broader startup ecosystem is experiencing structural shifts. India is now recognised as one of the largest startup ecosystems globally, with a growing emphasis on deep tech, AI, robotics and hardware innovation rather than only digital services. Initiatives such as startup support missions, increased R&D investment and industry collaborations are catalysing this transformation, enabling more Indian founders to engage in global innovation discourse and market expansion. Indian founders and CEOs attending CES emphasised that events like CES are not merely showcases but strategic platforms for networking, validation, investment engagement and collaboration, helping elevate India’s technology brands to global audiences and potential customers. Looking Forward As CES continues to be a
India’s Best Restaurants Revealed at Condé Nast Traveller x District Top Restaurant Awards 2025
FOOD India’s Best Restaurants Revealed at Condé Nast Traveller x District Top Restaurant Awards 2025 Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:13 pm New Delhi / Mumbai: The Condé Nast Traveller x District Top Restaurant Awards 2025, powered by Visa, has unveiled its definitive list of India’s top 50 restaurants, spotlighting the culinary creativity, diversity and evolution of the nation’s dining landscape. Now in its sixth edition, the awards have become a trusted barometer of excellence in Indian gastronomy, celebrating chefs, restaurateurs and mixologists who are shaping the way the country eats and drinks today. Dominating the list once again, Mumbai claimed the largest share with 13 restaurants featured among the top 50, including the top three positions. Headlining the list at No. 1 is The Table, a restaurant renowned for its imaginative global cuisine and vibrant atmosphere that blends fine dining with approachability. Close behind at No. 2 is Masque, a Relais & Châteaux member known for its boundary-pushing tasting menus crafted from locally foraged and seasonal ingredients. At No. 3, Papa’s continues to captivate diners with its playful, avant-garde culinary experiences. Mumbai’s strong showing reflects how the city’s restaurant scene continues to evolve, blending international influences with deeply local sensibilities. From classics like The Bombay Canteen, which reimagines Indian staples with bold twists, to Izumi Bandra, which pioneered Japanese fine dining in the city, Mumbai’s offerings span a spectrum of tastes and styles. Bengaluru and Delhi NCR each secured nine entries on the list, demonstrating the strength and diversity of their dining cultures. Bengaluru’s contributions range from farm-to-table experimentation to elegant Italian and contemporary global fare, while Delhi’s scene continues to balance heritage and modernity across its vibrant restaurant landscape. Goa also made a strong impression with eight restaurants, reflecting the region’s growing reputation for beachside and fusion dining. Chennai and its surroundings contributed five notable establishments, and historic food cities like Kolkata added three, with other entries emerging from destinations including Kasauli, Jaipur and Shillong, signalling that culinary excellence is spreading beyond India’s major metropolitan centres. The selection process for the Top Restaurant Awards is rigorous and highly respected. A 100-member jury, comprising food critics, writers, chefs, bartenders, artists and industry tastemakers, evaluates restaurants through a multi-phase voting system, with advisory support from Deloitte. This ensures a well-rounded and credible ranking that reflects both industry insight and regional diversity. Winning a place on the top 50 list is seen as a career milestone by many restaurateurs. For some smaller or independent establishments, the recognition has not only elevated their profile but also drawn national and international attention to their culinary philosophies and regional flavours. The Condé Nast Traveller Top Restaurant Awards also serve as a snapshot of broader gastronomic trends in India. While established dining giants hold their esteem, the recognition of new and emerging venues underscores the dynamic nature of India’s food scene. According to a recent Condé Nast Traveller feature, a range of new restaurants opening in 2025 are already gaining traction and may shape next year’s conversations in Indian dining. As India’s culinary culture continues to diversify and mature, these awards underscore both the depth of local talent and the appetite for experiences that marry innovation with heritage. With cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi and Goa leading the way, the 2025 ranking paints a picture of a vibrant, evolving gastronomic landscape that’s gaining ground on the global food map. Courtesy: @/Conde Nast Traveller India About the Author Food Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment
Alaknanda: Indian Astronomers Discover a Milky Way–Like Galaxy from the Universe’s Youth
SCIENCE Alaknanda: Indian Astronomers Discover a Milky Way–Like Galaxy from the Universe’s Youth Newsyaar January 27, 2026 6:07 pm Indian astronomers have made a discovery that could rewrite prevailing theories of galaxy formation, after identifying a massive, well-structured spiral galaxy dating back nearly 12 billion years. Named Alaknanda, after the Himalayan river, the galaxy was observed when the Universe was only about 1.5 billion years old, just 10% of its current age of 13.8 billion years. The discovery was made using data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) by Rashi Jain, a PhD researcher at the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Pune, under the supervision of Professor Yogesh Wadadekar. Their findings were published in the prestigious European journal Astronomy and Astrophysics in November. What makes Alaknanda extraordinary is its structure. According to current models, galaxies that formed so soon after the Big Bang were expected to be small, irregular, and chaotic, still assembling their mass through violent mergers. Instead, Alaknanda appears as a fully formed spiral galaxy, complete with a central bulge and two symmetric spiral arms, remarkably similar to the Milky Way. Ms Jain discovered the galaxy while analysing nearly 70,000 objects captured by JWST. “There was only one grand-design spiral galaxy in the entire dataset,” she said. Spanning around 30,000 light-years, Alaknanda shows classic spiral features, including a distinctive “beads-on-a-string” pattern, clusters of stars aligned along its spiral arms, commonly seen in nearby mature galaxies. Professor Wadadekar admitted his initial reaction was disbelief. “It’s astonishing how such a large galaxy with spiral arms could have existed just 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang,” he said. Scientists estimate that Alaknanda had already formed nearly 10 billion times the mass of the Sun in stars, while also developing a stable rotating disc, an achievement that should have taken much longer according to existing cosmic timelines. The implications of this discovery are significant. It suggests that some galaxies in the early Universe evolved far more rapidly and efficiently than previously thought. The presence of such an organised structure so early challenges assumptions about the pace of star formation, the role of dark matter, and the mechanisms that lead to spiral arm formation. For Indian astronomy, the finding marks a major milestone, showcasing the country’s growing role in cutting-edge space research enabled by global observatories like JWST. For cosmology as a whole, Alaknanda opens new questions about how order emerged so quickly from the apparent chaos of the early Universe, and whether other such hidden spirals are waiting to be found. About the Author Science Reporter Share via Copied Comments Post Comment