Language Settings
Select Website Language

GDPR Compliance

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies, Privacy Policy, and Terms of Service.

All Posts

Showing 91 to 105 posts out of total 1049 Total
  • Channels
  • Topics
  • Other Filters

Filters

Channels
Topics
Other Filters
Filters
Telangana Coal Supply Plan Targets 75,500 Tonnes Daily
Telangana

Telangana Coal Supply Plan Targets 75,500 Tonnes Daily

Telangana's reported coal-supply plan targets 75,500 tonnes daily for thermal plants, according to a September 2026 report. Category: Telangana / Business / Energy HYDERABAD, October 17: Telangana's coal-supply planning has come under attention amid concerns about electricity availability and the fuel requirements of thermal power stations. A report published by Telangana Today on September 29 said Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) and Telangana's power-generation utility had prepared an action plan to supply approximately 75,500 tonnes of coal daily to thermal power plants operated by TGGENCO. This is a September development being revisited as background, not a newly announced October 17 decision. The reported plan covered coal requirements, transportation arrangements and operational coordination between the organisations. Why coal supply matters Thermal power stations require consistent fuel deliveries to maintain electricity generation. Coal availability, transport capacity, plant efficiency and the number of operating units all affect how much electricity can be produced. The reported action plan included reviews of coal requirements at individual plants, current supplies, coal quality, railway availability and loading and unloading arrangements. SCCL is a major coal producer serving power stations and other industrial consumers. TGGENCO operates generating facilities and must coordinate fuel requirements with electricity demand. Does this mean power cuts are inevitable? No. A coal-supply concern or a planned delivery target does not automatically mean a statewide power shortage will occur. Electricity availability also depends on demand, generating-unit outages, hydropower, solar generation, transmission constraints and power purchases from other sources. To establish the current position, the latest coal stocks at individual stations, actual daily deliveries and official electricity-supply figures would need to be checked. The September report alone cannot establish the status on October 17. What to monitor Consumers should follow official announcements from Telangana's energy department, TGGENCO and SCCL for current figures and any confirmed supply disruptions. Transparent reporting of coal stocks and generation levels would help residents understand whether supply pressures are temporary or could affect electricity availability. Source: Telangana Today — SCCL and TGGENCO coal-supply plan, September 29, 2026

0 34 0
5 days ago
Renault Duster Strong Hybrid Launched at ₹16.99 Lakh
AutoMobiles

Renault Duster Strong Hybrid Launched at ₹16.99 Lakh

Renault Duster Strong Hybrid Launched in India at ₹16.99 Lakh Renault introduces the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 in India at ₹16.99 lakh, with a claimed 29 kmpl efficiency figure. MUMBAI, October 17: Renault has launched the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 in India, introducing a petrol-electric hybrid option to its midsize SUV lineup. The reported starting ex-showroom price is ₹16.99 lakh, while the top-end variant is priced at ₹19.49 lakh. According to India Today, the SUV combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery. Renault claims a maximum system output of 160 PS and an ARAI-certified fuel-efficiency figure of 29 kilometres per litre. These specifications and efficiency figures are manufacturer claims reported by the publication. Actual fuel economy can vary with traffic, driving style, road conditions and vehicle load. How the hybrid system works A strong hybrid combines a conventional engine with electric motors and a battery. Depending on driving conditions, the vehicle can use electric power, petrol power or a combination of both. The system can recover energy through regenerative braking and does not require routine external charging. This distinguishes it from a plug-in hybrid or a fully electric vehicle. Renault claims that the SUV can undertake up to 80% of city journeys in electric driving conditions and deliver a combined range of up to 1,400 kilometres. These figures should be understood in the context of the manufacturer's testing methods and stated conditions. Variants and rivals The reported lineup includes Evolution, Techno and Emotion variants. The model enters a competitive segment that includes the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. Customers should compare safety equipment, features, warranty terms, maintenance costs and on-road prices before making a purchase. What buyers should consider Hybrid technology may help reduce fuel consumption, particularly in certain urban driving conditions. However, the financial benefit depends on purchase price, annual kilometres travelled, petrol prices and ownership costs. The Duster's market performance will depend on customer demand, availability, real-world efficiency and competition. Source: India Today — Renault Duster Strong Hybrid launch

0 36 0
5 days ago
Infiltration Attempt Reported in Kupwara's Keran Sector
India

Infiltration Attempt Reported in Kupwara's Keran Sector

An infiltration attempt was reported in Kupwara's Keran sector on October 17, prompting a security operation near the Line of Control. SRINAGAR, October 17: Security forces reported an infiltration attempt in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district on Saturday, prompting an operation in the Keran sector near the Line of Control. According to The Indian Express, the incident occurred near Jumgund village at approximately 3 a.m. A brief exchange of gunfire was reported after suspicious movement was detected in the area. The Keran sector is located along the Line of Control, the de facto military boundary separating Indian- and Pakistan-administered parts of Kashmir. Its mountainous terrain and proximity to the boundary make surveillance and border security particularly challenging. Search operation continues Security personnel launched a search operation following the reported exchange of fire. The operation was aimed at checking the area for possible threats and determining what had occurred. Early reporting did not establish all details concerning casualties or the identities of those involved. Such details should be included only when confirmed by the Army, police or other authorised officials. The incident highlights the continuing security challenges along the Line of Control, where forces maintain patrols and surveillance to detect unauthorised crossings. Importance of official updates Security operations can change as searches progress. Initial reports may be revised when authorities release additional information about casualties, recoveries or the outcome of an operation. Residents should rely on verified statements and established news organisations rather than unconfirmed social-media messages. Further information about the incident should be attributed to the relevant authorities as it becomes available. Source: The Indian Express — Kupwara infiltration report

0 30 0
5 days ago
US Lawmakers Urge Rubio to Raise India Protest Concerns
World

US Lawmakers Urge Rubio to Raise India Protest Concerns

Six US Democratic lawmakers have urged Marco Rubio to raise concerns about protest policing and civil liberties during his India engagements. US Lawmakers Urge Marco Rubio to Raise Concerns Over India Protests Category: India / International NEW DELHI, October 17: Six Democratic lawmakers in the United States have urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to raise concerns about the handling of protests in India, bringing civil liberties and diplomatic relations into focus. According to reports published on October 17, the lawmakers wrote to Rubio about allegations of excessive force against student protesters and demonstrations associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The party's name should not be confused with the incorrect expansion, “Citizen Rights Protection,” used in earlier reporting. The lawmakers reportedly called for concerns about protest policing, detentions and electoral processes to be raised during discussions with Indian officials. These statements represent the lawmakers' allegations and requests; they should not be treated as independently established findings. Dispute over protest rights The demonstrations have included calls for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to resign. Protesters and political opponents have raised concerns about electoral processes, including voter-list revisions. The Election Commission has disputed allegations of bias and maintained that eligible voters can seek correction of their records. The issue illustrates a wider disagreement about democratic accountability, public protest and the role of foreign governments in discussing domestic political developments. India has previously objected to comments by foreign lawmakers on its electoral affairs, describing such interventions as interference in domestic matters. Rubio's engagement with Indian officials could provide an opportunity to discuss the concerns raised in the letter. Any official response or diplomatic action should be reported only when confirmed. Sources: The Indian Express | Rediff

0 30 0
5 days ago
Starlink Ready to Launch Satellite Internet in India, Final Clearances Awaited
India

Starlink Ready to Launch Satellite Internet in India, Final Clearances Awaited

Starlink says it is ready to offer satellite internet in India, but security checks and other regulatory requirements remain key to its commercial launch. NEW DELHI: Elon Musk-led satellite internet company Starlink has said it is ready to provide high-speed internet services in India, following years of work with Indian regulators and the development of dedicated infrastructure in the country. However, the announcement does not mean that commercial services have officially begun, as regulatory and security requirements remain important steps in the launch process. In a statement posted on social media on Friday, October 16, Starlink said it had worked with Indian regulators, industry participants and operators for more than five years. The company said it had established dedicated infrastructure in India with the required government approvals and was ready to connect the country with high-speed internet. The statement came amid an exchange with Reliance Industries over competition in India's emerging satellite communications market. Starlink and Reliance exchange views on competition Reliance Industries, led by Mukesh Ambani, said it welcomed competition in satellite communications, including from Starlink, but stressed that every provider must comply with Indian laws and regulatory requirements. The exchange comes as companies prepare for a potentially important expansion of India's internet infrastructure. Starlink's satellite-based model differs from conventional broadband, which typically depends on fibre-optic cables, mobile towers and other ground-based infrastructure. Why is Starlink interested in India? India has a large internet user base, but reliable connectivity remains difficult in some remote villages, mountainous regions, islands and areas where laying fibre-optic cables is expensive. Starlink operates a network of satellites in low Earth orbit that communicates with specialised user terminals on the ground. The system can provide internet access without requiring a conventional fibre connection to every customer. If launched commercially, the service could help businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, tourism operators and households in areas with limited broadband coverage. Actual performance would depend on service availability, equipment, pricing and local conditions. What approvals are still required? Starlink has already received a satellite communications licence from India's Department of Telecommunications and authorisation from IN-SPACe for its satellite constellation. However, these approvals alone do not establish that the company has permission to begin commercial services immediately. According to reporting published in October, the government was still conducting security assessments of licensed satellite operators. Spectrum assignment and compliance with India's security, monitoring and data-handling requirements are also important to the rollout. The government has rejected allegations that Starlink is being unfairly blocked, stating that licensed satellite operators are subject to the country's regulatory framework. No confirmed nationwide commercial launch date was established in the reports reviewed for this article. Will Starlink internet be affordable in India? Pricing will be a major factor in determining whether the service attracts Indian consumers. Elon Musk has recently said Starlink aims to make its service affordable in India, where mobile data is relatively inexpensive. However, customers may need to pay for satellite equipment as well as a recurring subscription. Until official Indian service plans and prices are announced, consumers should not rely on unconfirmed prices circulating online. Starlink would also face competition from existing broadband providers and other satellite communications operators, including Jio's satellite venture and Eutelsat OneWeb. Starlink's latest statement signals that the company believes its Indian infrastructure is ready. The next major milestone is confirmation that all outstanding requirements have been satisfied and that commercial service can begin. For consumers, the key questions remain when subscriptions will open, which locations will be covered, how much the equipment and monthly plans will cost, and what internet speeds users can expect. The launch could expand connectivity options in underserved areas, but the actual impact will depend on regulatory clearance, affordability and the availability of the service. Sources and verification The Economic Times — Starlink says it is ready to connect India — October 17, 2026. Business Standard — Starlink says Indian infrastructure is ready — October 17, 2026. The Indian Express — Government response on Starlink's regulatory delays — October 8, 2026. Parliament of India — Department of Telecommunications response on Starlink licensing.

0 43 0
5 days ago
Axis Bank Q2 Profit Rises 37.6% to ₹7,003 Crore
Business

Axis Bank Q2 Profit Rises 37.6% to ₹7,003 Crore

Axis Bank reported ₹7,003 crore in Q2 FY27 profit, up 37.6% year-on-year, as higher costs offset some gains from lending growth. Axis Bank Q2 Profit Jumps 37.6% to ₹7,003 Crore Despite Higher Costs By News National Editorial Team MUMBAI, October 17, 2026: Axis Bank reported a 37.6% year-on-year increase in standalone net profit for the July–September quarter of the 2026–27 financial year, supported by lower provisions and continued credit growth. The bank's net profit reached ₹7,003 crore, compared with ₹5,090 crore in the corresponding quarter a year earlier, according to its quarterly results reported on Saturday. Despite the strong annual increase, the result narrowly missed analyst expectations. Higher operating expenses and weaker income from activities outside core lending offset some of the gains. Net interest income grows Axis Bank's net interest income increased 11.8% year-on-year to ₹15,372 crore. This measure reflects the difference between interest earned on loans and interest paid on deposits and borrowings. The increase indicates continued growth in the bank's core lending business. Credit demand remains an important factor for Indian banks as businesses and households borrow for working capital, housing, consumption and investment. The bank also benefited from lower provisions compared with the previous year. Provisions are amounts set aside to cover potential losses, including those associated with borrowers who may not repay their loans. However, increased operating costs and weaker other income restricted the overall improvement relative to market expectations. Asset quality remains important Investors typically assess quarterly bank results through several measures, including loan growth, deposit growth, net interest margins, bad-loan ratios and the level of provisions. For Axis Bank, the latest figures provide evidence of stronger reported earnings, but the longer-term outlook will also depend on the quality of new loans and the cost of obtaining deposits. Higher expenses can reduce the benefit of revenue growth if they persist over multiple quarters. Banks must balance investment in branches, technology, staff and digital services with efforts to maintain profitability. Implications for India's banking sector Axis Bank's results arrive during a period when investors are examining the performance of major private-sector lenders. HDFC Bank also reported higher quarterly profit on October 17, although its earnings were affected by weaker treasury income and higher provisions. Comparisons between banks require caution because their size, loan portfolios, funding costs and accounting provisions differ. Investors should review Axis Bank's complete results and management commentary before drawing conclusions about future earnings or the bank's share price. Source: Reuters — https://www.reuters.com/world/india/indias-axis-bank-quarterly-profit-rises-376-misses-estimates-higher-costs-2026-10-17/

0 29 0
6 days ago
HDFC Bank Q2 Profit Rises 4.7% to ₹19,510 Crore
Business

HDFC Bank Q2 Profit Rises 4.7% to ₹19,510 Crore

HDFC Bank reported ₹19,510 crore in Q2 FY27 profit, supported by lending growth despite weaker treasury income and higher provisions. HDFC Bank Q2 Profit Rises 4.7% to ₹19,510 Crore as Lending Grows By News National Editorial Team MUMBAI, October 17, 2026: HDFC Bank, India's largest private-sector lender, reported a 4.7% year-on-year increase in standalone net profit for the July–September quarter of the 2026–27 financial year. Profit reached ₹19,510 crore, compared with ₹18,641 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. The results, announced on Saturday, showed continued growth in lending and deposits. However, weaker treasury income and higher provisions for potential loan losses limited the improvement in profitability. Net interest income increases The bank's net interest income (NII), which represents the difference between interest earned on loans and interest paid on deposits and other borrowings, rose 9.7% year-on-year to ₹34,619 crore. Total loans increased 16.3%, while deposits grew 18.8% from a year earlier. The growth indicates continued demand for credit and the bank's efforts to attract customer deposits. The gross non-performing asset ratio improved to 1.11% at the end of September, compared with 1.17% at the end of June. A lower gross non-performing asset ratio generally indicates an improvement in the proportion of loans classified as non-performing. Nevertheless, provisions for potential bad loans and other contingencies increased 2.1% to ₹3,574 crore. Treasury income weighs on results Treasury trading gains declined sharply to ₹780 crore from ₹2,390 crore a year earlier. Other income, which includes earnings from investments and various banking activities, fell 3.6% to ₹13,831 crore. The bank's profit was slightly below the average analyst estimate compiled by LSEG, according to Reuters. The figures suggest that growth in core lending income was partly offset by weaker gains from financial-market activities. Leadership transition ahead HDFC Bank also said Deputy Managing Director Kaizad Bharucha would step down at the end of December. Anup Bagchi is scheduled to take over as managing director and chief executive officer for a three-year term beginning October 27. The transition comes as the bank faces continued scrutiny of profitability, governance and operational performance. What the results mean Investors will be watching deposit mobilisation, loan growth, asset quality and funding costs in the coming quarters. Strong lending growth can support revenue, but banks must also manage credit risks and maintain sufficient funding to meet customer demand. Quarterly results alone do not determine a bank's future share-price performance. Investors should review the complete regulatory filing and consider broader market conditions before making decisions. Source: Reuters — https://www.reuters.com/world/india/indias-hdfc-bank-quarterly-profit-rises-47-narrowly-misses-estimates-treasury-2026-10-17/ Additional source: Economic Times — https://m.economictimes.com/markets/stocks/earnings/hdfc-bank-q2-results-net-profit-rises-5-yoy-to-rs-19510-crore-nii-grows-10/articleshow/135010605.cms

0 33 0
6 days ago
CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Gets Conditional Bail in Delhi
India

CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Gets Conditional Bail in Delhi

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke received conditional bail after his detention ahead of the Lehra Do Tiranga protest in Delhi on October 16. CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Gets Conditional Bail After Delhi Tiranga Rally Detention By News National Editorial Team NEW DELHI, October 17, 2026: Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), was released on conditional bail on Saturday after being detained by Delhi Police ahead of a planned Tiranga march in the national capital. According to The Indian Express, Dipke signed a peace bond before his release. Police had detained him on Friday after serving a notice prohibiting the planned “Lehra Do Tiranga” march around Connaught Place. The demonstration was intended to show support for two CJP members who had been detained earlier in the week. Student activist Neha Bora, who was also detained while attempting to reach the protest location, was released separately, according to news reports. Why was the protest organised? CJP and associated student groups have been protesting against the revision of electoral rolls and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Protesters allege that the revision could unfairly affect eligible voters and have called for greater transparency in the electoral process. The Election Commission has denied allegations of political bias. It has maintained that eligible voters whose names were incorrectly removed can seek re-enrolment through the prescribed procedures. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has also rejected accusations that the electoral process is being manipulated for political advantage. The protests have attracted attention because they combine concerns about voting rights, student activism and the freedom to demonstrate in public spaces. Police action and the next steps Police had warned Dipke against proceeding with the march, citing restrictions and concerns about maintaining public order. Authorities detained demonstrators as security was tightened in central Delhi. The conditional release does not amount to a judicial finding on the wider allegations raised by CJP. The legal position concerning the protest restrictions and the electoral-roll revision remains a separate matter. Student groups have indicated that further protest activity may follow. Any additional demonstration would depend on the organisers' plans and applicable police permissions. The immediate development is Dipke's release, but the wider dispute over electoral-roll revisions and protest rights remains unresolved. Further developments may depend on official responses, court proceedings and decisions by the organisers. Sources: The Indian Express: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/cjp-founder-abhijeet-dipke-conditional-bail-sign-peace-bond-10925903/ Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/world/india/indias-cockroach-movement-founder-arrested-media-reports-say-2026-10-17/

0 38 0
6 days ago
Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe UAE ODI Tri-Series Opens
Sports

Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe UAE ODI Tri-Series Opens

Bangladesh and Zimbabwe are scheduled to begin the UAE ODI tri-series in Abu Dhabi on October 17, 2026. Bangladesh and Zimbabwe are scheduled to meet in the opening match of an ODI tri-series in Abu Dhabi on October 17. The fixture gives both sides an opportunity to test their one-day combinations and build momentum through competitive international cricket. The match is listed for 5:00 PM IST by the Times of India sports scoreboard. Final team selections and the result should be confirmed against the live scorecard before publication. Source: Times of India Sports — fixtures and live scores

0 34 0
6 days ago
Premier League Fixtures Today Chelsea, Liverpool and Man City
Sports

Premier League Fixtures Today Chelsea, Liverpool and Man City

Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City are among the Premier League teams scheduled to play on October 17, 2026. Premier League Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City Face Key Fixtures By News National Editorial Team LONDON, October 17, 2026: The English Premier League schedule features several important fixtures on Saturday, with Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City among the teams set to take the field. Everton are scheduled to host Chelsea, while Brentford will welcome Liverpool. Manchester City are set to face Ipswich Town, and Newcastle United will meet Aston Villa in another closely watched fixture. Chelsea will aim to produce a strong performance away from home against Everton. Liverpool face a Brentford side that will look to make the most of home advantage. Manchester City, meanwhile, will seek to control possession and create scoring opportunities against Ipswich Town. The day's fixtures also include Fulham against Hull City. Supporters will be watching for changes in the league standings as the matches are completed. All five fixtures are scheduled for Saturday, October 17. Kick-off times and final results should be confirmed using official Premier League information. Source: Premier League official fixtures

0 43 0
6 days ago
Bundesliga Today Bayern Munich vs RB Leipzig, Dortmund Fixtures
Sports

Bundesliga Today Bayern Munich vs RB Leipzig, Dortmund Fixtures

Bayern Munich host RB Leipzig while Borussia Dortmund visit Union Berlin in the Bundesliga on October 17, 2026. Bundesliga Bayern Munich Face RB Leipzig as Dortmund Visit Union Berlin By News National Editorial Team MUNICH, October 17, 2026: Bayern Munich are scheduled to host RB Leipzig in one of the headline fixtures of the German Bundesliga on Saturday. Borussia Dortmund will also be in action, travelling to face Union Berlin. The Bayern–Leipzig match is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. local time at the Allianz Arena. The contest brings together two clubs with ambitions to compete near the top of German football. Bayern will look to use their home advantage and attacking strength, while Leipzig will aim to challenge the hosts through organised defending and quick transitions. Earlier in the day, Borussia Dortmund are scheduled to face Union Berlin. Other Bundesliga fixtures include Hamburg against Stuttgart, Werder Bremen against Paderborn, Schalke against Mainz and Elversberg against Augsburg. The results could influence the early-season standings as clubs continue their campaigns. Confirmed line-ups, goals and final scores will be important for assessing each team's performance. Source: DFB official Bundesliga match centre

0 38 0
6 days ago
India Announce New Zealand Tour Squads for Tests and ODIs
Sports

India Announce New Zealand Tour Squads for Tests and ODIs

India announce squads for the New Zealand tour, with selection changes across Test and ODI cricket ahead of the international series. By News National Editorial Team NEW DELHI, October 17, 2026: India's selection committee has announced squads for the upcoming international tour of New Zealand, with changes across the Test and one-day international teams. The announcement includes experienced players and fresh selections as India prepare for a demanding overseas schedule. According to reports published on October 16, the tour will feature five T20 internationals, five ODIs and two Test matches. The selection process is expected to provide opportunities for players to establish themselves in different formats while allowing the team management to assess combinations ahead of future international competitions. Captaincy arrangements for the ODI series are also part of the announcement, with Shreyas Iyer named to lead India in the final two ODIs, according to The Times of India. The New Zealand tour will test India's adaptability across formats and conditions. Fast-bowling depth, batting consistency and fielding standards will be important factors during the series. Supporters should consult the Board of Control for Cricket in India's official announcement for the complete squad lists, match dates and any fitness-related conditions. Source: The Times of India – India Test and ODI squads for New Zealand tour

0 32 0
6 days ago
India Recall Bhuvneshwar Kumar for West Indies T20 Decider
Sports

India Recall Bhuvneshwar Kumar for West Indies T20 Decider

India recall Bhuvneshwar Kumar for the decisive T20 international against West Indies as Arshdeep Singh remains sidelined. By News National Editorial Team NEW DELHI, October 17, 2026: India have recalled experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar for the fifth and deciding T20 international against West Indies, according to a report published by Reuters on October 16. The decision comes as India prepare for a crucial match in the five-game series. Fast bowler Arshdeep Singh remains unavailable because of a shoulder injury, creating an opportunity for Bhuvneshwar to strengthen the bowling attack. The deciding match is particularly important because the series is level at 2–2. Both teams will be looking to finish the contest with a series victory. India will need disciplined bowling and consistent batting to manage the pressure of a winner-takes-all encounter. West Indies, known for their aggressive approach in the shortest format, will aim to maintain their attacking momentum. Weather conditions could also play a role, with rain a concern ahead of the match. Any interruption could affect the teams' strategies and the final outcome. The match result should be added after confirmation from official cricket sources. Source: Reuters – India recall Bhuvneshwar for West Indies T20 decider

0 28 0
6 days ago
India Announce New Zealand Tour Squads as Jasprit Bumrah Returns
Sports

India Announce New Zealand Tour Squads as Jasprit Bumrah Returns

India Announce New Zealand Tour Squads as Jasprit Bumrah Returns India have announced their squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, with fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah returning to the Test team. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has also been selected for the Test series, subject to fitness clearance. The two-Test series is scheduled to begin in Wellington on November 19, followed by the second Test in Christchurch from November 27. India have also announced squads for a five-match ODI series, with Shubman Gill leading the first three matches and Shreyas Iyer captaining the final two. The selections reflect India's preparations for future international competitions, with experienced players retained alongside younger options. Source: Reuters – India announce New Zealand tour squads

0 32 0
6 days ago
Madinah Plants 5,444 Trees Around Masjid an-Nabawi
World

Madinah Plants 5,444 Trees Around Masjid an-Nabawi

Madinah Municipality confirms 5,444 trees, 9,930 square metres of green space and 1,385 planting beds around the Prophet’s Mosque. Madinah Plants 5,444 Trees Around Masjid an-Nabawi to Enhance Greenery and Visitor Experience By News National Editorial Team MADINAH, Saudi Arabia, October 16, 2026: The Madinah Municipality has planted 5,444 trees across sites, streets and roads in the central area surrounding Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque, as part of efforts to improve the city’s urban landscape and environmental quality. According to an official announcement published by the municipality on October 7, the central area features approximately 9,930 square metres of green space distributed across 1,385 planting beds. The landscaping is intended to improve the appearance of the area and create a more pleasant environment for worshippers, pilgrims and other visitors. Green Spaces Around the Prophet’s Mosque The central area surrounding Masjid an-Nabawi receives large numbers of worshippers and visitors throughout the year. The municipality’s landscaping programme integrates trees, plants and green spaces with the surrounding roads, buildings and public facilities. The planting beds and landscaped areas extend along streets and routes leading towards the mosque, including areas near bus and vehicle parking facilities. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve the urban environment in one of Saudi Arabia’s most important religious destinations. Year-Round Maintenance The municipality says the work involves more than planting trees. Regular irrigation, pruning, cleaning, maintenance and periodic inspections are carried out to preserve the greenery and keep the landscaped areas in good condition throughout the year. Maintaining vegetation is particularly important in Madinah’s hot, dry climate, where appropriate watering and ongoing care help trees and plants survive. The municipality’s programme aims to maintain the visual quality of public spaces while improving the environment around busy visitor routes. Supporting a Better Visitor Environment The addition of greenery can improve the appearance of public spaces and, where trees provide suitable shade, make outdoor areas more comfortable. Vegetation can also contribute to local environmental quality, although the municipality’s announcement does not quantify the project’s effects on temperature, air pollution or energy use. The initiative is part of Madinah’s wider urban improvement efforts, which seek to enhance public spaces and the experience of residents and visitors. Other development programmes in the central area have included improvements to pedestrian routes, accessibility and street infrastructure. Official Figures Confirmed The municipality’s announcement confirms the three main figures associated with the initiative: 5,444 trees, approximately 9,930 square metres of green space and 1,385 planting beds. These figures refer to the central area around the Prophet’s Mosque, including nearby sites, streets and roads—not exclusively the mosque’s interior or courtyard. The project highlights the role of ongoing landscaping and maintenance in managing public spaces around a major religious landmark visited throughout the year. Source Madinah Municipality, October 7, 2026: Official announcement on green spaces around Masjid an-Nabawi

0 41 0
1 week ago