Archives April 2026

New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): The 44th episode of Digital India: Ask Our Experts focused on the IT initiatives undertaken by the Government of Tripura, showcasing how the state is leveraging technology to strengthen governance, enhance connectivity, and improve service delivery for citizens.

The Digital India: Ask Our Experts is a live interactive programme streamed on Digital India’s YouTube channel. This episode hosted Shri Jeya Ragul Geshan B, IFS, Director IT & Head, Startup Tripura and can be watched at https://www.youtube.com/live/NYhMx304kNk?si=iemvOrjDuGIJIo3p.

The discussion highlighted Tripura’s rapid adoption of digital governance tools, with the e-Office system implemented across all state departments and extended up to the panchayat level in under two years. With over 2.6 lakh efiles created and over 55 lakh e-files processed, the initiative has significantly enhanced transparency, accountability, and efficiency in administrative functioning. Notably, Tripura stands as the first and only state in the country to have successfully completed e-Office implementation up to the panchayat level.

Further strengthening digital governance, Tripura has implemented a paperless e-Cabinet system, becoming one of the early adopters in the country. More than 30 cabinet meetings and over 500 decisions have been conducted digitally, enabling faster and more streamlined decision-making.

The episode also underscored the importance of robust digital infrastructure in enabling these services. The Tripura State Data Centre (TSDC) has been modernised to support scalable digital operations, while the Statewide Area Network (SWAN) and Horizontal SWAN (H-SWAN) have connected over 600 government offices. Additionally, the 4G saturation project, with over 100 towers, has significantly improved last-mile connectivity in the state.

A key initiative discussed was the Beneficiary Management System (BMS), an in-house platform designed to ensure accurate and transparent delivery of government benefits. By leveraging validated databases, the system has helped eliminate over 12,000 ineligible beneficiaries, ensuring that benefits reach the intended recipients.

In terms of citizen engagement, the Chief Minister’s Helpline (1905) was highlighted as a vital interface between the government and the public, maintaining a grievance resolution rate of over 98%, thereby enhancing trust and responsiveness.

The episode also highlighted Tripura’s proactive efforts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The state’s sector-agnostic Startup Policy, along with T-NEST (Tripura – Nurturing Entrepreneurship and Startups)—the State’s unique incubation centre—are actively supporting and nurturing local startups. Further, the proposed establishment of an AI Centre of Excellence and a dedicated IT Park is set to significantly strengthen the State’s technology ecosystem and drive future-ready growth.

Recognising the importance of digital inclusion, initiatives such as the Mukhiya Mandhiri Yuva Yogayog Yojana are enabling students to access digital tools, while the creation of specialised IT cadres is helping embed technical expertise within government departments.

The episode portrayed Tripura’s approach as a comprehensive and forward-looking model of digital transformation—seamlessly integrating robust infrastructure, progressive governance reforms, and citizen-centric initiatives to deliver tangible and measurable outcomes. It positions the State as an emerging exemplar, offering a replicable model for others to emulate in advancing inclusive and effective digital governance.

Ardmore, OK Apr 18: The LaundryCares Foundation in partnership with Too Small to Fail and Wash Bar Laundromat is excited to announce a collaborative initiative to promote early literacy in the Ardmore community. On May 20th, Ardmore residents are invited to a Free Literacy and Literacy Day event at Wash Bar Laundry, 2418 Purvis Drive, Ardmore, OK 73401.   From 3-5 p.m., guests will enjoy complimentary laundry services, refreshments and engaging early literacy for children and their families. A ribbon cutting on the new Read, Play, and Learn Space will also take place. There are no limitations on the amount of clothing and linens that can be brought in for free washing and drying. 

Throughout the afternoon, children can participate in story time and other activities organized by community partners including the Ardmore Public Library and The Ardmore Department of Public Health. The LaundryCares Foundation will also provide attendees with access to a free digital library through Vooks, a reading initiative that allows families to enjoy children’s books and corresponding activities right from their mobile device. In addition, all children will go home with a new story book courtesy of LaundryCares Foundation, as we recognize book ownership is one of the most fundamental ways to help children with early literacy skills and to instill a love of reading. “We are thrilled to be working with Wash Bar and to bring early learning to this community laundromat,” stated Dan Naumann, EVP of LaundryCares. 

Family Read, Play & Learn spaces, located in select laundromats nationwide, provide child-friendly and comfortable learning environments that promote school readiness and opportunities for parents/caregivers and children to engage in literacy activities together. These impactful programs are made possible through the collaborative efforts of the LaundryCares Foundation and Too Small to Fail Initiative,  which joined forces to create the Laundry Literacy Coalition, focused on supporting early language development in young children. 

The LaundryCares Foundation works together with laundromat owners and community organizations throughout the United States to connect communities with literacy resources. Enrolling in the LaundryCares Network is free of charge and allows interested parties to actively contribute to the movement aimed at promoting early literacy for young children particularly in under-resourced communities. This initiative is the 2024 Library of Congress David M. Rubenstein Award winner: the nation’s most prestigious award for outstanding and measurable contributions to literacy. 

by Mr. Ajit Mishra – SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd

Market Summary

Markets ended the truncated week with notable gains, extending their uptrend for the second consecutive week, supported by easing geopolitical tensions and improving risk sentiment. Optimism surrounding a potential US–Iran peace agreement underpinned market confidence, while stable domestic fundamentals further aided momentum. Despite intermittent volatility, the indices maintained an upward bias, with broader markets outperforming the frontline indices. Consequently, both benchmark indices—the Nifty and Sensex—gained over 1% each to close at 24,353.55 and 78,493.54, respectively.

Key Market Drivers

Global developments remained a key influence, with easing tensions between the US and Iran and expectations of a potential peace agreement supporting investor sentiment. However, lingering uncertainty around the geopolitical situation continued to keep markets sensitive to movements in energy prices and global risk cues.

On the domestic macro front, inflation trends showed an uptick. CPI inflation rose to 3.4% in March 2026 from 3.21% in February, driven by higher food prices. Wholesale inflation also accelerated sharply to a 38-month high of 3.88%, led by rising prices of crude petroleum, fuel, and manufactured goods, indicating building cost pressures.

External sector data provided some relief, with India’s trade deficit narrowing to $20.67 billion in March from $27.1 billion in February, supported by higher exports and a decline in imports.

On the growth front, the IMF marginally raised India’s GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 6.5%, citing strong domestic demand and carryover momentum, while cautioning about potential risks from geopolitical tensions and rising global inflation.

Sectoral Snapshot

Sectoral performance remained broadly positive, with strong participation across segments, barring the auto sector. Among the top gainers, energy, metals, and realty posted healthy gains, followed by the FMCG and IT segments.

Broader markets outperformed the benchmarks, with the midcap index rising around 3.5% and the smallcap index gaining approximately 4.3%, reflecting improved risk appetite and wider market participation.

Key Events to Watch

The upcoming week will be crucial, with both global and domestic developments likely to guide market direction. Geopolitical developments in the US–Iran conflict will remain a key monitorable, given their direct impact on crude oil prices and global risk sentiment.

On the domestic front, focus will shift to the ongoing Q4 FY26 earnings season. Market participants will initially react to results from banking heavyweights such as HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank. Subsequently, several key companies—including HCL Technologies, Infosys, Tech Mahindra, Havells, IndusInd Bank, M&M Finance, and Shriram Finance—are scheduled to announce their results. Earnings commentary, particularly on margins and demand outlook, will be closely tracked.

On the macro front, infrastructure output data for March will be released on April 20, followed by Manufacturing, Services, and Composite PMI data for April on April 23, providing insights into economic momentum.

Technical Outlook

Nifty: The index has extended its recovery and is now approaching key moving averages (100 and 200 DEMA) in the 24,600–24,800 zone. Sustained strength above this band could open room for further upside towards 25,200. In case of profit booking or consolidation, the 23,700–24,000 zone is likely to provide strong support.

Bank Nifty: The banking index is trading in line with the broader market and has already entered the zone of key moving averages. A decisive move above 57,200 could further accelerate momentum towards 59,000. On the downside, immediate support is seen in the 53,800–55,000 zone.

Market Breadth: Market breadth remained strong, with broader indices outperforming the benchmarks. The outperformance of midcap and smallcap segments indicates improving risk appetite and broader participation, although elevated volatility suggests a selective approach.

Strategy Ahead

Given the improving sentiment alongside persistent global uncertainties, investors should maintain a balanced and selective approach. Portfolio allocation may remain tilted towards fundamentally strong large-cap stocks, while selectively participating in broader market opportunities.

Sectorally, energy and metal & mining sectors may continue to outperform, while other sectors could participate on a rotational basis. Emerging themes such as railways and fertilisers are showing signs of recovery; however, it remains premature to call a sustained reversal. Caution is warranted in sectors exposed to rising input costs and global commodity volatility.

Traders should remain disciplined, avoid excessive leverage, and focus on stock-specific opportunities. With volatility likely to persist amid geopolitical developments and the earnings season, a hedged approach and strict risk management—especially for overnight leveraged positions—will be essential. 

DALLAS and MINNEAPOLIS, Apr 18: The American Academy of Neurology and the American Heart Association have awarded the 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health to two neuroscientists, Sarah Kettlety, Ph.D., of Baltimore, Maryland, and Cali McEntee, Ph.D., of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Each will receive a $150,000 two-year scholarship to support continuing scientific research in brain health. This is the third year this scholarship has been awarded.

The Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships in Brain Health, also known as the Sacco Scholars program, are made possible by a generous bequest to the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), the world’s largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals, and the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all, from the late Ralph L. Sacco, M.D., M.S., FAAN, FAHA. Sacco was the only neurologist to have served as president of both organizations. He passed away in 2023 from a brain tumor. 

“As we learn more about the importance of the cognitive and physical aspects of the heart-brain connection, it’s critical to grow the body of evidence that can help us reduce risk and improve health,” said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, executive director of the Katz Institute for Women’s Health and senior vice president of women’s health at Northwell Health in New York City. “We look forward to seeing the work of these two scholars as these research projects build upon Dr. Sacco’s decades of work in saving and improving lives.” 

“Dr. Ralph Sacco inspired many physicians and researchers through his remarkable career, and his legacy lives on through the Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships in Brain Health,” said American Academy of Neurology President Natalia S. Rost, M.D., M.P.H., FAAN, FAHA. “This program that supports talented researchers in advancing preventive neurology is a testament to his generosity in mentorship and passion for science. We are thrilled to welcome two new researchers to the Sacco Scholars community — a growing group of researchers whose valuable work brings us closer to achieving the future of brain health for all.” 

Kettlety is a postdoctoral researcher at Kennedy Krieger Institute and at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. She is being awarded the scholarship to study the impact of childhood concussions on long-term health. Specifically, she will look at how a child’s heart rate changes when they exercise after a concussion. These heart‑rate responses can follow different patterns, and those patterns may give clues about whether the nervous system — which controls things like heart rate and breathing — isn’t working quite right after the injury. One of the patterns researchers see may signal a problem with this automatic nervous system. Kids who show this pattern could be more likely to have concussion symptoms that last longer than usual. The goal of Kettlety’s study is to find out whether these heart‑rate patterns can help doctors predict which young patients will have a slower recovery. If doctors can identify those patients early, they may be able to offer more customized treatments to help them recover more quickly and fully. 

McEntee is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor. Her research project will look at the connection between exercise and brain health. As people get older, it’s common for the brain to change, which can make learning and memory harder. Scientists know that exercise helps keep the brain healthy and can improve memory, but they don’t fully understand why it works. McEntee is looking at small substances that the body releases during exercise, called exerkines. These tiny messengers are released from muscles and fat when we move, and they may travel to the brain and help it work better. She wants to determine which of these substances are most important and how they help the brain stay sharp as we age. By understanding this, McEntee hopes to find new ways to protect and improve brain health — not only for older adults, but also for people with conditions like diabetes or obesity, and even for people who can’t exercise due to illness or disability. The goal is to help everyone maintain better brain health throughout their lives. 

“Robust research funding is critically important to support innovative ideas that can lead to scientific breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis, and treatments for a variety of conditions,” said American Academy of Neurology Chief Executive Officer Mary E. Post, M.B.A., CAE. “With this collaborative partnership through the Sacco Scholars program, and the American Academy of Neurology’s Brain Health Initiative, we are committed to improving lives and making a meaningful impact on the landscape of brain health.”  

“Dr. Ralph Sacco was the first neurologist to ever serve as the volunteer president of the American Heart Association and he was a dedicated volunteer for more than 20 years as a champion for our work in recognizing the importance of brain health,” said Nancy Brown, the American Heart Association’s chief executive officer. “He spent much of his life mentoring young scientists just like the recipients of this year’s scholarships. More importantly, he was a dear friend and I am so proud to see his lifesaving legacy live on to continue influencing the growing body of scientific research into the connection of heart and brain health.” 

Kettlety and McEntee begin their two-year research projects on July 1, 2026. 

Jashpur, Apr 18 (BNP): The Government of Chhattisgarh has launched a major rural infrastructure push with the foundation stone laying for 774 roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), aimed at strengthening last-mile connectivity across the state.

The initiative was inaugurated by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who said the project reflects the government’s strong focus on rural development and improving the quality of life in villages.

Pic Credit: Pexel 

The proposed road network spans a total length of 2,426.875 kilometres, with an estimated investment of around ₹2,225 crore. Once completed, the project is expected to connect nearly 781 rural habitations, ensuring all-weather road access for remote communities.

Officials said the improved connectivity will play a key role in enhancing access to education, healthcare, and markets, while also supporting rural economic activity and mobility.

The Chief Minister noted that PMGSY, originally launched during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, has become a key driver of rural transformation. He added that continued infrastructure expansion under various central and state schemes has significantly improved village-level connectivity across Chhattisgarh.

The state government also highlighted ongoing work under major national projects, including highway corridors aimed at improving regional trade and connectivity.

Alongside infrastructure development, the government is implementing several welfare measures for farmers, including enhanced support for agricultural credit societies, procurement at assured prices, and financial assistance schemes. Officials said these initiatives are aimed at strengthening the rural economy and improving farmer incomes.

The construction of the 774 roads is expected to begin soon, marking another step toward expanding rural connectivity and accelerating development in the state.

Odisha to Disburse CM-Kisan Assistance to Over 41 Lakh Farmers on Akshaya Tritiya

Bhubaneswar, Apr 18 (BNP): On the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya on April 20, the Government of Odisha will provide financial assistance under the CM-Kisan scheme to more than 41.68 lakh farmers as part of the ‘Akhi Muthi Anukula’ programme.

The state-level event will be held at the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) in Cuttack, coinciding with State Farmers’ Day. The initiative is aimed at supporting farmers ahead of the upcoming Kharif season by ensuring timely financial aid for agricultural activities.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will oversee the disbursement of assistance to eligible beneficiaries. The programme will also see the participation of the Deputy Chief Minister and several ministers, who will attend both the central and district-level events organised across the state.

In addition to the main function in Cuttack, simultaneous programmes will be held in various districts to ensure wider outreach and smooth distribution of benefits. Ministers have been assigned to different districts to supervise the implementation of the initiative at the grassroots level.

The large-scale disbursement is expected to provide significant support to farmers at a crucial time in the agricultural calendar, helping them prepare for the Kharif cropping season.

Overall, the initiative reflects the state government’s continued focus on strengthening farmer welfare and ensuring direct financial support reaches cultivators in a timely and efficient manner.

Bhubaneswar, Apr 18(BNP): Odia cinema delivered a standout performance at the Indian National Cinema Academy (INCA) Awards 2026, strengthening its growing presence on the national film stage.

The film Bou Buttu Bhuta emerged as one of the top winners of the evening, securing three major honours, including Best Odia Film. Lead performances by Babushaan Mohanty and Archita Sahu were recognised with Best Actor and Best Actress (Odia) awards, respectively.

Another Odia film, Ananta, also received national recognition, with Sabyasachi Mohapatra and Kumar C. Dev Mohapatra winning Best Director for their work, further highlighting the creative depth emerging from the industry.

The success of these films reflects the steady evolution of Odia cinema, which is increasingly gaining visibility beyond regional audiences. Improved storytelling, stronger production values, and wider reach have helped Odia films connect with a broader national audience.

The recognition at INCA 2026 underscores a positive shift for regional cinema, where Odia films are steadily earning a place alongside other major Indian film industries on prestigious national platforms.

Overall, the awards mark another step forward for Odia cinema’s growing reputation and its continued journey toward wider recognition in India’s entertainment landscape.