Nationwide Greetings Pour in for Odisha on Maha Bishuba Sankranti

Apr 14 (BNP): On the auspicious occasion of Maha Bishuba Sankranti, which marks the Odia New Year, warm greetings and wishes were extended by the country’s top leaders to the people of Odisha.

President Droupadi Murmu conveyed her heartfelt greetings to citizens across India and abroad, noting the cultural significance of the day alongside other regional New Year celebrations such as Baisakhi, Vishu, Bohag Bihu, Poila Baisakh, Mesadi, and Puthandu. She wished everyone happiness, prosperity, and renewed hope in the coming year.

Nationwide Greetings Pour in for Odisha on Maha Bishuba Sankranti

 Pic Credit: https://x.com/MohanMOdisha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted the people of Odisha, extending his best wishes for peace, progress, and well-being on the occasion of the traditional New Year.

In Odisha, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined in the celebrations, offering their greetings to the public and highlighting the cultural importance of the festival.

Union ministers Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, and Dharmendra Pradhan also extended their wishes, joining leaders across the country in marking the occasion.

Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, Naveen Patnaik, likewise conveyed his greetings, emphasizing goodwill and unity among the people.

The messages collectively reflected the spirit of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and the broader celebration of regional New Year festivals across India, symbolizing renewal, harmony, and shared traditions.

India Resilient but Oil Shock May Slow Growth: S&P

New Delhi, Apr 14 (BNP): India’s solid macroeconomic and financial sector fundamentals are expected to soften the blow from a sustained rise in global crude oil prices, even though higher energy costs could weigh on overall economic growth, according to S&P Global Ratings.

India Resilient but Oil Shock May Slow Growth: S&P

 Pic Credit: Pexel

Under a stress scenario where Brent crude averages around USD 130 per barrel in 2026, India’s GDP growth could be lower by as much as 80 basis points, the rating agency said.

S&P Global Ratings added that corporate profitability would also come under pressure in such a scenario, with earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) expected to fall by 15–25 per cent in FY27, while leverage could rise by 0.5–1.0 times.

The agency further cautioned that banking sector asset quality may weaken under prolonged stress, with gross non-performing assets potentially rising to about 3.5 per cent.

Fuel Price Freeze Deepens Losses for OMCs as Under Recoveries Surge

New Delhi, Apr 14 (BNP): India’s oil marketing companies (OMCs) are reportedly facing significant under-recoveries on fuel sales as retail prices remain unchanged despite elevated global crude oil costs.

Industry estimates indicate that OMCs are currently incurring losses of around ₹18 per litre on petrol and nearly ₹35 per litre on diesel. These losses stem from the gap between stagnant retail prices and higher international crude and refining costs.

The price freeze has been maintained to protect consumers from sharp fluctuations in global energy markets. However, sustained volatility in crude oil prices continues to pressure the margins of fuel retailers, intensifying financial stress across the sector.

AC Milan and Corpay Cross-Border Extend Their Partnership

Business Wire India

AC Milan and Corpay, Inc.* (NYSE: CPAY), a global leader in corporate payments, today announced that Corpay’s Cross-Border business has entered into a long-term agreement to extend their successful and exclusive collaboration as Official Commercial Foreign Exchange Partner of the Club.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260414215140/en/

 

 

The collaboration brings together two organisations driven by a strong focus on innovation and an international outlook. On one side, AC Milan connects over 500 million fans worldwide, continuously evolving while staying true to its heritage to strengthen engagement with both current and future supporters. On the other, Corpay supports organisations through innovative solutions, helping them overcome borders, manage foreign exchange exposure, and execute cross-border payments with accuracy and security.

 

 

“We are delighted to continue our journey alongside Corpay, renewing a partnership that reflects our shared goal of strengthening connections with a global audience, building meaningful relationships and continuing to evolve with a forward-looking vision,” commented Maikel Oettle, Chief Revenue Officer of AC Milan.

 

 

“Over the past three seasons, we’ve had the privilege of serving as the Official Commercial FX Partner of the Rossoneri,” said Brad Loder, Chief Marketing Officer, Corpay Cross-Border Solutions. “We’re proud of the trust the Club’s teams have placed in us, and delighted to extend this relationship for multiple years with one of the most successful clubs in the sport’s history.”

 

 

About Corpay
Corpay, Inc. (NYSE: CPAY) is a global S&P500 corporate payments company that helps businesses and consumers pay expenses in a simple, controlled manner. Corpay’s suite of modern payment solutions help its customers better manage vehicle-related expenses (such as fueling and parking), travel expenses (e.g. hotel bookings) and payables (e.g. paying vendors). This results in our customers saving time and ultimately spending less. Corpay Cross-Border refers to a group of legal entities owned and operated by Corpay, Inc.

 

 

Corpay – Payments made easy. To learn more visit www.corpay.com.

 

 

*“Corpay” in this document primarily refers to the Cross-Border Division of Corpay, Inc. https://www.corpay.com/cross-border; a full listing of the companies that are part of Corpay Cross-Border is available here: https://www.corpay.com/compliance.

 

 

 

 

 

The Future of AI: Trends and Predictions for the Next 5 Years

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become one of the most important technologies shaping today’s digital world. It already supports industries such as healthcare, finance, education, and communication by improving efficiency and decision-making. Over the next ten years, AI is expected to grow even more advanced, becoming deeply integrated into everyday life and transforming the way people work and interact with technology.

The Future of AI: Trends and Predictions for the Next 5 Years

Current State of AI

Modern AI is largely based on machine learning, where systems learn from large amounts of data to identify patterns and make predictions. This has improved performance in areas like medical diagnosis, fraud detection, customer service, and business forecasting. In addition, natural language processing allows machines to understand and respond to human language, making tools like chatbots and voice assistants more useful and accurate. AI-powered data analysis is also helping organizations turn complex information into meaningful insights.

Smarter and More Advanced Systems

In the coming years, AI systems are expected to become more independent and adaptive. New learning methods will allow machines to improve with less human input, making them more efficient and flexible. Language-based AI will become more natural and conversational, while visual systems will better interpret images and videos in real time. These improvements will strengthen applications in areas such as healthcare, security, and transportation.

AI in Everyday Life

AI is gradually becoming part of daily routines without being directly noticed. Smart homes will automatically adjust settings like lighting and temperature based on user behavior. Transportation will become safer and more efficient through AI-powered navigation and self-driving technologies. In healthcare, AI will support early diagnosis and personalized treatment, while in education, it will help create customized learning experiences for students.

Impact on Major Industries

AI is expected to transform key industries significantly. In healthcare, it will improve diagnosis speed and treatment accuracy. In finance, it will enhance fraud detection and investment analysis. Manufacturing will benefit from automation and predictive maintenance, while education will see more personalized learning tools. These changes will increase productivity and improve overall service quality across sectors.

Personalization and User Experience

One of the biggest strengths of future AI systems will be personalization. AI will better understand user preferences and behaviors, allowing businesses to offer highly customized services and recommendations. Virtual assistants will become more intelligent and responsive, creating smoother and more natural interactions between humans and digital systems.

AI and Sustainability

AI will also play an important role in supporting environmental sustainability. It can help reduce waste by improving production planning and forecasting demand more accurately. In industries like agriculture and logistics, AI will optimize resource use and reduce environmental impact, contributing to more efficient and eco-friendly systems.

Challenges and Risks

Despite its advantages, AI brings several challenges. Data privacy is a major concern because AI systems rely on large amounts of personal information. Another issue is algorithmic bias, which can lead to unfair or inaccurate results if systems are trained on biased data. There are also concerns about job displacement as automation replaces certain tasks, although new job opportunities are expected to emerge in technology-related fields.

Changing Work Environment

The workplace will continue to evolve as AI becomes more capable. Routine tasks will be automated, allowing humans to focus on creativity, strategy, and decision-making. New hybrid roles will develop where humans work alongside AI systems, guiding and managing them. This shift will require continuous learning and skill development in many professions.

Regulation and Responsible Use

As AI becomes more powerful, governments are expected to introduce stronger regulations to ensure ethical and safe use. These rules will focus on transparency, fairness, accountability, and data protection. International cooperation may also be needed to manage AI systems that operate across global networks.

Public Perception of AI

Public understanding of AI will continue to grow over time. As people interact with AI more frequently in daily life, acceptance will likely increase. However, concerns about privacy, fairness, and control will remain important. Education and awareness will play a key role in building trust and reducing misunderstandings about AI technologies.

Conclusion

The next decade will be a period of rapid growth and transformation for artificial intelligence. AI will become more intelligent, more personalized, and more deeply integrated into society. While it offers major benefits across industries and daily life, it also brings challenges that must be managed carefully. With responsible development and proper regulation, AI has the potential to create a more efficient, innovative, and balanced future.

Celebrate Regional New Years with Traditional Sweet Delights by Organic India

Chandigarh, Apr 14: Organic India, part of Tata Consumer Products, invites consumers to celebrate India’s vibrant regional New Year festivals with a range of wholesome, traditional sweet recipes. Rooted in purity and mindful living, the initiative highlights the use of natural sweeteners like jaggery and khandsari sugar to bring both nutrition and nostalgia to festive celebrations.

Celebrate Regional New Years with Traditional Sweet Delights by Organic India

 As households across the country mark regional New Year occasions with joy and togetherness, Organic India encourages a return to time-honoured recipes that combine taste with wellness. The curated selection includes classic Indian desserts prepared using natural ingredients, offering a healthier twist to festive indulgence.

Featured Festive Recipes

Vermicelli Payasam with Organic India Jaggery

A comforting South Indian dessert made with roasted vermicelli, milk, and jaggery, infused with cardamom and garnished with cashews and raisins—perfect for festive gatherings.

Sakkarai Pongal with Organic India Khandsari Sugar

A traditional delicacy prepared with rice and lentils, sweetened with khandsari sugar and enriched with saffron, ghee, and dry fruits, symbolizing prosperity and abundance.

Sooji Halwa Pockets with Organic India Jaggery

A contemporary twist on a classic, these crispy pockets are filled with rich sooji halwa flavoured with fennel, cardamom, and pistachios—offering a delightful blend of tradition and innovation.

Through these recipes, Organic India continues to promote mindful eating by combining authentic flavours with natural, responsibly sourced ingredients.

SES, Boeing Reach Milestone Toward Line-Fit Offerability for Multi-Orbit Connectivity

Business Wire India

SES, a leading space solutions company, today announced a milestone toward offerability for SES’ multi-orbit antenna for installation by Boeing. This will allow airlines to receive new aircraft with the onboard network in place and connectivity service available immediately after delivery through a Boeing provided modification.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260413668493/en/

 

 

SES, Boeing Reach Milestone Toward Line-Fit Offerability for Multi-Orbit Connectivity. Credit: Boeing

SES, Boeing Reach Milestone Toward Line-Fit Offerability for Multi-Orbit Connectivity. Credit: Boeing

 

Through this collaboration, Boeing will install the SES in-cabin hardware network on production aircraft during factory production, the first key milestone toward offering its multi-orbit system as a fully line-fit connectivity solution across all Boeing commercial programs. As part of this solution, Boeing will install the complete in-cabin network and manage coordination of the external equipment installation. Initial offerability will be on the Boeing 737 followed by 787 airplanes.

 

“We are proud of our partnership with Boeing and this outstanding progress,” said Mike DeMarco, president of Mobility at SES. “We are on track for full line-fit offerability, giving airlines a seamless path to select and install the multi-orbit electronically steered array (ESA) antenna solution during aircraft factory production.”

 

 

“Our collaboration with SES reflects Boeing’s commitment to delivering advanced, reliable connectivity to our airline customers,” said Destry Lucas, Director Airplane Connectivity, at Boeing. “We are making strong progress bringing multi-orbit connectivity into the production environment, enabling a more streamlined installation approach and supporting scalable, line-fit capable solutions.”

 

 

Designed to operate across both low-Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary (GEO) satellite constellations, SES’ system enables global coverage, redundancy, and low-latency performance. The success of its multi-orbit ESA system, with 500 installations complete and 1,000 commitments in the pipeline, underscores confidence in SES’ innovative approach to in-flight connectivity.

 

 

Follow us on:
Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram

 

 

Read our Blogs>
Visit the Media Gallery>

 

 

About SES

 

 

At SES, we believe that space has the power to make a difference. That’s why we design space solutions that help governments protect, businesses grow, and people stay connected—no matter where they are. With integrated multi-orbit satellites and our global terrestrial network, we deliver resilient, seamless connectivity and the highest quality video content to those shaping what’s next. Following our Intelsat acquisition, we now offer more than 100 years of combined global industry leadership—backed by a track record of bringing innovation “firsts” to market. As a trusted partner to customers and the global space ecosystem, SES is driving impact that goes far beyond coverage. The company is headquartered in Luxembourg and listed on Paris and Luxembourg stock exchanges (Ticker: SESG). Further information is available at: www.ses.com

 

 

Forward-looking Statements

 

 

This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “will” and “enables”.

 

 

Forward-looking statements are not assurances of future performance and are subject to inherent uncertainties and risks that are difficult to predict. Factors that might cause such a difference include those discussed in our filings with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Form 20-F, such as regulation by telecommunications and civil aviation authorities may increase our commercial aviation business costs; pursuit of external growth opportunities or contracts may not yield the expected benefits; and dependency of large customers and counterparty risk. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

 

 

 

 

Gold ETF Inflows Jump to INR 31,561 Crore in March Quarter Amid Global Uncertainty

Mumbai, Apr 14 (BNP): Investments in Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) saw a sharp rise in the March 2026 quarter, as investors turned to gold for safety amid global uncertainty.

Gold ETF Inflows Jump to INR 31,561 Crore in March Quarter Amid Global Uncertainty

 Pic Credit: Pexel

Net inflows into Gold ETFs stood at ₹31,561 crore, nearly six times higher than the same period last year. On a quarterly basis, inflows also rose by about 36%, showing continued demand for gold-backed investments.

Market experts say investors preferred gold during the period due to geopolitical tensions and volatility in financial markets, which boosted its appeal as a safe-haven asset.

Along with higher inflows, the overall size of gold ETF investments and the number of investor accounts also increased during the quarter, indicating growing participation in this segment.

Ambedkar Jayanti 2026: The Enduring Idea of Equality and Justice in India

Ambedkar Jayanti 2026: The Enduring Idea of Equality and Justice in India

Apr 14 (BNP): Every year on April 14, India observes Ambedkar Jayanti, marking the birth of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar—a figure whose influence goes far beyond history books and constitutional pages.

It is a day when India pauses to remember not just a leader, but an idea: that dignity is not granted by society—it is an inherent right of every human being.

From Exclusion to Enlightenment

Born in 1891 in Mhow, Dr. Ambedkar’s early life was shaped by the harsh realities of caste discrimination. Yet, rather than accepting limitation, he turned education into a lifelong instrument of resistance.

His academic journey took him from India to some of the world’s most respected universities, shaping a mind that would later challenge both social injustice and institutional inequality with equal force.

The Making of India’s Constitutional Foundation

As Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly, Dr. Ambedkar became one of the principal architects of the Constitution of India.

He did not treat the Constitution as a legal document alone, but as a moral contract between citizens and the state. His vision ensured that India’s democracy would rest on four pillars—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

A Revolutionary Who Worked Through Law

Unlike many reformers who worked outside systems, Ambedkar worked from within them—using law as a tool for transformation.

As India’s first Minister of Law and Justice, he pushed for reforms that strengthened constitutional rights and expanded protections for historically marginalized communities. His belief was simple yet powerful: political independence has little meaning without social equality.

A Voice That Refused to Fade

Ambedkar’s writings remain among the most powerful critiques of caste and social hierarchy in modern India. He challenged not only discrimination, but also the silence that allowed it to persist.

His call to action—“Educate, Agitate, Organize”—continues to echo as a framework for empowerment, urging people to think critically, act collectively, and demand justice.

Recognition That Came Later, but Lasts Forever

In 1990, Dr. Ambedkar was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.

The recognition formally acknowledged what millions already believed—that his contribution to the nation was foundational, not symbolic. It was a moment that placed his legacy firmly within the country’s highest national memory.

Ambedkar Jayanti: A Living Tradition

Today, Ambedkar Jayanti is observed across India with deep respect and participation from all sections of society. Public gatherings, discussions, and tributes take place nationwide, with major commemorations at Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai.

The day is often called “Equality Day,” reflecting the continuing relevance of his mission in contemporary India.

In 2026, marking his 135th birth anniversary, the occasion carries added significance as the nation reflects on both progress achieved and challenges that remain.

Why Ambedkar Still Feels Contemporary

Ambedkar’s ideas are not frozen in time. They continue to shape conversations around rights, representation, and justice in modern India.

His insistence on constitutional morality remains especially relevant in a rapidly changing society where institutions are constantly tested by new social and political realities.

A Legacy That Lives Beyond Time

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s legacy lives not only in statues and commemorations, but in everyday freedoms often taken for granted—the right to vote, to be heard, and to live with dignity.

Ambedkar Jayanti is ultimately not just remembrance—it is renewal. A reminder that the idea of India is strongest when it belongs equally to everyone.

SPEXA 2026: Bringing Global Space Leaders Together to Unlock New Business Horizons

Tokyo, Japan | Apr 14 — The international space community will come together once again for SPEXA 2026, taking place May 27–29, 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight. This year’s edition marks a major milestone for the event, as it expands to 1.5 times the size of last year and welcomes more than 250 exhibitors from around the world, making it one of Asia’s largest space industry shows. The growth reflects the accelerating momentum of commercial space development and the increasing demand for a platform where leaders can explore new technologies, partnerships, and commercial pathways. 
 
Highlighting the Expanding Commercial Space Market 
 
As the global space industry continues to shift toward commercial activity, SPEXA 2026 aims to provide a central venue for companies, government officials, engineers, researchers, and investors to exchange insights and discover opportunities. The exhibition will spotlight the commercial use of satellite data, advances in space infrastructure, new frontiers in space manufacturing, and emerging advanced space services—all areas driving today’s most dynamic market growth. 
 
This year’s show underscores how deeply interconnected space technology has become with a broader range of industries. With strong national support for space‑related innovation, Japan is seeing increased participation from companies in electronics, energy, manufacturing, and materials, each bringing expertise that complements the needs of the evolving global space ecosystem. 
 
More Than 100 Technologies on Display 
 
A defining feature of SPEXA 2026 is its role as a global business hub. Visitors will have direct access to decision‑makers and specialists responsible for cutting‑edge developments in both commercial and governmental space programs. 
More than 100 technologies will be showcased, including rocket systems, sensors, and communication technologies. From hands‑on demonstrations to technical presentations, attendees will experience firsthand the solutions that are shaping the next era of the space economy. 
 
Aside from having a closer look at these technologies, visitors can dive into international networking, business matching, and technical exchange. Simultaneous English interpretation will also be provided for all professional conference sessions. A Dedicated International Visitor Lounge is available to provide a convenient space for meetings, work sessions, and collaboration throughout the event. Plus, international visitors enjoy the exclusive privilege of being among the first invited to the Day 1 Networking Party (limited capacity).  
 
Guided by Industry and Government Leadership 
 
SPEXA 2026 benefits from strong alignment with Japan’s national space priorities. The exhibition is supported by the country’s ongoing commitment to advancing space development as a strategic sector and to strengthening the industrial capabilities that sustain it. Japan’s National Space Policy Secretariat and other related government bodies continue to highlight the importance of expanding commercial space activity and fostering new forms of public‑private collaboration. 
The event also draws on the expertise of a distinguished advisory committee featuring leaders from JAXA, former astronauts, and executives from companies such as ispace, Axelspace, Astroscale, IHI Aerospace, Interstellar Technologies, and others. Their involvement ensures that SPEXA’s conference sessions, exhibition content, and networking programs reflect the latest trends and challenges facing the industry. 
 
An Invitation to Professionals Worldwide 
 
SPEXA 2026 serves as an ideal gateway for businesses seeking reliable Japanese subsystems, components, materials, and core technologies. It offers direct access to companies known for precision engineering, advanced processing methods, and long‑term supply chain reliability. The event also presents valuable opportunities for those looking to collaborate with Japanese government organizations or expand into Japan’s growing space ecosystem. 
 
Whether attendees aim to explore new commercial applications, evaluate emerging technologies, or connect with global partners, SPEXA 2026 provides a comprehensive view of the opportunities shaping the next decade of the space economy. 
SPEXA invites business leaders, engineers, investors, and innovators from around the world to participate in this year’s expanded exhibition and discover new pathways for growth, innovation, and collaboration in the global space industry.