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New Delhi, April 18(BNP): Iran’s decision to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz has led to a sharp decline in global oil prices, raising expectations of a possible reduction in petrol and diesel prices.

Following the announcement, international crude oil prices dropped by around 10 per cent, as the resumption of commercial shipping through the key maritime route eased concerns over supply disruptions.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly a fifth of global oil supply passes, had faced disruptions due to geopolitical tensions in the region. Its reopening—linked to a temporary ceasefire—has improved market sentiment and stabilised energy supply expectations.

Market analysts indicate that the decline in crude oil prices could translate into a reduction of fuel prices, with estimates suggesting a possible drop of around 10 per cent, depending on domestic pricing mechanisms and currency factors.

However, experts caution that the situation remains fragile, with uncertainties over the durability of the ceasefire and security of shipping routes. Any renewed tensions could again impact global oil supply and price trends.

The development is being closely watched by oil-importing countries like India, where changes in global crude prices directly influence retail fuel costs.

New Delhi, April 18(BNP): The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all states and Union Territories to strictly enforce regulations against the use of prohibited artificial fruit ripening agents.

According to a recent update shared by the authority, states have been instructed to ensure stringent checks and prevent the use of calcium carbide for artificial ripening of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas.

FSSAI reiterated that calcium carbide, commonly known as ‘masala’, is banned due to the serious health risks associated with its use. The chemical releases acetylene gas, which may contain harmful impurities and can adversely affect human health.

The regulator has asked state authorities to intensify surveillance, conduct regular inspections, and take strict action against those found violating food safety norms.

FSSAI also emphasized the importance of adopting safe and approved ripening methods, such as ethylene-based techniques, to ensure consumer safety. Consumers have been advised to remain cautious and avoid purchasing fruits that appear artificially ripened.

The move is part of FSSAI’s ongoing efforts to curb unsafe food practices and ensure the availability of safe, quality food across the country.

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.

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.

Apr 18 (BNP): NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery has highlighted the need for Indian states to develop at least one world-class tourist destination to strengthen the country’s tourism sector.

 Pic Credit: Pexel

The recommendation comes with a focus on improving infrastructure, visitor experience, and overall destination management so that tourists are encouraged to stay longer. Greater emphasis is being placed on domestic and religious tourism, which continue to draw large numbers of travelers across the country.

The suggestion was made during the release of the report “Divya Bharat: A Window to the Soul of India,” which outlines strategies to unlock tourism’s potential as a key driver of economic growth.

The broader approach aims to move beyond short visits and promote more immersive travel experiences, helping boost local economies and create sustainable tourism opportunities.

Kickstarting with DJ Charlie Tee in the French Alps, the campaign, titled Remote Raving Scenes, explores the power of electronic music to escape, unwind and intentionally reset

BONCOURT, Switzerland, April 18, 2026 — On Friday, Vuse  announces the launch of its new content series Remote Raving Scenes which explores the trend of remote raving, looking at how culture is shifting from passive entertainment to intentional participation and connection, allowing you to truly immerse in the moment.

From the anticipation and the instant community to, at times, the digital distance, remote raving creates a profound connection between music, nature, and personal freedom. The first of these short films from Vuse and Charlie explores how intentional travel, music and environment combine to create an epic moment of collective release. With content that covers her arrival in the Alps, her magnetic sets, and an exploration of why people travel to remote and unique places for music, Charlie brings to life why some events and DJ sets resonate more than others.

DJ Charlie Tee says “My journey to the Alps wasn’t just about playing music; it was about discovering how travel and the right music can combine to create a set of truly exceptional moments where you can escape the everyday. It’s these moments that help you reconnect, intentionally ‘switch in’ for yourself and immerse in a collective experience with like-minded people.”

A recent report which explores the cultural evolution of how audiences are engaging with electronic music highlighted that whilst there has been a 36 per cent decline in UK nightclubs since March 2020, overall event programming has expanded by 10.5 per cent year-on-year. There has also been an 82 per cent growth in daytime events since 2022, expanding nearly three times faster than nighttime programming**. These statistics show a clear shift in the clubbing scene moving beyond traditional venues to embrace diverse, often more accessible, and unique experiences, with communities reclaiming their own version of how they escape whilst enjoying electronic music.

Immersive and different clubbing locations is not only of value to the audience, but also the DJs themselves. Speaking to a few up-and-coming DJs across Europe, Vuse found that the best off-grid settings are the ones you wouldn’t usually associate with nightlife. One DJ from Austria said: “It’s less about the crowd and more about the energy – that feeling when music takes over and transforms any space into something unforgettable.”

From small gatherings in the mountains, to small sunset sessions by the sea, it’s clear that the most incredible remote raving moments happen in the simplest, most unexpected places.

Creator and DJ Zoe London, commented: “I’ve been fortunate to play in some incredibly unique spaces – from DJing up a mountain in the highest club in Europe, in Val Thorens, to the unique environment of a disused station that used to be an underground skatepark in London. I love the idea of performing in an old school factory which still has its artefacts, centring the DJ set within it to create a truly unique moment.” 

Tomorrowland, one of the world’s most iconic electronic music festivals, highlights the power of location in creating unforgettable moments.

The Vuse Remote Raving Scenes series features exclusive sets from a varied line up of globally renowned DJs exploring different remote raving locations, kicking off with DJ Charlie Tee. The first episode will launch on 17^th April 2026 with the others rolling out over 2026.

Apr 17 (BNP): LPG demand has shown signs of moderation, with daily bookings falling to around 46–50 lakh, while supply conditions remain normal, according to the government.

Officials said the decline in bookings reflects temporary fluctuations in consumption patterns, but there is no disruption in availability or distribution across the country.

The government clarified that LPG supply continues to be stable and adequately meets domestic demand, ensuring uninterrupted access for consumers.

Authorities added that the supply chain remains well-managed, and there is no cause for concern regarding shortages or logistical issues.

Overall, the situation indicates a mild softening in demand, while the LPG distribution system continues to function smoothly nationwide.