Cabinet clears Rs 77,101-crore package; approves Noida metro extension, museum, fertiliser subsidy and credit funds

The Centre has raised the purchase ceiling for laptops, tablets and similar devices for eligible government officers to ₹1.5 lakh plus taxes, or ₹1.8 lakh for devices with more than 40% Make-in-India content. Officers in Pay Level 12 and above will be eligible, while departments can extend coverage to some lower pay levels, and employees may retain the devices after four years of use.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar addressed questions regarding the possible merger of two NCP factions. She stated that further details would be revealed in due time. Several leaders recently met Sharad Pawar, increasing speculation about the merger. The government will celebrate the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda with various programs across the state. Service weeks and health awareness camps are planned, highlighting the importance of the occasion.

Once a bustling coal mining hub, Madrid, New Mexico, boasted around 2,500 residents until the arrival of natural gas in 1949 prompted a swift decline in coal usage. By 1960, only two families remained amidst a landscape of deserted homes and shops. However, the 1970s ushered in a renaissance as artists and craftsmen rejuvenated the area, transforming Madrid into a vibrant tourist attraction while preserving its rich mining history.

Iran's foreign ministry on Wednesday designated Argentina's navy and air force as terrorist organisations, following a similar move by Buenos Aires months earlier. Earlier this month, Iran made a similar move designating UK's MI6 as a hostile group and the country's Royal Navy and Royal Air Force as terrorist organisations.

Hockey Olympian M.M. Somaya recovered his stolen international medals after Bengaluru Police arrested two suspects and seized eight medals, including gold and silver.

Idemitsu Kosan has raised its profit forecast for fiscal 2026 to 295 billion yen due to strong performance. The company's net profit for the first half of the fiscal year exceeded expectations, reaching 322.4 billion yen. Idemitsu aims to increase its crude oil sourcing from the Middle East following improvements in shipping. Moreover, the Nghi Son Refinery in Vietnam is projected to be profitable in fiscal 2026.

Nissan Motor Co. has reported a reduced loss of 39.7 billion yen in the first half of the fiscal year. The automaker's sales increased by 8.8% to 6.07 trillion yen due to favorable exchange rates and pricing strategies. Significant challenges remain in the Chinese market, along with increased raw material costs from Middle Eastern unrest.

Indian swimmer Dhinidhi Desinghu believes mindset, preparation, and technique are key to closing the gap with global leaders, rather than focusing on genetic limitations.