In addition to reviewing ongoing clinical trials in partnership with prestigious hospitals and medical institutes, including the historic first-in-human gene therapy trial for hemophilia carried out with CMC Vellore, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh visited a number of facilities at the BRIC-inStem facility on Thursday.

The minister praised the institute’s contributions to preventive and regenerative healthcare, calling it a “milestone in India’s scientific journey.”

Dr. Singh emphasized the strategic significance of biotechnology in forming India’s future public health infrastructure and economy during his visit.

He praised the recent achievements of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and its rise from relative obscurity to national prominence, saying, “This is not just about science—it’s about nation-building.”

With a goal of reaching $300 billion by 2030, India’s biotechnology industry has experienced an incredible surge, expanding 16 times in the last ten years to reach $165.7 billion in 2024.

The minister attributed this expansion to enabling policy changes, such as the recently enacted BIO-E3 Policy, which uses biotechnology to improve the economy, jobs, and environment. He noted that there are now over 10,000 biotech startups, up from just 50 ten years ago.

He applauded the establishment of the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), which brought together 14 independent institutes under a single roof.

He highlighted inventions like the “Kisan Kavach,” which shields farmers from neurotoxic chemicals, and the germicidal antiviral mask that was developed during the pandemic, saying, “BRIC-inStem is at the cutting edge of fundamental and translational science.”

We learned from the current pandemic that we need to be ready at all times. We’ll be able to stay ahead of the game with facilities like this,” Dr. Singh said.

The minister also commended the recently established Centre for Research Application and Training in Embryology (CReATE), which advances developmental biology research to address infertility and birth abnormalities. “This center is essential for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes, as approximately 3 to 4 percent of babies are born with some kind of defect,” he stated.

He recommended that BRIC-inStem investigate MD-PhD programs, integrate more with clinical research, and increase awareness through coordinated communication tactics in order to foster stronger collaboration between scientific and medical institutions.

The nation’s “enemies” received a stark warning Thursday from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who declared that India would “identify, trace, and punish” all terrorists and their supporters, chasing them to the “ends of the Earth.”

The Prime Minister paid respect to the victims and observed a two-minute pause before beginning his address.

“The country is united in expressing grief for the victims who lost their lives in the cowardly act of terror,” Prime Minister Modi stated.

He urged everyone to observe a moment of quiet in remembrance of the 26 people killed in Tuesday’s terror incident in Pahalgam, the majority of whom were tourists.

“Before I begin my speech, I would like to request all of you to observe a moment of silence to pay tribute to the families we lost in terror attacks on April 22,” stated Prime Minister Modi.

On Panchayati Raj Day, PM Modi spoke to a sizable crowd at Madhubani, Bihar, and denounced the heinous terror attacks in Pahalgam, J&K.

“The entire country is terribly pained by the terrorists’ ruthless murders of innocent residents in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22. There are millions of Indians in mourning. In this time of grief, the entire nation is with the families who have lost a loved one,” he remarked.

“Some people lost their life partners, some lost their brothers, and some lost their sons in this terrorist act. The victims spoke a variety of languages, including Marathi, Odia, Gujarati, Bihari, Bangla, and Kannada. We are all in mourning for them, from Kargil to Kanyakumari,” the prime minister declared.

“This attack was not only on the unarmed tourists, but the enemies of the nation have dared to attack the soul of India,” Prime Minister Modi stated, emphasizing that terrorists and those who support them will face severe punishment. I want to be clear that the perpetrators and planners of this terrorist assault will face harsher punishment than they could have ever imagined. We’ll discipline them.”

“I declare to the world today, from the land of Bihar, that India will track down, identify, and punish all terrorists and those who support them. We’ll go to any lengths to find them. Terrorism will never break the spirit of India. There will be consequences for terrorism. We’ll do everything we can to make sure justice is served. The entire nation is firm in its resolve. We have the support of everyone who believes in humanity.

The Prime Minister went on to say, “I thank the various countries and the nations who have stood with us in these times.” PM earlier referred to the horrific bombing that killed 26 people and injured many more as a “cowardly attack on innocent civilians.”

India has launched a number of extensive punitive measures in response to the incident, which is thought to have been planned by the Pakistan-based terrorist organization The Resistance Front.

World leaders have expressed their sympathies and harshly condemned the bloodshed following a deadly terror attack in the Pahalgam district of Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people, including tourists and an intelligence officer.

Tuesday’s incident in the scenic Baisaran Valley saw terrorists emerge from nearby woodlands and open fire indiscriminately on a group of visitors, killing one person and injuring dozens more.

The Resistance Front, a Pakistan-based terrorist organization that is a branch of the outlawed Lashkar-e-Taiba, has reportedly taken credit for the attack, which is one of the worst to hit the area in recent memory.

Leaders from around the world have sent heartfelt expressions of support and sympathy amid the global indignation and grief.

Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister of Italy, said she was devastated by the attack and called it “deeply saddening.” “Deeply saddened by the terrorist attack that occurred today in India, which resulted in numerous victims,” she wrote in a post on X (previously Twitter). Italy extends its condolences to the families affected, the injured, the government, and all the Indian people.”

The Sri Lankan government issued a statement strongly condemning the violence: “We strongly condemn the heinous terrorist attack that took place in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir today.” We send our deepest sympathies to the victims’ families and hope that everyone who was hurt recovers quickly.

“Sri Lanka stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of India in the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” the statement added, underscoring Sri Lanka’s steadfast commitment to regional peace.

Additionally, the Iran government sent out a sincere statement of solidarity. “We offer our deepest sympathies to the Indian government and people, particularly to the families of the victims of this attack, and wish a speedy recovery and good health to the injured,” the statement read.

Home Minister Amit Shah left for Kashmir right away to meet with the security and intelligence services to obtain an update on the terror incident after speaking with Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier on Tuesday.

Investigative work is also being done by security agencies.

PM Modi wrote on X, “I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice…they will not be spared! Their evil agenda will never succeed. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable and it will get even stronger.”

US President Donald Trump posted the following on his own social media platform, Truth Social: “Very alarming news from Kashmir. India and the United States are united in their fight against terrorism. We offer our prayers for the deceased’s souls as well as the healing of the wounded. We extend our sincere condolences and complete support to Prime Minister Modi and the amazing people of India. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Denis Alipov, the Russian ambassador to India, said on X: “The Indian government and people are very saddened by the horrific terror assault against tourists in Pahalgam. Russia is firmly on India’s side.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate new train services, like as the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service, prior to the Bihar Assembly elections. On April 24, the PM will officially open the inaugural 16-coach Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service between Patna and Jayanagar.

According to Dilip Kumar, Executive Director, Information and Publicity, Railway Board, this is the first time a 16-coach Namo Bharat train has been introduced.

“This train will cut the travel time in half by operating at a top speed of 110 kmph. There will be seating for roughly 2,000 people on the 16-coach, fully air-conditioned train, he said.

Additionally, officials stated that the train can carry an additional 1,000 passengers who can stand and use poles, belts, or handrails to stay balanced while the train moves.

It is anticipated that this year’s Bihar Assembly elections would take place in October or November.

There are now only 12 coaches on the inaugural Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, which was introduced between Ahmedabad and Bhuj in September of last year. According to a statement, the decision was made to increase the number of coaches in order to accommodate more passengers.

The Railway Ministry claims that this rapid rail service has many cutting-edge features, including modular interiors and fully air-conditioned cabins, Type-C and Type-A charging outlets, ergonomically designed chairs, and ejector-based vacuum evacuation toilets.

“The train has CCTV, fire detection, an emergency talk-back system, and the Kavach safety system,” he continued. Because it has engines on both ends, turnaround time is shortened. The train has a route map indication that shows details about each stop for the first time in open line railroads.

Additionally, one additional Amrit Bharat Express from Saharsa to Lokmanya Tilak Terminus would be flagged off by the PM. This will be the nation’s third Amrit Bharat Express. The first two Amrit Bharat Express trains run between Malda Town and M Visvesvaraya Terminal in Bengaluru and Darbhanga to Anand Vihar Terminal.

130 kmph is the top speed for which the Amrit Bharat Express was built. This non-air conditioned express has amenities such as Vande Bharat. Its coaches will all be in the sleeper, non-air-conditioned, unreserved class. Indian Railways’ non-AC carriage now features a fire detection system for the first time.

In addition to connecting the recently built Supaul-Pipra line, Railways has chosen to launch a new passenger service between Pipra and Saharsa. In a similar vein, a new passenger route between Samastipur and Saharsa is being launched. It will travel via Bithan and Alauli.

According to the  report, the people of North Bihar, particularly those in the Mithila region, will benefit greatly from the launch of these facilities.

Civil Services Day is celebrated annually on April 21 to recognize the hard work and devotion of India’s civil officials. The day commemorates India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel‘s, historic address to the probationers of the Administrative Services in 1947, in which he famously referred to government officials as India’s “steel frame“. He addressed the first batch of public servants in Independent India at the Metcalf House and belived that civil servants as the’steel frame of India‘.

The day provides an opportunity to acknowledge government officials’ hard work, dedication, and devotion to serving the nation. On this 17th Civil Services Day, we are honoring the devotion, perseverance, and hard work of our public servants!

President Droupadi Murmu conveyed heartfelt wishes on public Services Day, recognizing the critical role public servants play in defining the country’s government and growth. On Monday, President Murmu led the tributes, praising the sacrifices of civil personnel around the country.

Taking to X, she wrote, “Greetings to all civil servants on Civil Services Day! Your role in public service, your contribution to policy making and implementation have impacted the well-being of citizens and development of the country. May you play a commendable role in enabling the country realise its ambitious objectives and set new benchmarks in good governance.”

PM Narendra Modi addresses the 17th Civil Services Day event at the Vigyan Bhawan. He told on X, ” Today’s India has to strengthen the foundation of the coming thousand years. The policies we are working on today, the decisions we are taking are going to decide the future of a thousand years.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also commended India’s officials for their unwavering devotion.

In his message on X, he stated, “On Civil Services Day, extending best wishes to our civil servants. Whether it is executing the schemes and policies or delivering good governance, our civil servants have served with a firm commitment. May this day further strengthen their commitment to serve the nation.”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh sent his condolences, acknowledging the important role civil servants play in achieving national prosperity and citizen welfare.

“Greetings and warm wishes to all civil servants and their families on Civil Services Day. They have been playing an important role in furthering India’s progress and ensuring the citizen welfare. May this day inspire them to continue serving the nation with renewed zeal and excellence,” he posted on X.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also commemorated the occasion by emphasizing the integrity and dedication of civil officials.

“Hearty congratulations and best wishes on ‘Civil Services Day’ to all the dutiful civil personnel who are the basis of the progress of society and nation! Your devotion and dedication are the biggest identity of your work. Your tireless hard work and honesty give new impetus to positive change in the society every day,” he posted on X.

According to a study released on Thursday, hackers may use next-generation DNA sequencing (NGS) technology to exploit flaws in genomic data, hence it is important to secure it.

NGS is a powerful sequencing method utilized in gene research, infectious disease tracking, cancer diagnoses, and the creation of customized medications.

Researchers at the University of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom expressed alarm about the tool’s potential for data breaches, privacy abuses, and possibly future hacker biothreats.

The procedures provide several points of vulnerability even though they are necessary to produce precise findings. The study, which was published in the journal IEEE Access, cautioned that because many DNA datasets are publicly available online, fraudsters may exploit the data for nefarious experimentation, modification, or monitoring.

“Our work serves as a warning. Encryption is only one aspect of protecting genomic data; another is preparing for potential threats. To secure the future of precision medicine, we need to change the way we think about it,” stated Dr. Nasreen Anjum of the School of Computing at the University of Portsmouth.

The research team discovered new and developing ways, like malware encoded with synthetic DNA, AI-driven genome data manipulation, and identity tracing through re-identification methods, that hackers and people with malevolent intent could employ to exploit or attack systems.

These dangers extend beyond common data breaches and endanger national security, scientific integrity, and individual privacy.

Cyber-biosecurity is still one of the most underappreciated and little understood scientific fields, despite its significance, and it is causing a serious void in global biosecurity. We’re calling for greater research and cooperation to develop ways to keep this potent technology secure so that our DNA information remains protected and is utilized exclusively for good,” Anjum stated.

Before it’s too late, the experts urged “governments, regulatory bodies, funding agencies, and academic institutions” to give this sector top priority.

To provide the groundwork for even more robust cyber-biosecurity, the team also offered suggestions and workable fixes, such as protected storage, secure sequencing procedures, and AI-powered anomaly detection.

The Mumbai-Manmad Panchavati Express is the first train in India to have an automated teller machine (ATM) installed on board.

The ATM was installed in a train’s air-conditioned coach and successfully finished its trial run. Even when the train is rolling, passengers can take out cash from the machine. It was unveiled under the Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS) of Indian Railways.

The program is the outcome of an agreement between the Bank of Maharashtra and Indian Railways’ Bhusawal division. According to railway officials, the experiment went well and the machine operated without issue the entire way.

The section between Igatpuri and Kasara, which is notorious for having weak signals because to tunnels and little cell coverage, did experience some temporary network problems, though. The outcomes were favorable, according to Bhusawal’s divisional railway manager, Ity Pandey. Cash withdrawals while traveling will now be possible. We will continue to keep an eye on the machine’s performance.

Pandey further mentioned that the idea was first offered during an INFRIS meeting hosted by the Bhusawal division. “The team immediately began working on how to make it possible after the suggestion was made,” she said.

Passengers from all 22 of the Panchvati Express’s coaches can access the ATM even though it is located in an AC coach since vestibules connect them. In addition to making cash withdrawals, travelers can order check books and obtain account statements via the ATM.

Remarkably, because the Mumbai–Hingoli Jan Shatabdi Express uses the same rake as the Panchavati Express, its passengers will also have access to the same ATM. This implies that the facility will also benefit more travelers traveling the lengthier journey. The ATM is equipped with a shutter mechanism and is constantly watched by CCTV cameras to guarantee security.

According to railway officials, if the service proves to be well-liked by passengers, it might be extended to further trains.

Shreyas Iyer, the Indian batsman who led India’s runscoring charts and was instrumental in the closing stages of their historic ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 victory, was awarded the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for March.

Iyer wins the award after defeating Rachin Ravindra and Jacob Duffy of New Zealand. With Shubman Gill receiving the same honor in February, Indian players have now won back-to-back titles in the ICC’s monthly award series.

“Being selected as the March ICC Men’s Player of the Month is a true honor for me. I will always treasure the day we lifted the ICC Champions Trophy, which makes this accolade all the more memorable.

“Every cricket player aspires to be able to help India win on such a significant platform. For their unfailing belief and support, I am thankful to my coaches, teammates, and support staff. We also want to express our sincere gratitude to the fans, whose support and enthusiasm keep us going at every turn,” Iyer added in a statement.

With 243 runs, Iyer became the highest-scoring player and was instrumental in India’s Champions Trophy victory. Iyer was a key player for India as they achieved a historic third victory in the history of the Champions Trophy, scoring 172 runs at an average of 57.33 in the last three games.

In their last group-stage match against New Zealand, the top-order batsman first hit a game-winning 79 in 98 balls to guarantee that India won.

After helping India win a difficult semi-final match against Australia with a crucial 45 runs in partnership with Virat Kohli, he once again set the stage for a successful run chase in the exhausting final match against New Zealand, hitting a steady 48 in 62 balls to help India win by four wickets.

Sameer Nagpal, President and CEO of JK Tech, stated on Tuesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s concentrated efforts are responsible for India’s quick rise to prominence in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

“Under PM Modi’s direction, India is making rapid progress in the AI field. In addition to encouraging the development of AI, the government is concentrating on its use in a number of fields, including digital infrastructure, healthcare, and governance, Nagpal said.

He believes that this momentum will soon result in important innovations. He clarified that data is the new oil in the current digital era.

“If companies can ensure they are working with quality data, they will be able to generate better insights and make more informed decisions,” he observed. He told that “right insights come from right data” and that the government’s push for AI will allow businesses of all sizes to expand by utilizing cutting-edge technologies.

India is already a significant player in the global IT business, Nagpal added. With the government-backed introduction of a national-level large language model (LLM), India is also set to leave its mark on the advancement of AI worldwide.

He emphasized, “This will help India take a leadership position in the AI revolution.”

Similar remarks were made by Abhishek Singhania, the founder and director of JK Tech, who told that Indian engineers, both domestically and internationally, are making amazing strides in the field of artificial intelligence.

He praised the PM Modi administration’s decision to set aside Rs 10,000 crore for AI research and development, describing it as a significant step towards creating India’s AI ecosystem..

To transform the alternative investing sector, JK Tech announced on Tuesday that it has joined with Inveniam, a data integrity platform for private market assets.

According to the corporation, “the partnership will concentrate on revolutionizing the global private markets by creating Inveniam’s next-generation platform for alternative investments that utilizes blockchain and artificial intelligence.“

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan believes that searching the internet for a problem is one of the “most worthless activities” that one may engage in during the day.

“Searching the internet for a problem is one of the most useless things you can do during the day.” The movie legend posted on his blog. Distractions are to blame, the actor disclosed.

“As soon as you focus on the want, you start to become unduly interested in all the other ones that are vying for your attention. By the time you realize that you need to return to the reason you came to the internet in the first place. You’ve forgotten why, he said.

The celebrity revealed that he became sidetracked while using the social media site to read comments.

He added, “I went to the X and the FB to check the comments and got so engrossed in all what the others were saying, that when I came back to this page, I was at sea on the topic or the material I was about to put here. Too much too soon available (sic).”

Big B had previously disclosed the unique present that his actor son Abhishek Bachchan had given him. He discussed how typing on digital devices has supplanted the art of handwriting.

“The punches on the black square have surpassed the age of handwriting. The younger generation is now completing their coursework on this medium, and nobody writes,” he continued.

The octogenarian disclosed that his son Abhishek presented him with a unique pen in remembrance of his father’s passion for handwriting on paper.

“But Abhishek was so kind as to give me a pen in recognition of the fact that his father still prefers to use his hands to apply ink…. often enough.”

Big B commented, “And also did you know, another factor that Abhishek picked up from the store he picked the pen, is that the nibs of pens are designed separately for the left handed and the right handed…(sic)” in reference to the pen’s unique qualities.