First-time customers are emerging as a huge catchment area for retail finance, but dangers lurk in the nooks and crannies

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Move over Reserve Bank of India. It's the commercial banks, which are creating money and moving the economy

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for projects worth a total of Rs 2,000 crore in his home district of Ganjam.
During his visit to Ganjam, he held separate rallies in his own constituency Hinjili, besides Kabisuryanagar and Chhatrapur, focusing mostly on development schemes.
However, Aska MP Pramila Bisoi appealed to the people to make Patnaik the CM for the sixth consecutive term after the 2024 general elections.
Patnaik inaugurated and laid the foundation of projects worth Rs 1,000 crore in Chhatrapur, Rs 590 crore in Hinjili and Rs 316 crore in Kabisuryanagar.
Patnaik also distributed 'gram-kantak housing pattas' (record of rights) to over 20,000 people who have been living on government land for generations.
The chief minister also distributed interest-free loans of Rs 619 crore to self-help groups (SHGs). These loans were given to 2.24 lakh women of 22,200 SHGs.

Press Trust of India

A late flourish from England all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt (60 not out) helped Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by seven wickets in a low-scoring summit clash to become champions of the inaugural Women's Premier League here on Sunday.
In front of a partisan crowd that filled the Brabourne Stadium here to the brim, Mumbai Indians chased down the target of 131 with three balls to spare to lift the trophy.
Opting to bat first, Delhi Capitals suffered a collapse to be reduced to 79 for 9 in 16 overs but posted a respectable total of 131 for 9, thanks to a 52-run partnership for the unbroken 10th wicket between Shikha Pandey (27 not out) and Radha Yadav (27 not out).
It was not an easy run chase for MI but they eventually crossed the line, reaching 134 for 3 in 19.3 overs, with Sciver-Brunt and captain Harmanpreet (37) playing crucial roles.
Sciver-Brunt (60 not out from 55 balls, 7x4), also the Player of the Final, struck her third fifty and finished second behind DC captain Meg Lanni

Etihad Airways resumed flight services between Kolkata and Abu Dhabi on Sunday after three years, a statement said.
The airlines will operate two flights a day, four days a week -- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday -- from Kolkata to Abu Dhabi, the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport said in the statement.
The first flight will depart Kolkata at 4.15 am and reach Abu Dhabi at 7.55 am local time. The second one will leave Kolkata at 9.05 pm and reach its destination at 12.45 am local time, it said.
From Abu Dhabi, there will be one direct flight to Kolkata four days a week. It will depart Abu Dhabi at 9 pm local time and reach Kolkata at 3.20 am.
Etihad Airways will operate an Airbus A320 aircraft on the route, offering eight seats in business class and 150 in economy class, it said.
On the inaugural day, 152 passengers travelled from Abu Dhabi to Kolkata, while 126 passengers travelled from Kolkata to Abu Dhabi, it added.
With the recommencement of service

The Centre is developing 60 jetties on the banks of Ganga between Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and Haldia in West Bengal, Union MoS for Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur said on Sunday.
Inaugurating four such jetties on both sides of the river at Nadia's Kalyani and Tribeny in Hooghly district of West Bengal, he said the Centre was also developing 118 waterways in the country.
"The 118 new waterways will reduce distance, lower transportation costs and benefit small traders, daily passengers and students. It will strengthen the economy," he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is focussing on the infrastructure development of the country which has been neglected for a long, he said.
"We want the cooperation of the West Bengal government for infrastructure development as the state needs it," he said.
Thakur said the four jetties he inaugurated were built at a cost of Rs 8 crore.
He also initiated various development along the Ichamati river -- National Waterway 44, in the North 24 

Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday welcomed the lifting of AFSPA from more parts of the Northeast, maintaining it will ensure further growth of the region.
He also maintained that militants are leaving the path of violence and joining nation-building efforts in the northeastern states.
"Further relaxation of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 or AFSPA from many areas of Assam, Nagaland and Manipur is another welcome step by the Modi govt," Sonowal said in a statement here.
He said sustained and conscious efforts by Prime Minister Narendra Modi have resulted in permanent peace in the region.
"On behalf of all the people of the region, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah," the former Assam chief minister said.
Sonowal maintained that "dark days of violence, disturbance and insurgency during the Congress government" are now things of past.
"The insurgents have chosen to reject the road of violence as they jo

OneWeb launches its final 36 satellites, set to begin India ops in July-August

"An area of land has already been earmarked for their protected habitation. There are also steps being taken to take care of the coral zone and mangroves"

The theme of this year's World Water Day - marked annually on 22 March - is "Nature for Water", which "explores nature-based solutions (NBS) to the water challenges we face in the 21st century" according to the United Nations Environment Programme.The challenges are tough as the UN notes that currently 2.1 billion people "lack access to safely managed drinking water services," while an estimated 1.8 billion "use an unimproved source of drinking water with no protection against contamination from human faeces." Business Standard takes a look at the water challenges faced in India.

World Water Day: Photos that depict the water challenges in India

The theme of this year's World Water Day - marked annually on 22 March - is "Nature for Water", which "explores nature-based solutions (NBS) to the water challenges we face in the 21st century" according to the United Nations Environment Programme.The challenges are tough as the UN notes that currently 2.1 billion people "lack access to safely managed drinking water services," while an estimated 1.8 billion "use an unimproved source of drinking water with no protection against contamination from human faeces." On World Water Day, Business Standard takes a look at the water challenges faced in India.

World Water Day 2018: Photos that depict the water challenges in India

Here’s what the airlines don’t want you to figure out: All it takes is a little points savvy to experience luxurious seats for pennies on the dollar. And thanks to powerful credit cards such as Chase Sapphire Reserve and American Express Platinum, loyal flying may not be necessary. Here are the hacks that will get you into the five best cabins in the skies today.

Want to fly best first-class seats on top airlines at dirt-cheap rates? Try this

Here's what the airlines don't want you to figure out: All it takes is a little points savvy to experience luxurious seats for pennies on the dollar. And thanks to powerful credit cards such as Chase Sapphire Reserve and American Express Platinum, loyal flying may not be necessary. Here are the hacks that will get you into the five best cabins in the skies today.

Flying Officer Avani Chaturvedi has created history by becoming the first Indian woman fighter pilot to fly solo.

Meet Avani Chaturvedi: India's first-ever Indian woman to fly MiG-21 solo

Auto Expo 2018: Concept cars steal the show, two-wheelers not far behind

With national polls looming next year -- and possibly as early as late 2018 -- Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has rolled out a budget designed to help distressed farmers and rural areas while boosting growth, jobs and private investment.

Union Budget 2018: Here's a list of all the gainers and losers

69th Republic Day celebration at Rajpath on Friday at New Delhi

R-Day celebrations: India showcases military might, cultural diversity

Police deployment has been doubled around cinemas across India after the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's period drama 'Padmaavat' on Thursday.

Padmaavat row: High security around movie theatres amid violent protests

On February 1, all eyes will be on Finance Minister Arun Jaitley when he rises to present the Union Budget 2018-19 to the nation. Jaitley has his task cut out for the dwindling Indian economy which has decelerated due to note ban and GST,

Budget 2018: Meet the key men who will decide your taxes this year

The future is on display at the Detroit Auto Show - or at least the very-near future. Executives in natty suits (and the occasional sweater) are busy unwrapping a bevy of vehicles that will soon be in dealerships. Here are some of those exciting and eye-catching machines

Top eye-catching machines at the Detroit Auto Show

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said Republic Day celebration in 2018 would be "remembered through the ages" because the government for the first time in India's history would host leaders of 10 Asean countries as chief guests on January 26.

These ASEAN leaders will attend India's 69th Republic Day celebrations

Puri (Odisha), March 22(ANI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on March 22 visited Puri’s iconic Jagannath Temple. While addressing the media persons, Mamata Banerjee said “I have offered prayers for Indians, people of Bengal and Odisha. I am very grateful that the flag that was there on the top of the temple is given to me.”

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee visits at Jagannath Temple in Puri

Puri (Odisha), March 22(ANI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on March 22 visited Puri's iconic Jagannath Temple. While addressing the media persons, Mamata Banerjee said "I have offered prayers for Indians, people of Bengal and Odisha. I am very grateful that the flag that was there on the top of the temple is given to me."

Chandigarh, March 22 (ANI): Amid the high-profile crackdown on the ‘fugitive’ pro-Khalistani radical leader Amritpal Singh by Punjab Police, political fumes in the Punjab Assembly is showing no signs of dousing. Congress on March 22 questioned that Punjab police are arresting his associates, but why are they failing to arrest Amritpal Singh. Speaking on this matter, Punjab Minister Brahm Shankar Jimpa said that this behaviour of Congress shows their character. “The character of congress came before people, why they are leaving the house and not being able to face it. It is a request to Shiromani Akali Dal to not do any politics for the peace of Punjab. People of Punjab will never tolerate this,” Punjab Minister said.

Punjab Minister launches bittering attack on Congress over leaving Parliament session

Chandigarh, March 22 (ANI): Amid the high-profile crackdown on the 'fugitive' pro-Khalistani radical leader Amritpal Singh by Punjab Police, political fumes in the Punjab Assembly is showing no signs of dousing. Congress on March 22 questioned that Punjab police are arresting his associates, but why are they failing to arrest Amritpal Singh. Speaking on this matter, Punjab Minister Brahm Shankar Jimpa said that this behaviour of Congress shows their character. "The character of congress came before people, why they are leaving the house and not being able to face it. It is a request to Shiromani Akali Dal to not do any politics for the peace of Punjab. People of Punjab will never tolerate this," Punjab Minister said.

New Delhi, March 22(ANI): Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen won the quarter-finals of Women’s World Boxing Championship against Chuthamat Rakshit of Thailand. While addressing the media persons on March 22, she expressed her happiness over winning the bout and confirming a medal for India.“It was a very close match but I won the match. I am very happy to confirm a medal for my country. Tomorrow I will have a semi-final match,” said Nikhat Zareen.

Anti-India protests by Khalistanis outside the Indian HC in London; Metropolitan police on guard

New Delhi, March 22(ANI): Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen won the quarter-finals of Women's World Boxing Championship against Chuthamat Rakshit of Thailand. While addressing the media persons on March 22, she expressed her happiness over winning the bout and confirming a medal for India."It was a very close match but I won the match. I am very happy to confirm a medal for my country. Tomorrow I will have a semi-final match," said Nikhat Zareen.

Puri (Odisha) March 22 (ANI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on March 22 reviewed ‘Bhakta Niwas’ building construction area for West Bengal devotees in Puri. CM Mamata Banerjee is on a three-day visit to Odisha. “Tourists from Bengal come to Odisha. West Bengal devotees in huge numbers visit Odisha and sometimes, they don’t find places to stay and they wander to places. I am grateful that Naveen Ji announced me the State guest. This time we are staying in the Rural development building. I, myself tried to find a room in a hotel but was unable to get it. So, more hotels need to be made in Puri to stay. This is a must thing,” CM Mamata said.

CM Mamata reviews ‘Bhakta Niwas’ building construction area in Odisha

Puri (Odisha) March 22 (ANI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on March 22 reviewed 'Bhakta Niwas' building construction area for West Bengal devotees in Puri. CM Mamata Banerjee is on a three-day visit to Odisha. "Tourists from Bengal come to Odisha. West Bengal devotees in huge numbers visit Odisha and sometimes, they don't find places to stay and they wander to places. I am grateful that Naveen Ji announced me the State guest. This time we are staying in the Rural development building. I, myself tried to find a room in a hotel but was unable to get it. So, more hotels need to be made in Puri to stay. This is a must thing," CM Mamata said.

CM Mamata reviews 'Bhakta Niwas' building construction area in Odisha

New Delhi, Mar 22 (ANI): In view of the recent surge in COVID cases in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a high-level meeting today to review the Covid-related situation and public health preparedness. India recorded 1,134 new cases recorded in the last 24 hours, with the active caseload currently at 7,026, stated the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Earlier on Tuesday, the national capital recorded one Covid death and 83 fresh cases amid the rising Covid-19 cases in neighbouring Maharashtra. On March 19, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also issued revised guidelines for Covid-19 in the wake of the surge of cases.

PM Modi chairs high-level meeting to review COVID-related situation

New Delhi, March 22 (ANI): On March 22, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal promised that the Aam Aadmi Party government will clean the Yamuna river and that he will take a dip in it ahead of the next Assembly elections. Addressing the media persons, Kejriwal said that the government has prepared a six-point action plan to clean the Yamuna river. "A 6-point action plan has been formed to clean Yamuna...Before the next election in 2025, I will take a dip with you in Yamuna. The three landfills (in Delhi) will be cleared by December 2024,” he said.

“Will clean Yamuna before 2025 election, will take dip…” Kejriwal’s promise for 2025 Delhi polls

New Delhi, March 22 (ANI): On March 22, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal promised that the Aam Aadmi Party government will clean the Yamuna river and that he will take a dip in it ahead of the next Assembly elections. Addressing the media persons, Kejriwal said that the government has prepared a six-point action plan to clean the Yamuna river. "A 6-point action plan has been formed to clean Yamuna...Before the next election in 2025, I will take a dip with you in Yamuna. The three landfills (in Delhi) will be cleared by December 2024," he said.

"Will clean Yamuna before 2025 election, will take dip…" Kejriwal's promise for 2025 Delhi polls

Jaipur (Rajasthan), 22 March (ANI):  Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot inaugurated the Rajasthan International Expo at Boranada in Jodhpur. On this occasion, the Chief Minister honoured 20 exporters who have bagged Rajasthan Export Award-2021 for remarkable work in the field of exports. During the expo, the Chief Minister said that due to the excellent industrial policies and programs of the state government, export and investment have increased in Rajasthan. The export of 50 thousand crore rupees done in the year 2022-23 is the result of the efficient management of the state government.Along with this, the Chief Minister said that the MSME policy has been implemented by the government in the state. Due to this, more than 16 thousand industrial units have been established in the state so far. Under the MSME Establishment and Facilitation Act, no government permission is required for 5 years to start an industry in the state. This provision made by the government has increased the number of s

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot inaugurates Rajasthan International Expo

Rajasthan has best environment for investment and export: CM Gehlot

New Delhi, March 22(ANI): TMC Leader Dola Sen on March 22, reacted to Kailash Vijayvargiya’s remark on post-partition India. She said Kailash Vijayvargiya does not know the true meaning of India. She also said that there was no predecessor of the BJP in the freedom movement. While speaking to ANI, Dola Sen said “There was no predecessor of the BJP in the freedom movement. Whoever went to jail, wrote letters apologising and came out. He (Kailash Vijayvargiya) does not know the true meaning of India.”

Dola Sen condemns Kailash Vijayvargiya’s remark, says there was no BJP during freedom movement

New Delhi, March 22(ANI): TMC Leader Dola Sen on March 22, reacted to Kailash Vijayvargiya's remark on post-partition India. She said Kailash Vijayvargiya does not know the true meaning of India. She also said that there was no predecessor of the BJP in the freedom movement. While speaking to ANI, Dola Sen said "There was no predecessor of the BJP in the freedom movement. Whoever went to jail, wrote letters apologising and came out. He (Kailash Vijayvargiya) does not know the true meaning of India."

Dola Sen condemns Kailash Vijayvargiya's remark, says there was no BJP during freedom movement

New Delhi, March 22 (ANI): Indian Boxer Nitu Ghanghas assured India a medal after reaching semifinals in Women's World Boxing Championship 2023. Confident pugilist said that she wants to win the gold medal. "My performance today bodes well for the coming matches as well. I played watching, and I took an aggressive approach in the end. I want to win the gold medal," she said.

Indian Boxer Nitu Ghanghas eyes gold after winning quarterfinals in Women’s Boxing World C’ships

Indian Boxer Nitu Ghanghas eyes gold after winning quarterfinals in Women's Boxing World C'ships

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