Legendary Visionary David Lynch Dies at 78
Hollywood mourns the loss of David Lynch, the renowned director and writer, who passed away at 78 after battling emphysema. Known for his surreal and groundbreaking contributions to film and television, Lynch’s works like “Blue Velvet,” “Mulholland Drive,” and “Twin Peaks” revolutionized modern cinema. His unique artistic vision and storytelling have left an indelible mark on the industry. Lynch’s legacy as a true visionary continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. Rest in peace, David Lynch.
India’s Digital Leap: NBM 2.0 & Sanchar Saathi App
The Department of Telecommunications unveiled the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0 and the Sanchar Saathi App to bolster digital connectivity and security. NBM 2.0 aims to bring broadband to 2.7 lakh villages by 2030, enhancing fiber and wireless connectivity, especially in rural areas. The mission also seeks to connect 90% of anchor institutions through fiber. The Sanchar Saathi App safeguards mobile users by enabling fraud reporting, mobile connection management, and lost device blocking. Available on Android and iOS, it ensures mobile security and transparency.
IMF Cuts India’s FY25 Growth Forecast to 6.5%
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India’s FY25 economic growth forecast to 6.5%, down from earlier projections. Despite the cut, the IMF maintains a stable outlook for India’s economy, citing a sharper-than-expected slowdown in industrial activity. This aligns with the World Bank’s projection, still positioning India as the fastest-growing major economy. The IMF anticipates a solid growth rate of 6.5% in FY26.
Breakthrough in Huntington’s Disease Research
Groundbreaking research unveiled new insights into Huntington’s disease, a genetic disorder causing brain cell degeneration. Scientists have discovered that the initially harmless genetic mutation associated with the disease gradually becomes harmful over time, leading to neurological damage. This discovery explains the puzzling delayed onset of symptoms, which typically appear between ages 30 and 50. With symptoms worsening over 10 to 25 years, researchers are now optimistic about developing innovative therapies to slow or halt the progression of this debilitating condition. These findings bring new hope to patients and their families.
Flood Protection Measures for Krishna River
The Andhra Pradesh State Cabinet sanctioned the construction of a flood protection wall along the Krishna River. This initiative aims to alleviate the persistent flooding problems impacting local communities, notably in Vijayawada and its neighboring areas. The wall will extend downstream of the Prakasam Barrage, covering a span from 0.9 km to 2.61 km, with an estimated budget of ₹294.20 crore. This project follows earlier attempts to combat soil erosion and flooding, and is expected to safeguard regions like Sundarayya Nagar and Mahanadu Colony from future flood threats.
RBI Permits Overseas INR Accounts
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a pivotal policy change, allowing authorized banks’ overseas branches to open Indian Rupee (INR) accounts for non-residents. This move aims to enhance cross-border transactions in INR, reduce dependence on foreign currencies, and benefit Indian exporters by lowering currency conversion costs. Non-residents can now settle transactions with each other using INR balances and invest in Indian government securities and non-debt instruments. This decision is expected to elevate the global presence of the Indian Rupee and streamline international trade processes