Amrit Udyan 2025: Details You Need to Know
Amrit Udyan, previously known as the Mughal Gardens, is open to the public from February 2 to March 31, 2025, offering a breathtaking display of seasonal blooms at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The garden welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Mondays. While entry is free, advance booking is recommended due to limited capacity. Convenient access is provided via Central Secretariat (Yellow Line) and RK Ashram (Blue Line) metro stations, with a complimentary shuttle service available from Central Secretariat.
Surajkund Mela 2025: All You Need to Know
The Surajkund Mela 2025, one of India’s largest cultural fairs, will be held in Surajkund, Faridabad, Haryana, near New Delhi. Visitors can attend from February 1 to February 16, 2025. Ticket prices are ₹120 on weekdays and ₹180 on weekends. The nearest metro station is Badarpur Metro Station on the Violet Line, with shuttle services available. The official website for more information is Surajkund Mela Authority. The fair features over 1,000 stalls showcasing handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, pottery, and more, offering a unique opportunity to purchase handcrafted items directly from artisans.
Zepto Rises to World’s Second Most Downloaded Food & Drink App
Indian quick commerce startup Zepto has ascended to the position of the world’s second most downloaded food and drink app. Known for its rapid delivery service, boasting grocery deliveries in just 10 minutes, Zepto has captivated users with its convenience and efficiency. Operating through a vast network of micro-warehouses or “cloud shops,” the app offers a diverse range of products. This milestone underscores Zepto’s success in revolutionizing the grocery delivery industry and meeting the ever-increasing demand for swift commerce solutions.
India Develops Vaccine Candidate Against H5N1
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is leading efforts to develop a human vaccine candidate for the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1. Responding to recent outbreaks threatening both animal and human health, the ICMR has invited collaborations from organizations, companies, and manufacturers to support vaccine research and development. The initiative aims to mitigate outbreak risks, protect vulnerable populations, and ensure preparedness for a potential pandemic.
Import Duty Waiver on Life-Saving Drugs
The Union Budget 2025 introduced significant changes to import duties on life-saving drugs, waiving duties on 36 essential medications and reducing duties on an additional six. This initiative aims to make critical treatments more affordable for patients in India, supporting those reliant on imported medications for severe medical conditions. Although the reduction in costs is a positive step, many of these drugs remain under patent protection, keeping prices relatively high. The policy strikes a balance between generating revenue and addressing the need for accessible healthcare.
RBI’s Monetary Policy and Rate Cut Expectations
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is facing a complex economic environment, making careful deliberations necessary for its monetary policy decisions. Recent analyses indicate that the RBI’s monetary policy committee (MPC) may avoid expected rate cuts, opting for a cautious approach amid global economic uncertainties. Factors such as inflation, fiscal policy, and international market trends are influencing the MPC’s considerations. By maintaining a steady stance, the RBI aims to balance economic growth and stability, avoiding potential disruptions in the financial landscape.