Centre Introduces New Policy for Co-Firing MSW-Based Charcoal in Thermal Power Plants

The Union Government has released a new policy framework mandating the co-firing of biomass pellets and municipal solid waste (MSW)–derived torrefied charcoal in coal-fired thermal power plants across the country. The policy seeks to address the twin challenges of excess agricultural residue and unmanaged urban waste while reducing emissions in line with national clean energy and climate commitments.

Kolkata to Host 8th International Chair Poetry Festival from 28–30 November 2025

Kolkata is set to reaffirm its cultural legacy as it hosts the 8th edition of the International Chair Poetry Festival, scheduled from 28 to 30 November 2025. Known for bringing together acclaimed poets from across the world, the festival continues to serve as a vibrant platform for creative exchange, dialogue and literary celebration. Over the years, the event has established Kolkata as an international hub for poetry and multilingual expression.

RBI Authorises PayU as Full-Scale Aggregator Across Online, Offline & Cross-Border Channels

PayU has received full authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India to operate as a payment aggregator (PA), marking a significant milestone for the fintech company and India’s fast-expanding digital payments ecosystem. The approval, granted under the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, empowers PayU to provide end-to-end payment services across online platforms, offline payment points, and cross-border commerce.

UP Expands Forensic Network with Advanced Regional Laboratory

Uttar Pradesh has taken a major step toward strengthening its criminal investigation framework with the inauguration of the upgraded Regional Forensic Science Laboratory (RFSL) in Gorakhpur. The new facility is part of the state’s broader plan to modernise forensic infrastructure across all administrative mandals, ensuring that scientific evidence becomes central to law enforcement and judicial processes.

The Gorakhpur RFSL is equipped with high-end DNA profiling systems, AI-assisted forensic tools, drone-based documentation units and robotics modules for complex evidence analysis. These upgrades are expected to reduce pendency, accelerate case handling and support more precise crime reconstruction.

C-DOT Partners with Andhra Pradesh to Build Quantum Communication Hub

India has strengthened its quantum technology roadmap with the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) signing an agreement with the Andhra Pradesh government to set up a state-of-the-art Quantum Communication Centre in Amaravati. The initiative forms a crucial component of the Amaravati Quantum Valley, a flagship project designed to make the state a leading destination for quantum research, innovation and commercialisation.