financial services secretary

The higher education department has issued a stern directive to state public universities, warning against irregular appointments made without government approval. Such unauthorized engagements violate the Orissa Universities Act, 1989, and will not be regularized, with responsible officials facing disciplinary action. Universities will bear financial liabilities for these appointments.

Millions of children aged five to 15 in England will receive free local bus travel throughout August as part of a government initiative to ease the cost of living. This "Great British Summer Savings" package aims to help families with rising expenses during the school holidays, potentially saving households significant amounts.

The Indian government has launched a $1.5 billion Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool, backed by a $1.4 billion sovereign guarantee, to offer risk cover for Indian vessels on international routes, including war zones. This initiative aims to reduce shipping insurance premiums and guarantee coverage even when global insurers withdraw due to rising risks.

Hyderabad police, in a massive crackdown across 13 states, have apprehended 66 individuals supplying ghost SIM cards to cybercriminals. Operation Octopus has successfully targeted the illegal issuance of these SIMs, which were instrumental in 76 fraud cases, resulting in a staggering Rs 101 crore loss.

Principal Secretary PK Mishra cautioned financial systems against excessive speculation and market instability, emphasizing their connection to the real economy and citizens' lives. He highlighted India's digital public infrastructure, including the JAM trinity and UPI, as transformative forces for financial inclusion and credit access, particularly for underserved populations.

Odisha government is cracking down on bureaucratic delays in issuing posting orders. Departments must now fix accountability for pending files, with routine joining time extensions no longer tolerated. Inaction leading to delays beyond 30 days will result in action against officials and recovery of 'idle salary'. Strict scrutiny will be applied to extensions exceeding six months.

Bihar's cabinet has taken a landmark step by launching a biweekly IndiGo flight connecting Gaya to Bangkok, supported by a viability gap funding of ₹10.40 crores. This strategic move is expected to invigorate tourism and enhance local commerce.

Commercial vehicle drivers in Delhi-NCR launched a three-day strike demanding fare hikes due to soaring fuel costs. Unions cite financial struggles, urging immediate government action on taxi and auto fares. However, several transport associations have distanced themselves, vowing to continue services and emphasizing national interest amidst global price challenges.

CM urges AI tools, coordination to stop cyber frauds

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Bihar's government has adopted an ambitious Rs 72,901 crore borrowing strategy dedicated to enhancing development and streamlining administrative functions. This includes a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with Singapore's GFTN to foster an AI ecosystem, set to empower thousands through training and bolster the startup landscape.

Washington's campaign against Iran has surged to nearly $29 billion, surpassing initial Pentagon estimates. Experts warn the escalating costs, driven by operational and equipment replacement, could ultimately reach a staggering $1 trillion. This financial burden is becoming a political flashpoint ahead of US elections, with concerns over inflation.