A Florida-based drone company, Powerus, which has recently brought on Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., is marketing its technology to Gulf nations facing threats from Iran while continuing to depend on US military support during the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The company is positioning itself to take advantage of the tensions that escalated after US and Israeli strikes on Iran. According to a report by The Associated Press, critics argue that Gulf countries may feel pressured to purchase from a firm linked to the president’s family in hopes of securing favorable support. Richard Painter, a former official under George W. Bush, suggested this situation could mark an unprecedented case of a president’s family profiting from a war that did not receive congressional approval.
Powerus co-founder Brett Velicovich said the company is actively demonstrating its interceptor drones across the Middle East. These systems are designed to defend against potential Iranian attacks. He emphasized that their technology has the potential to save lives and highlighted the urgency of advancing US capabilities in what he described as a global arms race.
Eric Trump, responding to criticism, said he is proud to invest in businesses he believes in and described drone technology as the future. Reports indicate that the Trump brothers’ involvement could result in significant equity stakes in the company. Despite concerns about possible conflicts of interest, Powerus has dismissed such claims, stressing the importance of strengthening American manufacturing and staying competitive globally.
Since Donald Trump’s return to office, his sons have expanded into newer sectors such as cryptocurrency, prediction markets, and federal contracting tied to advanced manufacturing. Powerus is also aiming to secure funding from a $1.1 billion Pentagon initiative intended to boost US drone production, especially after limits were imposed on Chinese imports.
Founded by US Army Special Operations veterans about a year ago, Powerus initially focused on commercial uses like agriculture and firefighting but is now rapidly moving into military production. The company recently raised $60 million and is considering going public through a reverse merger with a Trump-affiliated firm listed on Nasdaq, allowing it to bypass the traditional IPO process.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday introduced a comprehensive and strict strategy to address air pollution in the capital, marking a strong move from planning to implementation. Launching the Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026, she stated that it builds upon the government’s “historic” Green Budget for 2026–27 and is designed to turn clean air objectives into measurable results, according to an official CMO statement.
Prepared under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the plan outlines a detailed roadmap for sustainable urban growth, focusing on accountability, technology, and time-bound execution. A high-level review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister at Mukhyamantri Janseva Sadan included ministers, senior officials, Delhi Metro representatives, and traffic authorities.
Rekha Gupta emphasized that environmental protection and clean air are now central to government policy, supported by dedicated funding for green mobility, dust management, waste handling, afforestation, and pollution monitoring. She described the initiative as an enforcement-driven campaign backed by technology, resources, and strict supervision, aiming to ensure cleaner air for all residents.
The plan targets major pollution sources such as vehicle emissions, road dust, construction, industrial output, and biomass burning using a scientific, data-based approach. It identifies 11 priority sectors with clearly defined roles, timelines, and real-time monitoring systems. Strict measures include enforcing the “No PUC, No Fuel” rule using digital tracking and ANPR cameras, and allowing only BS-VI compliant, CNG, or electric goods vehicles into Delhi from November 1. During severe pollution, steps like staggered office hours, work-from-home policies, and restrictions on polluting vehicles may be implemented.
Public transport will be expanded significantly, with the bus fleet expected to reach 13,760 by 2028–29, focusing on electric buses. Integration of metro, RRTS, and last-mile connectivity options will reduce reliance on private vehicles. Additionally, 32,000 EV charging stations will be installed, and the upcoming EV Policy 2026 will promote cleaner mobility, especially for two-wheelers and commercial vehicles. To ease congestion, 62 traffic hotspots will be addressed through planned interventions, supported by an Intelligent Traffic Management System, smart parking, and pricing reforms. Large-scale deployment of road cleaning equipment, water sprinklers, and anti-smog systems will tackle dust pollution, with real-time monitoring in place.
Around 3,500 km of roads will be upgraded with better surfaces, greenery, and improved infrastructure. Construction pollution will be monitored using AI-based systems like the C&D Portal 2.0, ensuring proper waste handling and recycling. The government has also set deadlines to clear landfill sites—Okhla by July 2026, Bhalswa by December 2026, and Ghazipur by December 2027—while promoting circular economy initiatives like an e-waste eco park. Biomass burning has been banned, with alternatives provided and strict penalties for violations.
Industries must install real-time emission monitoring systems, and non-compliant units will face closure. Environmental governance will be strengthened through expanded monitoring networks, a central Green War Room, and ward-level “Vayu Rakshak” teams. Citizen participation will be encouraged via improved reporting platforms. An ambitious plantation drive aims to plant 70 lakh trees and shrubs in 2026–27, with a long-term goal of over one crore. The plan also encourages innovation by involving researchers, startups, and experts. Rekha Gupta concluded that the Action Plan 2026 is a results-oriented framework with strong financial backing, strict deadlines, and accountability, reaffirming the government’s commitment to clean air as a fundamental right.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Delhi Assembly.
The teaser for Sanjay Dutt’s upcoming film Aakhri Sawal has been released, days after the project was officially announced. The short clip debuted on Thursday, coinciding with Hanuman Ji Janmotsav, and offers a glimpse into the film’s core theme: exploring questions of truth, history, and youth perspectives.
The story follows Vicky, an intelligent and curious student, whose thesis is rejected by his mentor, Professor Gopal Nadkarni. What begins as a personal academic dispute quickly escalates into a national debate, leading to a high-stakes Guru-Shishya confrontation. The teaser captures the intensity and emotional gravity of this conflict, hinting at the film’s deeper exploration of ideology, knowledge, and generational clashes.
Last month, the makers unveiled the first-look poster along with the release date. Featuring Dutt in a serious, intense pose framed by a giant question mark, the poster employs dark tones and fiery visuals, giving it a mysterious and dramatic feel. The tagline, “The Question India Never Stopped Asking,” reflects the film’s central theme.
Produced by Nikhil Nanda, Dhanraj Nathwani, and Sanjay Dutt, under Nikhil Nanda Motion Pictures and Neem Tree Entertainment, the film also stars Amit Sadh, Namashi Chakraborty, Sameera Reddy, Tridha Choudhury, and Neetu Chandra. Aakhri Sawal is scheduled to release on May 15, 2026.
Dutt continues to ride the success of his recent film Dhurandhar: The Revenge, in which he plays Pakistani police officer Chaudhary Aslam. The movie, featuring Ranveer Singh in the lead, has been performing strongly at the box office since its release, further solidifying Dutt’s presence in high-impact, intense roles.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from insta/@duttsanjay.
The marble sector in Mohmand district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, once seen as a key source of jobs and economic growth, is now facing criticism due to its harmful impact on the environment and public safety. Residents and experts caution that unregulated industrial activities are damaging water resources, farmland, and local infrastructure across the area.
Mohmand is rich in natural resources such as marble, chromite, and nephrite, which have long supported local livelihoods and contributed to the country’s economy. However, the lack of effective regulation has led to significant environmental deterioration. To address these issues, authorities introduced the Mohmand Marble City project, now known as the Mohmand Economic Zone at Machnai, aiming to shift factories into a planned industrial area with proper waste management. Despite this effort, only a few units have relocated, while most continue operating in Halimzai tehsil, especially in Chanda, Sangar, and Nasapai.
Experts report that many factories are dumping untreated wastewater, marble slurry, and dust into natural streams. This pollution is blocking waterways and increasing the risk of flash floods during heavy rains. Officials warn that clogged drainage systems could cause serious damage to homes, agricultural fields, and roads.
The environmental impact is also threatening small dams built to address water shortages. These reservoirs are quickly filling with industrial waste. For instance, a check dam near Chanda Bazaar is nearly blocked, while the Abdul Shakoor Small Dam near Ghalanai faces similar risks, potentially affecting irrigation and fishery projects.
Local residents have voiced frustration over the lack of action despite repeated complaints. Analysts point out that weak enforcement of environmental laws has allowed industries to operate without following safety standards. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent measures, including stricter regulation, relocation of polluting units, and immediate cleaning of dams and waterways to prevent further environmental harm.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday told the Rajya Sabha that the House would be adjourned and reconvene soon to take up a “very important” bill, amid plans to increase Lok Sabha seats for women’s reservation. He said Thursday’s agenda would include the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill and the Jan Vishwas (Amendment) Bill, and added that the important bill would be taken up in the next 2–3 weeks. Rijiju stressed the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promise to women, while the Opposition called for caution, citing long-term implications and alleged political motives, which Rijiju denied.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Standard.
As thousands of U.S. troops and marines deploy to the Middle East, Iran accuses Washington of secretly planning a ground attack while publicly promoting ceasefire negotiations. Donald Trump has threatened to “destroy” Iran’s energy infrastructure, stated that he would “prefer to take the oil,” and suggested that U.S. forces could capture the country’s export hub on Kharg Island, all while claiming to be negotiating with a new “reasonable regime.” At the same time, Yemen’s Houthi forces have joined the conflict, raising the risk of further disruptions to the global economy.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
In 1998, tobacco companies in the United States were made responsible for the damage caused by the products they produced and sold through the Tobacco Settlement. Today, a similar question arises for Big Tech: it is not only about the content on their platforms but also whether these platforms were intentionally created to keep users addicted. Daniel Martin explores this issue with Rajesh Sreenivasan, Head of Technology, Media, and Telecommunications at Rajah and Tann Singapore.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
On “Destination Anywhere,” Melanie Oliveiro chats with Regina Lee, a travel and home influencer, about her journey through northern Xinjiang. From the shimmering turquoise waters of Sayram Lake to the lush rolling landscapes of Nalati Grasslands and the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan mountains, Regina recounts the region’s beauty and charm. She guides listeners through glacier valleys, picturesque villages, vibrant lakes, and lively bazaars, while also sharing practical tips on how to fully experience this remarkable frontier of China.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
This week, as the repercussions of the US-Israel conflict with Iran continue, Australians are feeling the pinch from a worsening fuel crisis. At the same time, the Liberal Party faces a critical moment as voters increasingly shift toward One Nation. In this edition of the Guardian’s Australian Politics podcast, political editor Tom McIlroy talks with Andrew Hastie, shadow minister for industry and sovereign capability, about Australia’s approach to the global fuel shock, the need for reindustrialisation, and his perspective on how the Liberal Party should respond to the rise of One Nation.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
