Sunday, 19, July, 2026

Gaddam Prasad Kumar Enters Indian Book of Records

→

Gaddam Prasad Kumar Enters Indian Book of Records
From Nation, For Nation - Pulse of the Nation
Trade Deal
Trade Deal

Trump says India and US very close to finalising trade deal

Washington and Delhi are "very close" to finalising a trade deal, US President Donald Trump has said, as high-level talks between the two sides continue.

"We're very close to a deal with India where they open it [the market] up," Trump told reporters at the White house on Wednesday.

Later in the day, he reiterated that the deal with India was "very close" when asked about upcoming trade agreements in an interview with broadcaster Real America's Voice.

India and the US have been locked in intense negotiations over the past few months, aiming to reach an agreement before steep tariffs kick in.

Trump had first announced 27% tariffs on Indian goods in 2 April as part of a wider trade policy move. While the tariffs were initially paused until 9 July, the US later extended the deadline to 1 August.

An Indian delegation is in the US this week for discussions on the agreement, Reuters reported, citing sources in the Indian government.

Last month, a team of Indian officials extended their stay in Washington for another round of talks, raising questions about what was holding up the agreement.

Both sides have sounded optimistic about the deal. On Tuesday, Trump signalled a potential breakthrough, saying that the US would gain "access" to the Indian market as part of the agreement.
→

INDIA - UK
INDIA - UK

Historic Handshake: PM Modi’s UK Visit Poised to Seal Long-Awaited Free Trade Deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in the United Kingdom, marking a pivotal moment in India-UK diplomatic and economic relations. His high-profile visit has drawn global attention as it coincides with the final stages of negotiations for the long-anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations. This agreement, years in the making, is expected to unlock a new era of strategic collaboration, enhanced market access, and economic prosperity.
The proposed deal aims to significantly reduce tariffs, streamline regulatory barriers, and open doors for sectors such as pharmaceuticals, information technology, textiles, automotive, and services. For India, the FTA represents an opportunity to expand its global footprint, while the UK views it as a gateway to the vast and dynamic Indian market, particularly post-Brexit. Sources indicate that the agreement will also prioritize climate cooperation, education exchange, and skilled workforce mobility.
If signed, this trade pact would stand as one of India's most comprehensive international economic engagements and a landmark achievement in PM Modi’s foreign policy legacy. Leaders and industry experts from both nations are optimistic about the mutual benefits and long-term impact of the deal. A formal announcement is expected later today, potentially setting the stage for a renewed chapter in India-UK relations built on shared values and economic ambition.
→
From Globe, For Globe - Pulse of the Planet
International
International
Plastic that Dissolves in the Sea

Japanese scientists have engineered a groundbreaking biodegradable plastic made from marine-safe materials that completely dissolves in seawater within 24 hours. Unlike traditional plastics that persist for centuries, this innovative polymer breaks down into compounds that not only leave no microplastic residue but also enrich the soil when composted.

The material was tested in coastal regions near Okinawa, where it showed zero toxicity to marine life and helped regenerate nutrient cycles in agricultural fields. This innovation may set the new standard for global packaging and single-use plastics.
→