Business

Government Joins WhatsApp Initiative to Combat Digital Fraud and Cyber Threats

Published

1 year ago

March 18, 2025

On Monday, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) joined forces with WhatsApp to expand the reach of ‘Scam Se Bacho,’ Meta’s initiative aimed at combating online scams and spam.

This partnership will focus on educating citizens on how to recognize and report fraudulent communications to improve digital safety and awareness. The initiative includes train-the-trainer workshops for DoT officials, Sanchar Mitras, Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), and field units.

Furthermore, WhatsApp plans to collaborate with the DoT on developing citizen-centric services within the Sanchar Saathi initiative via the WhatsApp platform to ensure wider access and engagement.

Joel Kaplan, Chief Global Affairs Officer at Meta, met with the Union Minister of Communication and Development of the North East Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, to discuss the positive outcomes of the ongoing collaboration between DoT and Meta.

WhatsApp is also working alongside the DoT’s Digital Intelligence Unit, using information shared through the DIP to take proactive measures against the misuse of telecom resources in cybercrime and financial fraud.

“The most effective way to prevent people from falling prey to scams and online fraud is to educate them on what to look out for and how to protect themselves,” Kaplan stated. He added that the partnership with the Department of Telecommunications combines their technological expertise with the government’s dedication to ensuring citizen safety, empowering Indians with the knowledge needed to stay secure online.

Scindia emphasized that as India embraces digital transformation, safeguarding citizens is a primary concern. “Our partnership with Meta bolsters our commitment to protecting our people from fraudulent communications and cyber threats. Through WhatsApp’s extensive digital reach, we are enhancing our efforts to maintain a secure and resilient digital ecosystem for everyone,” the minister remarked.

Additionally, WhatsApp will create educational resources in conjunction with the DoT to help users identify and report online scams. All user safety materials will be translated into various regional languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Gujarati, to maximize accessibility.

Business

Opendoor Shuts Down India Operations, 250 Employees Affected

Published

1 day ago

June 11, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: US-based real estate technology company Opendoor has decided to close its operations in India. The move will impact nearly 250 employees.

CEO Kaz Nejatian said the company is bringing operational roles closer to its customers in the United States. He explained that most of Opendoor’s customers are based in America.

The company said the decision is not related to the performance of its India team. Nejatian praised the employees for their hard work and contributions.

Affected workers will receive severance pay, job placement support, and other assistance. A small number of employees will stay temporarily to help with the transition.

Opendoor said it will continue focusing on simplifying operations and improving efficiency with new technology and AI.

Business

Domestic LPG Cylinder Price Increased by Rs 29

Published

5 days ago

June 7, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: The price of domestic LPG cooking gas cylinders has been increased by Rs 29 across India. This is the second price hike in the last three months.

The increase comes as global energy prices continue to rise due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

After the revision, a domestic LPG cylinder now costs Rs 942 in Delhi, Rs 941.40 in Mumbai, Rs 968 in Kolkata, and Rs 957.50 in Chennai. In Bengaluru, the new price is Rs 944.50 per cylinder.

The government said the cost of supplying LPG has increased significantly. However, subsidies under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana continue to help over 10 crore beneficiaries.

Petrol, diesel, and CNG prices have also increased in recent weeks as global fuel markets remain volatile.

Business

Honda Begins Delivery of 2026 City Hybrid

Published

1 week ago

June 3, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: Honda Cars India has started delivering the new 2026 Honda City Hybrid to customers. The first car was handed over at a dealership in Bengaluru.

Honda President and CEO Takashi Nakajima attended the special delivery event. Other senior company officials were also present.

The first customer received a Crystal Black Pearl Honda City Hybrid. The car was delivered with a symbolic key and a gift hamper.

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The updated City comes with new features such as ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera. It also offers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a sunroof.

The sedan is available with petrol and strong-hybrid powertrain options. Honda claims the hybrid version delivers a mileage of 27.26 kmpl.

The Honda City competes with the Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Hyundai Verna in India.