On Friday, Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, urged both Central and state governments to collaborate effectively in the realms of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). He emphasized that technology serves as a transformative force, asserting that “a developed India cannot exist without developed states and Union Territories” and calling for these regions to become strategic, inclusive, and dynamic innovation hubs.

During the Annual Review Meeting of State Science & Technology (S&T) Councils, Singh encouraged the dissemination of information regarding various Central government schemes at grassroots levels, ensuring that stakeholders in rural and remote areas can fully benefit from them. He stated, “Awareness is the first step towards impact,” and stressed that visibility and outreach should be central to the Councils’ strategies for promoting inclusive innovation.

The minister also proposed a framework of peer learning to facilitate the adoption of successful models nationwide. He noted that high-performing states can offer best practices that others can replicate to enhance their own impact effectively. “Cross-learning is the key to accelerating progress,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of regular idea and experience exchanges to strengthen the national STI ecosystem through collective efforts.

Singh recognized the contributions of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in transforming the State Science and Technology Programme (SSTP) through budgetary and technical support. He highlighted the significance of the 23 Patent Information Centres in promoting awareness and facilitation of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) throughout the States.

The meeting also reviewed proposals from Jammu & Kashmir for additional assistance to its S&T Council and discussed plans to establish new Patent Information Centres in Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Meghalaya, and Madhya Pradesh. Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that these initiatives will help foster a more robust and inclusive IPR framework across the country.

The meeting was attended by DST Secretary Prof. Abhay Karandikar, members of the Expert Committee on SSTP, including Prof. Satish B. Agnihotri and Dr. P.K. Agrawal, along with key DST officials, symbolizing a united commitment toward science-led regional development.

The 47th Flight Test Course at the Indian Air Force Test Pilot School recently wrapped up with a valedictory event, the Suranjan Das Dinner, hosted at the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) in Bengaluru.

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, presented certificates to the graduating officers and recognized outstanding performers with trophies for their exceptional achievements throughout this challenging and specialized program.

Renowned for its rigorous 48-week curriculum, the Flight Test Course is fundamental in enhancing the nation’s capabilities in flight testing for advanced aerial platforms and systems.

In his speech, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh emphasized the critical nature of test flying, a distinct discipline requiring the utmost professionalism, integrity, and dedication. He reaffirmed the Indian Air Force’s dedication to self-reliance, stressing the significance of indigenization initiatives, especially regarding key projects like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and LCA MK-II. He encouraged the graduates to embody the principles of Precision and Excellence, which are vital for fostering a Sashakt, Saksham, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The prestigious Suranjan Das Trophy for the Best All-Round Student Test Pilot was awarded to Squadron Leader S. Bhardwaj, while Squadron Leader Ajay Tripathi received the Chief of the Air Staff Trophy for the Best Student Test Pilot in Flight Evaluation.

The Maharaja Hanumanth Singh Sword for the Best All-Round Student Flight Test Engineer was awarded to Squadron Leader Subhrajyoti Paul, with the Dunlop Trophy for the Best Student Test Engineer in Flight Evaluation going to Wing Commander Ashwini Singh. Major Kaustubh Kunte was recognized with the Kapil Bhargava Trophy for the Best Student in Ground Subjects.

On Friday, the Kerala High Court extended the status quo for an additional four months regarding the prosecution complaint filed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) in the Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL)-Exalogic case, which includes Veena Vijayan, the daughter of Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, among the accused.

This High Court ruling puts a temporary stop to further proceedings in the CMRL pay-off case stemming from the SFIO’s charge sheet. Previously, on April 16, a single bench of the High Court reviewed a petition from CMRL contesting the Additional Sessions Court-VII’s acceptance of the SFIO’s prosecution complaint.

CMRL challenged the order from the Additional District and Sessions Court–VII, arguing that they were not afforded an opportunity for a pre-cognizance hearing as stipulated under Section 223(1) of the BNSS. They contend that since the SFIO’s complaint was filed in March-April 2025, the BNSS provisions should apply.

The High Court’s ruling halts the issuance of summons related to the SFIO’s prosecution complaint, providing temporary relief to the accused, including Veena Vijayan.