Latest news with #Kaushik
Mint
28-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
Uber, Rapido eye Goa entry as draft guidelines set stage for ride-hailing platforms
Ride-hailing platforms are preparing to enter Goa, a market they have long coveted but struggled to gain access due to resistance from local taxi unions. Now, the state's newly released Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, could finally change that. The draft guidelines, published last week by the Goa government, lay out a formal regulatory framework for app-based taxi and bike taxi operators. It includes licensing conditions, fare regulations, timelines for driver payments, and crucially, mandates that the entire fare be paid directly to drivers, effectively banning platform commissions. The move marks a decisive shift from informal control to structured regulation in one of India's most tourism-dependent states. According to media reports, Goa received 10 million visitors in 2024. The Economic Survey for 2024-2025, meanwhile, projected Goa's population for 2025 at approximately 15.96 lakh. This tourism volume dwarfs the local population, resulting in an incredibly high tourist-to-local ratio. Also Read: Slow but steady: How quick commerce delivered an improbable success for Yulu Aggregators bullish 'We believe tourists as much as locals in Goa deserve more mobility choices, and there is already a strong existing demand for reliable ride options in the state," an Uber spokesperson told Mint. 'This regulatory update makes it possible for platforms like Uber to serve that demand more effectively and responsibly," the company added. It said it will submit formal feedback and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure the final framework supports drivers, riders, and Goa's economy. The draft guidelines are open for public feedback until 19 June. Rapido also appears bullish. 'I think the government recognizing the importance of developing a much more convenient and safer transportation infrastructure is crucial — it's a key element of tourism," said Pavan Guntupalli, co-founder of Rapido. Ola Electric declined to comment on the development. Analysts say Rapido's enthusiasm stems from its no-commission and SaaS (software as a service) based model, which analysts believe will give it a competitive advantage in the Goa market. 'Rapido's model is tailor-made for these guidelines, but Ola and Uber may have to adapt," Nikhil Dhaka, policy lead at Primus Partners, a consultancy firm. Also Read: Rapido eyes a bigger slice of the ride-hailing market with four-wheeler push Right fit Ola and Uber may, however, need to adapt their operational models to fit Goa. 'They will have to geographically tweak their models to suit Goa," said Amit Kaushik, managing director at automotive consultancy Urban Science. Platforms will have to contend with Goa's pronounced seasonality. There are peaks where demand is exponentially high, and then times when it's a complete dry season, said Kaushik. 'They have to be very careful — not just about how to operate, but when to operate," Kaushik added. Rapido says its flexibility gives it an edge. 'Whenever there's a lull, we enable our autos and bikes to participate in the delivery economy — not just as taxis, but also for couriers and deliveries," said Guntupalli. It claims to be well-positioned to meet the demands of Goa's evolving mobility market. 'One of the reasons Rapido shifted to a SaaS player is to enable the offline industry to come online," Guntupalli said. He added that the goal is to onboard existing players in the local ecosystem, 'We are minimizing barriers as much as possible so they can leverage our technology, products, and pricing tools." The guidelines are also likely to intensify competition with local digital incumbents like Goamiles, a government-backed ride-hailing service. According to a report by Herald Goa, the state has around 20,000 taxis of varying permits and services. The competition notwithstanding, the new guidelines present an opportunity for Goamiles to modernise its tech infrastructure, Dhaka noted. With scooter rentals being a major part of Goa's transport culture, platforms are exploring ways to integrate this user behaviour. Guntupalli said Rapido is open to exploring rental integration, emphasizing that the platform is not confined to one mode or model. 'If the user wants to ride, we'll provide a platform. If they want to rent, we'll look at that. We're not restricted by any moat," he said. However, trade unions in both North and South Goa have strongly opposed the guidelines, fearing that the government's push for app-based services will threaten their livelihoods, according to media reports. Also Read: Who pays for cancelled rides? Maharashtra's new cab rules stir industry debate
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Ravinder Kaushik: The Indian spy who became a Major in the Pakistan Army and was named ‘The Black Tiger' by Indira Gandhi
From acting stage to secret service The man who became Nabi Ahmed Shakir The Black Tiger End of cover A tale resurfacing in new times (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel The recent arrest of Jyoti Malhotra in India for allegedly spying for Pakistan has renewed attention on the world of espionage and deep-cover in Pakistan for years under a false identity, Kaushik is credited by defence circles with saving nearly 20,000 Indian lives through the intelligence he was recruited by the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) at age 23. His flair for acting and public performance made him an ideal candidate for undercover work. During training, he was taught Urdu, Islamic customs, and Pakistani social norms. He studied Pakistan's geography and culture closely to prepare for his new sent Kaushik to Pakistan under the name Nabi Ahmed Shakir. All evidence of his Indian identity was erased. He studied law at Karachi University, joined the Pakistan Army, and climbed the ranks to become a Major. He married a local woman named Amanat and became a 1979 and 1983, Kaushik sent classified military information to Indian agencies. The details he provided are believed to have prevented several cross-border incidents and saved thousands of lives. Impressed by his service, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi gave him the code name 'The Black Tiger '.Kaushik's mission ended in 1983 when his identity was exposed. According to a report in The Telegraph, Inyat Masiha—a RAW contact sent to re-establish communication with him—was caught and revealed Kaushik's true identity under interrogation. Pakistani authorities arrested Kaushik and sentenced him to death in 1985. The sentence was later reduced to life endured two years of torture in an interrogation centre in Sialkot and spent 16 more years in Mianwali Jail. In 2001, Kaushik died from pulmonary tuberculosis and heart disease in New Central Multan Jail. He was buried behind the India deals with the arrest of a Pakistani spy on its soil, Kaushik's story stands in contrast—of a man who went to the other side and served for years without public recognition. His story continues to raise questions about the silent sacrifices made in the world of intelligence, where borders blur and identities disappear.
Hindustan Times
18-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Panchkula Police's ERV response time improves by two minutes
During an interaction with police officials at Tau Devi Lal Stadium, Sector 3, on Saturday, deputy commissioner of police (DCP) Himadree Kaushik highlighted that the average response time of Panchkula Police's emergency response vehicles (ERVs) has improved by two minutes, reducing from eight minutes to six minutes. Kaushik added that this faster response will enable the police to reach incident scenes more quickly. She also issued crucial directives to the heads of all ERV, police control room (PCR), riders, and quick response teams (QRT), emphasising the importance of remaining vigilant for crime prevention. The DCP stressed that constant alertness across all units is paramount to avert any untoward incidents in the city. Kaushik also instructed all officers to maintain a strict watch on suspicious individuals and vehicles, with increased scrutiny at all city checkpoints. Negligence during patrolling will not be tolerated, the DCP asserted. Furthermore, the Smart e-Beat system, used for real-time monitoring of patrolling teams, was reviewed to further optimise its effectiveness.
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Time of India
Panchkula Police response time improves as DCP urges vigilance, professionalism
1 2 3 Panchkula: DCP Himadri Kaushik on Saturday claimed that the response time of emergency response vehicles (ERV) has improved from eight to six minutes. Addressing policemen in a review and briefing session at Tau Devi Lal Stadium, she commended the ERV staff for this achievement but also stressed the need for continuous improvement and consistency in performance. Himadri issued key directives to the in-charges and drivers of 19 ERVs, 11 PCRs, 29 Riders, and 24 quick reaction teams (QRTs). Addressing the gathering, the DCP emphasised that all units must remain on high alert at all times to prevent any untoward incident. During the session, DCP Kaushik instructed officers and personnel to keep a close watch on suspicious persons and vehicles. She also ordered stricter vigilance at city checkpoints. "Negligence during patrolling will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken in such cases," she warned. The DCP stressed the importance of public interaction, directing officers to maintain politeness and patience during vehicle checks. "Respectful and professional behaviour builds public trust and strengthens the image of the police," she said. DCP Kaushik also reviewed the Smart E-Beat system, stating that patrol movements are now being digitally monitored through a web-based application, which is enhancing transparency and accountability in day and night patrolling. She gave directions to improve the system for better field efficiency.
Time of India
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
‘Keep checkpoints active & tabs on dubious movement'
Panchkula: DCP Himadri Kaushik Saturday asked officers to give top priority to the investigation of pending cases and enhance efforts towards the prevention of crimes such as snatching and vehicle theft. She called upon the ACP concerned to personally visit a scene of crime. She said she would monitor the progress of investigations and would hold the officers responsible for any were also issued to keep checkpoints fully active, and police personnel directed to thoroughly inspect vehicles and record the details of any suspicious individuals. CCTV camera surveillance is to be patrolling has been mandated at religious sites, crowded public areas, border villages, and key installations. The police force has been instructed to remain on high alert and keep essential equipment such as barricades and response teams ready for the digital front, the DCP warned that inciting posts or rumours on social media would be strictly monitored by the IT cell, and stern action would be taken against those spreading misinformation. Special directives were issued to curb illegal mining . Operation Sindoor India-Pakistan Tensions Live Updates: India hits back after Pakistan violates ceasefire; Nagrota sentry hurt in brief gunfire Operation Sindoor Live Updates: Drones shot down at multiple places in J&K as Pakistan violates bilateral understanding Pak drones enter Indian airspace, explosions heard just hours after truce deal DCP Kaushik ordered the immediate seizure of vehicles involved in unauthorised mining and initiation of legal action against the also reinforced a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal alcohol trade and substance abuse. Station heads were told to conduct surprise raids and maintain a close watch on areas where illicit liquor is consumed or sold. Areas notorious for drug-related activity are to be classified as "hotspots" and monitored DCP urged the officers to collaborate with social organisations and youth groups to intensify drug awareness campaigns. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Click Here - This Might Save You From Losing Money Expertinspector Click Here Undo To ensure law and order, four special units – Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta – have been directed to conduct regular drills to stay prepared for emergencies or riot-like (crime and traffic) Amit Dahiya, who was also present in the meeting, simplified the investigative approach towards cybercrime and proposed methods to make the system more effective and swift. Drawing on his past experience as SP (cyber), he plans to implement those learnings in local crime-handling was chairing a crime review meeting at the DCP office in Sector-1, Panchkula. ACPs, SHOs, and branch heads from across the district attended the TAKEAWAYSOn the digital front, DCP Kaushik warned that inciting posts or rumours on social media would be strictly monitored by the IT cellSpecial directives were issued to curb illegal miningStation heads were told to conduct surprise raids and maintain a close watch on areas where illicit liquor is consumed or soldIncreased patrolling has been mandated at religious sites, crowded public areas, border villages, and key installations
