

Bajaj Auto, one of the leading two-wheeler manufacturers, has launched the world's first CNG motorcycle, the Freedom 125. With an ex-showroom price starting at Rs 95,000, the bike offers the ability to toggle between petrol and Compressed Natural Gas powertrains. According to the company, the bike has a range of 330 km and can run 200 km on one full tank of CNG. The launch was attended by Rajiv Bajaj, MD of Bajaj Auto, and Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways. This launch is expected to provide riders with a 50% reduction in operational costs.
In a groundbreaking move, Bajaj Auto, India's leading two-wheeler manufacturer, has unveiled the Freedom 125, the world's first motorcycle to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This revolutionary launch marks a significant step towards sustainable and cost-effective transportation.
Background
India has a long history of using CNG as a clean and affordable fuel source. However, until now, its application in the automotive sector has been limited. Bajaj Auto's latest innovation aims to address this gap by offering a CNG-powered option for the growing number of motorcycle riders in India and potentially worldwide.
Features and Benefits
The Freedom 125 features a 125cc engine that can seamlessly switch between petrol and CNG. It boasts a range of 330 km on a full tank of CNG, with a fuel efficiency of over 45 km/kg. The bike also offers a range of 200 km on a full tank of petrol.
By using CNG, riders can expect significant savings in operational costs. CNG is typically cheaper than petrol, and the Freedom 125's fuel efficiency further amplifies these savings. Bajaj Auto estimates that riders can save up to 50% on their fuel expenses compared to petrol-powered motorcycles.
Environmental Impact
CNG is considered a cleaner-burning fuel than petrol, emitting fewer pollutants. The Freedom 125's use of CNG is expected to reduce vehicular emissions, contributing to improved air quality and public health.
FAQs
1. What is the ex-showroom price of the Bajaj Freedom 125? A: The ex-showroom price starts at Rs 95,000.
2. Can the Freedom 125 run only on CNG? A: No, the bike can switch between petrol and CNG powertrains.
3. What is the fuel efficiency of the Freedom 125 on CNG? A: Over 45 km/kg.
4. How much can riders save on operational costs using the Freedom 125? A: Up to 50%.
5. When was the Freedom 125 launched? A: The bike was launched in India on February 24, 2023.
Conclusion
Bajaj Auto's launch of the Freedom 125 is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability. This groundbreaking motorcycle has the potential to transform the two-wheeler industry while offering riders a more affordable, environmentally friendly, and convenient alternative to petrol-powered vehicles. As the world grapples with challenges of climate change and rising fuel costs, the Freedom 125 sets an inspiring example for the future of transportation.

US-based private equity firm Tillman Global Holdings (TGH) is reportedly in advanced discussions to invest up to $6 billion in Vodafone Idea Ltd, which could lead to a change in operational control. However, the investment is contingent on the Indian government providing comprehensive relief covering AGR and spectrum payment dues. If the deal goes through, it could dilute existing promoter holdings, including those held by Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Plc. While the news has boosted investor sentiment, analysts caution that government approval and debt restructuring clarity are key to the execution of the deal.

The Indian real estate market is undergoing a major shift with rising home prices, as apartments priced between Rs 2 crore and Rs 5 crore now dominate sales. This change has been highlighted by a Redditor who expressed concerns over the dwindling chances of middle-class buyers to afford a house. According to a Moneycontrol report, the trend is a result of big developers focusing more on luxury projects, leaving affordable housing in the backseat. As a result, home ownership for the middle-class seems like a distant dream, with even government employees struggling to afford these expensive properties.

Vodafone Idea's share price saw a significant increase of 14% after the Supreme Court provided further clarity on the AGR dues issue. The court clarified that the government can consider providing relief for both additional and reassessed AGR dues, giving some respite to the struggling telecom operator. At the time of writing, Vodafone Idea's share price was trading at Rs 9.51, with a gain of 8.93%. This comes after the court's previous hearing which did not provide a clear ruling on whether the relief applies to only Vodafone Idea's plea or the entire pending AGR amount of nearly Rs 80,000 crore.

After failing to meet Apple's internal sales expectations, the ultra-thin iPhone Air is facing a significant production cut of 80%. The initial prediction of reducing production by one million units has now been deemed insufficient, highlighting deeper concerns about the device's market performance. This setback raises questions about the competitive landscape of high-end smartphones and hints at Apple's next possible move towards a foldable iPhone.

In an effort to secure their rights to their intellectual property, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a new copyright agreement that will be in effect until 2025. This move ensures that BCCI maintains its exclusive right to reproduce, broadcast, and use any of its content, including images and videos, for commercial purposes. With the deal also covering the use of BCCI's logos and trademarks, it gives the governing body a tighter grip over its assets and sets a precedent for other sports organizations to follow suit.

The Social Security Administration recently released updates for 2026, including a potential 2.7% increase to benefits. However, the official announcement of the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) could be delayed due to the government shutdown. While an increased COLA is positive for beneficiaries, some argue that it still may not keep up with the rising cost of living. Additionally, beneficiaries who currently receive physical paper checks will need to make arrangements for direct deposit or a Direct Express card to continue receiving their benefits.

The Indian government has given its approval for the formation of the 8th Central Pay Commission, which will be tasked with assessing and making recommendations around pay, benefits, and working conditions for over 1.2 crore central government employees and pensioners. The Commission, which will have a chairperson, a part-time member, and a member-secretary, will have 18 months to complete its work and will also look at emolument structures and conditions in the private sector and CPSUs. The recommendations are expected to be implemented from January 1, 2026.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Gyan Bharatam Portal, dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s vast and unique manuscript heritage. Speaking at the Gyan Bharatam International Conference, PM Modi emphasized the importance of preserving India’s knowledge legacy and adapting to changing times. He also highlighted how the ancient manuscripts reflect India’s diverse cultural heritage and contribute to humanity’s progress in various fields.

The Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025, organized in New Delhi, has gathered delegates from over 80 nations, aiming to boost India's rice export share from 40% to 60%. IREF National President Prem Garg highlighted the need for increased export to benefit Indian farmers and declared the rice industry to be self-sufficient. The event, with participation from farmers, diplomats, and exporters, also emphasizes on banning pesticides and government support with ports and logistics to further boost the industry.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement, coinciding with the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, to showcase only indigenous Indian dog breeds at the upcoming National Unity Day Parade highlights the country's reliance on self-sustained K9 forces. The Ekta Diwas Samaroh celebrated India's diversity and unity, while PM Modi emphasized the significant role of indigenous dog breeds in Indian military and cultural traditions. With the current population of 150 Indian breeds deployed in strategic areas, the initiative, which gained momentum after PM Modi's visit to the BSF National Dog Training Centre in 2018, showcases the agility, stamina, and adaptability of these breeds in diverse terrains and climates.