DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 17:12:39 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/business/india-to-protect-its-interests-in-trade-deal-with-us-amid-evolving-situation-piyush-goyal-662997.html New Delhi Feb 27 IANS Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday that India would go in for a rebalancing of the proposed trade agreement with the United States if required to protect its interests in view of the changed situation following the US Supreme Court annulling the tariff hikes announced earlier by the Donald Trump administrationnbspGiven the evolving situation on US tariffs we will wait and watch and ensure Indias best interests are protected Goyal said at a media event hereIts an evolving situation The Trump administration has made some comments they have other tools that they can use Next week they can increase tariffs to 15 per cent Various dialogues are going on I had said that if the circumstances change the deal will be rebalancedThe minister pointed out that the IndiaUS joint statement says that should circumstances change the deal will be rebalancedHe further stated that bilateral trade discussions with the United States are continuing amid the changing situationIn an oblique reference to President Trumps announcements after the Supreme Court verdict Goyal said There are many tools that the Trump administration can use in this evolving situation one of them is the move to levy a 10 per cent tariffGoyal was optimistic about the outcome of the trade deal with the US There are so many positives in the US deal let us see how the situation moves forward International trade deal is about competitive advantage he remarkedHe reiterated that sensitive dairy and farm sectors have been protected in the proposed arrangementNo GM foods will come into India Dairy maize soybean and poultry are exempt from the US trade deal We have preserved the interests of farmers dairy The deal preserves our interests the minister saidHe further stated that despite the global headwinds Indias exports are poised to increase this yearIndia and Washington have decided to reschedule the official meeting over the interim bilateral trade agreement so that both sides can factor in the implications of the US Supreme Court judgment striking down the Trump administrations tariff hikesA threeday meeting between teams headed by the chief trade negotiators of the two countries was earlier slated to take place in the US on February 23 A decision will be taken to fix a new date for the meeting that is convenient for both sidesIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-to-protect-its-interests-in-trade-deal-with-us-amid-evolving-situation-piyush-goyal-662997.html Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/bok-keeps-key-rate-unchanged-raises-s-koreas-2026-growth-forecast-662819.html Seoul Feb 26 South Koreas central bank kept its benchmark interest rate steady on Thursday citing strongerthanexpected growth momentum as it sought to safeguard financial stability amid a weak local currency and an unstable housing market In a widely expected decision the Monetary Policy Board of the Bank of Korea BOK held the key rate unchanged at 25 percent in its latest ratesetting meeting in Seoul reports Yonhap news agencyIt marked the sixth consecutive onhold decision even as the central bank remains in an easing cycleSince October 2024 the Bank of Korea has cut the benchmark interest rate by a cumulative 100 basis points from 35 percent in a bid to bolster economic growth while keeping the level unchanged since May 2025The BOK is apparently maintaining a waitandsee approach as the economy remains on a recovery path driven by robust exports amid a semiconductor upcycleThe central bank presented an upbeat outlook for the local economy on the day raising its 2026 growth forecast by 02 percentage point to 2 percentA key concern behind Thursdays decision was the unstable property market and rising household debtAccording to earlier data from the Korea Real Estate Board apartment sale prices in Seoul rose 898 percent onyear in 2025 marking the highest growth since 2013 when the board began compiling the relevant dataDespite the authorities strengthened regulations to cool the overheated housing market the average selling price of Seoul apartments has continued to climb rising 015 percent in the second week of February from a week earlierPresident Lee Jae Myung has reiterated his strong commitment to stabilising the real estate market and issued verbal warnings against multihome owners saying the root of all problems in this country lies in real estateThe South Korean central bank also raised to 2 per cent its growth forecast for the local economy this year citing strong exports and a recovery in private consumptionThe revision by the Bank of Korea BOK represents a 02 percentagepoint increase from its previous forecast of a 18 percent expansion issued in NovemberThe revised outlook aligns with the governments growth forecast while being slightly more optimistic than the 19 percent projections by the International Monetary Fund IMF and the Korea Development Institute KDIMeanwhile the BOK revised up its consumer price inflation forecast increasing this years estimate to 22 percent from 21 percent amid rising global oil prices driven by geopolitical risks IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/bok-keeps-key-rate-unchanged-raises-s-koreas-2026-growth-forecast-662819.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tn-to-develop-jawadhu-hills-as-eco-tourism-hub-with-glamping-camping-facilities-662828.html Chennai Feb 26 In a move aimed at boosting ecotourism and attracting modern travellers from within India and abroad the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation TTDC has proposed the development of camping and glamping facilities at Jawadhu Hills in Tiruvannamalai district Spread across 765 acres the lesserknown hill destination is set to receive a facelift as part of the state governmentâs push to promote experiential and sustainable tourism The initiative seeks to position Jawadhu Hills as an attractive getaway for visitors looking to spend more time amidst nature while minimising environmental impactA senior TTDC official said the state is focusing on tourism models that allow travellers to connect more closely with natural surroundings without causing ecological harm âExperiential and sustainable tourism is the way forward Glamping and campingbased accommodation are lowimpact models that appeal to todayâs travellers who seek authentic outdoor experiencesâ the official saidAs part of this strategy TTDC has identified scenic locations across Tamil Nadu for the development of camping infrastructure equipped with essential amenitiesJawadhu Hills with its serene landscape and tourism potential has been selected as one of the key sites Basic infrastructure has already been developed at the 765acre siteTTDC has floated a tender to appoint a concessionaire to prepare a detailed project report and execute the projectThe selected private partner will develop semipermanent accommodation facilities such as luxury tents safari tents glamping domes prefabricated wooden or bamboo cottages modular cottages and containerbased unitsThe project will be implemented under the PublicPrivate Partnership PPP model The concessionaire will be responsible for financing operations management and maintenance of the camping siteOfficials emphasised that all proposed infrastructure will be developed without disturbing the natural resources in and around Jawadhu HillsThe focus will remain on ecofriendly construction practices and sustainable operationsThe project is likely to be completed within the current year marking a significant step in Tamil Naduâs efforts to diversify its tourism portfolio and promote environmentally responsible travel experiences said officials IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tn-to-develop-jawadhu-hills-as-eco-tourism-hub-with-glamping-camping-facilities-662828.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pm-modi-invites-israeli-firms-to-explore-investment-manufacturing-opportunities-in-india-662848.html Tel Aviv Feb 26 Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Israeli companies to explore opportunities in India to invest manufacture and build technology partnerships it was announced on Thursday PM Modi accompanied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited an exhibition showcasing pioneering Israeli innovations across several sectors here which featured Agritech Watertech Climatetech Healthbiotech Smart Mobility AI Cybersecurity and Quantum technologiesDuring his interaction with the innovators PM Modi noted that the cuttingedge technologies on display hold immense potential to scale up IndiaIsrael innovation startups and business partnerships especially in areas such as agriculture water management healthcare and digital servicesThe two countries are working together to build solutions to address modernday challenges through the IndiaIsrael Innovation Bridge initiative During the walkthrough Prime Minister interacted with scientists techentrepreneurs and CEOs of several companiesPrime Minister was briefed by Quantum Machines on the Israeli Quantum Computing Centre IQCC and by Classiq which is simplifying quantum software developmentAccording to an official statement AISAP a startup demonstrated its AIpowered pointofcare ultrasound which provides realtime diagnostic guidance The Horizon Scanning Division of the Israeli Ministry of Science and Technology presented Tech Scout an AIdriven tool for strategic risk detection and trend analysisMobileye a techenterprise showcased its sensor and chip technology aimed at reducing road accidents Check Point Software Technologies highlighted its advanced threat prevention solutions and its collaborations in IndiaWaterGen demonstrated its technology to produce drinking water from air while NDrip showcased gravitypowered microirrigation systems Natural Offset Farming NOF presented infield postharvest solutions to reduce food loss without electricityAlso Remilk showcased precision fermentation for labproduced milk proteins and BarAlgae presented machinelearningintegrated microalgae cultivation Mynora Bio displayed plastic waste management using specialized bioconversion additives The Geophysical Institute GII demonstrated highresolution modelling for quantifying mineral resourcesNotably Israel Aerospace Industries presented its miniaturised communications satellites and integrated Synthetic Aperture Radar IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pm-modi-invites-israeli-firms-to-explore-investment-manufacturing-opportunities-in-india-662848.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/social-media-platforms-must-share-revenue-fairly-with-content-creators-ashwini-vaishnaw-662878.html New Delhi Feb 26 Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday said that social media platforms must share revenue in a fair manner with those who create content including journalists conventional media houses influencers professors and researchers He said that people who are creating content whether they are news professionals creators sitting in farflung areas or academicians sharing their research deserve a fair share of the revenue generated on digital platformsAccording to him the principle of fair revenue sharing must now be set right across the ecosystemâSocial media platforms must also share revenue in a fair way with the people who are creating the content whether it is news persons the conventional media the creators sitting in farflung areas influencers the professors and researchers who are disseminating their work using the platformsâ Vaishnaw saidHe stressed that platforms benefit significantly from the content uploaded by individuals and organisations and therefore the creators should also get their rightful shareHe added that ensuring fairness in revenue distribution will help strengthen the digital content economy in IndiaHis remarks come at a time when the government is also tightening rules around digital platforms to ensure accountability and transparencyIn a separate move the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology MeitY last year proposed fresh amendments to the IT Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules 2021 aimed at tackling the growing threat of deepfakes and AIgenerated misinformationUnder the draft rules social media platforms will be required to clearly label âsynthetically generated contentâ and embed permanent metadata or identifiers in such materialMajor social media intermediaries SSMIs platforms with more than 5 million registered users in India such as Facebook YouTube and Snapchat will have to ensure that AIgenerated content is prominently markedThe proposed rules state that the identifier must cover at least 10 per cent of the visual display in case of videos or images or the first 10 per cent of the duration in case of audio contentThe metadata must not be alterable suppressed or removed If a platform knowingly allows unlabelled or falsely declared AIgenerated content it will be considered as failing to exercise due diligence under the IT Act IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/social-media-platforms-must-share-revenue-fairly-with-content-creators-ashwini-vaishnaw-662878.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/samsung-launches-galaxy-s26-series-in-india-starting-at-rs-87-999-662888.html Gurugram Feb 26 Samsung on Thursday announced that its flagship Galaxy S26 series is now available for preorder in India with prices starting at Rs 87999 for the base model and going up to Rs 189999 for the topend Galaxy S26 Ultra variant The Galaxy S26 lineup includes the Galaxy S26 Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Ultra The company said the new series brings its most advanced âAgentic AIâ mobile experience yet designed to make everyday tasks simpler and more intuitiveThe phones aim to reduce the effort needed to manage schedules search for information capture content and edit photos or videosThe Galaxy S26 Ultra is priced at Rs 139999 for the 12GB256GB variant and Rs 159999 for the 12GB512GB model while the 16GB1TB version costs Rs 189999The Galaxy S26 starts at Rs 119999 for the 12GB256GB variant and Rs 139999 for the 12GB512GB modelThe Galaxy S26 comes at Rs 87999 for the 12GB256GB variant and Rs 107999 for the 12GB512GB versionPreorders for the Galaxy S26 series began on February 25 across leading online and offline retail storesConsumers can also preorder the devices through Samsung Live on the companyâs official websiteThe smartphones come in Cobalt Violet White Black and Sky Blue colour options along with Samsungcom exclusive shades Pink Gold and Silver ShadowThe Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces what Samsung claims is the industryâs first builtin Privacy Display on a mobile phone designed to protect user data by limiting sideangle visibilityThe device also features a customised Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy processor delivering improvements in CPU GPU and NPU performance for smoother multitasking and stronger ondevice AI capabilitiesTo manage heat during heavy usage the Galaxy S26 Ultra comes with a redesigned vapor chamber and improved thermal materialsIt also supports SuperFast Charging 30 which the company says can charge the battery up to 75 per cent in about 30 minutesOn the camera front the Galaxy S26 series focuses heavily on AIpowered photography and videoThe Ultra variant offers wider camera apertures for better lowlight shots enhanced Nightography Video and improved Super Steady features for stable recording IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/samsung-launches-galaxy-s26-series-in-india-starting-at-rs-87-999-662888.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/up-govt-inks-mou-in-japan-on-green-hydrogen-technology-cm-yogi-invites-investors--662889.html TokyoNew Delhi Feb 26 IANS The Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with Japans Yamanashi Prefecture on green hydrogen technologynbspChief Minister Yogi Adityanath elaborating on the MoU on green hydrogen technology said that under the agreement students from higher technical institutions of Uttar Pradesh will receive training in Japan and the technology will be implemented in the states industry public transport and energy sectorsnbspnbspThis initiative will prove to be an important step towards achieving Prime Minister Modis Net Zero target he pointed outnbspThe Chief Minister on the second day of his visit presented the states new development policies and investment potential to the global industrial community during the UP Investment Road Show held in Yamanashi He stated that Uttar Pradesh has transformed its governance approach from reactive to proactive and this transformation has become the foundation of the states rapid economic progressCalling robotics a major technology of the future the Chief Minister said the UP government has made provisions in the budget to establish a Centre of Excellence for Robotics and voiced confidence that expanded cooperation will take IndiaJapan relations to new heights giving strength to selfreliance in energy and also making technology accessible to the common peoplenbspnbspBoasting about Uttar Pradeshs demographic advantage and natural abundance CM Yogi said the state has the countrys most fertile land abundant water resources vast human capital and over the past nine years it has scaled new heights of development and therefore offers abundant growth opportunities for the investing entities as wellnbspnbspThe Chief Minister further stated that governance in the state has undergone a transformational shift from a reactive to proactive model of governanceThe government is continuously taking initiatives to attract investment facilitate industries adopt new technologies and expand global partnerships With this vision a highlevel delegation from Uttar Pradesh has visited Japan to convert possibilities into opportunities CM Yogi told a gathering of tech leaders and investorsThe UP CM also made note of a prior incident stating that the Governor of Yamanashi had visited Uttar Pradesh in December 2024 and since then continuous dialogue followups and exchanges of delegations between the two governments have taken this cooperation in a new directionnbspHe said that following the study and report of the business delegation the Uttar Pradesh delegation arrived in Yamanashi at the Governors invitation where this cooperation has taken concrete shapenbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/business/up-govt-inks-mou-in-japan-on-green-hydrogen-technology-cm-yogi-invites-investors--662889.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/seoul-shares-continue-record-breaking-rally-to-close-above-6-300-662891.html Seoul Feb 26 South Korean stocks soared more than 3 per cent to close at a fresh record high of over 6300 on Thursday as investors were buoyed by artificial intelligence AI prospects following Nvidiaâs betterthanexpected earnings report The local currency gained slightly against the US dollar The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index KOSPI earned 22341 points or 367 percent to finish at a record high of 630727 The index has risen for the six consecutive day reports Yonhap news agencyThe KOSPI has continued its bullish mode since the beginning of the year surpassing the 4500point line for the first time on Jan 6 and crossing the 5000point mark on Jan 27 It took less than one month to pierce the 6000point line on WednesdayTrading volume was heavy at 14 billion shares worth 385 trillion won US27 billion with decliners sharply outnumbering gainers 659 to 239Institutions and individuals bought a net 124 trillion won and 6588 billion won worth of stocks respectively while foreigners sold a net 21 trillion wonOvernight Nvidia reported its fourthquarter revenue of US6813 billion to beat analyst estimates renewing optimism over AI technologys potential benefitsAnalysts said Nvidias strong earnings pushed up the tech rally here as Korean chipmakers like Samsung Electronics and SK hynix are a key part of the Nvidialed AI value chainThe index was led by chip electric equipment and automobile stocks involved in the AI value chain following Nvidias strong earnings report Kang Jinhyuk an analyst from Shinhan Securities saidInvestors were also boosted by the Bank of Koreas announcement that it raised its 2026 economic growth forecast by 02 percentage point to 2 percent citing strong exports of semiconductors he addedTechnology and automobile stocks led the gains across the boardMarket bellwether Samsung Electronics jumped 713 percent to an alltime high of 218000 won and its chipmaking rival SK hynix soared percent to 796 percent to a fresh high of 1099000 won LG Electronics surged 1005 percent to 146700 won after Nvidia mentioned the Korean company as a partner for its physical AI business Hyundai Motor vaulted 647 percent to 609000 won and its auto parts affiliate Hyundai Mobis surged 1267 percent to 529000 won HD Hyundai Electric a manufacturer of power transformers and other electrical equipment advanced 432 percent to 1111000 won and leading pharmaceutical firm Samsung Biologics rose 22 percent to 1766000 won However food giant Nongshim sank 323 percent to 434000 won and major banking group KB Financial Group fell 143 percent to 165300 won The Korean won was quoted at 14258 won against the US dollar at 330 pm up 36 won from the previous session the highest since Jan 28 when it traded at 14225 to the greenback IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/seoul-shares-continue-record-breaking-rally-to-close-above-6-300-662891.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/centres-industrial-corridor-strategy-propelling-growth-across-states-662895.html New Delhi Feb 26 IANS The Centres strategy of accelerating industrial development has picked up pace with four National Industrial Corridors already being completed while another four are nearing completion since the Rs 28602 crore package was announced for 12 such corridors in 202425 according to an official factsheet issued on ThursdaynbspUnion Budget 202627 has added further momentum to this growth with the Rs 3000 crore allocation for the development of an integrated East Coast Industrial Corridor with a wellconnected node at Durgapur in West BengalThese industrial smart cities are envisioned to develop globally benchmarked manufacturing and investment hubs featuring plugandplay facilities and a walktowork ecosystem They aim to create bestinclass futureready infrastructure designed ahead of demandnbspThe projects which cover most states include the DelhiMumbai Industrial Corridor DMIC Dholera Special Investment Region Gujarat Shendra Bidkin Industrial Area Maharashtra Integrated Industrial Township Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh Krishnapatnam and Tumakuru industrial areas in Karnataka Ponneri Industrial Area Tamil Nadu and Raghunathpur Industrial Park in West BengalRajasthan Madhya Pradesh Punjab Haryana Bihar and Andhra Pradesh are some of the other states that have been chosen for these projectsnbspAccording to the Economic Survey 202526 the PhaseI cities under the projects have collectively allotted 350 industrial plots attracting 202 lakh crore in investments across sectors such as electronics renewables pharmaceuticals and Electric Vehicles EVsnbspTo advance this model of industrial corridorled development the Government of India together with State Governments is establishing these belts as planned economic zones supported by strong transport connectivityIndustrial corridors are linear development zones that connect major economic centres through an integrated network of roads railways ports and airports The defining features of these corridors are Promotion of accelerated industrial growth by strengthening the link between industry and core infrastructure Development along major transport arteries particularly rail trunk routes ensuring strong connectivity for efficient movement of freight and the publicnbspThese corridors are aimed at creating globallycomparable infrastructure and businessfriendly environment which facilitate economic agglomeration and industrial clustering helping regions maximise their growth potentialThe Government of India is developing multiple Industrial Corridor Projects under the National Industrial Corridor Programme NICDP guided by the PM GatiShakti framework to ensure coordinated multimodal connectivity for major economic zonesnbspThese projects are being developed through a sustainabilityfocussed framework that supports the transition towards LowCarbon Cities LCCs through the creation of extensive green spaces provision of public transit systems and integration of renewable energy sourcesIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/centres-industrial-corridor-strategy-propelling-growth-across-states-662895.html Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/chennai-fishers-to-hold-human-chain-protest-on-march-2-against-blue-flag-project-expansion-marina-rope-car-662649.html Chennai Feb 25 Tension is mounting along Chennaiâs coastline as fishermen from 12 hamlets between Ayodhya Kuppam in Triplicane and Srinivasapuram in Santhome gear up for a largescale human chain protest on the evening of March 2 The agitation is aimed at urging the state government to drop plans to expand the Blue Flag beach project along the Marina and to halt the rope car project on the sandsLeaders representing Ayodhya Kuppam Mattankuppam Nochikuppam and Srinivasapuram according to fishermen leaders deliberated on what they termed âserious livelihood threatsâ posed by recent coastal development initiativesApart from the Blue Flag expansion the fishing community is opposing the proposed removal of shops along the Marina Loop Road and beachfront areas The protesters say that while they are not against development any expansion of tourism infrastructure should not come at the cost of traditional fishing rights vending spaces and access to the shore They have demanded structured consultations with officials before further work proceedsSelvaraj a fisherman from Ayodhya Kuppam said the community had already made concessions for earlier phases of the project âWe gave up space and shifted our boats when the Blue Flag proposal first came But when bamboo fences were erected in the little space we had left we lost even that After pressure from us they removed it We have 30 boats and 10 catamarans here Fishing near the coast is already badly affected due to sewage and garbage Now even our parking space for boats is shrinkingâ he saidResidents fear that further expansion of the Blue Flag scheme will push fishing families out of the beach altogetherAccording to community members space traditionally used for docking boats and drying nets is gradually being restricted Concerns are also mounting among vendors who depend on evening beach commerce A woman vendor said that nearly 2000 families rely on the eateries and small shops that operate along Marina and Loop RoadâHow can only 300 shops be allowed What will happen to the rest If the government provides alternative space or another means of livelihood we can consider moving Otherwise this is a question of life and death for usâ she saidCommunity leader K Bharathi questioned what he called âunequal enforcementâ He alleged that while fishermen are prevented from putting up temporary thatches to mend nets civic authorities are installing bamboo fences cabanas changing rooms toilets and even undertaking rope car construction on the sandsThe fishermen have urged the government to hold consultations before proceeding further warning that development without livelihood safeguards will severely impact Chennaiâs traditional coastal communities IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/chennai-fishers-to-hold-human-chain-protest-on-march-2-against-blue-flag-project-expansion-marina-rope-car-662649.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gujarat-swadeshi-fairs-to-cover-all-152-municipalities-by-march-15-662692.html Gandhinagar Feb 25 With more than Rs 83 lakh in sales recorded across 38 municipalities so far Gujarats statewide rollout of Swadeshi Mela shopping festival has gathered pace ahead of its March 15 deadline According to officials Swadeshi Fairs are being organised under the Gujarat Urban Livelihood Mission which functions under the Urban Development and Urban Housing DepartmentThe initiative aims to provide a structured marketplace for rural and urban artisans handicraftsmen selfhelp groups and small traders to showcase and sell indigenous productsThe government stated that by March 15 Swadeshi Fairs will be held in all 152 municipalities across the stateAs part of the arrangements more than 1500 stalls have been allotted to selfhelp groups over 1400 to street vendors around 1200 for food and refreshments and more than 1650 to other artisans selling indigenous goodsSo far fairs have commenced in 38 municipalities including those in the Ahmedabad Bhavnagar Gandhinagar Rajkot Surat and Vadodara zonesMore than one lakh visitors have attended these events generating sales exceeding Rs 83 lakhThe figures officials said indicate growing public participation in the Vocal for Local initiativeThe officials noted that the programme builds on the success of plasticfree Swadeshi Festivals organised during the Dussehra to Diwali period last year in 16 citiesThose events attracted more than 4050 lakh visitors and recorded sales of over Rs 10 crorePrime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to adopt indigenous products as part of the Vocal for Local initiative aimed at building a selfreliant IndiaThe statement said the Gujarat government under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has undertaken initiatives including the Gujarat Atmanirbhar Yatra GMaitri Yojana and Mahila Udyog Sahay Yojana to strengthen support for artisans and small enterprisesThe government said the fairs are intended not only as trading platforms but also as a measure to strengthen the local economy by expanding opportunities for small producers and vendors across urban areas of the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gujarat-swadeshi-fairs-to-cover-all-152-municipalities-by-march-15-662692.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/it-is-unacceptable-and-shocking-scindia-on-luxury-treatment-for-bsnl-director-662700.html New Delhi Feb 25 Calling the reported luxury treatment for a BSNL Director âimproperâ and a violation of established rules Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Wednesday that such conduct is unacceptable and shocking and confirmed that a show cause notice has been issued The controversy erupted after details emerged about elaborate arrangements made for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited Director Vivek Bansal during his proposed visit to Prayagraj in Uttar PradeshReacting to media queries Scindia said he had made it very clear that the episode was a violation of established norms and traditionsâCertain questions were raised to me yesterday by the media and I have made it very clear that this is improper and a violation of established rules and traditions It is unacceptable to me It is shockingâ Scindia told reportersâA show cause notice has already been issued to the Director with a sevenday response period We will take appropriate actionâ he addedScindia further stressed that in todayâs times any kind of âroyal treatmentâ for officials is beyond imagination He made it clear that those found guilty in the matter will not be sparedAccording to an official order issued by a Deputy General Manager nearly 50 staff members were deployed over two days to manage 21 different tasks linked to the visitThe minutetominute plan reportedly included arrangements for boat rides temple visits holy dips at the Triveni Sangam and preparation of bathing kits containing towels oil comb and even undergarmentsOfficials were also assigned duties such as arranging suits clicking photographs organising transport and stocking vehicles with water bottles chocolates chips and other refreshmentsThe document which began circulating widely on social media triggered sharp criticism over the scale of arrangements and the use of public sector resources for what appeared to be a personal visitSoon after the controversy broke Bansalâs visit was cancelled BSNL which reported a loss of over Rs 1300 crore in the last quarter has not officially commented on how such an extensive plan was drafted IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/it-is-unacceptable-and-shocking-scindia-on-luxury-treatment-for-bsnl-director-662700.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-can-become-leading-global-centre-for-electric-mobility-manufacturing-hd-kumaraswamy-662716.html New Delhi Feb 25 With clear policy direction and strong industry participation India can firmly establish itself as a leading global centre for electric mobility manufacturing and innovation Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy said on Wednesday Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the third FICCI National Conference on Electric Vehicles the minister stressed that whatever best way we can encourage the electric mobility adoption we are going to go for thatAs we move towards the vision of âViksit Bharat 2047â electric mobility must remain central to the Make in India agenda strengthening domestic manufacturing deepening localisation and positioning India as a global production hub for EVs batteries and critical components he addedOver the past decade Indias automotive component exports have nearly doubled rising from approximately 8 billion to 169 billionThis growth reflects Indiaâs deepening integration into global value chains and its growing credibility as a manufacturing hub Kumaraswamy told the gathering at the eventFormer NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant said the global electric vehicles market is projected to reach trillions of dollars over the next decadeSupply chains are realigning and countries are rethinking trade localisation and strategic dependencies India must position itself as a trusted manufacturing hub for electric vehicles he said at the eventElectric mobility is not merely a climate imperative it is equally an economic industrial technological and strategic opportunity The transition to electric vehicles must be viewed as a central pillar of Viksit Bharat 2047 said the former G20 Sherpa FICCI Green Mobility Committee CoChair Vikram Handa said that from Green Mobility 10 to now 20 India has built an entire value chainThis spans from the processing of critical minerals to cell manufacturing battery pack assembly and the production of twowheelers threewheelers fourwheelers buses trucks and even charging infrastructure This comprehensive ecosystem signifies the direction in which the Indian industry is heading and reflects strong future potential he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-can-become-leading-global-centre-for-electric-mobility-manufacturing-hd-kumaraswamy-662716.html Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-launches-national-monetisation-pipeline-20-aimed-at-raising-rs-1672-lakh-crore-662435.html New Delhi Feb 23 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday launched the second phase of the asset monetisation pipeline of Central ministries and public sector entities the National Monetisation Pipeline 20 NMP 20 with an estimated monetisation potential of Rs 1672 lakh crore in the next five financial years The second phase of the pipeline has been developed by NITI Aayog in consultation with infrastructure line ministries based on the mandate for âAsset Monetisation Plan 202530â as announced in the Union Budget 202526The NMP 20 estimates aggregate monetisation potential of Rs 1672 lakh crore including private sector investment of Rs 58 lakh crore under the asset monetisation pipeline of Central ministries and public sector entities over the fiveyear period from FY 2026 to FY 2030Sitharaman also noted that the ambitious fiveyear asset monetisation target for NMP 20 is over 26 times higher than that under NMP 10 and added that the Ministries and Departments must aim to surpass the indicated targets through proactive effortsThe sectors included in the monetisation plan are highways including MMLPs ropeways railways power petroleum and natural gas civil aviation ports warehousing and storage urban infrastructure coal mines telecom and tourismNMP 20 was released in the presence of the NITI Aayog CEO and Secretaries of infrastructure line ministries included under the pipeline â Road Transport and Highways Railways Power Petroleum and Natural Gas Civil Aviation Ports Shipping and Waterways Telecommunications Tourism Food and Public Distribution Mining Coal and Housing and Urban Affairs â along with the Secretaries of Ministry of Finance Secretary Law and the Chief Economic AdviserIn her address at the launch the Finance Minister complimented all the ministries and departments of the government and NITI Aayog for meeting nearly 90 per cent of the target of Rs 6 lakh crore set for 4 years in the implementation of NMP 10Sitharaman said that the NMP 20 is aligned with the mission of achieving Viksit Bharat through accelerated infrastructure development and that the NMP has the potential to fuel Indiaâs growth momentumThe Finance Minister observed that NMP 10 was the first of its kind of pipeline at a large scale and best practices learnt by the authorities concerned should be leveraged in NMP 20 She underscored that the learnings and experiences of NMP 10 will serve as a guide to ensure that resources and opportunities are optimised to achieve results in a timebound manner She exhorted all the departments to focus on process simplification and standardisation so that monetisation becomes a seamless experienceHighlighting the significance of asset monetisation the Finance Minister said that the NMP enables recycling of productive public assets thereby unlocking resources for reinvestment in new projects and capital expenditure She noted that this approach facilitates efficient mobilisation of funds for CAPEX in public assets while minimising the budgetary outgo of the governmentNMP 20 is a culmination of insights feedback and experiences consolidated through multistakeholder consultations undertaken by NITI Aayog Ministry of Finance and line ministries Several rounds of discussion have been held by NITI Aayog with the stakeholders This is a wholeofgovernment initiative according to an official statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-launches-national-monetisation-pipeline-20-aimed-at-raising-rs-1672-lakh-crore-662435.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-power-to-supply-558-mw-high-quality-power-to-benefit-tamil-nadu-consumers-662463.html Ahmedabad Feb 24 Adani Power on Tuesday said that its subsidiary Moxie Power Generation Ltd MPGL has received a Letter of Award LoA from Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation TNPDCL for supply of 558 MW net power for a period of five years The power supply agreement is expected to benefit Tamil Nadu consumers by providing an additional 558 MW of reliable and highquality power enhance grid stability and support uninterrupted electricity supply to households businesses and industriesMoxie Power operates a 1200 MW 2X 600 MW power plant in Tuticorin Tamil NaduIt emerged as the lowest bidder in a tightly contested bid by offering a tariff of Rs 5910 per unit with supply starting April 1 2026 said Adani Power Indiaâs largest private power producer with a generation capacity of 1815 GWNow both units of the plant have power supply agreements and more than 95 per cent of Adani Powerâs total operating capacity is secured with medium to longterm contracts said the Adani Group companyâThis provides significant longterm revenue visibility and also derisks the company from shortterm market volatility The company aims to achieve almost 100 per cent PPA power purchase agreement tieup for all its operational and under commissioning plants over the coming yearsâ according to a company statementBy securing power at a competitive tariff consumers are expected to benefit from more affordable and dependable energy in the years aheadAdani Power has an installed thermal power capacity of 18110 MW spread across 12 power plants in Gujarat Maharashtra Karnataka Rajasthan Chhattisgarh Madhya Pradesh Jharkhand and Tamil Nadu apart from a 40 MW solar power plant in Gujarat Adani Power reported a 53 per cent rise in its continuing profit before tax PBT for the third quarter Q3 of FY26 The companyâs PBT stood at Rs 2800 crore in Q3 FY26 compared to Rs 2659 crore in the same period last financial year supported mainly by lower finance costs and stable operating performance IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-power-to-supply-558-mw-high-quality-power-to-benefit-tamil-nadu-consumers-662463.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/leh-bound-spicejet-flight-lands-safely-at-delhi-airport-over-technical-issue-662482.html New Delhi Feb 24 A SpiceJet flight carrying around 150 passengers to Leh returned safely to Delhi Airport on Tuesday shortly after takeoff from the airport after experiencing a âtechnical issueâ All passengers were disembarked safely at the Delhi airportThe Boeing 737 aircraft operating flight SG121 from Delhi to Leh turned back minutes after departure after the crew detected a possible technical issueâA SpiceJet flight operating from Delhi to Leh on February 24 returned to Delhi after experiencing a technical issueâ an airline spokesperson saidâThe aircraft landed safely in Delhi and all passengers were disembarked normally There was no fire warning in the cockpitâ the spokesperson addedAccording to airport sources the aircraft suffered a possible engine issue likely linked to the second engineIn November a SpiceJet flight from Mumbai to Kolkata made an emergency landing due to a failure in one of its engines according to Kolkata Airport officials All passengers and crew members were safeOn November 9 SpiceJet flight SG 670 operating from Mumbai to Kolkata experienced a technical issue during descent at Kolkata airport The aircraft landed safely and all passengers and crew deplaned normally according to a statement from a SpiceJet spokespersonOn September 12 a SpiceJet Q400 flight from Gujarats Kandla airport to Mumbai made a similar emergency landing at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport CSMIA after an outer wheel was found on the runway following takeoffThe plane landed safely with all passengers and crew unharmedAnother Patnabound SpiceJet aircraft returned to Delhi in October shortly after takeoff following a technical issue According to SpiceJet flight SG 497 operating from Delhi to Patna with a Boeing 737 aircraft made a normal landing at the Delhi Airport and all passengers were safely deplaned âThe aircraft landed normally and passengers were deplaned safely An alternate aircraft was arranged to accommodate the passengersâ the airline had said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/leh-bound-spicejet-flight-lands-safely-at-delhi-airport-over-technical-issue-662482.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/us-supreme-court-ruling-may-not-yet-calm-choppy-waters-around-trump-trade-policy-662500.html New Delhi Feb 24 IANS In a little over a year since he took office as the 47th President of the United States on January 20 last year Donald Trump has managed to stir the world order a few times with frequent changes made using two of his favourite words trade and tariffsnbspFirst he introduced a set of reciprocal tariffs last year that forced several countries to scurry for inking trade deals with Washington or agree to negotiations as the dice appeared to be loaded against themAfter the US President tore up the global economic order in 2025 Japan was one among the countries scrambling to strike a deal They pledged to dramatically increase investment in the US in exchange for lower US tariffs on Japanese exports observed the UKs liberalleaning The Guardian newspaperBut two days after Trumps declared victory his bid to reshape international trade suffered a damaging defeat at the US Supreme Court it addedOn February 20 the US Supreme Court in a 63 judgment ruled that President Trump overstepped his authority when he imposed global tariffs using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act IEEPA The court clarified that IEEPA was designed for national security emergencies not broad trade measures This effectively struck down many of Trumps earlier reciprocal tariffsTrue to his style with contempt towards judges who ruled that much of his tariff regime was illegal Trump soon announced a 10 per cent global tariff then quickly raised it to 15 per cent by invoking Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974While it allows the US President to impose this import duty it is a temporary adjustment for a maximum of 150 days This provision is meant to be used to address balanceofpayments deficits and needs to be extended by CongressWith midterm elections looming ahead this year the House may not want to vote in a hurryMeanwhile businesses and trading partners face confusion about what tariffs apply making longterm planning difficult But the dynamics have shifted with allies feeling confident that they can renegotiate a few clausesIndia Brazil and China have been handed significant tariff cuts without making a single compromise The Guardian report said adding that at the same time countries like the UK may now face higher tariffs despite making concessionsNew Delhi has hit the pause button on the ongoing negotiation before an imminent closure of a trade deal Exporters in India are alarmed especially in the textiles chemicals and auto parts sectorsThe European Union too is seeking clarifications after the European Commission had reached an understanding in an initial trade deal with Washington According to reports Brussels wants to consult the WTO and has warned of possible countermeasuresAgricultural exporters in Brazil are reportedly worried about higher costs where President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva while in Delhi urged countries to unite and form collective negotiating blocs for talks with the USMeanwhile President Xi Jinping of China will carry some extra leverage when he sits at the negotiating table across his US counterpart during the latters Beijing visit from March 31 to April 2 Chinas Ministry of Commerce this week said that it has noted the US Supreme Courts ruling and is conducting a comprehensive assessment of its relevant content and impactThe unilateral measures it added such as the imposition of reciprocal tariffs and fentanyl tariffs not only violate international economic and trade rules but also contravene domestic laws of the United States and are not in the interests of any partyTrump may not now be able to push Xi for larger purchases of American soybeans Boeing aircraft and energyChina may go slow on allowing a steady flow of rare earth minerals a crucial component of the American hitech and AIbased manufacturing Some reports are already hinting at Beijing attempting retaliation But that may wait till the XiTrump Beijing summitIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/us-supreme-court-ruling-may-not-yet-calm-choppy-waters-around-trump-trade-policy-662500.html Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gurugram-surpasses-mumbai-in-ultra-luxury-sales-in-2025-662317.html New Delhi Feb 23 Indiaâs luxury housing market has found a new leader in 2025 with Gurugram emerging as the countryâs fastestgrowing ultrapremium residential hub a report said on Monday The city recorded a massive Rs 24120 crore worth of transactions in homes priced at Rs 10 crore and above during calendar year 2025 according to the latest HighEnd Luxury Housing Report released by India Sothebyâs International Realty and CRE MatrixThe numbers mark a watershed moment for Gurugramâs property market Around 1494 homes priced at Rs 10 crore and above were sold in 2025 the highest ever recorded in a single year in the cityThe total sales value has jumped nearly six times in just two years rising from Rs 4004 crore in 2023 to over Rs 24000 crore in 2025In terms of value Gurugram has now outpaced Mumbai in luxury home sales in the Rs 10 croreplus category as per the reportThe report showed that the ultraluxury segment accounted for 24 per cent of the cityâs total residential market in value terms in 2025The average ticket size of homes sold in this segment stood at around Rs 16 crore reflecting strong demand from highnetworth individuals and ultraHNIsThe average home size was about 5000 square feet the report statedHomes in the 4000 to 6000 square feet category dominated sales in value terms while properties larger than 8000 square feet contributed nearly 22 per cent of the total transaction valueAccording to Tina Talwar Area Director at India Sothebyâs International Realty this growth is no longer limited to traditional premium addressesâEmerging micromarkets such as Dwarka Expressway Golf Course Road and Golf Course Extension Road are driving the next phase of expansionâ Talwar addedAbhishek Kiran Gupta Cofounder and CEO of CRE Matrix said the nearly tenfold rise in luxury home sales over the past two years reflects sustained buyer confidence and strong capital inflowsâBuyers are becoming more selective focusing on prime locations superior construction quality and branded developments with premium amenitiesâ Gupta mentioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gurugram-surpasses-mumbai-in-ultra-luxury-sales-in-2025-662317.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/kerala-govt-signs-rs-2-000-crore-mous-with-three-psus-for-logistics-ecosystem-at-adani-vizhinjam-international-seaport-662322.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 23 IANS In a decisive move to consolidate public sector presence in strategic maritime infrastructure the Kerala government on Monday signed Memoranda of Understanding MoUs worth Rs 2000 crore with three Central Public Sector Undertakings PSUs to develop an integrated logistics ecosystem at the Adani Vizhinjam International SeaportnbspThe agreements were formalised in the presence of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at the Legislative Assembly complex signalling a calibrated policy approach that seeks to retain core infrastructure under public oversight even as the port operates under a publicprivate partnership PPP modelThe initiative is positioned as a structural intervention to transform Vizhinjam from a transshipment facility into a diversified logistics and maritime services hubnbspThe partnership brings together stateowned Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited VISL and three Central entities Indian Oil Corporation Limited IOCL Container Corporation of India CONCOR and Central Warehousing Corporation CWCnbspThe governments strategy is to embed critical services such as bunkering raillinked cargo movement and warehousing within the PSU framework thereby preventing concentration risks in cargo handling and ensuring competitive pricing for trade stakeholdersnbspOf the total planned investment Rs 700 crore will be deployed by IOCL to establish largescale bunkering facilities capable of servicing mother vessels calling at the portThe project is expected to position Vizhinjam as a key refuelling node along Indian Ocean trade routes strengthening ancillary revenue streamsnbspCONCOR will invest Rs 600 crore to develop Inland Container Depots and Container Freight Stations enhancing rail connectivity with the national hinterland and reducing cargo evacuation timenbspThe remaining Rs 700 crore out of the total MoUs will be invested by CWC to set up a multimodal logistics park spanning nearly 50 acres incorporating cold storage and exportoriented units with officials indicating that the structure entails no direct financial liability for the state exchequernbspSenior ministers and PSU executives attended the signing ceremonynbspWith this integrated logistics blueprint Kerala is seeking to build connectivity and strategic depth around Vizhinjam reinforcing its ambition to emerge as a competitive maritime gateway in the regionIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/kerala-govt-signs-rs-2-000-crore-mous-with-three-psus-for-logistics-ecosystem-at-adani-vizhinjam-international-seaport-662322.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-inc-projects-91-pc-salary-hike-in-2026-report-662323.html New Delhi Feb 23 Corporate India is expected to roll out an average salary increase of 91 per cent in 2026 with Global Capability Centres GCCs leading the growth in pay a new report said on Monday GCCs are expected to offer the highest increments at 104 per cent driven by strong global demand for digital and technology capabilities according to the latest Future of Pay report by EY IndiaThe financial services sector is likely to see salary hikes of around 10 per cent followed by ecommerce at 99 per cent and life sciences and pharmaceuticals at 97 per cent the report saidThe report also highlighted a gradual cooling in attrition levels Overall attrition declined to 164 per cent in 2025 from 175 per cent in 2024 indicating a more stable job marketHowever more than 80 per cent of exits remain voluntary suggesting that employees are still switching jobs for better opportunities rather than due to layoffsFinancial services recorded the highest attrition at 24 per cent while professional services and hitech and IT sectors also saw elevated levelsIn comparison GCCs reported relatively lower attrition at 141 per cent as per the reportAbhishek Sen Partner and Leader Total Rewards HR Technology and Learning at EY India said companies are rethinking how they invest in talentâThe future of pay is no longer just about the size of annual increments but about identifying the right skills to reward and balancing competitiveness with longterm sustainabilityâ he notedThe report points to a major shift towards skillsbased compensation Nearly half of the organisations surveyed are moving from traditional rolebased pay structures to skillbased frameworksProfessionals with expertise in artificial intelligence generative AI machine learning cybersecurity and cloud computing can command salary premiums of 30 to 40 per cent as these skills are becoming critical for business growthVariable pay is also gaining importance The average variable pay as a share of fixed salary rose to 161 per cent in 2025 compared to 148 per cent a year earlier IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-inc-projects-91-pc-salary-hike-in-2026-report-662323.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/idfc-bank-fraud-no-systemic-risk-here-were-watching-developments-says-rbi-governor-662327.html New Delhi Feb 23 IANS The Reserve Bank of India RBI on Monday said there is no systemic risk to the banking system and stressed that the Central Bank does not comment on individual banks or regulated entities as IDFC First Bank revealed the Rs 590crore fraud at its Chandigarh branchnbspAddressing a joint press conference after a meeting of the RBIs central board of directors in the national capital RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the regulator is closely monitoring the situation but there is no broader threat to financial stabilityResponding to a question by IANS on reports related to a Rs 590crore fraud at IDFC First Bank Malhotra said the central bank remains vigilantnbspWe do not comment on any individual bank or regulated entity We are watching the developments and there is no systemic kind of issue over here he saidnbspThe briefing was held after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met the RBI boardnbspThe governor said Indias banking system is on strong footing supported by comfortable capital and liquidity levelsBanks currently have a capital adequacy ratio of around 17 per cent which he described as robustnbspHe added that even if no fresh capital is infused over the next five years banks would still be able to meet their capital requirements adequatelynbspMeanwhile in an exchange filing last week the bank said the matter is confined to a set of Haryana governmentlinked accounts at the Chandigarh branch adding that it has informed regulators and filed a police complaint The bank also suspended four officials pending investigationFollowing the development stock of the private player hit 20 per cent lower circuit in the early trade on MondaynbspDuring the intraday session the stock fell to Rs 6685 down 20 per cent The shares opened 10 per cent lower and later extended their lossesnbspHowever it recovered later and around 148 pm the share was trading at Rs 7040 apiece down 1570 per cent on the dayIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/idfc-bank-fraud-no-systemic-risk-here-were-watching-developments-says-rbi-governor-662327.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-to-contribute-40-pc-to-apacs-office-supply-in-2026-bengaluru-tops-chart-662328.html New Delhi Feb 23 India alone will contribute to about 40 per cent of GradeâA office supply in Asia Pacific APAC in 2026 a report said on Monday The GradeA office supply in APAC region is expected to reach a record 613 million sq ft in 2026 up 108 per cent from 553 million sq ft in 2025 the report from CBRE South Asia Pvt Ltd saidIndia and mainland China together will contribute more than 75 per cent of the total supply it addedBengaluru DelhiNCR and Mumbai rank among the top five APAC markets for new office supply in 2026 with Bengaluru ranking first in the APAC region at 121 million sq ftShanghai will follow Bengaluru at 10 million sq ft DelhiâNCR at 71 million sq ft and Mumbai will see its supply almost double to 51 million sq ft the report suggestedIn Bangalore the supply will continue to be supported by GCCsFurther office assets emerged as the most preferred investment sector in APAC overtaking industrial amp logistics for the first time in six yearsMumbaiâs BKC recorded the highest rental growth in APAC in 2025 up 231 per cent YoY and is expected to maintain doubledigit growth 125 per cent in 2026 the report addedâIndiaâs growing dominance in the APAC office supply landscape reflects the structural depth of the demand drivers in the countryâ said Anshuman Magazine Chairman amp CEO â India SouthâEast Asia Middle East amp Africa CBREâEven amid global macroeconomic recalibration occupiers view India as a scalable talentrich destination for multifunctional growthâ he addedDespite record supply most developed markets will remain supplyconstrained with premium offices in demand as corporates enforce stricter attendance mandates the report saidâAs we move into a cycle where income growth is at the centre of real estate decisionmaking the ability for occupiers and investors to recalibrate and innovate will be criticalâ said Ada Choi Head of Research Asia Pacific for CBREChoi said that occupiers are responding to softer economic growth by sharpening their space requirements and prioritising highquality buildings in core locations while investors are focusing on income resilience and portfolio optimisation IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-to-contribute-40-pc-to-apacs-office-supply-in-2026-bengaluru-tops-chart-662328.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sudarshan-pharma-stock-slips-3-pc-amid-gst-search-and-seizure-action-662333.html Mumbai Feb 23 Shares of Sudarshan Pharma Industries slipped over 3 per cent on Monday after the Goods and Services Tax GST department initiated an inspection and search operation at the companyâs registered office The stock fell 306 per cent on the BSE to hit an intraday low of Rs 2562 per share At 110 PM the shares were trading at the same level down 306 per centOver the past one year Sudarshan Pharmaâs stock has declined around 19 per cent according to the official dataThe decline in the companyâs share price came after it informed exchanges that the GST department had initiated an inspection search and seizure operation at its registered office on February 21 2026In its regulatory filing the company said it is in the process of collating information and responding to the authoritiesIt added that the final report related to the search and seizure will be concluded as per the prescribed proceduresDespite the recent development the company had reported improved financial performance for the December quarterFor Q3FY26 Sudarshan Pharma posted a net profit of Rs 415 crore slightly higher than Rs 39 crore reported in the same quarter last yearRevenue from operations rose sharply to Rs 168 crore compared to Rs 11565 crore a year agoEarnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation EBITDA stood at Rs 234 crore up from Rs 166 crore in the yearago periodHowever the EBITDA margin declined to 228 per cent from 399 per cent yearonyearIn its filing the company said it is focusing on increasing exports and expanding manufacturing salesIt also highlighted efforts to improve profit margins from the resale of active pharmaceutical ingredients API in domestic marketsAccording to the company these initiatives helped it achieve substantial growth in profit after tax during FY25 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sudarshan-pharma-stock-slips-3-pc-amid-gst-search-and-seizure-action-662333.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sri-lanka-must-jump-onto-indias-bandwagon-to-join-ai-race-report-662334.html New Delhi Feb 23 The only way for Sri Lanka to get into the AI race is to jump onto the bandwagon of a fast mover Since it is unlikely that Sri Lanka can do so with the two leaders in the AI race the US and China the choice available is its neighbour to the north India the rising star India has a high strategic edge with AI on many counts according to an article in the Colombo Telegraph âIndia is moving fast in AI development and most likely will become part of a threemember oligopoly along with the US and China that will dominate the world In this game Sri Lanka has no choice but to jump onto the Indian bandwagon to harness the best results for its citizensâ states the article written by Dr WA WijewardenaSri Lankaâs President Anura Kumara Dissanayake highlighted at the AI Summit here last week that countries lagging in the AI race may face even greater vulnerabilities because the new trend will threaten shared aspirations for inclusive equitable and sustainable development the common goals of the worldâs nations todayHe also noted that Sri Lanka like many other emerging economies is yet to develop its AI infrastructure to harness its full potential as a driver of the economy What is needed according to him is decisive action by these nations to follow a principled confident and forwardlooking strategyThe article states that Sri Lanka is specifically vulnerable because it does not have the necessary infrastructure in place to join the AI race In this game India which is now branded as a ârising starâ is placed third globally in AI competitiveness and vibrancy by Stanford Universityâs AI Index 2025 while it is ranked midway in the IMFâs AI Preparedness Index and Oxford Universityâs Government AI Readiness Index for 2025 But its ability to effectively challenge the two rising leaders is questionableThe article points out that joining that India provides a way out for Sri Lanka Demographywise India has a young population of about a twothirds falling under 35 years That is a high potential humanware stock With respect to digital infrastructure it has an enviable recent catchupIts cloud storage capacity is about 100 petabytes or PBs and numerous data centres are equipped with more than 38000 Graphics Processing Units or GPUs This is a massive advancement since a single petabyte can store about 500 billion pages of standard text or over 200000 highdefinition movies GPUs originally designed for graphics are today used for heavy computation video editing and machine learningDue to their ability to handle intensive data tasks GPUs are critical for training large AI models On top of these India is now entrepreneurshipdriven with the proliferation of about 200000 startups It also has a large 5G subscriber base of more than 400 million users the article states IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sri-lanka-must-jump-onto-indias-bandwagon-to-join-ai-race-report-662334.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/small-caps-lead-india-inc-earnings-growth-in-q3-report-662336.html New Delhi Feb 23 India Incâs earnings momentum remained resilient in Q3 FY26 with smallâcap companies posting the strongest growth a report said on Monday The report from Equirus Securities said small caps delivered a robust 22 per cent yearâonâyear earnings surge outpacing midâcaps at 15 per cent and large caps at 14 per cent signalling a broadening of the corporate earnings recoveryRevenue grew 10 per cent YoY while EBITDA and PAT rose 14 per cent and 15 per cent respectively ahead of market expectations across companies under its coverage the report saidAround 36 per cent of companies saw earnings per share EPS upgrades reflecting improving business fundamentals and demand resilience across multiple industries The upgrades were led by auto banks amp NBFCs consumer durables FMCG and IT while downgrades were concentrated in building materials cement infrastructure chemicals realty and retail the report saidThe trend indicates growing investor confidence and improving forward earnings visibility across market capitalisation segments it addedIncreasing number of firms from tier 2 and tier 3 towns have been tapping the capital markets as founders look to grow and scale their businesses said Ajay Garg Managing Director Equirus groupâLooking into Q4FY26 key monitorable include the pace of NHAI order awards for construction companies the summer season demand cycle for consumer durables US market dynamics and RBI rate decisions that could influence BFSI NIM trajectoriesâ said Maulik Patel Director amp Head of Research Equirus SecuritiesPrice hikes and demand momentum in cement offer nearterm support though new capacity additions may pressure utilisation rates while logistics remains supported by EXIM recovery and Dedicated Freight Corridor DFC connectivity improvements he addedIn the third quarter financial services companies demonstrated steady asset quality trends and loan growth momentum while consumptionlinked sectors benefited from improving discretionary spending patternsElectronic Manufacturing Services EMS and IT companies saw sustained deal momentum and execution strength supporting earnings outlooks the report highlighted IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/small-caps-lead-india-inc-earnings-growth-in-q3-report-662336.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/make-in-india-helps-create-lakhs-of-jobs-women-biggest-beneficiaries-ashwini-vaishnaw-662363.html New Delhi Feb 23 Women have been the biggest beneficiaries under the âMake in Indiaâ initiative which created lakhs of direct and indirect jobs Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Monday IT Minister said that âMake in Indiaâ initiative has created jobs and provided skilling at an unprecedented scaleThe Apple ecosystem alone has created at least 250000 direct jobs with 70 per cent beneficiaries being women Moreover the ecosystem has generated at least 750000 indirect jobsâIndia is preparing a skilled workforce for the next phase of electronics manufacturing Robotics Drones EVs Smart Cars Precision components Advanced tooling and Smart glassesâ said Vaishnaw in an X postMeanwhile the productionlinked incentive PLI scheme has succeeded in attracting investments of over Rs 216 lakh crore in the manufacturing sector and created more than 1439 lakh direct and indirect jobs as on December 31 2025According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry cumulative sales of manufacturing units set up under the scheme exceeded Rs 2041 lakh crore while total exports crossed Rs 83 lakh croreThe government has disbursed as much as Rs 28748 crore as productionlinked incentives under the scheme the statement saidMobile phone imports have declined by nearly 77 per cent since FY 2020â21 while over 99 per cent of domestic demand is now met through local production Manufacturing has expanded beyond assembly to include printed circuit board assemblies batteries camera and display modules enclosures and other critical subassemblies enabling deeper integration with global value chainsDomestic manufacturing capacity for IT hardware has also expanded with progressive localisation of components reducing dependence on imports Govt hikes component manufacturing outlay to Rs 40000 crore announces India Semiconductor Mission 20In the Union Budget Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the launch of the India Semiconductor Mission ISM 20 while increasing the outlay for electronics component manufacturing to Rs 40000 crore to strengthen local production and innovation which will also create more direct and indirect jobs IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/make-in-india-helps-create-lakhs-of-jobs-women-biggest-beneficiaries-ashwini-vaishnaw-662363.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-end-higher-as-psu-banks-healthcare-stocks-lead-gains-662373.html Mumbai Feb 23 Indian stock markets extended their gains for the second straight session on Monday supported by buying in PSU banks and healthcare stocks Positive global cues also boosted investor sentiment after the US Supreme Court ruled against the reciprocal tariffs announced by US President Donald TrumpThe benchmark Nifty ended 055 per cent higher gaining 14175 points to close at 25713 The Sensex rose 058 per cent or 47995 points to settle at 8329466Commenting on Nifty technical outlook experts said that on the levels front immediate resistance is seen at 25800 followed by 25900 where significant OI buildup is visibleâOn the downside 25500 continues to act as crucial immediate supportâ an analyst stated Among Sensex stocks Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone led the gains with a rise of 282 per centOther major gainers included Kotak Mahindra Bank UltraTech Cement Power Grid Corporation of India Axis Bank and HDFC BankOn the losing side technology stocks remained under pressure Infosys Tech Mahindra and HCL Technologies were among the top laggards Other losers included Trent Bajaj Finserv and ITC LimitedHowever the broader markets showed a mixed trend The Nifty MidCap index declined 043 per cent while the NSE SmallCap index managed to close 029 per cent higherAmong sectoral indices the Nifty PSU Bank index was one of the top performers ending 136 per cent higherThe Nifty MidSmall Healthcare index also gained 103 per cent On the other hand the Nifty IT index emerged as the worstperforming sector followed by the Nifty Chemicals indexMarket experts said that while global cues turned positive after the US court ruling on tariffs concerns remain over the impact of potential trade tensionsAnalysts believe that tariffrelated uncertainties could weigh on Indian exporters in sectors such as textiles pharmaceuticals gems and jewellery and machineryAnalysts said that the markets ended in positive territory for the second consecutive day supported by gains in banking and healthcare stocks even as investors remained cautious about global trade developments IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-end-higher-as-psu-banks-healthcare-stocks-lead-gains-662373.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-examining-rising-airfares-at-highest-level-sc-told-662382.html New Delhi Feb 23 The Central government on Monday informed the Supreme Court that the issue of volatile airfares and addon fees charged by private airlines during festive seasons and holidays is being examined at the highest level A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta was hearing a public interest litigation PIL challenging the opaque exploitative and algorithmdriven pricing practices in Indiaâs civil aviation sector as well as the reduction in complimentary checkin baggage limits for passengers Appearing for the Union government Additional Solicitor General ASG Anil Kaushik submitted that consultations are underway at the highest levels of the government to address the concerns raised in the petition The Solicitor General has also called a meeting We have taken the matter to the highest level We are in discussion with the highest authority Four weeksâ time may be granted and we will come up with a counter the Centreâs law officer said Taking note of the submission the apex court granted four weeksâ time to the Centre to file its response and listed the matter for further consideration on March 23 During the hearing the Justice Vikram Nathled bench observed that fluctuations in airfare and imposition of additional charges during peak travel periods raise a matter of very serious concern This is a very serious concern Otherwise we donât entertain Article 32 petitions the apex court remarked It also declined to entertain the Federation of Indian Airlinesâ FIA plea seeking to be impleaded in the proceedings observing that the Union government would engage with stakeholders before taking any policy decision The Union government will deal with you They will call you before making a decision They will constitute a committee and make a decision It is for the Ministry to decide If they donât we will consider that later the bench said In November 2025 the Supreme Court issued notice on a plea filed by social activist S Laxminarayanan who contended that air travel recognised as an essential service under the Essential Services Maintenance Act has become increasingly unaffordable due to unregulated unpredictable and exploitative fare mechanisms The petition filed through advocate Charu Mathur contended that sudden fare spikes sometimes doubling or tripling within hours during emergencies festivals or peak travel periods disproportionately affect passengers compelled to undertake urgent travel for medical educational or employmentrelated reasons It further argued that airlines have reduced complimentary checkin baggage allowance from 25 kg to 15 kg without adequate justification effectively converting a previously included service into an additional revenue stream through excessbaggage charges Terming such practices arbitrary and violative of Article 21 of the Constitution the plea urged the apex court to direct the Centre to frame a regulatory framework or establish an independent aviation tariff regulator with quasijudicial powers to oversee airfare structures monitor compliance and adjudicate passenger grievances IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-examining-rising-airfares-at-highest-level-sc-told-662382.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/bharti-airtel-to-invest-rs-20-000-crore-to-expand-digital-lending-biz-via-nbfc-arm-662384.html Mumbai Feb 23 Bharti Airtel on Monday announced plans to invest Rs 20000 crore over the next few years to expand its digital lending business through its NonBanking Financial Company NBFC subsidiary Airtel Money Limited The telecom major said the fresh capital infusion will help strengthen its presence in Indiaâs fastgrowing financial services sector and narrow the countryâs credit gapOf the total Rs 20000 crore investment Airtel will contribute 70 per cent while the remaining 30 per cent will be brought in by the promoter group through Bharti Enterprises LimitedGopal Vittal Executive Vice Chairman of Bharti Airtel said the success of the companyâs lending platform demonstrates its ability to combine technology data and customer trust at scaleâOur NBFC expansion strengthens this foundation and reflects our ambition to build a differentiated futureready digital lending business one that stands for trust innovation and financial inclusionâ Vittal mentionedAirtel Money Limited recently received its NBFC licence from the Reserve Bank of India on February 13 2026The company said the move marks a strategic expansion aimed at deepening financial inclusion and offering simple secure and innovative digital financial services to customers across IndiaOver the past two years Airtel has built a digital lending platform that has already disbursed over Rs 9000 crore in loansThe company said its lending service provider LSP model has achieved strong growth supported by disciplined underwriting practices portfolio management and realtime risk monitoringIt added that its digital platform backed by a data and analytics engine powered by more than 500 data scientists has enabled it to scale up quickly while maintaining healthy loan performance metricsAs part of the regulatory requirements Airtel Money also clarified that while it has received a valid certificate of registration from the RBI under the RBI Act the central bank does not guarantee the financial soundness of the company or the repayment of its liabilities IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/bharti-airtel-to-invest-rs-20-000-crore-to-expand-digital-lending-biz-via-nbfc-arm-662384.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-france-amending-protocol-to-boost-investment-economic-cooperation-662388.html New Delhi Feb 23 India and France have signed an amending protocol to boost investment and strengthen economic cooperation which aligns tax treaty with international standards it was announced on Monday The amending protocol provides full taxing rights in respect of capital gains arising from sale of shares of a company to the jurisdiction where such company is a residentIt also deletes the socalled MostFavouredNation MFN Clause from the Protocol to the IndiaFrance Double Taxation Avoidance Convention DTAC thereby bringing to rest all issues relating to it according to a Finance Ministry statementThe protocol also modifies the taxation of income from dividends by replacing a single rate of 10 per cent of tax with a split rate of 5 per cent for those holding at least 10 per cent of capital and 15 per cent of tax for all other casesâIt also modifies the definition of âFees for Technical Servicesâ by aligning it with the definition in India US Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement and expands the scope of âPermanent Establishmentâ by adding Service PEâ the ministry saidDuring the recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India both the nations signed a protocol amending the IndiaFrance DTACThe Protocol also updates the provisions on Exchange of Information and introduces a new Article on Assistance in Collection of Taxes as per international standards said the ministryThis would enable and facilitate seamless exchange of information and strengthen mutual tax cooperation between India and FranceThe Protocol also incorporates within the DTAC the applicable provisions of BEPS Multilateral Instrument MLI that had already become applicable consequent to the signing and ratification of MLI by India and FranceâThe Amending Protocol will provide greater tax certainty to the taxpayers and boost flow of investment technology and personnel between India and France and thereby strengthen the economic relationship between the two countriesâ said the ministry IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-france-amending-protocol-to-boost-investment-economic-cooperation-662388.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/punjabs-excise-reforms-directly-strengthening-public-welfare-says-finance-minister-cheema-662398.html Chandigarh Feb 23 IANS Projecting excise revenue of Rs 12800 crore for 202627 Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema on Monday said the states excise reforms are now directly strengthening public welfare by funding schools hospitals and other propeople schemesnbspAnnouncing the new excise policy Cheema said the state has moved decisively away from the stagnation of previous Congress and AkaliBJP governments transforming excise into a transparent enforcementdriven and growthoriented sector that is delivering record collections while tightening the noose around illicit tradePresenting a detailed comparative analysis of the states excise trajectory he said during the SADBJP regime in 201112 excise revenue stood at a modest Rs 2755 crorenbspOver the subsequent decade growth remained slow and it reached only Rs 6255 crore during the Congress regime in 202122nbspHowever following the implementation of a more robust policy framework in 202223 by the Bhagwant Mannled government the state witnessed an immediate and massive leap to Rs 8428 crore This momentum has continued unabated with revenue climbing to Rs 10744 crore in the 202425 and meeting the current target of Rs 11200 crore for 202526Detailing key provisions of the new excise policy he said The Punjab government has introduced several measures to streamline operations and support existing businesses A primary feature includes the renewal of current retail licences at a 65 per cent increase over the 202526 fees In cases where groups are not renewed the allotment will be handled through a transparent etender processnbspThe quota for Punjab medium liquor at 50 and 65 degrees has been increased by three per cent bringing the total to 879 crore proof litres to meet consumer demand while regulating the market Furthermore to combat the sale of illicit alcohol the government will introduce 40degree PML subvends specifically in areas identified as highcrime zones under the Excise ActnbspThe minister announced that Punjab will now host its own malt manufacturing units This strategic initiative signals a sophisticated evolution in the states industrial policy transitioning Punjab from a downstream bottlingcentric economy to a highvalue manufacturing hub he addednbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/business/punjabs-excise-reforms-directly-strengthening-public-welfare-says-finance-minister-cheema-662398.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pmay-urban-20-288-lakh-additional-houses-approved-total-sanctions-reach-1361-lakh-662406.html New Delhi Feb 23 The government on Monday said a total of 288 lakh additional houses have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Awas YojanaâUrban 20 PMAYU 20â With the latest approval of 287618 houses the total number of sanctioned houses under the PMAYU 20 scheme is now over 1361 lakh according to the Ministry of Housing and Urban AffairsâAmong the 288 lakh sanctioned houses more than 160 lakh have been allotted to women including widows separated or unmarried femalesâEight dwelling units are sanctioned for Transgenders Further 22581 houses have been allotted to senior citizens While 35525 houses have been sanctioned for SC beneficiaries 9773 are for ST beneficiaries and 82190 are for OBC beneficiariesâThis reflects the governmentâs continued commitment to ensuring access to dignified and affordable housing for urban families belonging to the Economically Weaker Section EWS Low Income Group LIG and MiddleIncome Group MIG as was conveyed at the sixth meeting of the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee CSMC hereâAccording to the ministry the newlysanctioned houses have been approved in 16 StatesUTs Andhra Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh Chhattisgarh Gujarat Jammu amp Kashmir Punjab Puducherry Rajasthan Tamil Nadu Telangana Maharashtra Madhya Pradesh Nagaland Odisha Uttar Pradesh and West BengalâThese have been sanctioned under different verticals of PMAYU 20 such as Beneficiary Led Construction BLC â 166 lakh houses Affordable Housing in Partnership AHP â 109 lakh houses and Affordable Rental Housing ARH â 12846 housesâOf the 1361 lakh sanctioned houses under PMAYU 20 96 per cent are in the name of the female head of the household or in joint ownership in the BLC and ISS verticals reflecting the schemeâs focus on empowering womenâSrinivas Katikithala Secretary Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs emphasised the need to prioritise housing projects near mass transit corridorsâHe added that the AHP houses should be within the city for ease of living He also mentioned that the success of some affordable housing projects should be showcased as best practices for crosslearning among StatesUTsâThe ministry said it has been promoting rental housing as a separate vertical through ARH to cater to the affordable rental housing needs of urban migrants homeless people industrial workers working women construction workers and other vulnerable groupsâAbout 12846 houses have been sanctioned under ARH it informedâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pmay-urban-20-288-lakh-additional-houses-approved-total-sanctions-reach-1361-lakh-662406.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/chhattisgarh-eyes-double-digit-growth-gsdp-growth-projected-at-1157-pc-in-fy-2025-26-662407.html New Delhi Feb 23 Chhattisgarh is expected to sustain robust economic growth in the financial year 2025â26 with states Gross State Domestic Product GSDP at current prices projected to rise from Rs 565 lakh crore in 2024â25 to around Rs 631 lakh crore in 2025â26 as per the Economic Survey Report presented in the state Assembly on Monday With an estimated growth rate of 1157 per cent the state is set to outperform the national average and maintain strong economic momentum a statement issued by Chhattisgarh Information Centre in New Delhi saidReacting to the survey findings Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the state government remains committed to inclusive and balanced growthHe emphasised that equal priority is being given to strengthening agriculture encouraging industrial investment and expanding the services sector with the goal of establishing Chhattisgarh as one of the countrys leading state economiesThe Chief Minister expressed confidence that the states growth rate will further strengthen in the coming years due to the expansion of infrastructure an investmentfriendly environment and continued focus on human resource developmentChhattisgarh continues to demonstrate solid economic fundamentals even at constant prices base year 2011â12 the statement saidThe report tabled by the State Planning Economics and Statistics Department Minister OP Choudhary said that the states GSDP estimated at Rs 331 lakh crore in 2024â25 is projected to rise to Rs 358 lakh crore in 2025â26 reflecting a real growth rate of 811 per cent This underscores sustained expansion in actual output and production capacity the official statement saidA sectorwise assessment shows that growth is broadbased and welldistributed At current prices agriculture and allied sectors are expected to grow by 1253 per cent industry by 1026 per cent and services by 1315 per cent it addedThe data highlights a balanced development trajectory with all three key sectors playing a significant role in driving the states economic progressChhattisgarh continues to witness positive momentum even in real terms At constant prices for 2025â26 agriculture is projected to grow by 749 per cent industry by 721 per cent and services by 911 per cent reflecting a steady expansion in actual economic activity and reinforcing the states structural resilience the statement saidIn terms of GSDP composition at current prices agriculture is expected to account for 2064 per cent of the economy industry 4659 per cent and services 3277 per cent it addedThe dominant share of industry highlights the states strong manufacturing and mining foundation while the services sector is maintaining consistent growth further strengthening the overall economic framework it saidEncouraging signs are also visible on the income front in Chhattisgarh As per the Economic Survey per capita income at current prices is projected to rise from Rs 162848 to Rs 179244 in 2025â26 marking a growth of 1007 per cent The increase is expected to boost domestic demand consumption levels and overall economic momentum across the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/chhattisgarh-eyes-double-digit-growth-gsdp-growth-projected-at-1157-pc-in-fy-2025-26-662407.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/fiscal-deficit-within-permissible-limit-meghalaya-cm-662413.html Shillong Feb 23 Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday presented the State Budget for the financial year 2026â27 projecting a fiscal deficit of Rs 2672 crore which is 35 per cent of the Gross State Domestic Product GSDP Presenting the Budget in the state Assembly Conrad K Sangma who also holds the Finance department said the government has succeeded in maintaining the fiscal deficit within the permissible limit reflecting its commitment to fiscal discipline while continuing to prioritise development I am delighted to highlight that the fiscal deficit has been maintained at the permissible limit of 35 per cent the Chief Minister said during his budget speech adding that prudent financial management has enabled the state to balance economic growth with social and developmental responsibilities He added that the 2026â27 Budget aims to strengthen Meghalayas economic foundations promote inclusive growth and ensure targeted investments in key priority sectors such as climate resilience youth empowerment gender equality and sustainable development Along with the main Budget document Chief Minister Sangma also presented a series of thematic budgets underscoring the state governments focus on outcomeoriented and sectorspecific planning The Climate Budget for 2026â27 has been pegged at Rs 5572 crore registering a 28 per cent increase over the previous financial year Chief Minister Sangma said the enhanced allocation reflects the state governments continued emphasis on climate action environmental sustainability and resiliencebuilding measures especially in view of Meghalayas fragile ecology The Youth Budget has been allocated Rs 4824 crore marking a significant 45 per cent increase compared to 2025â26 The Chief Minister said the sharp rise in allocation is aimed at expanding opportunities in education skill development entrepreneurship and employment for the youth of the stateMeanwhile the Gender Budget has been set at Rs 6849 crore reflecting a 10 per cent increase over the previous year Chief Minister Sangma said the allocation reinforces the state governments commitment to womencentric programmes gender equity and social empowerment The Chief Minister also reiterated that the state government remains aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs with targeted investments to ensure longterm inclusive and sustainable growth for Meghalaya IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/fiscal-deficit-within-permissible-limit-meghalaya-cm-662413.html Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/surat-emerges-as-global-trade-hub-with-1055-bn-exports-662183.html Gandhinagar Feb 21 Surat has emerged as a major global trade hub recording exports of 1055 billion nearly Rs 95710âcrore in the financial year 202425 The city known for its diamond industry silk sarees and textiles has been a key contributor to Gujaratâs export economy which accounted for over 27 per cent of Indiaâs total exports valued at Rs 983 lakh crore during the same periodThe Surat region processes around 90 per cent of the worldâs diamonds with the gems and jewellery sector representing roughly 70 per cent of the cityâs total exportsBeyond diamonds Surat has experienced growth in sectors including humanmade fibres organic chemicals mechanical machinery technical textiles and other fabric productsThis diverse industrial base has positioned the city as an important node in the global supply chainThe United States is Suratâs largest trading partner receiving approximately 32 per cent of exports followed by Hong Kong at 18 per cent and the United Arab Emirates at 14 per centTrade relations are also expanding with Belgium Israel Saudi Arabia and Thailand reflecting the cityâs growing presence in international marketsTo further accelerate economic growth the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference VGRC â South Gujarat will be held in Surat in April this yearThe conference will cover the districts of Bharuch Dang Navsari Surat Tapi and Valsad highlighting emerging sectors such as chemicals and petrochemicals textiles and garments gems and jewellery pharmaceuticals agriculture and food processingThe event will connect local MSME units with international markets supporting initiatives like Vocal for Local and Local for GlobalIn the context of recent trade agreements between India and the European Union and India and the US South Gujarat is being promoted as a key destination for global investmentWith its production capacity strategic location and infrastructure the region is set to play a significant role in Indiaâs exportled development IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/surat-emerges-as-global-trade-hub-with-1055-bn-exports-662183.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-capex-contracts-234-pc-in-q3-due-to-some-adjustment-in-govt-spending-icra-662228.html New Delhi Feb 22 Indiaâs capital expenditure saw a yearonyear contraction of 234 per cent in the third quarter of FY202526 a new report said on Sunday The moderation in government spending is expected to slightly temper economic growth momentum during the quarter although overall activity remains supported by festive demand and statelevel capex expansion data compiled by ICRA showedHowever state governments showed improved momentum Data available for 24 states showed that their combined capital outlay and net lending rose by 219 per cent in Q3 reversing a contraction seen in the previous quarterIn absolute terms the capex of these states increased to Rs 21 trillion in Q3 from Rs 18 trillion in Q2 almost matching the Centreâs capital spending level the report statedOverall when combined Central and state capital expenditure stood at Rs 42 trillion in Q3 FY202526 slightly lower than Rs 44 trillion in the same quarter last yearThis compares with a strong 167 per cent growth recorded in Q2 indicating a phase of normalisation after earlier momentumICRA has projected that Indiaâs GDP growth may ease to 72 per cent in Q3 FY202526 compared to 82 per cent in the previous quarterDespite the moderation growth is expected to remain above 7 per cent supported by healthy festive demand and benefits from GST rationalisationAditi Nayar Chief Economist and Head of Research amp Outreach at ICRA said estimating GDP growth under the new base year remains challengingâThe reasons for the estimated sequential slowdown include an unfavourable base effect contraction in Government capital spending subdued state government revenue expenditure and weak merchandise exportsâ Nayar addedOn the revenue side the pace of contraction in the Centreâs noninterest revenue expenditure narrowed significantlyIt declined by 35 per cent yearonyear in Q3 compared to a sharper 112 per cent contraction in Q2Meanwhile the combined noninterest revenue expenditure of 24 states grew by 27 per cent although at a slower pace than the previous quarterTaken together the Centre and states recorded a marginal 03 per cent increase in noninterest revenue spending in Q3 compared to a slight decline in Q2 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-capex-contracts-234-pc-in-q3-due-to-some-adjustment-in-govt-spending-icra-662228.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 13:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/haryana-govt-bars-idfc-first-bank-au-small-finance-bank-over-alleged-rs-590-crore-fraud-662254.html New Delhi Feb 22 IANS The Haryana Government on Sunday deempanelled IDFC First Bank and AU Small Finance Bank from handling government business with immediate effect after an alleged fraud of around Rs 590 crore came to lightnbspIn an official circular the state government said both banks have been barred from carrying out any governmentrelated transactions in Haryana until further ordersIt directed all departments boards corporations and public sector undertakings to stop using these banks for deposits investments or any other financial dealingsAuthorities have also been asked to immediately transfer existing balances and close accounts maintained with the two lendersThe Finance Department pointed out lapses in following fixed deposit instructions It noted that in some cases funds that were supposed to be placed in flexible deposits or higherinterest fixed deposit schemes were allegedly kept in savings accounts leading to lower returns and financial loss to the stateDepartments have been instructed to strictly follow approved deposit terms regularly verify compliance by banks conduct monthly reconciliations and report any discrepanciesAll reconciliations must be completed by March 31 2026 and a certified compliance report has to be submitted by April 4 2026The action comes after IDFC First Bank disclosed in a regulatory filing that it had detected a fraud of about Rs 590 crore involving certain Haryana governmentlinked accounts operated through its Chandigarh branchThe bank said there were prima facie unauthorised and fraudulent activities carried out by some employees at the branch possibly involving other individuals or entitiesAccording to the bank the issue surfaced when a Haryana government department requested closure and transfer of its account balance to another bankDuring the process discrepancies were found between the amount mentioned and the actual balance in the accountSimilar discrepancies were later identified in other governmentlinked accounts from February 18 onwardsIDFC First Bank clarified that its preliminary internal review suggests the matter is limited to a specific group of Haryana governmentlinked accounts handled by the Chandigarh branch and does not affect other customersThe total amount under reconciliation across the identified accounts is estimated at around Rs 590 crore and the final figure will be determined after further validation and possible recoveriesFour bank officials have been suspended pending investigation The bank said it will take strict disciplinary civil and criminal action against those found responsibleIt has also issued recall requests to certain beneficiary banks to lienmark balances in suspicious accounts as part of recovery efforts The statutory auditors have been informed and an independent external agency will carry out a forensic auditIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/haryana-govt-bars-idfc-first-bank-au-small-finance-bank-over-alleged-rs-590-crore-fraud-662254.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 19:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gautam-adani-reviews-rs-43-000-crore-power-projects-in-jharkhand-bihar-662256.html Ahmedabad Feb 22 IANS Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani on Sunday reviewed major power projects of the group in eastern IndianbspDuring his visit to Godda in Jharkhand Gautam Adani inspected the 1600 MW ultrasupercritical thermal power plant built with an investment of over Rs 16000 croreThe project located in a tribaldominated area has created thousands of direct and indirect jobs and improved rail connectivity in the regionThe power plant supplies electricity exclusively to Bangladesh under a longterm agreement giving it crossborder importanceThe Adani Group Chairman also visited Bihar where the Group is planning a 2400 MW ultrasupercritical power project at Pirpainti near BhagalpurThe proposed project involves an investment of over Rs 27000 crore and is expected to be completed within the next four to five years It aims to meet the growing industrial and urban power demand in he stateWith these projects the Adani Group has emerged as one of the largest private infrastructure investors in Jharkhand and BiharBoth states are rich in mineral resources but have historically seen limited largescale industrial investmentAt the Godda plant Gautam Adani interacted with engineers technicians and frontline workers appreciating their effortsHe also met tribal women from nearby communities underlining what he described as a peoplefirst approach as the Group expands its operationsEarlier in the day Gautam Adani offered prayers at the Baba Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar calling it the fulfilment of a longheld personal wishHe spoke about the idea of Seva hi Sadhana Hai meaning service itself is devotionVisiting Baba Baidyanath in Deoghar felt as if centuriesold faith is still pulsating in the same vibrant form today Gautam Adani wrote on his X handle sharing a picture of him performing rituals thereThe realisation of why Mahadev is regarded as a symbol of strength restraint and resolve becomes even stronger upon arriving here he addedIn recent years the Adani Group has also been associated with major spiritual and public events such as the Maha Kumbh Mela and the Jagannath Rath YatraIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gautam-adani-reviews-rs-43-000-crore-power-projects-in-jharkhand-bihar-662256.html Sun, 22 Feb 2026 19:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/us-trade-gap-widens-india-deficit-at-58bn-662071.html Washington Feb 21 The US trade deficit widened sharply in December capping a year in which Americaâs goods gap with India reached 582 billion The goods and services deficit rose to 703 billion in December up from 530 billion in November revised the US Census Bureau and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis said this weekExports fell 17 per cent to 2873 billion Imports climbed 36 per cent to 3576 billionThe widening gap was driven by goods The goods deficit increased 157 billion to 993 billion The services surplus narrowed 16 billion to 290 billionIn December alone the US goods deficit with India was 52 billionFor the full year 2025 the overall goods and services deficit stood at 9015 billion down slightly from 9035 billion in 2024 Exports rose 1998 billion to 34323 billion Imports increased 1978 billion to 43338 billionThe goods deficit widened 255 billion to 12409 billion in 2025 The services surplus increased 276 billion to 3395 billionThe United States recorded a goods deficit of 582 billion with India in 2025 That placed India among Washingtonâs larger bilateral trade gapsBy comparison the US goods deficit stood at 2188 billion with the European Union and 2021 billion with China It was 1969 billion with Mexico 1782 billion with Vietnam and 1468 billion with TaiwanExports of goods fell 55 billion in December to 1808 billion Industrial supplies and materials dropped 87 billion Nonmonetary gold fell 71 billionCapital goods exports rose 25 billion Semiconductor exports increased 09 billion Consumer goods exports rose 18 billion including a 13 billion increase in pharmaceutical preparationsImports of goods rose 102 billion to 2802 billion in December Capital goods imports increased 56 billion Computer accessories rose 34 billion Telecommunications equipment increased 13 billionIndustrial supplies and materials imports rose 70 billion Copper increased 15 billion Crude oil imports rose 10 billion Consumer goods imports fell 35 billionIn real terms the goods deficit increased 125 billion or 148 per cent to 971 billion in DecemberFor India the figures reflect expanding trade ties with the United States India has emerged as a key supplier of goods to the US market even as Washington seeks to diversify supply chains across AsiaTrade data are closely watched in both capitals They shape debates over tariffs manufacturing and strategic economic ties between the worldâs two largest democracies IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/us-trade-gap-widens-india-deficit-at-58bn-662071.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/125-overseas-companies-exit-pakistan-by-jan-2026-secp-data-662099.html New Delhi Feb 21 Pakistanâs top corporate regulator the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan SECP has released a list of 125 foreign companies that have stopped operating in the country as of January 20 2026 According to the SECP these include branch and liaison offices of international firms that have formally closed their operations in major cities such as Karachi Lahore Islamabad and PeshawarThe companies were working across different sectors of the economy reflecting a wide foreign business presence in Pakistan before their shutdown as per Pakistan Observer reportThe list shows that companies from many countries have exited Pakistan These include firms from the United States the United Kingdom the United Arab Emirates China Malaysia Singapore Japan Turkiye Australia Sweden Bahrain Canada France and the Netherlands among othersSeveral wellknown global names are part of the list Energy giant ExxonMobilâs subsidiary ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Pakistan BV has ceased operationsElectronics major Panasonic Corporation and airline company Lufthansa German Airlines AG are also among those that have closed their officesTechnology and telecomrelated companies such as Dell Global BV Nortel Networks Asia Ltd and Telcordia Technologies Inc have also wound up their presenceCompanies linked to the oil and gas sector engineering and construction banking insurance consulting and manufacturing are included as well the report saidThese range from Halliburton Limited and Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction Co Limited to Mashreq Bank and TC Ziraat Bankasi AS Some international nonprofit and trade organisations including the American Soybean Associations and Peace Winds Japan are also on the listThe SECP clarified that these companies had officially completed the legal process required to close their branch or liaison offices in PakistanThe development highlights a significant shift in the foreign corporate footprint in the country though the regulator has not provided specific reasons behind the closures the report stated IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/125-overseas-companies-exit-pakistan-by-jan-2026-secp-data-662099.html Sat, 21 Feb 2026 13:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-open-in-red-it-continues-to-bleed-661943.html Mumbai Feb 20 The Indian equity markets opened the last trading session of the week in red on Friday extending sharp losses seen the previous day As of 926 am Sensex lost 154 points or 019 per cent to reach 82343 and Nifty dipped 31 points or 012 per cent to settle at 25423Main broadcap indices moved in opposite directions as the Nifty Midcap 100 lost 013 per cent while the Nifty Smallcap 100 gained 013 per centSectoral indices traded mostly in the green except Nifty IT the major loser down 107 per cent and media down 041 per cent Pharma and realty dipped marginally down 004 per cent and 012 per cent respectively All other indices were in green with PSU bank being the major gainer up 058 per centImmediate support for Nifty is placed at the 2540025300 zone while resistance is anchored at the 25675 range market watchers saidImmediate support for Bank Nifty is seen in the 60500 60300 zone while 61000 acts as immediate resistance analysts saidThe sharp 141 per cent decline in the previous session erased recent gains and wiped out nearly Rs 679 lakh crore in market capitalisation The selloff was broadbased across banking auto FMCG metals and aviation stocks reflecting a clear riskoff sentiment driven by escalating USIran geopolitical tensions and a hawkish US Fed outlook analysts saidThey flagged the spike in India VIX to 1346 up over 10 per cent and sustained FII pressure with DIIs also turning net sellers in the previous sessionWhile underlying macro fundamentals remain resilient nearterm sentiment has turned fragile and riskaverse amid mixed global cues and the absence of immediate positive triggers market participants saidMarket movements are likely to remain rangebound with a downside bias until volatility cools or fresh catalysts provide clearer direction they forecastOn account of the Lunar New Year markets in mainland China the Shanghai Stock Exchange and Shenzhen Stock Exchange will remain closed till February 23 Japans Nikkei lost 12 per cent and Hong Kongs Hang Seng Index declined 057 per cent South Koreas Kospi added 144 per centThe US markets ended in the red overnight as the Nasdaq dipped 031 per cent The SampP 500 declined 028 per cent and the Dow Jones lost 054 per centOn February 19 foreign institutional investors FIIs net sold equities worth Rs 881 crore while domestic institutional investors DIIs were net sellers of equities worth Rs 596 crore IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-open-in-red-it-continues-to-bleed-661943.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-pmi-data-for-february-strongest-in-3-months-signals-robust-output-growth-661953.html New Delhi Feb 20 The PMI data for February signalled stronger output growth as the HSBC Flash India PMI rose from 584 in January to 593 this month â indicating the strongest rate of expansion for three months the data compiled by SampP Global showed on Friday The acceleration was driven by a quicker upturn in factory production as growth of services activity was broadly similar to that registered at the start of the 2026 calendar yearâThe manufacturing industry strengthened in February supported by robust growth in output and new domestic ordersâ said Pranjul Bhandari Chief India Economist at HSBCAt the composite level Februaryâs expansion was the strongest since last SeptemberâBoth manufacturers and service providers were optimistic about the future despite rising inflationary pressuresâ Bhandari addedPrivate sector companies in India welcomed quicker increases in total new orders and international sales during February which prompted them to recruit additional staff and scale up outputAlso businesses became more optimistic towards growth prospects These improvements were accompanied by an intensification of inflationary pressures with both input costs and selling charges rising at faster rates said the reportIt further stated that similar to the trend for output aggregate new orders increased at the fastest pace since last NovemberSurvey participants attributed growth to demand strength local tourism marketing efforts and rising client enquiries Goods producers signalled a stronger rise in total sales than services firms and one that was the quickest in four months as the latter saw growth retreat to a 13month lowDampening the upturn were competitive pressures and the offer of cheaper services elsewhere qualitative data showedâOne area where the service economy outperformed was exports as international orders rose at a substantial pace that was the steepest since August 2025â the data showedIn addition to hiring additional staff goods producers also scaled up purchasing volumes Input buying growth climbed to a fourmonth high in FebruaryStill data suggested that suppliers were comfortably able to deliver materials in a timely manner with the current sequence of improving vendor performance stretching to two years This aided firms efforts to lift stocks of raw materials and semifinished items said the report IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-pmi-data-for-february-strongest-in-3-months-signals-robust-output-growth-661953.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/un-chief-calls-for-global-interoperability-to-mitigate-ai-fragmentation-risks-661965.html New Delhi Feb 20 UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres on Friday cited AI fragmentation risks calling for global interoperability standards for better outcomes at the âIndia AI Impact Summit 2026â here Guterres said that today international cooperation is difficult âTechnological rivalry is growing Without a common baseline fragmentation wins with different regions and different countries operating under incompatible policies and technical standardsâ he warnedAddressing the Summit he said that when we agree on how to test systems and measure risk we create interoperability âSo a startup in New Delhi can scale globally with confidence because the benchmarks are shared and safety can travel with technologyâ he notedGuterres also called for scienceled AI guardrails to protect people and accelerate innovationâOnce we understand what AI systems can do and what they cannot we can move from rough measures to smarter riskbased guardrails Guardrails that protect people uphold human rights and preserve human agencyâ he told the gatheringAccording to the UN SecretaryGeneral AI guardrails must build confidence and give business clarity so innovation can move faster in the right direction âScienceled governance is not a brake on progress It is an accelerator for solutions It helps us identify where AI can do the most good and the fastest and it helps us anticipate early impacts from risks for children to labour markets to manipulation at scale so countries can prepare protect and invest in peopleâ he highlightedAI innovation is outpacing our collective ability to fully understand it let alone govern it If we want AI to serve humanity policy cannot be built on guesswork hype or disinformation We need facts we can trust and share across countries and sectors he stressedAccording to him AI must be accessible to everyoneâBut without investment many countries will be logged out of the AI age Thatâs why I am calling for a Global Fund on AI to build skills data affordable computing power and inclusive ecosystems everywhereâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/un-chief-calls-for-global-interoperability-to-mitigate-ai-fragmentation-risks-661965.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/ai-startup-ceos-laud-indias-supportive-environment-after-roundtable-with-pm-modi-661974.html New Delhi Feb 20 IANS On the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a roundtable with CEOs of AI and deep tech startups pioneering innovative initiatives in agriculture healthcare cybersecurity etc who praised the countrys supportive and dynamic environment for Artificial Intelligence advancementnbspStressing the importance of promoting Indian languages and culture PM Modi called for expanding Indias AI tools for higher education in the mother tongue according to an official statementnbspThe startups participating in the roundtable are tackling populationscale challenges across key sectors such as healthcare agriculture cybersecurity ethical AI space etc the statement from the Prime Ministers Office saidParticipating ventures also include those focused on ethical AI social empowerment through vernacular access to justice and education and modernising legacy systems to strengthen enterprise productivitynbspThe AI startups said The country now offers a supportive and dynamic environment for AI advancement firmly establishing its presence on the global AI landscapenbspThey praised Indias sustained push to strengthen its Artificial Intelligence ecosystem sectors rapid expansion and noted that global momentum of AI innovation and deployment is increasingly shifting towards IndiaThe firms lauded the India AI Impact Summit as reflecting the countrys growing stature in global AI conversations the statement saidnbspFrom firms focused on advanced diagnostics gene therapy and efficient patient record management to AI companies leveraging geospatial and underwater intelligence to boost productivity and help manage climate risks the participation was broadbasednbspThe Prime Minister congratulated innovators for taking bold risks and building impactful AI solutions He discussed the potential of harnessing AI technology in various sectors such as agriculture and environmental protection including monitoring crop productivity and fertiliser usage to safeguard soil healthThe Prime Minister underscored the need for strong data governance cautioned against misinformation and urged the development of solutions tailored to Indias needsnbspReferring to UPI as a model of simple and scalable digital innovation he expressed confidence in Indian companies and encouraged trust in domestic products He also spoke about expanding private participation in the space sector and noted strong investor interest in Indian startups the statement notedIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/ai-startup-ceos-laud-indias-supportive-environment-after-roundtable-with-pm-modi-661974.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/very-happy-about-fantastic-partnership-us-ambassador-on-india-joining-pax-silica-declaration--661978.html New Delhi Feb 20 IANS Amidst the global spotlight on the ongoing AI Impact Summit at Bharat Mandapam India on Friday formally joined the Pax Silica declarationnbspUS Ambassador to India Sergio Gor sharing his reaction on New Delhi joining the special grouping said I am very happy that India has joined Pax Silica Its a fantastic partnership and will move forward from therenbspThe Pax Silica is a USled strategic alliance of nations focused on building resilient supply chains for critical minerals and also on building robust models of Artificial Intelligencenbsp nbspWith India making a formal entry into the strategic alliance this will strengthen the framework give impetus to technological cooperation and enhance the countrys ability to leverage its resources pertaining to rare earth mineralsnbspnbspThe US envoy to India also took to X and wrote A GREAT day for our relationship Today INDIA joins PAX SILICAnbspnbspAfter the signing of the Pax Silica Declaration Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Jacob Helberg Sergio Gor and MeitY Secretary S Krishnan posed for a group photograph reaffirming IndiaUS collaboration in critical technologiesnbspnbspIndias entry into the select league marks a significant step in strengthening trusted semiconductor and technology supply chainsnbspUnion Information and Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw termed the Pax Silica Declaration as a significant step for Indias growing semiconductor and electronics ecosystemnbspnbspBriefing the newsmen Ashwini Vaishnaw said Pax Silica is very important for semiconductor manufacturing setting up supply chains chip design and the entire semiconductor ecosystem This will greatly benefit Indias electronics and semiconductor industry Ten plants are already in the process of being established and the first semiconductor plant will begin commercial production very soon A complete ecosystem is emerging in India Pax Silica will be crucial for this and the youth of India will benefit from itnbspCurrently the signatories to this strategic alliance are Japan South Korea Singapore the United Kingdom Israel and Australia UAE Qatar and Greece also joined the Pax Silica declaration last month It is also seen as a measure to counter Chinas dominance in the rare earth mineral segmentnbspnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/very-happy-about-fantastic-partnership-us-ambassador-on-india-joining-pax-silica-declaration--661978.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 15:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/ai-to-create-new-jobs-vp-radhakrishnan-tells-summit-delegates-ceos-661980.html New Delhi Feb 20 IANS Interacting with a group of CEOs and delegates participating in the India AI Impact Summit 2026 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Friday expressed optimism about the future of Artificial Intelligence noting that the technology will not only transform existing roles but also generate entirely new job opportunitiesnbspThe Vice President said that Indias hosting of the AI Summit was a significant initiative envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi positioning the country as a key player in the global AI landscape and as a major driver of transformation in healthcare education and good governanceThe delegates shared their perspectives on how Artificial Intelligence is fundamentally reshaping the global working landscape and unlocking vast new opportunities said a statementnbspThey highlighted AIs transformative potential across key sectors such as healthcare education and employment noting that India is uniquely positioned to benefit from largescale AIdriven innovation and deployment it saidnbspThey also expressed appreciation for the India AI Mission on its continued support in building a strong and collaborative AI ecosystemThe delegates described the summit as spectacular in scale and impact showcasing a vibrant pool of young talent innovative ideas and forwardlooking solutions from emerging minds across the country said the statementnbspThey also discussed practical and citizencentric applications including the use of AIpowered simultaneous language translation in parliamentary proceedings which can significantly enhance accessibility efficiency and inclusiveness in governancenbspThe Vice President emphasised that AI enhances accuracy streamlines workflows and generates widespread societal benefitsnbspHe also highlighted Indias commitment to an inclusive peoplecentric AI approach that broadens access and creates opportunities in the nationnbspThe Vice President affirmed that when India and its people are given the right opportunities and platforms their potential is limitless and the coming years hold promise of being a defining and successful one for the nationIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/ai-to-create-new-jobs-vp-radhakrishnan-tells-summit-delegates-ceos-661980.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-forex-surges-by-8663-billion-to-reach-all-time-high-of-725727-billion-662006.html Mumbai Feb 20 IANS Indias foreign exchange reserves increased by 8663 billion to an alltime high of 725727 billion in the week ended February 13 according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India RBI on FridaynbspForeign exchange reserves had declined by 6711 billion in the previous week due to a fall in gold pricesAccording to RBI data the value of gold reserves a key component of foreign exchange reserves increased by 4990 billion to 128466 billion in the week ended February 13Foreign Currency Assets FCA the largest component of foreign exchange reserves increased by 3550 billion to 573603 billion FCA includes the dollar along with several other major global currencies such as the yen euro and pound whose value is expressed in dollarsAccording to the RBI the value of SDRs increased by 103 million to 18924 billion in the week ended February 13 Meanwhile Indias reserve position with the RBI increased by 19 million to 4734 billionForeign exchange reserves are crucial for a country and provide a clear indication of its economic health Furthermore they play a significant role in maintaining a stable currency exchange rateFor example if the rupee is under significant pressure against the dollar and its value declines the central bank can use its foreign exchange reserves to prevent the rupee from falling against the dollar and maintain a stable exchange rateIncreasing foreign exchange reserves also indicates a significant inflow of dollars into the country strengthening the countrys economy Furthermore this increase also makes it easier for the country to trade abroadNotable the country remains the worlds largest recipient of remittances with inflows reaching 1354 billion in FY25 supporting stability in the external account according to the Economic Survey 202526 India has consistently attracted sizeable gross investment inflows amounting to 185 per cent of GDP in FY25 even amid tightening global financial conditionsIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-forex-surges-by-8663-billion-to-reach-all-time-high-of-725727-billion-662006.html Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tur-purchase-at-msp-to-begin-from-feb-23-says-gujarat-minister-661903.html Gandhinagar Feb 19 The Gujarat government will commence the purchase of tur pigeon pea at the minimum support price MSP across the state from February 23 Agriculture and Spokesperson Minister Jitu Vaghani announced on Thursday Over 133 lakh farmers in the state have registered to sell their produce at the MSPThe announcement came following a State Cabinet meeting held during the ongoing Legislative Assembly session under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Bhupendra PatelAddressing the decisions taken at the meeting Minister Vaghani said the initiative aims to provide farmers with remunerative prices and economic protection for their cropsâThe Central government announces MSPs for various crops and purchases produce at these rates to ensure that farmers receive fair and profitable prices for their harvestsâ the minister explainedHe added that the MSP for tur for the year 202526 was fixed at Rs 8000 per quintal Rs 1600 per 20 kg ahead of the sowing season which encouraged extensive cultivation across the stateTo facilitate smooth procurement approximately 130 purchase centres have been designated based on the sowing area and expected productionâFarmers who have registered to sell tur at MSP will receive prior information via SMS Upon receiving the SMS they are requested to present themselves with the allotted quantity at the designated purchase centre to avail of the benefitsâ Minister Vaghani statedHe also assured that the state government has made all necessary preparations to ensure adequate purchases from all registered farmersThe announcement also comes a day after the state governmentâs budget for 202627 presented by Finance Minister Kanu Desai which allocates Rs 24022 crore for the Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Department highlighting a focus on farmer empowerment and rural developmentThe total state budget stands at Rs 408 lakh croreWelcoming the budget Minister Vaghani said âTodayâs Gujarat budget will further advance Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs vision of âDeveloped India 2047â Presented under the slogan âWhere there is humanity there are facilitiesâ it gives special priority to agriculture health education infrastructure roads and all key sectors ensuring 360degree development for the stateâHe further highlighted the governmentâs focus on agricultural mechanisation aimed at reducing farmersâ labour and costs IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tur-purchase-at-msp-to-begin-from-feb-23-says-gujarat-minister-661903.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-can-empower-billion-entrepreneurs-through-responsible-ai-vishal-sikka-661912.html New Delhi Feb 19 India has the potential to lead a new human revolution powered by purposeful and responsible Artificial Intelligence Vishal Sikka founder and CEO of Vianai said on Thursday Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 here Sikka said AI presents a historic opportunity for the countryâIndia has previously transformed areas like connectivity and food security within a generation and now it has a chance to build the next era through AIâ he notedSikka who is also the former CEO of Infosys said AI can empower âa billion entrepreneursâ in IndiaâAI should not just help people earn a living but enable them to build meaningful lives for themselves and othersâ he toldHe stressed that India can move towards a true human revolution if AI is developed and used in a purposeful and responsible wayHe highlighted the massive productivity gains that AI can deliver when used properly Sikka shared examples of a colleague at Stanford who rebuilt a large service in just 14 days using generative AI a task that earlier took 15 engineers nine months to completeHe also spoke about a business leader who made a major strategic decision in a few days instead of taking a year thanks to AICalling AI an âincredible powerâ Sikka said it gives instant access to knowledge in any language and can summarise information in different formatsHowever he cautioned that AIâs benefits are not automatic To unlock real value users must understand both its strengths and its limitationsSikka who holds a PhD in AI said there is still a large gap between large language models and their practical use inside enterprisesâBridging this gap requires building systems that are correct trustworthy verifiable and reliable Only then can businesses truly benefit from AIâ he saidHe added that once this gap is closed AI can remove the complexity of legacy systems within companies and transform entire industriesâWith imagination and responsible implementation AI can simplify processes boost productivity and empower individuals across sectorsâ Sikka mentioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-can-empower-billion-entrepreneurs-through-responsible-ai-vishal-sikka-661912.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-successfully-conveys-importance-of-inclusive-ai-accenture-ceo-julie-sweet-661918.html New Delhi Feb 19 Accenture CEO Julie Sweet on Thursday said that the âAI Impact Summit 2026â in India has successfully conveyed the importance of inclusive growth as well as inclusive AI Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Summit here she said it âhas been a great recognition of the importance of countries coming together private sector and the public sector and its really been a great testimony to the importance of India as wellâAt the âIndia AI Impact Summit 2026â the government announced the New Delhi Frontier AI Impact Commitments a landmark outcome of the summit that brings together leading frontier AI companies and Indiaâs domestic innovators to advance inclusive and responsible artificial intelligenceâOne of the themes of the summit has been the importance of inclusive growth and inclusive AI and I think the fact that there are so many people here from around the worldâ shows the importance of the countryâ Sweet notedThe Summit witnessed a global meet of world leaders and Big Tech CEOs centred around the highlevel opening ceremony of the Summit at Bharat Mandapam inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra ModiThe ceremony set the tone for the Summitâs focus on responsible innovation scientific advancement and international collaboration in shaping the future of Artificial IntelligenceAccording to an official statement the participation of global political leaders multilateral institutions and technology pioneers at the Summit inaugural session underscored the Summitâs stature as a defining platform for shaping the trajectory of Artificial Intelligence in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly evolving worldN Chandrasekaran Chairman of Tata Sons described AI as the next foundational infrastructure with transformative potential comparable to steam engines electricity and the internetHe highlighted Indiaâs digital public infrastructure achievements and positioned AI as a strategic national capability built across the full stack from chips and systems to energy and applications IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-successfully-conveys-importance-of-inclusive-ai-accenture-ceo-julie-sweet-661918.html Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/galgotias-robot-incident-an-isolated-one-india-at-forefront-of-ai-revolution-661794.html New Delhi Feb 18 IANS The recent controversy around a robot displayed by Galgotias University at the India AI Impact Summit may have grabbed headlines but it remains just one small episode in an otherwise massive showcase of Indias growing strength in artificial intelligencenbspnbspFrom indigenous foundational models to autonomous drones and rural AI solutions the summit underlined how India is rapidly emerging as a global AI powerhousenbspReporting from the ground a DD India correspondent highlighted that the summit is not defined by one disputed exhibitInstead it is a vibrant platform featuring hundreds of stalls that display futuristic technologies being developed across the countrynbspEach innovation reflects the depth and diversity of Indias AI ecosystem he statednbspOne of the biggest attractions at the event was BharatGen AI which is building foundational AI models in all 22 official Indian languagesnbspThe initiative aims to make AI accessible and inclusive for millions of Indians by breaking language barriersnbspAnother key highlight was ParadigmITs Sovereign AI Box designed to strengthen data security and support the goals of the IndiaAI MissionIn a time when data privacy is critical such indigenous solutions signal Indias intent to build secure and selfreliant AI systemsnbspStartups also made a strong impact at the summit Skye Air Mobility showcased its achievement of completing 36 million autonomous deliveries while saving more than 1000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissionsnbspThe companys work demonstrates how AI is being used not just for efficiency but also for sustainabilityThe summit also brought forward inspiring grassroots innovations Tarakram Maram presented his AI Trainer Machine which aims to democratize AI education and make advanced learning tools available to a wider populationnbspFrontier Markets demonstrated how AI is empowering rural women entrepreneurs by helping them improve business decisions and expand their reachAmong the young innovators Drublet Innovation Private Limited stood out Founded by two students Agniva and Aaditya the startup is pushing the boundaries of autonomous navigation and roboticsnbspTheir work reflects the ambition and technical capability of Indias youth the reporter addednbspState pavilions including Bihars showcased how regional governments are adopting AIdriven solutions to solve local challenges the reporter mentionedIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/galgotias-robot-incident-an-isolated-one-india-at-forefront-of-ai-revolution-661794.html Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/google-aiming-to-infuse-ai-at-all-levels-in-india-sundar-pichai-661814.html New Delhi Feb 18 IANS Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai on Wednesday said Google is infusing artificial intelligence AI at all levels in India to improve healthcare support startups agriculture and morenbspnbspPichai earlier met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed Indias growing work in artificial intelligence and how Google can collaborate with the countrys talented students and professionalsnbspGreat to meet with PM Modi this morning We discussed how Google is helping with his mission to infuse AI at all levels in India to improve health expand access to information in all languages support startups agriculture and so much more said Google CEO in an X postThank you Prime Minister for bringing us together for this incredible summit he addednbspPM Modi earlier said the conversation with Pichai focused on Indias rapid progress in AI and opportunities for deeper cooperation between the government and Google in the fieldnbspHe highlighted the importance of leveraging Indias skilled youth and technology professionals to further strengthen the countrys position in artificial intelligencenbspIt was a delight to meet Sundar Pichai on the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit in Delhi the Prime Minister Modi statedTalked about the work India is doing in AI and how Google can work with our talented students and professionals in this field PM Modi mentionednbspThe Prime Ministers Office PMO later shared highlights of the meeting on its official YouTube channel offering glimpses of the discussion between the two leadersnbspThe India AI Impact Summit 2026 is being held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from February 16 to 20 The summit has brought together policymakers industry leaders academicians innovators and civil society representatives from across the worldnbspIt aims to provide a global platform for discussions on strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence More than 110 countries and 30 international organisations are participating in the summit Around 20 Heads of State or Government and nearly 45 ministers are attending the eventIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/google-aiming-to-infuse-ai-at-all-levels-in-india-sundar-pichai-661814.html Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sitharaman-makes-strong-pitch-for-fdi-in-india-at-ceos-meet-in-norway-661832.html New Delhi Feb 18 IANS Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made a strong pitch for more foreign direct investment FDI in India at a roundtable meeting with prominent Norwegian CEOs and investors in Oslo on WednesdaynbspIn her remarks at the event the Finance Minister said My official visit to Norway has witnessed engaging and positive discussions on India as an investment destination and the fastest growing major economy of the worldShe also said that the Union Budget 202627 underpins the reform focus of the government on easing regulatory and compliance burden for citizens and companies which would make investments easierIn the light of Indias expanding trade architecture including agreements with European Free Trade Association EFTA the EU the UK and the US the Union Finance Minister highlighted the conditions in India that provide a durable framework for trade industrial collaboration and longterm investments the Finance Ministry said in a post on XThe participants appreciated the predictable policy and macroeconomic environment in India and acknowledged the reform efforts and momentum by the government the Ministry addedThe CEO of the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund NIIF made a presentation highlighting Indias growth and reform story and the potential and scope of investment opportunities between the two countries across key sectorsThe IndiaNorway CEOs Roundtable was organised by the industry chamber CII in partnership with the Indian Embassy in NorwayMeanwhile Norway is looking forward to the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled for later in the year which would further expand bilateral cooperation said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr StoreIn his meeting with Finance Minister Sitharaman in Oslo Store appreciated Indias reform momentum and said that Norway and India can collaborate in the sectors of fisheries health tech maritime and space He also lauded the contribution of the Indian diaspora in NorwayThey also held discussions on operationalisation of the IndiaEFTA TEPA and outlined key areas of collaboration between the two countries including in areas related to hightech manufacturing carbon capture storage startups semiconductor renewable energy and waste management among others according to a Finance Ministry statementIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sitharaman-makes-strong-pitch-for-fdi-in-india-at-ceos-meet-in-norway-661832.html Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/ai-must-be-designed-as-public-infrastructure-accessible-to-all-amitabh-kant-661777.html New Delhi Feb 17 Former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant on Tuesday stressed that artificial intelligence AI must be designed and governed as public infrastructure just like Indiaâs digital public infrastructure so that its benefits reach every section of society Speaking at the âAI for the Next Billionâ session organised by CEEW India during the India AI Impact Summit 2026 here Kant said AI should be accessible affordable multilingual and accountableHe underlined that technology can only be considered meaningful if it works for lowincome users people in lowbandwidth areas nonEnglish speakers women farmers MSMEs and frontline workersKant said that if AI fails to serve these groups it is not fit for purposeâAI must be designed and governed as public infrastructure accessible affordable multilingual and accountable much like Indiaâs Digital Public Infrastructureâ Kant saidâIf AI does not work for lowincome users low bandwidth environments nonEnglish speakers women farmers MSMEs and frontline workers then it is not fit for purposeâ he addedHe explained that Indiaâs experience with digital public infrastructure shows how technology when designed for scale and inclusion can transform lives and expand opportunitiesKant further said that when AI is treated as public infrastructure governed with trust and deployed at a population scale it has the potential to become one of the most powerful tools for inclusion in this generationâSuch an approach can help ensure that the AI revolution does not remain limited to a few but instead benefits millions across the countryâ Kant addedHe added that India has a unique opportunity to lead by example by building AI systems that are peoplecentric and inclusive setting a global benchmark for how emerging technologies should be developed and governedâIf designed as public infrastructure governed with trust and deployed at population scale AI can become the most powerful inclusion tool of our generationâ Kant mentioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/ai-must-be-designed-as-public-infrastructure-accessible-to-all-amitabh-kant-661777.html Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tns-outstanding-debt-to-touch-rs-1071-lakh-crore-in-2026-27-minister-thangam-thennarasu-661707.html Chennai Feb 17 IANS Tamil Nadus outstanding public debt is projected to reach Rs 1071 lakh crore in 202627 Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu said on Tuesday while presenting the Interim Budget in the AssemblynbspAccording to the Interim Budget Estimates for 202627 the states debt is expected to rise from Rs 952 lakh crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526 The earlier Budget Estimates for 202526 had pegged the outstanding debt at Rs 929 lakh croreHowever the state finance minister clarified that the 202526 Revised Estimates include Rs 9523 crore related to the Chennai Metro Rail PhaseII project which was approved as a Central Sector ProjectnbspHe said this amount should reflect in the Union governments accounts Despite repeated requests the necessary book adjustment entries have not been carried out by the Union government leading to an artificial increase in our debt he contendednbspExcluding this amount the states outstanding debt would stand at Rs 942 lakh crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526 and Rs 1062 lakh crore in the Interim Budget Estimates for 202627 he saidFor 202627 the state plans to borrow Rs 179 lakh crore and repay Rs 6041342 crore The debttoGross State Domestic Product GSDP ratio is estimated at 2612 per centnbspThe Interim Budget also projects a Revenue Deficit of Rs 4869632 crore for 202627 In comparison the Revenue Deficit stood at Rs 69219 crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526 against Rs 41635 crore in the original Budget Estimates for that yearnbspThennarasu attributed the rise in the Revenue Deficit during 202526 to GST rate cuts the withholding of funds under Centrally Sponsored Schemes and increased expenditure towards loss funding for Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited TNPDCLHe argued that without these fiscal challenges the deficit could have been contained in line with initial projectionsnbspThe Fiscal Deficit for 202627 is estimated at Rs 121 lakh crore marginally lower than Rs 124 lakh crore in the Revised Estimates for 202526nbspAs a percentage of GSDP it is projected to decline from 348 per cent to 3 per cent indicating fiscal consolidationnbspThe Minister maintained that the states financial position could have been stronger had the Centre extended greater cooperation during the current financial yearIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tns-outstanding-debt-to-touch-rs-1071-lakh-crore-in-2026-27-minister-thangam-thennarasu-661707.html Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-group-commits-100-billion-to-sovereign-ai-infrastructure-661740.html Ahmedabad Feb 17 The Adani Group on Tuesday announced one of the worldâs largest integrated energycompute commitments a direct investment of 100 billion to develop renewableenergypowered hyperscale AIready data centres by 2035 The initiative will establish a longterm sovereign energy and compute platform designed to position India as a global leader in the emerging Intelligence RevolutionThe investment is expected to catalyse by 2035 an additional 150 billion across server manufacturing advanced electrical infrastructure sovereign cloud platforms and supporting industriesTogether this is projected to create a 250 billion AI infrastructure ecosystem in India over the decadeThe world is entering an Intelligence Revolution more profound than any previous Industrial Revolution said Gautam Adani Chairman of the Adani GroupNations that master the symmetry between energy and compute will shape the next decade India is uniquely positioned to leadâ the Adani Group Chairman saidHe added that at Adani we are building on our foundation in data centres and green energy to expand into the complete fivelayer AI stack focused on Indias technological sovereigntyThis roadmap builds on AdaniConnexs existing 2 GW national data centre expanding toward a 5 GW target that positions India at the epicentre of the global AI economyThis vision is anchored by landmark partnerships with Google to establish the nations largest gigawattscale AI data centre campus in Visakhapatnam alongside additional campuses in Noida and with Microsoft spanning Hyderabad and PuneThe Adani Group is also in discussion with other major players seeking to establish large scale campuses across India thereby further cementing its position as Indias premier AI infrastructure partnerIn line with this vision the Group will also deepen its data centre partnership with Flipkart advancing the collaboration toward the development of a second AI data centre purposebuilt to support Flipkarts nextgeneration digital commerce highperformance computing and largescale AI workloadsThe 5 GW deployment will create the worldâs largest integrated data centre platform combining renewable power generation transmission infrastructure and hyperscale AI compute within a single coordinated architectureThis longterm commitment by the Adani Group establishes one of the worldâs most ambitious integrated energy and AI infrastructure platforms ever undertaken at national scaleThe Adani Group invites global technology companies sovereign institutions and innovation partners to participate and collaborate in building Indiaâs nextgeneration AI infrastructure platform IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-group-commits-100-billion-to-sovereign-ai-infrastructure-661740.html Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/fpis-return-to-indian-markets-with-rs-19-675-crore-inflow-661638.html Mumbai Feb 15 Foreign portfolio investors FPIs have made a strong comeback to Indian equity markets in early February investing Rs 19675 crore in the first fortnight of the month The renewed interest comes after three straight months of heavy selling and is being supported by the USIndia trade deal and easing global macroeconomic concernsAccording to data from depositories FPIs had pulled out large sums in the previous monthsThey withdrew Rs 35962 crore in January Rs 22611 crore in December and Rs 3765 crore in NovemberThe sustained outflows had put pressure on domestic equities and reflected cautious sentiment among global investorsSo far in 2025 FPIs have pulled out a net Rs 166 lakh crore or about 189 billion from Indian equitiesThis marks one of the weakest periods for foreign inflows in recent years The selling was largely driven by volatile currency movements global trade tensions concerns over possible US tariffs and high equity valuations in the Indian marketHowever February has shown signs of improvement FPIs were net buyers on seven of the eleven trading sessions till February 13 and turned sellers only on four occasionsDespite the strong buying seen on most days overall data indicates that FPIs have still net sold equities worth Rs 1374 crore so far this monthMarket participants believe that the recent inflows signal improving confidence among foreign investors but sustained stability in global markets and clarity on trade and monetary policies will be key to maintaining the momentumMeanwhile Indian stock markets ended sharply lower on Friday February 13 weighed down by weak global cues and rising worries over artificial intelligence and its possible impact on the global economyThe BSE benchmark index fell 1048 points or 125 per cent to close at 8262676 The broader NSE index also slipped 336 points or 130 per cent to settle at 2547110 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/fpis-return-to-indian-markets-with-rs-19-675-crore-inflow-661638.html Sun, 15 Feb 2026 15:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-wedded-to-strategic-autonomy-eam-jaishankar-amid-us-claims-on-russian-oil-buys-661641.html Munich Feb 15 IANS Amid repeated assertions from the United States regarding New Delhis purchases of Russian oil India reaffirming its strategic autonomy has conveyed a clear message on the global stage that its energy decisions will be determined by availability cost and risk considerationsThe remarks come against the backdrop of fresh US sanctions targeting Russias oil sector and claims by President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio that India has agreed to halt additional imports of Russian crudeAddressing the Munich Security Conference on Saturday local time External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar rejected suggestions that a recent IndiaUS trade understanding would undermine Indias longstanding commitment to strategic autonomyHis comments followed Rubios statement that Washington had received assurances from New Delhi that it would refrain from purchasing more Russian oil after the latest round of US sanctions on Moscows energy exportsThe United States has imposed additional sanctions on Russias oil In our conversations with India weve gotten their commitment to stop buying additional Russian oil Europe has taken its set of steps moving forward Rubio was quoted as saying during the conference by Russian news agency TASSEarlier this month President Trump had made a stronger assertion while announcing what he described as a breakthrough following months of trade tensionsIndia agreed to stop buying Russian oil and buy more from the US he had saidHowever EAM Jaishankar made it evident that Indias foreign policy orientation would remain anchored in its independent decisionmaking frameworkWe are very much wedded to strategic autonomy because it is very much a part of our history and our evolution And it is something which is very deep it is something which cuts across the political spectrum as well he statedReferring specifically to energy procurement the External Affairs Minister described the global oil market as complexAs far as energy issues are concerned this is a complex market today I think the oil companies in India as in Europe as probably in other parts of the world look at availability look at costs look at risks and take decisions that they feel are in their best interest he saidAked directly whether India would discontinue Russian oil purchases under the terms of the trade arrangement EAM Jaishankar responded candidly If the bottom line of your question is would I remain independentminded and make my decisions and would I make choices which may not agree with your thinking yes it can happenIndia has so far neither formally confirmed nor denied Washingtons claim that it has committed to stopping additional imports of Russian crudeIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-wedded-to-strategic-autonomy-eam-jaishankar-amid-us-claims-on-russian-oil-buys-661641.html Sun, 15 Feb 2026 16:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-accounts-for-more-than-half-of-global-digital-transactions-says-hm-amit-shah--661645.html Gandhinagar Feb 15 IANS India accounts for more than half of the worlds total digital transactions Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday while launching the countrys first Central Bank Digital Currency CBDCbased Public Distribution System PDS in Gujarats GandhinagarnbspSpeaking at a function held at Mahatma Mandir HM Shah said Indias rapid digital transformation over the past decade had enabled the government to integrate advanced technology into welfare deliverynbspA decade ago nearly 60 crore people in the country did not have bank accounts Today India is leading the world in digital transactions and more than half of the global digital transactions are taking place in India he said extending greetings on the occasion of MahashivratriHe inaugurated a transparent and technologydriven PDS based on CBDC integrated with Aadhaarbased biometric authentication and the Reserve Banks payment systemsnbspHM Shah said the initiative would remove leakages in subsidised food grain distribution With a technologybased system like CBDC corruption and the role of middlemen will be completely eliminated he said adding that the model would be implemented nationwide within the next three to four yearsnbspThe programme included the launch of the Annapurti Grain ATM in the Sabarmati zone of Ahmedabad which can dispense 25 kilograms of food grains within 35 seconds with accuracy in weight price and qualityDistribution of chana and tur dal in sealed onekilogram packs was also introduced along with the Garima Poshan Suposhit Garudeshwar Taluka campaignnbspThe Union Minister said that under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana 81 crore people are receiving free ration and that digitisation would make the system more transparentnbspHe also referred to welfare initiatives undertaken over the past decade stating that four crore houses had been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana tap water connections provided to 13 crore households gas cylinders to around 13 crore homes and toilets built in 12 crore householdsHe added that 291 crore women had become Lakhpati Didis reflecting broader efforts at inclusive developmentnbspGujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the integration of Jan Dhan accounts Aadhaar and mobile connectivity had enabled direct transfer of benefits to eligible citizensnbspHe stated that the Grain ATM would operate round the clock allowing beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act to collect wheat rice and pulses at their conveniencenbspThrough digital tokens under the CBDC system beneficiaries will receive precise information about subsidy quantity and price ensuring full transparency he saidUnion Minister for Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi said the initiative was aimed at safeguarding the rights of nearly 80 crore beneficiariesnbspHe said digitisation of ration cards had enabled the One Nation One Ration Card framework and that beneficiaries could access food grains by scanning QR codes at Grain ATMs or through SMSbased OTP verificationnbspWith the implementation of this technology an estimated two to three crore fake ration cards have been cancelled he said adding that the digital amount credited to beneficiaries wallets could only be used to purchase subsidised grainsDeputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the system would reduce queues at ration shops and allow beneficiaries to collect food grains at any time There will not be even a onegram difference in weight he saidnbspDuring the event Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the Food and Civil Supplies Department and the Consumer Education and Research Centre to establish a prelitigation grievance redressal mechanismnbspSeparate agreements were also signed with Care Ratings and the Consumer Education and Research Centre to develop a Consumer Responsibility Index aimed at strengthening accountability in the public distribution systemIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-accounts-for-more-than-half-of-global-digital-transactions-says-hm-amit-shah--661645.html Sun, 15 Feb 2026 16:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/defence-ministry-okays-rs-325-lakh-crore-deal-to-buy-114-rafale-fighter-jets-from-france-661484.html New Delhi Feb 12 IANS The Defence Ministry on Thursday approved the Rs 325 lakh crore proposal to buy 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Air Force according to reliable sourcesnbspThe clearance was granted by the Defence Acquisition Council DAC chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh which accorded Acceptance of Necessity AoN to the programmenbspThe clearance has come through ahead of French President Emmanuel Macrons forthcoming official visit to DelhiAfter the Defence Ministrys approval the deal will eventually need clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra ModinbspAccording to the proposal India will purchase 18 offtheshelf Rafale fighter jets from French defence giant Dassault Aviation while the remaining 96 fighter jets will be made in India Some of these jets will be twinseater aircraft to be used for training The deal will involve the transfer of stateoftheart fighter jet technology and a strategic partnership to give a fillip to the Make in India programmeThe Indian Air Force already has 36 Rafales in its fleet comprising two squadrons with the last delivery of the C variant taking place in December 2024 Another 26 Rafale jets of the M version have also been ordered for the Indian Navy in a deal worth Rs 63000 crore The naval variants will be operated from the aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS VikramadityaThat deal includes facilitation of fleet maintenance logistics support and personnel training under an MRO maintenance repair and overhaul agreementThe Rafale jets were successfully used in Operation Sindoor to hit precision targets in Pakistan as part of Indias military response to the Pahalgam terror attack in May last yearnbspThey were used to launch the SCALP an airlaunched cruise missile developed that can strike hardened targets over 250km away with extreme precision The fighter jets can also carry Meteor longrange airtoair missiles the Hammer a standoff strike weapon and the Spectra an advanced ewarfare suite as well as advanced radar and targeting systemsIn June last year France and India also announced four landmark production transfer deals between manufacturers Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited which should significantly speed up the delivery of a backlog of Rafales to IndianbspTata Advanced Systems is expected to set up a cuttingedge production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the French fighter including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage the complete rear section the central fuselage and the front sectionnbspThe first fuselage segments will roll off the manufacturing line in 2028IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/defence-ministry-okays-rs-325-lakh-crore-deal-to-buy-114-rafale-fighter-jets-from-france-661484.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-now-has-market-access-to-70-pc-of-global-gdp-at-mostly-zero-duty-piyush-goyal-661486.html New Delhi Feb 12 IANS India now has market access to 70 per cent of global GDP in most cases at zero duty for domestic products Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on ThursdaynbspSpeaking at an event here Goyal said that nine Free Trade Agreements FTAs have been concluded in the last three years covering 38 countries with strong per capita incomes and most developed markets now have trade arrangements with IndiaAgreements include the 27nation EU bloc fournation EFTA bloc the UK Australia and New Zealand the United States of America while Japan and Korea were concluded earlier along with ASEAN nations the minister saidnbspHe also urged medtech startups to look beyond the domestic market leverage Indias expanding trade agreements covering nearly 70 per cent of global GDP and scale affordable innovations to serve both India and the worldThe minister emphasised that affordable scalable medical technology can help reach the remotest parts of India and also access global markets across Africa Latin America Central Asia Southeast Asia and developed economiesnbspAccording to the minister startups should not limit themselves to the domestic market and should participate in global fairs and exhibitionsnbspHe assured that Commerce Ministry would support delegations and that Indias missions in over 190 countries are available to assist innovators He also encouraged collaboration with global companies present in over 100 countries to access developed marketsAffordable and scalable medtech products can reduce costs and improve quality through economies of scale Referring to startups present at the programme he noted that many had secured CDSCO approvals and some were on the verge of receiving FDA approvals enabling them to expand internationallynbspInnovation must address Indias daytoday needs and groundlevel imperativesThe minister underlined the importance of showcasing success stories and urged Startup India the private sector and the media to encourage entrepreneurs including those who may not succeed initiallynbspThree more National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research NIPERs are being established alongside the upgradation of seven existing NIPERs A new National Institute of Design NID will be set up in East India with states competing to provide the best proposalIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-now-has-market-access-to-70-pc-of-global-gdp-at-mostly-zero-duty-piyush-goyal-661486.html Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/companies-csr-expenditure-crosses-rs-144-lakh-crore-384-crore-filings-done-via-mca21-661420.html New Delhi Feb 11 Annual filings by companies on development Corporate Social Responsibility CSR expenditure reached over Rs 144159 crore in five fiscals 201920 to 202324 according to the government All data related to CSR expenditure filed by companies in MCA21 registry including statewise yearwise companywise and projectwise is available in public domain said Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra in a written reply to a question in Rajya SabhaâCSR is a Boarddriven process and the Board of the company is empowered to plan decide execute and monitor CSR activities of the companyâ said the ministerRule 8 of the Companies CSR Policy Rules 2014 provides that every company having average CSR obligation of Rs 10 crore or more in the three immediately preceding financial years will undertake impact assessment through an independent agency of their CSR projects having outlays of Rs one crore or more and which have been completed not less than one year before undertaking the impact studyThe minister also informed that the 20212025 period saw about 384 crore filings done via MCA21Of these 333 crore filings were approved through Straight Through Process 408 lakh filings were approved by the concerned Registrar of Companies and Regional Directors while 83 lakhs forms were rejected by the concerned officersâVersion3 of MCA21 MCA21 V3 has been launched to promote Ease of Doing Business strengthen compliance and enhance transparencyâ said the minister Through MCA21 V3 functionalities like Web filings LLP Module Company module eEnforcement eAdjudication eConsultation eBook Learning Management System have already been implementedMoreover a help desk mechanism to address grievances related to the MCA21 portal has been established During the FY 202526 up to January 31 2026 316877 help desk tickets were raised on the portal of which about 98 per cent were successfully resolvedThese tickets encompassed a range of issues including technical problems awareness issues processingrelated requests and stakeholder suggestions or feedback said the minister MCA21 is a transactionheavy system processing a large number of eforms every year IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/companies-csr-expenditure-crosses-rs-144-lakh-crore-384-crore-filings-done-via-mca21-661420.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/up-govt-presents-rs-912-lakh-crore-up-budget-with-focus-on-law-and-order-health-infra-661449.html Lucknow Feb 11 IANS Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Khanna on Wednesday presented a Rs 91269635 crore budget for the financial year 202627 in the Assembly an increase of nearly 129 per cent over the previous yearnbspThe Budget includes new schemes worth Rs 4356533 crorenbspThe government has placed special emphasis on capital expenditure fiscal discipline strengthening law and order and expanding health and medical infrastructureCapital expenditure has been pegged at 195 per cent of the total outlay Education has been allocated 124 per cent of the Budget medical and health services 6 per cent and agriculture and allied sectors 9 per centnbspIn line with the 16th Central Finance Commissions recommendations the fiscal deficit for 202627 has been capped at 3 per cent of GSDP a limit that will remain applicable until 203031nbspKhanna said the government remains committed to prudent financial management The states debttoGSDP ratio which stood at 293 per cent in 201617 declined to 279 per cent in 201920 It rose to 334 per cent in 202122 due to the Covid19 pandemic but has since been brought down to below 27 per cent in 202425 The target is to reduce it further to 231 per cent in 202627 and below 20 per cent in the medium termSignificant provisions have been made to enhance police infrastructurenbspCompared to 2016 incidents of robbery loot murder riots and kidnapping for ransom have reportedly declined by 89 per cent 85 per cent 47 per cent 70 per cent and 62 per cent respectively A reduction has also been recorded in crimes against women and atrocities against the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled TribesnbspThe Budget earmarks Rs 1374 crore for the construction of nonresidential police buildings and Rs 1243 crore for residential facilities Additionally Rs 346 crore has been allocated for infrastructure in newly created districts Rs 200 crore for fire stations and Rs 190 crore for strengthening firefighting systems in multistorey buildings Under Mission Shakti Rs 25 crore has been allocated for vehicles for female beat officersA total of Rs 14997 crore has been allocated for medical education Uttar Pradesh currently has 81 medical colleges 45 government and 36 private Medical colleges will be established in 16 underdeveloped districts under the publicprivate partnership PPP modelnbspMBBS seats have increased from 4540 in 2017 to 12800 while postgraduate seats have risen from 1221 to 4995 An allocation of Rs 1023 crore has been proposed for 14 new medical collegesnbspThe Medical Health and Family Welfare Department has been allocated Rs 37956 crore a 15 per cent increase over last year Rs 8641 crore has been earmarked for the National Rural Health Mission and Rs 2000 crore for the Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Mission As many as 4922 lakh families are benefiting under the Ayushman Bharat Mukhyamantri Jan Arogya YojanaFurther Rs 315 crore has been allocated for the Cancer Institute in Lucknow and Rs 130 crore for free treatment of incurable diseases The National Mental Health Programme is now operational in all 75 districts and infectious diseases are being monitored through the Integrated Disease Surveillance PortalnbspThe states GSDP for 202425 Quick Estimates is projected at Rs 3025 lakh crore reflecting a 134 per cent growth over the previous year Per capita income has risen from Rs 54564 in 201617 to Rs 109844 and is estimated to reach Rs 120000 in 202526The government claims that nearly six crore people have been lifted out of poverty while the unemployment rate has declined to 224 per cent The states per capita income is projected to rise to Rs 120000 in 2526 Uttar Pradeshs ranking in the SDG India Index has improved from 29th in 201819 to 18th in 202324nbspThe state hosted its fourth Global Investors Summit in February 2024 signing MoUs worth nearly Rs 50 lakh crore with the potential to generate around 10 lakh jobs Groundbreaking ceremonies have been conducted for over 16000 projects involving investments of approximately Rs 15 lakh croreUttar Pradesh accounts for 65 per cent of Indias mobile phone production and hosts 55 per cent of the countrys electronic component units Electronics exports have reached Rs 44744 crore The state has achieved Leader Category status in the national startup rankings and secured first position among landlocked states in the Export Preparedness Index 2024 released by NITI AayognbspTo boost technologydriven growth the government has announced a New and Emerging Technologies Mission along with the establishment of a data authority and eight data centre parks with a total capacity of 900 MW An AI Mission and the Tech Yuva Samarth Yuva Yojana will be launched to provide youth training and opportunities in emerging technologiesThe state leads the country in the production of wheat paddy sugarcane potato and several horticultural crops Agricultural export hubs will be developed to enhance farmers income and connect them to global marketsnbspThe irrigated area has expanded significantly and crop intensity has increased from 1627 per cent in 201617 to 1937 per cent in 202425 Thermal power generation capacity has increased by over 55 per cent to 9120 MW in 202526 till December while 2815 MW of solar capacity has been installedTo promote industrial development Rs 575 crore has been allocated for the new Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Employment and Industrial Zone scheme The Chief Minister Youth SelfEmployment Scheme will also be launched Skill development centres will be expanded under the PPP model with dedicated centres for womenIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/up-govt-presents-rs-912-lakh-crore-up-budget-with-focus-on-law-and-order-health-infra-661449.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/punjab-cm-reviews-arrangements-for-investment-summit-from-march-13-15-661464.html Chandigarh Feb 11 IANS Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday chaired a highlevel meeting to review arrangements for the Progressive Punjab Investment Summit to be held from March 1315 in Mohali envisioning it as a step towards accelerating industrial growth in the statenbspAddressing the meeting CM Mann said The Progressive Punjab Investment Summit will act as a catalyst to further give a major push to the industrial development in the state which has already emerged as a favourite investment destination across the globeThis historic summit will offer a healthy platform to transform the destiny of the state by giving a major push to industrial development he saidnbspEmphasising the need for collective deliberation the Chief Minister said A consensus will be evolved to further chalk out a proindustry action plan for the overall industrial development in the state after marathon discussions with international industrial giantsCM Mann said the summit will be based on the theme of Punjab Means Business Policy to Practice nbspHe said the government has already organised roadshows in Gurugram New Delhi Bengaluru Hyderabad Chennai Mumbai and abroad in Japan South Korea among other nationsTerming the event a major opportunity for investors CM Mann said the summit would be a platform to showcase the investment opportunities in the state offering maximum incentives across the nationnbspHe said the state Government has received a huge response not only from industrial giants in India but also from across the globe to participate in the eventFocusing on reforms the Chief Minister said the government has introduced Green stamp paper in the registration of sale deeds to ensure faster and smooth issuance of regulatory clearances to industry projectsnbspHe said Punjab is the only state which can rightly boast of its congenial industrial climate coupled with skilled manpower fully capable of catering to the needs of local industrynbspUnderscoring the importance of energy security he said as power is the engine of growth the state government has made allout efforts to make Punjab surplus in powerIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/punjab-cm-reviews-arrangements-for-investment-summit-from-march-13-15-661464.html Wed, 11 Feb 2026 19:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gold-silver-prices-jump-as-us-dollar-weakens-661253.html Mumbai Feb 9 Gold and silver prices surged sharply on Monday due to a weaker US dollar and persistent geopolitical uncertainties MCX gold February futures jumped 131 per cent to Rs 157484 per 10 grams around 1045 am on an intraday basis Meanwhile MCX silver March futures climbed 481 per cent to Rs 261900 per kgOn the MCX silver prices earlier in the day had jumped as much as 6 per cent to its days high of Rs 264885 per kg before a round of profit bookingThe US dollar touched its lowest level since February 4 making greenbackpriced metals cheaper for overseas buyersEven as Iranâs top diplomat called USâIran nuclear talks a âgood startâ on Friday Tehran has reiterated that the country would retain its right to enrich uranium Experts anticipate that geopolitical tensions may persist for longer continuing to drive investors to safehaven assetsMarket hopes of further rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve got stronger after San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly called for one or two more interest rate cuts to alleviate weakness in the labour market US Fed rate cut hopes remain another supporting factor for gold and silver prices analysts saidGold has support at Rs 154000 and Rs 1518000 zones while resistance at Rs 157700 and Rs 160000 Silver has support at Rs 236600 and Rs 244000 levels while resistance at Rs 255500 and Rs 262600 an analyst saidSilvers sharp surge from Rs 60000 to Rs 320000 could lead to a phase of consolidation at elevated levels or rebalancing by market participants becomes more likely according to a recent reportStructural supply deficits and steady industrial demand continue to underpin the bullish bias in silver Persistent safehaven demand steady centralbank accumulation and expectations of accommodative global monetary conditions continue to underpin prices of yellow metal it said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gold-silver-prices-jump-as-us-dollar-weakens-661253.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 01:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-international-school-hosts-iris-national-fair-to-boost-indias-emerging-stem-talent-661266.html Ahmedabad Feb 9 Showcasing Indiaâs emerging science technology engineering and mathematics STEM talent Adani International School ADIS Shantigram hosted the IRIS National Fair 2025â26 from February 68 The threeday national programme Cohort 2 brought together 75 student innovators from 12 states and 24 cities alongside educators researchers and mentors positioning Ahmedabad as a national platform for schoollevel STEM research and innovationAddressing the valedictory ceremony Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja Minister of State for Education underscored the need to embed research and innovation early in the education journeyâResearch is no longer confined to laboratories of universities It begins in institutions like Adani International School When students start asking questions early and learn to test ideas and learn from failure they build the foundation of scientific temperament Schools must therefore become incubators of ideas and solutions not just centres of instructionâ she notedNamrata Adani Promoter ADIS and Director NonExecutive Adani Group said âAt Adani International School we believe curiosity must be nurtured early and learning must extend beyond textbooks Platforms like the IRIS National Fair allow students to question experiment and apply knowledge to realworld challengesâDesigned to move learning beyond classrooms and textbooks the fair combined student research exhibitions structured mentoring symposia and public engagement enabling participants to engage with realworld scientific inquiry and problemsolvingThe programme opened with a Principalsâ and Educatorsâ Conference that brought together school leaders from across Ahmedabad to deliberate on strengthening inquirybased STEM pedagogy and experiential classroom practices Students showcased original research through curated exhibitions supported by expert evaluation and mentoringThe valedictory ceremony was attended by senior leaders including Namrata Adani and Amit Singh Chief Executive Officer CEO International Energy Business Adani Group who spoke on behalf of the diversified conglomerateThe successful conclusion of IRIS National Fair 2025â26 highlighted the growing role of schools as catalysts for earlystage research collaboration and innovation strengthening the foundation for Indiaâs next generation of scientific thinkersAdani International School provides a global learning experience with futureready educational application It integrates an experiential teaching process with stateoftheart technology into its learning curriculum inspiring students to develop crucial life skills IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-international-school-hosts-iris-national-fair-to-boost-indias-emerging-stem-talent-661266.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/dispatched-record-over-585-lakh-vehicles-via-rail-in-2025-maruti-suzuki-india-661268.html New Delhi Feb 9 Maruti Suzuki India Limited on Monday said it has set a new benchmark in green logistics by dispatching over 585 lakh vehicles through railways in 2025 a growth of 18 per cent over 2024 Maruti Suzukiâs share of rail mode in outbound logistics has grown exponentially rising from 51 per cent in 2016 to 26 per cent in 2025 significantly reducing carbon emissions countryâs oil imports and easing road congestion according to the automakerâThe year 2025 marks our highestever rail dispatch with over 585 lakh units During the year we strengthened our green logistic efforts through two landmark events â the inauguration of Indiaâs largest automobile inplant railway siding at our Manesar facility and second was we dispatched vehicles by rail to Kashmir valley through the worlds highest railway arch bridge over Chenab River a first by any automobile manufacturerâ said Hisashi Takeuchi MD and CEO Maruti Suzuki India LimitedâOur midterm goal is to increase railbased vehicle dispatches to 35 per cent by FY203031 contributing to Indiaâs netzero ambition by 2070â he addedSince FY 201415 Maruti Suzuki has transported over 28 lakh vehicles from 22 destinations servicing over 600 cities pan India through a hub and spoke model Currently Maruti Suzuki uses over 45 flexi deck rakes each with a capacity of carrying around 260 vehicles per tripIn 2025 rail dispatches from Maruti Suzukiâs inplant railway siding at Gujarat and Manesar facility accounted for 53 per cent of the companyâs total rail dispatchesMaruti Suzuki India Limited has adopted a comprehensive âCircular Mobilityâ approach to sustainability aiming to reduce its carbon footprint across the entire vehicle lifecycleâfrom design and production to logistics and endoflife vehicle ELV managementIt has been at the forefront of promoting railways as a sustainable and efficient mode of vehicle transportationâMaruti Suzuki India Limited has adopted a comprehensive âCircular Mobilityâ approach to sustainability aiming to reduce its carbon footprint across the entire vehicle lifecycleâfrom design and production to logistics and endoflife vehicle ELV managementâ said Takeuchi IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/dispatched-record-over-585-lakh-vehicles-via-rail-in-2025-maruti-suzuki-india-661268.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistan-stuck-with-low-economic-growth-rising-unemployment-report-661271.html New Delhi Feb 9 Pakistanâs growth in 2025 remained modest unemployment stayed high and youth unemployment rose underscoring weak productivity and poor job creation according to an article in East Asia Forum The countryâs economic growth was modest at around 3 per cent in fiscal year 2024â25 barely keeping pace with population growth while unemployment remained high at 8 per cent Sustained growth of 6â7 per cent is necessary to absorb new labour market entrants and reduce unemployment the article further statesThe economy is unable to absorb over 35 million new entrants each year into productive jobs Unemployment among youth aged 15â29 rose to 115 per cent well above the national average of 8 per cent and higher among educated youth the article points outPakistanâs Household Integrated Economic Survey 2024â25 also shows that real per capita consumption of major food items has declined signalling household distress and the number of earners per household fell from 186 to 172 between 2018â19 and 2024â25Remittances were one of the paradoxes of 2025 With exports and foreign direct investment subdued inflows reached a record 383 billion in fiscal year 2024â25 and became Pakistanâs most reliable source of external financing But rising reliance on remittances has coincided with declining domestic earning capacity and shrinking food consumption at the household level Remittances rose from 496 per cent of household income in 2018â19 to 777 per cent in 2024â25 They increasingly function as distress insurance rather than development capital signalling weak domestic job creation the article observesThese facts point to a deeper structural problem in Pakistanâs economic model Policy has remained focused on inputs rather than outcomes The 13th FiveYear Plan 2024â29 set ambitious goals for exports productivity and inclusive growth but implementation has been dysfunctional and shallow Exports stagnated at around 32 billion private investment remained subdued and public investment continued to deliver weak returns the article further statedPakistanâs deeper problem is not a shortage of reform ideas but weak execution with delays and regulatory frictions sapping productivity growth In 2026 Pakistan must treat time and performance as core policy variables improve investment efficiency and translate stabilisation into productivity and jobs the article added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistan-stuck-with-low-economic-growth-rising-unemployment-report-661271.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/diis-solidify-their-dominance-on-indian-equities-reach-206-pc-ownership-661273.html Mumbai Feb 9 The domestic institutional investors DIIs have remained key bidders pumping 234 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 901 billion in full year 2025 â aided by steady SIP inflows into domestic MFs a report showed on Monday This strong participation has not only helped mitigate the effects of a spike in FII outflows which totalled 188 billion in 2025 but has also absorbed the continued surge in primary market issuances with IPOs and FPOs amounting to Rs 195 trillion for the year according to the report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services LtdThis structural shift in institutional ownership which has gained momentum since 2021 continues to strengthen as DII holdings reach new peaks touching 206 per cent while FII holdings remain stable at 184 per cent in Nifty 500 companies âWe believe a reversal in FII outflows could be a key triggerâ said the reportOver the past one year DII ownership rose 210 bp YoY 60bp QoQ to an alltime high of 206 per cent in December 2025 In contrast FII ownership dipped 50 bp YoY 10bp QoQ to 184 per cent compared to 189 per cent in December 2024âPromoter holdings which have historically remained rangebound continued to decline materially to an alltime low of 488 per cent 90bp YoY 50bp QoQ in December 2025 This sharp dip was driven by a recovery in the primary market over the last three quarters where high valuations and strong investor appetite have created an attractive opportunity for several promoters to liquidate their stakesâ said the reportOn a YoY basis DIIs raised their holdings in 22 out of 24 sectors The maximum increase in holdings was visible in EMS Technology Telecom Retail PSU Banks and Healthcare while Media and Logistics sectors experienced a reduction in holdings On a sequential basis DIIs recorded the maximum increase in holdings in the NBFC â NonLending Private Banks Capital Goods NBFCLending and Consumer sectors On a QoQ and YoY basis however FIIs raised their stakes in PSU Banks Telecom Oil amp Gas Chemicals NBFCLending Insurance and Metals said the report IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/diis-solidify-their-dominance-on-indian-equities-reach-206-pc-ownership-661273.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/yotta-deploys-complete-bhashini-stack-to-enable-sovereign-ai-cloud-661274.html New Delhi Feb 9 Homegrown Yotta Data Services on Monday announced the successful deployment of BHASHINIâs endtoend sovereign AI cloud transformation on Yottaâs Government Community Cloud GCC and Shakti Cloud With this development BHASHINI now operates entirely on Indian cloud and GPU infrastructure ensuring that language datasets models and citizen interactions remain within Indiaâs jurisdictionThe deployment demonstrates how national digital public goods can be migrated from hyperscaler environments to indigenous cloud infrastructure while delivering up to 40 per cent performance improvement 20 to 30 per cent cost savings and sustained 9999 per cent uptimeThis was achieved with zero data loss across more than 200 TiB of data and over 35 billion filesThis was showcased at âThe India AI Sovereignty Dialoguesâ an official PreSummit Event of the AI Impact Summit 2026Abhishek Singh Additional Secretary MeitY and CEO of IndiaAI Mission said the successful migration of Bhashini to indigenous cloud and GPU platforms demonstrates that India can build scale and secure its sovereign AI systems for the public goodâIt underscores the IndiaAI Missionâs vision of developing sovereign compute capacity models and deploying AI applications that are responsive to Indiaâs unique requirements including the delivery of reliable realtime voicebased services at population scaleâ said SinghAccording to Amitabh Nag CEO Digital India BHASHINI Division the move to Yottaâs sovereign AI cloud gives BHASHINI greater control resilience and scalability as it continues to serve Indiaâs linguistic diversityâThis transformation strengthens our ability to deliver inclusive realtime multilingual services and marks a major step forward for Digital Public Infrastructure in AI It will also serve as a blueprint for future deployments as we transition to a fully sovereign stackâ Nag addedThe migration covered BHASHINIâs complete AI stack including multilingual datasets models APIs containerised services orchestration pipelines databases and storageâYottaâs successful deployment of BHASHINI on Shakti cloud marks a defining moment for Indiaâs data sovereignty journey This transition highlights that hyperscale missioncritical AI platforms can be built and operated entirely on sovereign infrastructure without compromiseâ said Sunil Gupta CoFounder Managing Director and CEO Yotta Data Services IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/yotta-deploys-complete-bhashini-stack-to-enable-sovereign-ai-cloud-661274.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistans-sindh-emerges-as-distressing-case-of-policy-failure-and-neglect-661276.html New Delhi Feb 9 Despite adequate funding and provincial autonomy following the 18th Amendment in Pakistan Sindh has emerged as a distressing case of policy failure and neglect according to a new report The âHousehold Integrated Economic Survey 202425â reflects the paradox painting two Pakistans â one advancing and the other left behind according to Express Tribune For example Sindh has highest proportion of households 14 per cent without any toilet facilities worse than the socalled backward province of Balochistan 12 per cent and far behind Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP which are both around 5 per cent each the report revealsRural Sindh still relies on hand pumps for drinking water than any other provinceThere is a 10 per cent literacy gap between Sindh and Punjab Almost 40 per cent of Sindhs schoolaged kids are not enrolled and only twothirds are fully vaccinated compared to 79 per cent in PunjabâIt is also worth noting that Sindh does not have to deal with political instability in the same way as most other provinces as the same party has held comfortable majorities for the past four election cyclesâ the report noted The report laments that unless progress is made across the board in all provinces real national progress becomes impossibleAccording to a recent article in Lahorebased Friday Times the need of the hour is to allow provinces to raise adequate resources which would also help address the overall fiscal deficit faced by the federal governmentFor example Balochistan should receive the ânet proceedsâ of excise duty on natural gas and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on electricity as envisaged in Article 1611a and b of the Constitution something that is presently not being implementedâTheir current shares in sales tax under the 7th NFC Award are as low as 9 per cent and 15 per cent respectively Despite their rich natural resources oil gas and electricity their low population results in meagre shares of the revenues generated from the goods they produce Sindh faces similar issuesâ the article statesAfter the 18th Amendment the right to levy wealth tax capital gains tax on immovable property gift tax inheritance tax etc rests with the provinces However they are unwilling to impose these taxes on the rich and powerful This lack of political will exists at both the federal and provincial levels IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistans-sindh-emerges-as-distressing-case-of-policy-failure-and-neglect-661276.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-sarvam-ai-outperforms-global-peers-in-ocr-speech-models-661278.html Mumbai Feb 9 Bengaluruâbased startup Sarvam AI has claimed that its latest vision and speech models have outperformed larger global rivals Google Gemini and ChatGPT on key optical character recognition and textâtoâspeech benchmarks for Indian languages In a post on X Sarvam AIs coâfounder Pratyush Kumar said Sarvam Vision achieves stateoftheart accuracy of 843 per cent on the olmOCRBench English only subset outperforming frontier models like Gemini 3 Pro and recent OCR models like DeepSeek OCR 2On OmniDocBench v15 English only subset Sarvam Vision achieved 9328 per cent overall score excelling in complex formulas and layout parsing and being within touching distance of the current state of the art Kumar addedKumar also said the companyâs Bulbul V3 textâtoâspeech model supports 35 voices across all 22 scheduled Indian languages and can handle different quality scans and contentOn Indian languages Sarvam Vision is the best model by far while supporting all 22 scheduled Indian languages he claimedThe Vision series includes a 3âbillionâparameter stateâspace model capable of image captioning scene text recognition chart interpretation and complex table parsingSarvam AI said its focus is on making artificial intelligence widely accessible to everyone in India We want India to embrace the most important technological shift of our time with confidence and control Our ambition is to build foundational components and apply them to the countrys unique needs the AI company saidKumar cited several examples on social media where the platform accurately extracted technical jargon from complex tables with merged rows and columns Further it showed Sarvam AI extracting data out of a chart from the latest Economic SurveyBeyond documents his posts showed Sarvam Vision demonstrating general natural scene understanding where it understood a photo of beautiful scenery and accurately described itUnion IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in a recent post on X that the startupâs work reflected the success of Indiaâs AI mission IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-sarvam-ai-outperforms-global-peers-in-ocr-speech-models-661278.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/chidambaram-slams-budget-2026-27-as-forgettable-says-youth-joblessness-stands-at-15-per-cent-661281.html New Delhi Feb 9 Pointing out that youth joblessness stands at 15 per cent in India with less than 25 per cent of the workforce in regular employment Congress leader and former Finance Minister P Chidambaram launched a sharp attack on the Union Budget 202627 in the Rajya Sabha on Monday describing it as cautious parsimonious forgettable and already vanishing from public memory Speaking on the discussions in the upper house of the Parliament he questioned whether the government and its key ministers even read the 700pluspage Economic Survey suggesting they prefer to ignore its sobering realities Chidambaram highlighted three major challenges outlined in the Economic Survey capital investment unemployment and slow growth accusing the government of failing to address them effectively He pointed out that gross fixed capital formation remains stuck at 30 per cent of GDP net FDI has collapsed to less than 009 per cent in 202425 and private investment lingers at 22 per cent despite cashrich companies He criticised the government for cutting capital expenditure by Rs 44 lakh crore in 202526 without explanation while neither the public private nor foreign sectors show meaningful investment On unemployment Chidambaram said youth joblessness stands at 15 per cent with less than 25 per cent of the workforce in regular employment He noted a shift toward selfemployment and agriculture and that only 195 crore people work in factories in a nation of 144 crore Manufacturing has stagnated at 16 per cent of GDP for years He slammed the PM Internship Scheme as a failure with only 33000 of 165 lakh offers accepted and just 6000 retained demanding the Finance Minister explain the collapse Chidambaram accused the Budget of being forgetful with low or unannounced outlays for announced schemes and cuts in defence science social welfare and urban development He called it prepared by a Finance Minister who had forgotten her own promises from last year On growth he mocked the governments Reform Express as stuck not derailed with nominal GDP growth falling from 12 per cent in 202324 to 98 per cent in 202425 and 8 per cent in 202526 He questioned inflated real GDP figures citing low CPI inflation negative wholesale inflation and a 05 per cent deflator and criticised the slow fiscal consolidation with fiscal deficit dropping only marginally from 44 per cent to 43 per cent and revenue deficit stuck at 15 per cent He argued the Budget was saved not by higher revenue but by expenditure cuts of Rs 1 lakh crore and a Rs 3 lakh crore RBI dividend Chidambaram concluded that the Budget lacks vision fails to confront real challenges and will soon be forgotten amid new headlines IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/chidambaram-slams-budget-2026-27-as-forgettable-says-youth-joblessness-stands-at-15-per-cent-661281.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-post-strong-gains-amid-positive-cues-on-india-us-trade-deal-661295.html Mumbai Feb 9 The Indian equity markets posted strong gains on Monday for the second consecutive session buoyed by the announcement of an interim framework for the IndiaâUS trade deal At the closing bell the Sensex gained 485 points or 058 per cent to settle at 84065 The Nifty surged 173 points or 068 per cent to close at 25867The broader markets posted stronger gains than benchmark indices as Nifty Midcap 100 index added 158 per cent while the NSE Smallcap 100 surged 264 per centSupportive cues from broader Asian markets also helped sustain the positive momentum through the sessionBuying interest was visible in PSU banks consumer durables realty defence pharma and auto stocks while IT stocks showed mixed trends amid ongoing assessment of global technology developmentsAll sectoral indices traded with gains Nifty Media surged 437 per cent the biggest gainer while Nifty Consumer Durables climbed 360 per cent Nifty PSU Bank rose 334 per cent Nifty Realty gained 261 per cent and Nifty Metal added 156 per centAnalysts said participation remained selective after the strong initial uptick as investors refrained from aggressive positioning ahead of key global and domestic macro cuesOverall the market appears to be in a phase of gradual recovery and consolidation with the nearterm direction likely to be driven by global macro developments currency movements and the sustainability of riskon sentiment reflected in foreign fund flows they addedThe Indian rupee surged 012 per cent against the dollar to 9068 per dollar on MondayImmediate support lies at 25550â25600 followed by a stronger demand area near 25450â25500 market watchers saidBank Nifty is currently consolidating around the 60500â60700 zone reflecting healthy digestion of recent gains rather than distribution they added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-post-strong-gains-amid-positive-cues-on-india-us-trade-deal-661295.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-leads-in-several-indicators-in-global-network-readiness-index-improves-its-position-661299.html New Delhi Feb 9 The government on Monday said India has improved its global âNetwork Readiness Index 2025â NRI 2025 position by four slots and is now placed at 45th rank leading in several indicators The report has been published by the Portulans Institute an independent nonprofit research and educational institute based in Washington DCâIndia has not only improved its ranking but has also improved its score from 5363 out of 100 in 2024 to 5443 out of 100 in 2025 It is noteworthy that India leads in several indicatorsâ said Ministry of CommunicationsThe report maps the networkbased readiness landscape of 127 economies based on their performance on four pillars Technology People Governance and Impact covering a total of 53 indicatorsAccording to the report India secured 1st rank in âAnnual investment in telecommunication servicesâ âAI scientific publicationsâ âICT services exportsâ and âEcommerce legislationâ 2nd rank in âFTTHBuilding Internet subscriptionsâ âMobile broadband internet traffic within the countryâ and âInternational Internet bandwidthâ and 3rd rank in âDomestic market scaleâ and âIncome InequalityâThe ministry said India now has greater network readiness than would be expected given its income level The country is ranked second in the group of lowermiddleincome countriesCommunications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said recently that India now has worldâs lowest data costs and highest data usage driven by robust digital infrastructure There are more than 120 crore mobile users in the country and the 4G network is expected to reach every village by June this yearBSNL has installed a total of 97068 4G sites and 93511 sites are âOnAirâ till October 31 2025 The staterun telecom operation aims to upgrade all 4G towers to 5G within the next few monthsMeanwhile the 5G services have been rolled out in all states and union territories UTs across the country and presently these are available in 999 per cent of the districtsTelecom service providers TSPs have installed 508 lakh 5G Base Transceiver Stations BTSs across rural and urban area of the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-leads-in-several-indicators-in-global-network-readiness-index-improves-its-position-661299.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-gdp-likely-to-grow-64-pc-in-fy27-fastest-among-g20-economies-report-661301.html New Delhi Feb 9 Indiaâs real gross domestic product GDP is likely to expand 64 per cent in fiscal 2026â27 the fastest among G20 economies driven by strong domestic consumption and policy measures a new report has said The report from Moodyâs Ratings said the countryâs banking system outlook remains broadly favourable amid sufficient reserves to absorb loan lossesThe operating environment for banks will remain strong in 2026 supported by robust macroeconomic conditions and structural reforms it saidThe rationalisation of the goods and services tax GST in September 2025 and an earlier increase in personal income tax thresholds will help improve affordability for consumers and support consumptionled growth the global brokerage mentionedIt expects the Reserve Bank of India RBI to ease policy further in 2026â27 only if there are clear signs of a slowdown in activity adding that inflation remaining under control would allow the central bank flexibilityThe report forecasts systemwide loan growth to reach 1113 per cent in FY27 from 106 per cent in FY26 yeartodate adding that corporate loan quality should stay healthy supported by stronger balance sheets and improved profitability among large firmsRecoveries will taper as banks have resolved stressed loans to large corporate the report saidThe estimates from ratings agency on FY27 growth is lower than the 68â72 per cent range projected in the Finance Ministryâs Economic Survey According to official estimates growth for the current fiscal is expected to touch 74 per centThe ratings agency had earlier said in a report that decrease in effective GST rates however could enhance private consumption and support Indias economic growthThe RBI Monetary Policy Committee MPC in its first policy review of 2026 kept the repo rate unchanged at 525 per centAnalysts said that RBIs decision to keep the policy rate unchanged reflected a favourable assessment of growth and inflation dynamicsThe RBI is expected to maintain an extended pause due to positive cyclical upswing and confidence from successful conclusion of multiple trade deals they added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-gdp-likely-to-grow-64-pc-in-fy27-fastest-among-g20-economies-report-661301.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-services-led-growth-more-resilient-than-chinas-661303.html New Delhi Feb 9 India has emerged as the worldâs fastestgrowing major economy with robust growth projections indicating that it will outpace several peers in the coming decades a media report said Indiaâs servicesled model powered by technology finance digital infrastructure and professional services offers notable resilience compared to Chinaâs manufacturingheavy approach which faces cyclical vulnerabilities from global trade disruptions and domestic imbalances according to an article in One World OutlookThe article states that Chinaâs manufacturing sector drove much of the countryâs rise with its share in GDP hovering around 3640 per cent in earlier decades before a gradual decline to about 25 per cent in 2025 according to national statistics This reflects a deliberate shift toward highervalue activities and services now over 5057 per cent of GDP but manufacturing continues as the core engine of exports employment for over 100 million people and geopolitical leverageChinaâs exportoriented factories have weathered challenges like US tariffs through diversification to emerging markets yielding record trade surpluses in 2025 However this model exposes vulnerabilities overcapacity reliance on external demand property sector slumps and weak domestic consumption amplify cyclical risks Industrial output grew solidly in 2025 but investment in manufacturing slowed sharply in the latter half amid trade uncertainties the article pointed outIn contrast Indiaâs services sector has solidified as the dominant driver In 202425 services accounted for approximately 55 per cent of GVA up from around 51 per cent a decade earlier with subsectors like financial real estate and professional services contributing nearly 23 per cent and trade hotels transport and communications around 18 per centThis services tilt stems from Indiaâs early investments in human capital English proficiency enabling explosive growth in IT and business process outsourcingThe tech industry exemplifies Indiaâs edge Indiaâs ITBPM sector generated substantial export revenues with software services leading growth at around 1314 per cent annually in recent years Services exports surged doubling prepandemic growth rates to 14 per cent in FY23FY25 making India the worldâs seventhlargest services exporter share rising from 2 per cent in 2005 to 43 per cent in 2024 Professional consulting and management services grew even faster at nearly 26 per cent This export strength provides a stable foreign exchange inflow cushioning against merchandise trade deficits the article statedFinance and fintech further bolster this resilience Indiaâs digital infrastructure particularly the Unified Payments Interface UPI has revolutionised transactions UPI processes billions of transactions monthly often exceeding 20 billion with nearzero costs interoperability and widespread adoption over 500 million users This publicled open platform contrasts with Chinaâs closed ecosystems dominated by private giants like Alipay and WeChat Pay UPIâs growth has fueled fintech innovation financial inclusion and lowvolatility economic activity enabling seamless digital commerce and reducing informalityProfessional services including consulting legal and advisory add highvalue tradable components less susceptible to physical supply chain shocks Unlike manufacturing which requires massive capital and faces tariff barriers or geopolitical tensions these services scale via digital delivery leveraging Indiaâs skilled workforceChinaâs manufacturing model while powerful for scale and jobs carries risks vulnerability to protectionism eg US tariffs overreliance on investment leading to imbalances and slower adaptation to services transitions Indiaâs approach though employmentabsorptive challenges persist services create fewer mass jobs than manufacturing offers adaptability in a digital knowledgedriven eraLooking ahead Indiaâs services dominance positions it well for future growth amid AI digital transformation and global demand for techenabled solutions Sustained reforms could further amplify this edge while China navigates its rebalancing the article added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-services-led-growth-more-resilient-than-chinas-661303.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-regulator-logs-54-cases-of-anti-competitive-practices-receives-149-merger-filings-in-2025-661307.html New Delhi Feb 9 The Competition Commission of India CCI registered 54 matters relating to anticompetitive practicesantitrust and received 149 mergers and acquisitions filings in 2025 the Parliament was informed on Monday The Commission passed final orders in 38 antitrust cases and disposed of 146 merger notices Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra said in a written reply to a question in Lok SabhaMoreover to improve the efficiency transparency and timeliness of proceedings before the Commission the Competition Amendment Act 2023 introduced forwardlooking reforms to reduce the time limit for approval of combinations from 210 days to 150 days and also introduced a settlement and commitment framework in the interests of faster resolution of competition casesAccording to the minister to operationalise recent competition law reforms the government notified various Rules and Regulations under the Competition Amendment Act 2023For penalty determination the Competition Amendment Act 2023 provided for the calculation of penalty based on the global turnover of the person or enterprise he informedNotably the Green Channel route incorporated under the Act facilitates expedited approval of combinations through deemed approval upon filing of notice with the CCI thereby enabling faster resolution of competition casesThe minister further informed that the âMarket Study on AI and Competitionâ was undertaken to understand key AI systems and marketsecosystems including stakeholders essential inputsresources value chains market structures and competition parametersIt identified key competition concerns including concentration in the AI value chain due to high upfront costs and access to data and talent ecosystem lockin and switching costs risks of algorithmic collusion through AIdriven pricing algorithms and automated business decisions selfpreferencing across the AI tech stack and AIenabled price discrimination through the use of consumer dataThe findings include selfaudit of AI systems for competition compliance by businesses improved transparency and reduction of information asymmetry focused advocacy and capacity building by CCI continuation of government policy initiatives and interregulatory coordination and international cooperation said Malhotra IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-regulator-logs-54-cases-of-anti-competitive-practices-receives-149-merger-filings-in-2025-661307.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/confident-group-assures-stability-denies-financial-stress-after-chairmans-death-661312.html Kochi Feb 9 Confident Group Managing Director TA Joseph on Monday sought to allay concerns over the companyâs stability following the death of its founder and chairman CJ Roy asserting that the real estate major remains financially sound operationally active and unaffected by the tragic incident Addressing the media in Kochi Joseph said Royâs absence would not disrupt projects or client commitments stressing that Confident Group is a âzerodebt companyâ with no borrowings from banks private institutions or individualsâWe have always done straight and fair business Our model is simpleâsales collection and constructionâand the trust of our customers is our biggest strengthâ he saidJoseph confirmed that work has resumed across all project sitesIn Bengaluru he said only painting work in two towers remains and will be completed soonThe company currently has 26 ongoing projects while in Kerala 12 projects were announced two months ago of which eight have already been launchedTwo more projects are scheduled for launch in the State on SaturdayRefuting speculation of financial stress Joseph said the company had weathered earlier economic shocks without difficultyâWe had no issues during demonetisation or the Covid period In fact when the world was shut for a month during Covid we did business worth Rs 18 croreâ he said adding that the company had received Rs 25 crore in collections over the past week and had no pending paymentsOn allegations of harassment by Income Tax officials Joseph denied any such thing and said the officials were only doing their job and that the Group was satisfied with the ongoing Special Investigation Team SIT probe into the circumstances leading to Royâs deathHe clarified that statements made earlier by the chairmanâs brother regarding alleged harassment were based on incomplete information and had been correctedJoseph also dismissed reports suggesting business links between Roy and film personalities stating that the chairmanâs relationships with actor Mohanlal and producer Antony Perumbavoor were purely personalWhile acknowledging Royâs fondness for cinema and his practice of advancing money to actors he said there were no business interests involvedDescribing Roy as a strongwilled individual and a devoted family man Joseph said the chairman spoke daily with his wife and children multiple timesHe also denied media reports about suicide notes saying only a few personal directives to the family were found and were handed over directly to them and later to the SITJoseph thanked the media for its support noting that barring a few online channels most outlets had stood by the Group during a difficult timeHe added that the Kerala Chief Minister had also expressed support reinforcing confidence in the companyâs future IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/confident-group-assures-stability-denies-financial-stress-after-chairmans-death-661312.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/npas-of-indias-banks-decline-to-historic-low-of-215-per-cent-661313.html New Delhi Feb 9 The gross NPAs as a percentage of total loans and advances of scheduled commercial banks have been continuously declining during the last eight financial years and were at a historic low of 215 per cent at the end of September 2025 which is lower than the 201011 level the Parliament was informed on Monday The Reserve Bank of India RBI has apprised that the data on gross NPAs of banks is not collected by it on a monthly basis However as per the latest data available with the apex bank as on September 30 2025 for domestic operations the gross NPA ratio of scheduled commercial banks was 215 per cent In the case of public sector banks the gross NPA ratio was 250 per cent while for private sector banks it was 173 per cent and for foreign banks the figure stood at 08 per cent Also public sector banks recorded a higher decline in gross NPA ratio in comparison with private banks and foreign banks since March 2018 Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha This continuous decline in gross NPAs of banks has led to reduced provisioning by them which in turn has improved their profitability thereby causing a positive impact on business growth It also indicates that the asset quality as well as underwriting has improved in PSBs supported by a strong balance sheet and sustained profitability the minister said The RBI initiated the asset quality review in 2015 after which the government initiated 4Râs strategy of recognising NPAs transparently resolving and recovering value from stressed accounts through clean and effective laws and processes recapitalising public sector banks and reforms in banks and the financial ecosystem to address the problem of rising NPAs and growing loan default Enabled by these initiatives a large drop in gross NPAs was achieved by the banks the minister said Comprehensive measures have been taken by the government and the RBI to prevent reduce and recover NPAs Due to this the slippage ratio which reflects the fresh accretion of NPAs as a percentage of standard advances has been continuously improving for the last six financial years in respect of public sector banks in comparison with private banks The government and the RBI have also been working in coordination to strengthen the various recovery mechanisms available These include filing of suits in civil courts or in Debts Recovery Tribunals action under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act filing of cases in the National Company Law Tribunal under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code through negotiated settlementscompromise and through sale of nonperforming assets In addition to these various amendments have been proposed in IBC to address the delays in completion of CIRPs which are under legislative approval the minister added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/npas-of-indias-banks-decline-to-historic-low-of-215-per-cent-661313.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-working-on-trials-with-banks-to-operationalise-pf-withdrawals-via-atms-soon-661323.html New Delhi Feb 9 The government is working on trials with banks to operationalise employees provident fund PF withdrawals via automated teller machines ATMs with a likely date to make it applicable from April for ease of service The employees PF will also be open to withdrawals via the use of unified payments interface UPI apart from ATMs according to an NDTV profit report citing Labour Ministry sourcesThere was however no official communication yet from the governmentAccording to the report the move is being implemented to further streamline the process of EPF withdrawal which typically involves filing multiple formsUnder the current EPF scheme an employee contributes 12 per cent of the basic salary and dearness allowance every month The employer contributes an equal amount The interest rate has been fixed at 825 per cent for the fiscal year 202526Recently Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that all upcoming and several existing EPFO offices are being redeveloped into modern technologyenabled PassportSevaKendrastyle singlewindow service centres enabling citizens to resolve any EPFrelated issue at any regional office across the countryHe said that the step was part of a series of major reforms being undertaken by the government to strengthen EPFO services nationwideMandaviya further added that to enhance access for workers especially firsttime users and those unfamiliar with digital systems the government will soon introduce the mechanism of EPF Suvidha Providers These Suvidha Providers will be authorised facilitators to guide members in accessing benefits and resolving their issues thereby acting as a bridge between citizens and the EPFOEPFO today holds a fund corpus of Rs 28 lakh crore and provides 825 per cent annual interest If workersâ money is with the EPFO it carries the guarantee of the Government of India he saidElaborating on reforms he said that the EPFO is continuously evolving with simplified and technologyled processes settlements up to Rs 5 lakh are now processed automatically withdrawals up to 75 per cent of EPF balance are permitted with ease account transfers have been made seamless and EPFrelated issues can now be resolved at any EPFO regional office across the country irrespective of the memberâs home locationThe Labour Ministry will also put the four new Labour Codes into effect on April 1 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-working-on-trials-with-banks-to-operationalise-pf-withdrawals-via-atms-soon-661323.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/govt-signs-mous-for-85-speciality-steel-projects-with-investment-of-rs-11-887-crore-661324.html New Delhi Feb 9 The Ministry of Steel on Monday signed Memoranda of Understanding MoUs with 55 companies for 85 projects involving an investment of Rs 11887 crore â These projects are expected to add 87 million tonnes of speciality steel capacity by 20302031 significantly expanding Indiaâs capabilities in highend steel segments such as electrical steel alloy and stainless steels coated products and grades required for strategic sectorsâThe MOUs were signed at Vigyan Bhavan here under the third round of the ProductionLinked Incentive PLI Scheme 12 for Specialty Steel which was launched by Minister of Steel HD KumaraswamyâAddressing the gathering after the MoU signing ceremony Kumaraswamy underscored that PLI 12 is a decisive step towards building a resilient and globally competitive speciality steel ecosystem fully aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi âThe Union Minister noted that the scheme advances the twin national priorities of Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging domestic capacity creation in advanced and strategic steel productsâThe third round of the PLI Scheme has been launched in response to strong industry demand and the need for sustained capacity expansion in speciality steel which is essential to sectors such as automobiles railways defence electrical equipment and aerospace âWith incentive rates ranging from 4 per cent to 15 per cent over a fiveyear period the scheme is designed to promote investment technology upgradation and value addition while integrating Indian manufacturers into global value chainsâSpeaking on the broader impact of the scheme the Minister highlighted that âPLI 12 seeks to address the structural gap by incentivising domestic production conserving foreign exchange and positioning India as a reliable global supplier of advanced steelââUnion Minister added in that âThe achievements under earlier rounds of the PLI Scheme further reinforce the policyâs effectiveness Across PLI 10 and 11 committed investments of Rs 43874 crore have already translated into substantial onground progress including significant capacity creation and employment generation PLI 12 builds on this momentum deepening the domestic steel ecosystem and strengthening the entire value chainââKumaraswamy called upon participating companies to implement their projects in a timebound manner and maximise the use of indigenous technologies and inputs âHe reiterated the Governmentâs commitment to facilitation and timely resolution of operational issues emphasising that the success of PLI 12 will play a pivotal role in Indiaâs journey towards becoming a global hub for speciality steel manufacturingâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/govt-signs-mous-for-85-speciality-steel-projects-with-investment-of-rs-11-887-crore-661324.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-energy-sourcing-decisions-guided-by-national-interest-centre-661331.html New Delhi Feb 9 Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Monday that Indiaâs energy sourcing decisions are guided by national interest with an emphasis on diversification and competitive pricing These remarks responded to reports suggesting that India may reduce Russian oil imports after announcing an interim trade agreement with the United States In response to questions regarding Russian crude the Foreign Secretary emphasised that as a developing economy and significant net importer India must prioritise stable and affordable energy suppliesHe stated that protecting Indian consumers is âthe governmentâs foremost priorityâ and noted that India relies on imports for 80 to 85 per cent of its energy needs a dependence that can contribute to inflationHe explained that the government seeks to ensure that âconsumers receive adequate energy at the right price and through reliable and secure suppliesâ He further stated that the energy import policy is driven entirely by these objectivesMisri highlighted the global uncertainties present in energy markets and emphasised Indiaâs role in promoting price stability He noted âIndia is not just one of the largest consumers of energy but it also plays an important role as a stabilising factor in global energy marketsâThe Foreign Secretary stated âThe key drivers of our energy policy are adequate availability fair pricing and reliability of supplyâHe also explained that energy sourcing is managed by oil companies in both the public and private sectors and that these companies make decisions based on prevailing market conditionsMisri stated âWhat I can firmly and confidently say is that whether it is the government or our businesses national interests will guide our choicesâMinister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri informed the Rajya Sabha that Indiaâs strategic petroleum reserves are sufficient to last 74 days in the event of global supply disruptions The Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited ISPRL currently holds approximately 4094 million metric tonnes of crude representing about 77 per cent of total storage capacityPuri also noted that India is the worldâs thirdlargest consumer of crude oil and the fourthlargest refiner with refining capacity increasing from 260 to 320 million metric tonnes per annum IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-energy-sourcing-decisions-guided-by-national-interest-centre-661331.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/bse-clocks-174-per-cent-jump-in-q3-net-profit-661344.html Mumbai Feb 9 BSE reported a 174 per cent jump in its consolidated net profit at Rs 602 crore for the OctoberDecember quarter Q3 of 202526 compared with the corresponding figure of Rs 220 crore reported in the same quarter of the previous year The net profit margin of the stock exchange expanded sharply to 45 per cent from 26 per centIndiaâs oldest stock exchange also recorded an alltime high quarterly revenue of Rs 1334 crore in Q3 FY26 representing a robust 61 per cent yearâonâyear increase according to a BSE statementConsolidated Operating EBITDA including Core SGF tripled yearonyear to Rs 732 crore with margins expanding sharply to 59 per cent from 31 per cent it saidIn Q3 FY26 BSE welcomed 99 new equity listings across both the main and SME boards raising a total of Rs 97657 crore BSE also set a new record by trading 772 crore Equity Derivatives contracts generating a robust Rs 784 crore in revenue during the third quarterCommenting on the results MD and CEO Sundararaman Ramamurthy said BSEs strong Q3 performance is a testament to the strength of our platforms and the confidence of the marketplaces in BSE With record SME listings growing index derivatives activity and continued success of StAR MF we are accelerating innovation across all our businesses In the year ahead we remain committed to innovation technology excellence and market development as Indiaâs capital markets continue their growth trajectoryBSE reinforced its leadership in Indiaâs capital markets in FY26 with its fundraising platforms enabling companies to mobilise Rs 224 lakh crore across equity debt bonds commercial papers and mutual funds Q3 FY26 emerged as one of the strongest quarters ever with 39 companies raising a record Rs 95272 crore underscoring the depth resilience and growing preference for BSEâs capital raising ecosystem A healthy IPO pipeline since early 2025 continues to reflect the vibrancy of Indiaâs primary markets and BSEâs position as a preferred listing venue for both mainboard and SME issuers the BSE statement saidBSEâs SME platform crossed a major milestone with its 700th listing on February 1 2026 The last 100 listings were achieved in just 179 days the fastest pace yet Collectively SMEs listed on BSE have raised Rs14735 crore and now command a combined market capitalisation of Rs 18 lakh croreIn the trading segment BSE maintained strong momentum Cash market volumes stood at Rs 7645 crore in Q3 FY26 while Index Derivatives achieved a record average daily premium turnover of Rs 19459 croreâdriven by continued growth in Sensex Index the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/bse-clocks-174-per-cent-jump-in-q3-net-profit-661344.html Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tns-namakkal-poultry-farms-step-up-biosecurity-after-bird-flu-alert-661231.html Chennai Feb 9 Poultry farms across Namakkal district have strengthened biosecurity and sanitation measures following a statewide advisory issued by the Tamil Nadu government after cases of avian influenza and unusual bird deaths were reported in parts of the state Though no outbreak has been detected in Namakkal so far farmers and officials are taking proactive steps to safeguard the districtâs poultry sector one of Indiaâs largest egg production and export hubs Authorities said the heightened vigilance is aimed at preventing any possible entry of the highly contagious virus into the tightly managed farm ecosystemGiven the scale of operations in Namakkal and the constant movement of people vehicles and supplies even minor lapses could pose a riskAs a result strict controls have been put in place to minimise exposure Sanitation drives have been intensified farm entries restricted and monitoring mechanisms tightened Only essential personnel are allowed inside farm premises while new visitors are barredVehicles entering the farms are being thoroughly disinfected and all operations are being carried out under protocols prescribed by the veterinary college and the department of animal husbandryValsan Parameswaran secretary of the All India Poultry Product Exporters Association said Namakkalâs poultry belt follows biosecurity norms throughout the year but additional precautions are triggered whenever alerts are issuedâFarmers owners and officials work together during such periods We increase sanitation and strictly regulate entry to ensure the disease does not reach our farmsâ he saidPoultry owners confirmed that disinfection frequency has been doubled with cleaning now done once a week instead of every 15 days Since eggs from Namakkal are regularly exported to domestic and international markets farms are required to maintain multiple layers of safety measures including strict hygiene standards and continuous surveillanceA poultry farmer from Tiruppur noted that the controlled environment inside commercial farms significantly reduces the threat of infectionâOur biosecurity systems run yearround Compared to open bird habitats our farms are far less vulnerableâ he saidMeanwhile veterinary doctors from the animal husbandry department are conducting routine inspectionsA senior official said inspections are normally held every 10 to 15 days but daily visits will be arranged if any signs of concern emerge Officials stressed that the district remains safe but vigilance remains the key to protecting Namakkalâs vital poultry industry IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tns-namakkal-poultry-farms-step-up-biosecurity-after-bird-flu-alert-661231.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cm-stalin-to-inaugurate-rs-9-000-crore-tata-motors-car-plant-today-5-000-jobs-expected-661238.html Chennai Feb 9 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin will inaugurate Tata Motorsâ newly established automobile manufacturing plant at the SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Panapakkam Ranipet district on Monday marking a major milestone in the stateâs industrial and employment growth According to an official press release issued by the Ranipet district administration the project involves an investment of Rs 9000 crore and is expected to generate direct employment for nearly 5000 peopleThe foundation stone for the facility was laid by the Chief Minister on September 28 2024 on behalf of the Stateâs Department of Industries Investment Promotion and CommerceWith preliminary works now completed the plant is ready for operations CM Stalin will formally open the factory and flag off the production of the first vehicle from the assembly lineThe event is being seen as a significant boost to Tamil Naduâs automobile manufacturing sector reinforcing the stateâs position as one of Indiaâs leading automotive hubsHandlooms and Textiles Minister R Gandhi Industries Minister Dr TRB Rajaa Members of Parliament MLAs and senior officials are expected to attend the functionThe ministers have been closely monitoring the arrangements ahead of the launchExtensive security measures have been put in place for the Chief Ministerâs visitThe district police department announced that around 1500 police personnel will be deployed under the supervision of Ranipet Superintendent of Police Ayman Jamal to ensure smooth proceedings and public safety Minister R Gandhi personally inspected the venue at the SIPCOT complex in Panapakkam reviewing the stage arrangements for the Chief Minister security protocols the factory tour route and the designated area where the first car will be unveiledOfficials said all preparations including logistics and visitor management have been completedThe Tata Motors plant is expected to strengthen industrial activity in Ranipet and neighbouring districts while creating both direct and indirect job opportunitiesThe project aligns with the state governmentâs broader strategy to attract largescale investments and enhance manufacturing capacityWith the launch of the Panapakkam facility Tamil Nadu takes another step forward in expanding its industrial footprint and fostering economic development across the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/cm-stalin-to-inaugurate-rs-9-000-crore-tata-motors-car-plant-today-5-000-jobs-expected-661238.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-energy-solutions-secures-japanese-funding-for-6-000-mw-green-energy-corridor-661240.html Ahmedabad Feb 9 Adani Energy Solutions Ltd AESL on Monday said it has secured longterm financing from a consortium of Japanese banks for its flagship highvoltage direct current HVDC transmission project This project will ensure a 6000 MW green evacuation corridor designed to strengthen the flow of renewable power across northern India enough to power 60 million householdsThe 950kilometre corridor will connect Bhadla in Rajasthan to Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh Scheduled for commissioning by 2029 the link is expected to become a critical green transmission artery enabling largescale renewable integration while strengthening grid stability for some of Indiaâs most energyintensive urban and industrial centresIt will play a central role in evacuating renewable energy from Rajasthanâs solarrich regions and delivering it to Indiaâs national grid supporting the countryâs expanding clean power demand said the Adani Group companyThis project marks a defining step in building Indiaâs green transmission backbone The continued support from our Japanese partners including leading banks and Hitachi reflects the depth of the IndiaJapan partnership and our shared commitment to enabling a sustainable energy futureâ said Kandarp Patel CEO AESL AESL remains focused on developing resilient futureready transmission infrastructure to accelerate Indiaâs energy transition he addedThe asset is part of the Adani Groupâs integrated clean energy platform Rajasthan remains a key generation hub for Adani Green Energy Limited AGEL whose projects already supply clean power to AESLâs subsidiary Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited AEML AEML currently integrates more than 40 per cent renewable energy into its supply mix positioning Mumbai among the worldâs largest cities with substantial sustainable power penetrationThe financing led by Japanese banking partners MUFG Bank Ltd and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation SMBC underscores sustained international confidence in Indiaâs renewable infrastructure buildout The project is further supported by advanced HVDC technology from Hitachi delivered in collaboration with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited BHEL leveraging Indiaâs domestic manufacturing ecosystemThe strengthening IndiaJapan financial and industrial corridor is also reflected in AESLâs recent BBB Stable credit rating from the Japanese agency JCR aligned with Indiaâs sovereign rating IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-energy-solutions-secures-japanese-funding-for-6-000-mw-green-energy-corridor-661240.html Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cm-stalin-urges-pm-modi-to-expedite-railway-projects-release-required-funds-in-full-661189.html Chennai Feb 8 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking urgent intervention to accelerate longpending railway projects in the State highlighting delays in fund allocation and stalled land acquisition that have slowed critical infrastructure development In his detailed letter the Chief Minister underscored that Tamil Nadu has already completed most of the groundwork required for railway expansion but is facing setbacks due to the delayed and piecemeal release of funds from the Ministry of RailwaysHe requested the Centre to release the required funds in full and on priority to ensure faster project execution and timely compensation to the landownersAccording to CM Stalin administrative sanction has been granted for acquiring 2500 hectares of land for various Union government railway projectsOf this land acquisition has been completed for nearly 94 per cent of the required area for 19 major projects and the land has been handed over to the RailwaysHowever funds have not yet been sanctioned for over 931 hectares creating bottlenecks in several worksHe pointed out that delays in compensating landowners have disrupted progress and created uncertainty among affected familiesCM Stalin cited the ThiruvananthapuramâKanniyakumari broadgauge doubling project as a key example where funds amounting to Rs 28978 crore for land compensation are still pending thereby holding up the projects completionThe Chief Minister also called for the revival of projects that have been kept in abeyance including the ThoothukudiâMadurai via Aruppukottai line and the TindivanamâTiruvannamalai lineHe further urged the Centre to sanction additional new railway projects in line with Tamil Nadus growing economic statureDescribing Tamil Nadu as Indias secondlargest economy and a major manufacturing and export hub CM Stalin stressed that improved rail connectivity would significantly boost national growthHe assured that the State government has established a robust monitoring system and is fully committed to extending cooperation for speedy implementationExpressing confidence in cooperative federalism CM Stalin said timely Central support would benefit both Tamil Nadu and the nation at large IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/cm-stalin-urges-pm-modi-to-expedite-railway-projects-release-required-funds-in-full-661189.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/revised-inflation-data-details-on-us-trade-deal-key-triggers-for-markets-next-week-661191.html New Delhi Feb 8 The coming week features several important domestic and global triggers for the stock markets including inflation with revised base year of 2024 and more details on the IndiaUS trade deal In India investors will closely track retail inflation data due on February 12 with updated base year followed by WPI inflation and foreign exchange reserves data on February 13 for insights into price trends and external sector stability Further details regarding the IndiaUS interim trade deal framework will also remain in focus said analystsâThe earnings calendar stays active with key results expected which may drive stockspecific actionâ they notedGlobally participants will monitor a heavy US data calendar and the performance of the Nasdaq Composite following its recent decline Geopolitical developments will also remain in focus particularly the ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran Any setback in the talks could heighten volatility across global financial and commodity markets as it may increase the risk of a US military intervention and a broader regional conflict in the Middle East said market watchersNotably movements in the Indian rupee â following its sharp recovery from a historic low after the announcement of the IndiaâUS trade agreement â and trends in foreign portfolio investor flows will remain key determinants of nearterm market direction serving as important gauges of risk appetite and liquidity conditions said Ponmudi R CEO Enrich Money a SEBIregistered online trading and wealth tech firm With the Union Budget 2026 and the RBIâs monetary policy decisions now largely digested Indian equity markets have entered a consolidation phase shifting investor focus toward implementation capex execution and the pace of actual spending he mentioned Overall sentiment remains cautiously optimistic with markets expected to stay eventdriven in the near term tracking global cues capital flows and geopolitical developments in the MiddleEast said analysts The Nifty index witnessed significant volatility last week The index recorded a weekly high of 26341 and a low of 24679 before settling at 2569370 registering a strong gain of 868 points On the weekly chart Nifty formed a strong bullish candlestick and closed decisively above the 20week EMA reflecting a positive shift in mediumterm trend structure and strengthening bullish sentimentâImmediate resistance is placed at 25800 followed by 26000 and 26200 levels On the downside support is seen at 25500 and 25200 A breakdown below 25100 could intensify downside pressure and accelerate corrective movesâ said Aakash Shah Technical Research Analyst Choice Broking IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/revised-inflation-data-details-on-us-trade-deal-key-triggers-for-markets-next-week-661191.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-seeks-inputs-on-proposed-income-tax-rules-and-forms-661197.html New Delhi Feb 8 The government is seeking inputs from various stakeholders on the rules and forms in the Incometax Act 2025 which will come into effect from April 1 2026 it was announced on Sunday Before the final notification of the Income Tax Rules and Forms to encourage wider stakeholder participation the proposed Income Tax Rules and Forms have been uploaded on the official website according to Finance Ministry on SundayâThe corresponding Incometax Rules and related Forms have been prepared after broadbased consultation to align with the provisions of the Incometax Act 2025 Stakeholders are encouraged to study the same and make suggestions which will be compiled and considered for review before final notificationâ said CBDT in its notificationAs part of a wider consultative process the Central Board of Direct Taxes CBDT invites inputs and suggestions from stakeholders in the following four categories Simplification of Language reduction of Litigation reduction of Compliance Burden and identification of RedundantObsolete Rules and FormsStakeholders can submit their inputs by entering their name and mobile number followed by an OTPbased validation process All suggestions should clearly specify the relevant provision of the proposed Incometax Rules or the proposed Form no including the specific rule subrule or form number to which the recommendation pertains under the aforementioned four categories informed the ministryFinance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Budget Day that the Income Tax Act 2025 will come into effect from April 1 2026 and the IT forms have been redesigned such that ordinary citizens can comply without difficulty ease of livingThe new measures include exemption on insurance interest awards nil deduction certificates for small taxpayers and extension of the ITR filing deadline for nonaudit cases to August 31âIn July 2024 I announced a comprehensive review of the Income Tax Act 1961 this was completed in a record time and the Income Tax Act 2025 will come into effect from 1 April 2026 The forms have been redesigned such that ordinary citizens can comply without difficulty ease of livingâ she said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-seeks-inputs-on-proposed-income-tax-rules-and-forms-661197.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pm-modi-departs-for-india-after-concluding-malaysia-visit--661207.html Kuala Lumpur Feb 8 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday departed for India after concluding his twoday visit to MalaysianbspMinistry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that PM Modis visit to Malaysia produced significant outcomes that will add substantial strength to bilateral tiesnbspA memorable visit concludes After a successful visit to Malaysia marked by special warmth and hospitality and anchored in our close cultural bonds PM Narendra Modi has departed for India The visit produced significant outcomes that will add substantial strength to IndiaMalaysia ties Jaiswal posted on XEarlier in the day PM Modi interacted with CEOs from India and Malaysia In a post on X PM Modi stated The CEO Forum has opened new opportunities in trade and investment for both our nationsnbspPM Modi met Indianorigin leaders including Ministers and Senators in Malaysia on Sunday and lauded their accomplishments in public lifenbspHad a wonderful interaction with PIO leaders including distinguished Ministers and Senators Their deep emotional connect to India was clearly visible Their accomplishments in public life are a matter of immense pride for everyone he posted on XPM Modi also met Azad Hind Fauj also known as the Indian National Army INA veteran Jeyaraj Raja Rao in Kuala Lumpur highlighting the historical contribution of the force and its legacy among the Indian diaspora in Southeast AsianbspWhile sharing a picture with Jeyaraj Raja Rao on X he paid tribute to the legacy of the INA and its founder Netaji Subhas Chandra BosenbspIt was very special to meet INA veteran Shri Jeyaraj Raja Rao His life is marked by immense courage and sacrifice Listening to his experiences was very inspiring We remain forever indebted to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose the brave women and men of the INA whose valour helped shape Indias destiny he postedEarlier in the day PM Modi held a meeting with his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim at the latters official residence Seri PerdananbspThe two leaders reviewed development cooperation in various sectors like infrastructure energy and biotechnology and agreed to strengthen cooperation in security defence technologies Artificial Intelligence AI and semiconductorsnbspHad an excellent meeting with PM Anwar Ibrahim at Seri Perdana earlier today India and Malaysia are maritime neighbours who have always enjoyed a close friendship We reviewed developmental cooperation in sectors like trade infrastructure energy IT biotechnology and more We also agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of security defence AI digital technologies and semiconductors PM Modi posted on XPeopletopeople linkages are at the core of IndiaMalaysia friendship The Social Security Agreement a gratis evisa for tourism and the coming of UPI to Malaysia will bring our people even closer We are also working to increase university exchanges and create skill development opportunities for our youth he addednbspEarlier on Saturday PM Modi addressed members of the Indian diaspora in MalaysianbspArriving in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday for his twoday visit he received a warm welcome from his Malaysian counterpart IbrahimIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pm-modi-departs-for-india-after-concluding-malaysia-visit--661207.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/us-trade-deal-a-booster-shot-for-indias-ai-hardware-ecosystem-661208.html New Delhi Feb 8 IANS The finalisation of the first tranche of the IndiaUS trade deal comes as a booster shot for the AI hardware particularly advanced computing components as it is expected to significantly lower costs and facilitate domestic capacity buildingFor the first time AI compute infrastructure has effectively been treated as a strategic asset within a bilateral trade arrangement between two major economies a move that could have longterm implications for Indias technology landscape according to an article in Khalsa Vox news portalnbspOne of the sectors biggest challenges so far has been the steep import duties on enterprisegrade GPU servers which currently range between 20 and 28 per cent These levies have pushed up the cost of GPUbased services in India making them substantially more expensive than in competing hubs such as Singapore or the UAEnbspIndustry estimates suggest that rationalising duties could reduce the cost of setting up GPUenabled data centres by around 14 per cent potentially unlocking largescale investments across the country the article explainsnbspThe timing is also seen as favourable While India generates close to onefifth of the worlds data it hosts only a small fraction of global data centre capacity and an even smaller share of installed enterprise GPUsnbspWith global cloud and hyperscale companies expected to invest more than 80 billion in India by the end of the decade the trade framework is being viewed as a catalyst that could help bridge this gap and position the country as a serious contender in global AI compute services the article statesnbspIt also highlights that industry experts have emphasised the need for safeguards They are of the view that easier access to advanced hardware must go hand in hand with policies that protect data sovereignty national security and domestic value creation Without such measures there is a risk that India could end up providing lowmargin compute services while the real economic and strategic benefits flow to other countries the article addednbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/us-trade-deal-a-booster-shot-for-indias-ai-hardware-ecosystem-661208.html Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/interim-framework-shows-india-got-best-us-trade-deal-compared-to-others-661143.html New Delhi Feb 7 Although full details are yet to emerge the interim IndiaUS trade deal framework indicates that India has received âbest dealâ from the United States compared to others including all its neighbours The trade deal unlocks the power of two large democracies working together for the shared prosperity of their people giving unprecedented opportunities for farmers MSMEs entrepreneurs and skilled workersThe uniform 18 per cent rate gives India an edge over several countries in its neighbourhood and the wider region Many of those exporters face higher barriers or less predictable access to the US marketThe 18 per cent rate also narrows the gap with Europe which faces a 15 per cent tariff The US tariff on Indian goods comes close to those being levied on Americaâs closest allies which include the United Kingdom 10 per cent the European Union 15 per cent Switzerland 15 per cent Japan 15 per cent and South Korea 15 per centSome of the countries facing the highest tariffs from the US include Brazil 50 per cent Myanmar 40 per cent Laos 40 per cent China 37 per cent and South Africa 30 per centThe smaller difference improves the price position of Indian products It helps exporters in textiles apparel leather goods chemicals and engineering items It also strengthens Indiaâs hand against regional rivals competing on cost The framework also opens a path to tariff removal on a wide range of Indian goodsMoreover the reduction of US tariffs on India effectively takes Indiaâs rate below most ASEAN peers and puts it at an advantageous position compared to ChinaAt the onset this breakthrough is unequivocally positive for the real economyexports sentiments as well as financial markets while further details are awaited DBS Group Research Senior Economist Radhika Rao said Textiles gems and jewellery engineering goods leather and chemicals are likely among the key gainers in the immediate term she addedIndia is now among the nations with one of the lowest tariff rates being imposed by the Donald Trump administration compared with other Asian economies such as China Pakistan Indonesia Bangladesh and Vietnam IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/interim-framework-shows-india-got-best-us-trade-deal-compared-to-others-661143.html Sat, 07 Feb 2026 13:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/aepc-welcomes-india-us-trade-framework-textiles-and-apparel-sector-to-benefit-661156.html New Delhi Feb 7 The US trade agreement framework represents a historic milestone for Indiaâs textiles and apparel sector industry leaders said on Saturday On behalf of the entire textile and apparel industry Dr A Sakthivel Chairman of the AEPC the official body of apparel exporters in India welcomed the IndiaUS joint statement on the trade deal âThe coming decade is poised to be Indiaâs decade in textile trade as the country emerges as one of the most preferred sourcing destinations for global buyersâ he said in a statementAccording to Sakthivel the IndiaUS trade agreement creates immense opportunities across the entire textiles value chain and is expected to generate substantial employment particularly for the women and MSMEs Farmers in rural India will also benefit significantly reinforcing inclusive and sustainable growthâThe tariff eliminations and enhanced market access arising from this agreement will greatly strengthen the global competitiveness of the Indian textiles and apparel sector firmly establishing India as the most reliable and trusted sourcing hub worldwideâ he notedThis will also address the issue of nontariff barriers to trade and reduce the compliance burden and procedural delays leading to the faster movement of goods to the US marketâThis decade will undoubtedly usher in a golden era for the Indian textile and apparel sectorâ said the AEPC ChairmanThe Federation of Indian Export Organisations FIEO earlier hailed the finalisation of the IndiaUS trade dealSectors such as engineering goods textiles and apparel pharmaceuticals chemicals leather products gems and jewellery and agricultural products are expected to gain significantly from the tariff rationalisationSC Ralhan President FIEO had said that the agreement would enhance the competitiveness of Indian products in the US market and provide a strong impetus to Indiaâs export growth across sectors Lower tariffs will not only improve price competitiveness but also help Indian exporters integrate more deeply into US supply chains IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/aepc-welcomes-india-us-trade-framework-textiles-and-apparel-sector-to-benefit-661156.html Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/us-senatorscallfor-a-probeinto-elon-musk-ledspacex-for-potential-chinese-links-661161.html New Delhi Feb 7 Two US Democratic senators Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts and Andy Kim from New Jersey have reportedly urged the Department of Defense DOD to conduct a review of billionaire Elon Muskled SpaceX The senators alleged that Chinese investors have secretly acquired stakes in the aerospace maker The Hill Reported In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth the legislators raised concerns about SpaceX a major contractor for the DOD They also cited recently unsealed court records and a ProPublica investigation from MarchâThese ties could pose a national security threat potentially jeopardising key military intelligence and civilian infrastructure and are at odds with the administrationâs policies on foreign investment from countries of concern in strategic industriesâ the senators wrote A SpaceX investor in testimony that was unsealed in October last year shared that the company had been aware of potential Chinese investment since 2015 As per the ProPublica report SpaceX allows Chinese investors to buy stakes in the company through offshore accounts The investigation also covered SpaceX executivesâ decision to cancel a 50 million investment in the companyâs stock from a Chinese firm after news of the deal broke The senators said the extent to which the DOD depends on SpaceX provides even greater reason for concern The company has billions of dollars in contracts with the department including a 59 billion launch service contract the report said âThe mere proposition that an adversary nation such as China could have leverage and influence over a company such as SpaceX one that underpins our national security apparatus is an unacceptable riskâ the senators wrote Both Warren and Kim also expressed specific concerns that the Chinese investors might use their influence to gain information about nonpublic company information to âundermine US national securityâ In addition the senators asked for Hegsethâs response by February 18 to several questions about Chinese influence at SpaceX They also sought a response to DODâs planned action to address potential security concerns related to these investments the report said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/us-senatorscallfor-a-probeinto-elon-musk-ledspacex-for-potential-chinese-links-661161.html Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/interim-agreement-on-framework-will-lead-to-broader-us-india-trade-deal-negotiations-661165.html New Delhi Feb 7 IANS When US President Donald Trump officially confirmed the muchawaited bilateral trade deal immediately reducing American tariffs on Indian goods from 25 to 18 per cent and Prime Minister Narendra Modi corroborated there was a mixed reaction And Saturday even before India woke up the news had broken of an USIndia Joint Statement announcing an Interim AgreementnbspThe framework will lead to the broader USIndia Bilateral Trade Agreement BTA negotiations launched by President Trump and PM on February 13 last yearThe breakthrough came after months of tense negotiations with a telephone call with PM Modi that preceded the Presidents announcement on February 2nbspThe market rejoiced the United States was after all the largest trade partner but there were some doubts mainly among the farming communitynbspFirst there was critique over the deal ever happening now there is suspicion on surrendering domestic interests even though the final agreement is yet to be firmed up But most reactions termed it the father of all deals following Indias motherofall trade deal with the European Union a week earlier where the agreement will put India at a competitive advantage and stabilise WashingtonNew Delhi relationsAt 18 per cent Indias tariff position is slightly better than those levied on ASEAN economies and South Asian neighbours like Pakistan and BangladeshnbspWashingtons reciprocal tariff ranges between 1920 per cent with these countries While sectors like textiles footwear light manufacturing and engineering goods stand to benefit concerns were raised over alleged opening of tradegates to farm and milkbased productsThe key terms of the USIndia Interim Agreement included India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US food and agricultural products including dried distillers grains DDGs red sorghum for animal feed tree nuts fresh and processed fruit soybean oil wine and spirits and additional productsMost of these products are already being procured and were expected to feature in the agreementnbspCommerce Minister Piyush Goyal has been emphasising that Indias food and agriculture sensitivities were safeguarded Meanwhile the government framed the deal as beneficial for MSMEs entrepreneurs skilled workers and access to advanced technologiesMany details yet remain to be worked out The agreement is described as an interim framework Negotiators will now translate headline commitments into legally binding tariff schedules lists of products eligible for preferential treatment and mechanisms to resolve disputesnbspOverall lower reciprocal tariffs will reduce the landed cost of Indian goods in the US market which is especially important for labourintensive sectors such as textiles apparel footwear and certain engineering goodsThere is an expectation that exporters in these categories will regain some market share lost to competitors facing lower US duties reports have pointed outnbspMoreover the framework explicitly mentions opportunities for small and medium enterprises where reduced tariffs and clearer rules of origin can make it easier for smaller suppliers to access US buyers and integrate into global value chainsAdditionally gems and jewellery chemicals rubber home decor and seafood notably shrimp are cited as likely beneficiaries because tariff relief eases margin pressure and inventory movementnbspConversely importcompeting domestic industries some capital goods ICT hardware and medical devices may face stiffer competition from US suppliers if India lowers protection in those areasThe deal is framed as part of a broader geopolitical alignment Closer economic ties with the US can unlock technology transfers investment in data centres and semiconductors and cooperation on supplychain resilience areas India has prioritised in its industrial strategyIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/interim-agreement-on-framework-will-lead-to-broader-us-india-trade-deal-negotiations-661165.html Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/bharti-airtels-net-profit-falls-55-pc-to-rs-6-6305-crore-in-q3-661008.html Mumbai Feb 5 Leading telecom company Bharti Airtel on Thursday reported 55 per cent drop in net profit at Rs 66305 crore after exceptional items for the third quarter of fiscal year 2026 on yearonyear basis compared to Rs 147812 crore in the same period last fiscal The decline in profit is attributed to a high base effect from the previous year In the December quarter of FY24 Airtel had recorded an exceptional gain of Rs 75456 croreAdditionally the companys profit was impacted by an additional expense of Rs 2568 crore due to the new Labour CodesOn a quarterly basis the companys profit decreased by 23 per cent In the September quarter of FY26 the companys profit was Rs 67917 croreThe companys total revenue in the December quarter stood at Rs 546839 crore a 1992 per cent increase compared to Rs 45599 crore in the same period of the previous fiscal yearThe companys total expenses in the December quarter of the current fiscal year were Rs 231988 crore compared to Rs 205327 crore in the December quarter of FY25 This represents a 1298 per cent increase in expenses yearonyearâIndia revenue including passive infrastructure services increased by 14 per cent sequentially Africa delivered yet another quarter of exceptional performance with constant currency revenue growth of 58 per cent One of the reasons for our steppedup performance in Africa is the deployment of our homegrown digital stack that has sharpened our go to market excellence the secret sauce of Airtelâ said Gopal Vittal Executive Vice ChairmanBharti Airtel reported that its average revenue per user ARPU reached Rs 259 in the December quarter up from Rs 256 in September and Rs 245 in December 2024In the December quarter 26056 million GB of data was consumed on the companys network This represents a 66 per cent increase compared to the 24446 million GB of data in the September quarter and a 292 per cent increase compared to the 20174 million GB of data in the December quarter of the previous yearData consumption per user in the December quarter was 298 GB per month This is 5 per cent higher than the 283 GB per month in the September quarter and 215 per cent higher than the 245 GB in the December quarter of the previous yearAirtels employee count decreased on both quarterly and annual basis In the December quarter of FY26 the company had 24186 employees This figure is 205 less than in the September quarter of the current fiscal year and 340 less than in the December quarter of FY25 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/bharti-airtels-net-profit-falls-55-pc-to-rs-6-6305-crore-in-q3-661008.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/no-compromise-on-agri-or-dairy-in-us-deal-farmers-fully-protected-shivraj-chouhan-661010.html New Delhi Feb 5 Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday said the IndiaUS trade agreement fully safeguards the countrys agricultural interests particularly those of the farm and dairy sectors Addressing the media here Chouhan reiterated that Indiaâs staple grains fruits major crops millets and dairy products remain completely secure and face no threat whatsoeverHe emphasised that the interests of small and large farmers alike have been fully protected and that the agreement will create fresh opportunities rather than risks for Indian agricultureNo market segment has been opened in a manner that could harm Indian farmers and all major crops food grains fruits and dairy products remain shielded he saidOn the recent X post by the US Treasury Secretary about increased access for American farm products Chouhan said that Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has already clarified the facts in ParliamentIndia has not opened its markets in any way that puts pressure on domestic farmers and the protections for key agricultural commodities remain intact he reiteratedThe Agriculture Minister further stated that India already exports rice to many countries including the United States and recently recorded exports worth around Rs 63000 croreHe stated that reduced tariffs will directly benefit Indiaâs rice spices and textile exports and that growth in textile exports will help millions of cottongrowing farmersThe minister affirmed that the deal is unequivocally in the interest of Indian farmers and opens up new export avenues despite the misinformation being spread by the oppositionAll details of the agreement will be shared in due course The core principle remains clear and unchanged the interests of Indian farmers are fully protected he addedChouhan also stressed the need for clear communication to prevent confusion or fear among farmers given the enormous size of the agricultural sectorFarmers are our annadata the providers of life Their welfare is the nationâs welfare and their interests are absolutely secure the minister stressed IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/no-compromise-on-agri-or-dairy-in-us-deal-farmers-fully-protected-shivraj-chouhan-661010.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/morgan-stanley-turns-bullish-on-adani-energy-solutions-with-16-pc-upside-661011.html Mumbai Feb 5 Shares of Adani Energy Solutions Ltd AESL rose as much as 25 per cent to Rs 1013 apiece on Thursday despite weakness in broader markets after Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on the stock The foreign brokerage gave an âoverweightâ rating with a price target of Rs 1133 implying 16 per cent upside from yesterdayâs closing priceThe brokerage views AESL as a key beneficiary of Indiaâs longterm power grid expansion highlighting over Rs 10 trillion of expected transmission investment over the next decadeIn distribution it notes policy support for smart metering including subsidies and measures encouraging private participationThe global brokerage also highlights AESLâs strong execution track record citing timely and costefficient project delivery It notes the companyâs integrated presence across transmission distribution and smart metering positioning it as an endtoend grid infrastructure platformAdani Energy Solutions is described as a leading privatesector player in transmission and distribution with nearly 50 per cent share of privatesector transmission projects access to around 33 million consumers through the Mumbai and Mundra SEZ distribution areas and a meaningful presence in smart meteringThe report estimates a 21 per cent EBITDA CAGR between FY25 and FY30 with EBITDA expected to reach around Rs 2600 crore by FY30 Growth is expected to be driven by transmission project wins regulated distribution capex and execution of the smart metering order bookThe report identifies transmission as the strongest near to mediumterm growth driver supported by an inhand order book of about Rs 7800 crore as of Q3 FY26Morgan Stanley assumes AESL could win around 20 per cent of new TBCB projects representing a potential opportunity of Rs 20000 crore annuallyIn distribution the report points to opportunities arising from parallel licensing with AESL targeting a 20 per cent market shareThe regulated asset base is projected to grow at around 11 per cent CAGR supported by annual capex of roughly Rs 1600 croreIn smart metering AESL targets about 20 per cent market share Its 246 million meter order book is expected to be largely executed by FY27 with smart metering contributing around 9 per cent of FY28 EBITDA excluding nonIFRS adjustmentsThe market is increasingly viewing Adani stocks as value proposition Several Adani companies including Adani Power Adani Ports Adani Green Energy and Adani Enterprises have seen strong surge in their earnings over the past 23 years making these stocks an attractive proposition for longterm investorsMorgan Stanley has also covered Adani Ports amp SEZ as well as Adani Power citing both bullish reflecting confidence in the business models IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/morgan-stanley-turns-bullish-on-adani-energy-solutions-with-16-pc-upside-661011.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/vizhinjam-ports-swift-scale-up-signals-indias-transhipment-ambitions-661019.html Thiruvananthapuram Feb 5 Vizhinjam International Seaport developed and operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd APSEZ under a publicâprivate partnership with the Kerala government is rapidly establishing itself as one of Indiaâs fastestgrowing container transhipment hubs A string of operational milestones achieved in January 2026 highlights the pace at which the greenfield port is scaling up and integrating with global shipping networksIn January Vizhinjam recorded its highestever monthly container throughput of 123092 twentyfoot equivalent units TEUsThe port handled 62 vessels during the month the most since commercial operations began and achieved its best gross crane rate of 3012 container moves per hourFor a port that has been operational for just over a year the figures underline sharp gains in productivity and execution capabilityThe performance has translated into a steady rise in global rankingsVizhinjam has climbed to the 83rd position worldwide among container ports by volumeSince the commencement of operations it has handled 740 vessels and 157 million TEUs putting it on a growth trajectory comparable with established transhipment hubs in the regionA key differentiator has been Vizhinjamâs ability to handle large nextgeneration vesselsIndiaâs first semiautomated container port it is among the few facilities in South Asia capable of berthing ultra large container vessels ULCVsBetween December 2024 and January 2026 the port handled over 50 ULCVs exceeding 399 metres in lengthMore than 160 vessels during this period were longer than 300 metres while 50 arrived with drafts above 16 metresMSC Verona became the deepestdraft vessel ever handled in South Asia at 171 metres and MSC IRINA the worldâs largest container ship also called at VizhinjamTechnology and workforce readiness have supported this momentumThe port has deployed an advanced MadeinIndia vessel traffic management system to digitally monitor vessel and yard movements improving safety and turnaround efficiencyIt is also the first container port in the country to deploy women automated crane operatorsVizhinjamâs natural advantages depths of 18â20 metres minimal littoral drift and a threekilometre breakwater enable yearround operations with limited dredgingIts proximity to key eastâwest shipping lanes positions it as an alternative to hubs such as Colombo Dubai Singapore and Port KlangThe port is now entering a major expansion phaseOn January 24 2026 APSEZ Managing Director Karan Adani announced a Rs 16000crore investment for Phase 2 which will extend berth length from 800 metres to 2000 metres and expand the breakwater to about 3900 metres by 2028Capacity is expected to rise from 1 million TEUs to 57 million TEUs by 2029As Vizhinjam builds on early validation it is emerging as a critical gateway in Indiaâs maritime growth story and a key pillar of the countryâs push to capture a larger share of global container transhipment traffic IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/vizhinjam-ports-swift-scale-up-signals-indias-transhipment-ambitions-661019.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-withdraws-wheat-stock-limit-order-as-supply-eases-ahead-of-festive-season-661030.html New Delhi Feb 5 The Central government has decided to withdraw the wheat stock limit order dated May 27 2025 due to adequate availability of wheat and easing prices ahead of the upcoming festive season according to an official statement issued on Thursday Sufficient wheat is available to meet the requirements of the public distribution system PDS other welfare schemes and possible market interventions The Department of Food and Public Distribution is maintaining a close watch over the prices and stock position of wheat so as to ensure easy availability in the country the statement saidAs per the wheat stock declaration by private entities on the Department of Food and Public Distribution portal for the year 2025â26 wheat stock availability with private entities is significantly higher compared to the corresponding period last year The total stock reported stands at approximately 81 lakh metric tonnes which is about 30 lakh metric tonnes higher than the corresponding figure at the same period of the previous year indicating a comfortable supply position in the countryPrice data from the Department of Consumer Affairs reflects a declining trend in wheat prices particularly in the wholesale segment Wholesale prices have fallen from Rs 297010 per quintal last year to Rs 285230 per quintal at present suggesting subdued demand and excess supply conditions in domestic marketsThe Removal of Licensing Requirements Stock Limits and Movement Restrictions on Specified Foodstuffs Amendment Order 2025 was issued on May 27 2025 and is applicable for all states and Union TerritoriesUnder it all wheat stocking entities were required to declare the stock position on every Friday on the food stock portal httpsfoodstockdfpdgovinMeanwhile wheat acreage has also increased to about 33417 lakh hectares compared to 32804 lakh hectares last year exceeding the normal expected rabi area which is expected to lead to a higher output ahead This reflects continued farmer preference for wheat cultivation due to assured minimum support price MSP and procurement prospects and signals the likelihood of another robust harvest the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-withdraws-wheat-stock-limit-order-as-supply-eases-ahead-of-festive-season-661030.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-mangal-seva-completes-1-year-of-dignity-opportunity-for-500-divyang-women-661048.html Ahmedabad Feb 5 The Adani Mangal Seva on Thursday completed the first year of dignity and opportunity for 500 divyang persons with disabilities women Announced on February 5 last year Adani Mangal Seva marks Diva and Jeet Adanis decision to turn their wedding celebrations into a pledge of social security for divyang womenAnchored by the Adani Foundation the social welfare and development arm of the Adani Group Adani Mangal Seva supports divyang women aged 25 to 40 identified by project partner Youth for Jobs and holding Unique Disability ID UDID cardsIn its first year the initiative fulfilled its commitment to support 500 divyang women each with Rs 10 lakh Fixed Deposit to ensure monthly income and longterm financial stability as per a foundation statementAs a doting father I feel truly blessed that my children are choosing to carry their personal happiness into the lives of many families adding hope reassurance and quiet strength where it is needed most I pray to the Almighty that this spirit of service continues to bring happiness dignity and renewed hope into countless lives and that Jeet and Diva remain steadfast on this path of compassion purpose and seva Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani said in a post on X while also extending his wishes and blessingsUnder the Adani Mangal Seva initiative each beneficiary receives a Rs 10 lakh fixed deposit created in partnership with State Bank of India SBI as the banking partnerThe structure provides an assured monthly income with access to the principal amount after 10 years ensuring longterm financial stability and securityThe commitment is structured to span at least five years supporting up to 500 divyang women annually with an annual allocation of Rs 50 crore to sustain the initiative and its longterm impactThe evening marked a moment of reflection continuity and fulfilment on the Belvedere Club lawns in Shantigram as Adani Mangal Seva completed one year since its inceptionThe programme began with prayer and reflection followed by a presentation reaffirming the central belief of Adani Mangal Seva that prosperity finds meaning only when it creates lasting opportunity for othersâThe inspiration behind Adani Mangal Seva was born from a simple yet profound thought that personal joy finds its highest meaning when it is shared for collective wellbeing When life blesses us with moments of happiness extending that happiness to society is true service That is why Adani Mangal Seva is deeply personal to me This is not just a programme It is an emotion It is a responsibility we carry forward Adani Foundation Chairperson Dr Priti Adani said in her address to the gatheringDuring the programme Gautam Adani also launched Adani Mangal Sevaâs book comprising stories of transformation The evening concluded with a shared dinner that preserved its inclusive and grounded character IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-mangal-seva-completes-1-year-of-dignity-opportunity-for-500-divyang-women-661048.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-will-boost-msmes-gujarat-cm-661057.html Gandhinagar Feb 5 Gujarat is set to gain significantly from the Union Budget 202627 which focuses on advancing economic growth enhancing infrastructure and promoting inclusive development Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said on Thursday Addressing a press conference Patel described the budget as a âstrong foundation for building a developed Indiaâ under Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs leadershipHe highlighted that the budget is guided by three core priorities boosting sustainable economic growth promoting active public participation in national prosperity through capacity building and advancing inclusive development across all regionsThe Chief Minister pointed out that the budget allocates Rs 10000 crore for the BioPharma Strength Programme aimed at establishing India as a global biopharma manufacturing hubâGujarat as a leader in the pharmaceutical sector will also benefit from this initiativeâ he saidHe added that six new schemes to support the textile sector would provide momentum to the stateâs textile industryPatel also emphasised the role of over 429 million micro small and medium enterprises MSMEs which form the backbone of Gujaratâs economyâThe Union Budget has announced a Rs 10000 crore SME fund to create âChampion MSMEsâ offering direct benefits and improved liquidity for the sectorâ he saidOn infrastructure Patel said Gujarat is advancing as a semiconductor hub with four plants and will benefit from the India Semiconductor Mission 20 announced in the budgetThe Chief Minister also noted improvements under the PM GatiShakti initiative including a dedicated freight corridor from Dankuni to Surat which will enhance trade and logistics efficiency for the stateâs industriesThe extension of the 10year tax holiday in GIFT City to 20 years Patel said is expected to attract longterm investment with greater confidenceHe added that the development of Tier2 and Tier3 cities with populations above 500000 as City Economic Regions would ensure smaller cities grow alongside larger urban centresHighlighting Gujaratâs contribution to national growth Patel said Central devolution under the 16th Finance Commission has been increased from 348 to 375 which will accelerate infrastructure development including in rural areasOn employment and skill development Patel said the budget supports training 20 lakh professionals in the AVGC Animation Visual Effects Gaming and Comics sector by 2030 with 15000 schools and 500 colleges establishing Content Creator LabsâThis will benefit Gujaratâs ambitious youthâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-will-boost-msmes-gujarat-cm-661057.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/us-shifts-financial-stability-focus-to-economic-growth-household-security-661078.html Washington Feb 6 Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has told lawmakers that economic growth and household security are now central to safeguarding the financial system Testifying before the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday Bessent said the Financial Stability Oversight Council FSOC has moved away from what he called a reflexive approach to regulation âPromoting economic growth and economic security is essential to ensuring financial stabilityâ he saidThe hearing marked the first detailed congressional examination of FSOCâs 2025 annual report Bessent said the council is shifting its focus towards identifying specific vulnerabilities rather than broadly labelling large sectors of the economy as risksâToo often in the past weâve seen regulation by reflexâ he said adding that regulators had acted as a âhazmat cleanup team instead of preventing dangerous spillovers in the first placeâBessent said excessive regulation can itself undermine stability by slowing growth and limiting opportunity âEconomic stagnation is itself a threat to financial stabilityâ he saidRepublican Chairman Tim Scott welcomed the shift saying affordability and growth must move together âA system that slows growth limits opportunity or prices families out of basic financial services is not a stable systemâ Scott saidRanking Member Elizabeth Warren from the opposition Democratic Party accused the administration of weakening guardrails âCongress created FSOC after the 2008 financial crash to protect familiesâ she said warning that risks were being ignoredBessent rejected that view saying past approaches had blurred priorities âFSOC shifted away from its past approach where nearly every major market and financial sector was described as a financial stability vulnerabilityâ he saidHe said the council is now centred on strengthening household and business balance sheets âEconomic growth strengthens households business and financial institution balance sheets creating capital buffers that reduce the risk of defaults and financial stressâ Bessent saidLawmakers repeatedly clashed over the causes of inflation and bank failuresWarren said rolling back oversight could invite another crisis âThe private credit market looks like a ticking time bombâ she saidBessent said FSOCâs role is not to eliminate risk entirely âFederal agencies must avoid the temptation to create a zerorisk financial systemâ he said calling it âthe stability of the graveyardâFSOC was created after the 2008 global financial crisis to monitor systemic risks across markets and institutions It brings together senior regulators from Treasury the Federal Reserve and other agenciesThe United Statesâ approach to regulation and growth is closely watched by global markets including India where banks investors and policymakers track US signals for capital flows and financial conditions IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/us-shifts-financial-stability-focus-to-economic-growth-household-security-661078.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sebi-proposes-to-extend-standing-swp-stp-instructions-to-demat-held-mutual-funds-661084.html Mumbai Feb 6 The Securities and Exchange Board of India SEBI has proposed to allow investors to set up standing instructions for systematic withdrawal plans SWP and systematic transfer plans STP for mutual fund units held in demat accounts a facility currently available only for units held in the statementâofâaccount mode Under the proposal demat investors would be able to do one time registration of SWP or STP mandates with depositories or stock Exchanges which removes the need to submit separate instructions for each SWP or STP transaction according to a statementCurrently investors holding MF units in demat form are required to place separate instructions for redemption of units through Delivery Instruction Slip DIS for each withdrawal or transferInvestors also give such instructions by way of twofactor authentication by the DP or through authorisation given by the investor to the stockbroker through Power of Attorney PoA or Demat Debit and Pledge Instructions DDPI However in case of PoA this reduces the direct control of investors on their investments the market regulator said in a statementTherefore SEBI proposed to extend the facility of standing instruction for SWPSTP may for the MF units held by investors in demat form thereby facilitating EoDB to the various stakeholders of the MF industryThe regulator has outlined a twoâphase rollout In the first phase investors would register unitâbased SWP and STP mandates through depositories or stockâexchanges with transactions executed on order entry platform of stock exchanges the statement saidThe second phase would move processing to registrars and transfer agents and could introduce more flexible options such as amountâbased and other variants of SWPs and STPs like as appreciationâbased withdrawals and swingâSTPsSEBI has invited public comments on the proposal until February 26 after which the final framework may be notified Analysts said the change would remove a key operational difference between dematâheld mutual funds and traditional mutual fund accounts and improve ease of longterm investing IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sebi-proposes-to-extend-standing-swp-stp-instructions-to-demat-held-mutual-funds-661084.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-raises-growth-forecast-for-q1-and-q2-of-2026-27-661088.html Mumbai Feb 6 The Reserve Bank has raised its real GDP growth projections for Q1202627 and Q2 to 69 per cent and 70 per cent respectively RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced on Friday Explaining the rationale behind the hike in the growth forecast Malhotra said looking ahead sustained buoyancy in the services sector GST rationalisation healthy rabi prospects monetary easing and benign inflation environment should support private consumption Investment activity supported by high capacity utilisation conducive financial conditions healthy balance sheets of financial institutions and corporates robust credit growth and the governmentâs continued thrust on capital expenditure is expected to maintain its momentumMoreover robust domestic demand is likely to attract fresh investments by the private sector While services exports are expected to remain strong merchandise exports will get a boost from the prospective trade deal with the US the RBI Governor saidMalhotra also said that the landmark comprehensive trade pact with the European Union coupled with trade deals with New Zealand and Oman should help diversify exports and strengthen the external sector On the other hand headwinds from geopolitical tensions uncertain global trade environment volatility in global financial markets and international commodity prices continue to pose a downside riskHe further stated that the real gross domestic product GDP as per the First Advance Estimates FAE is estimated to grow at 74 per cent yoy in 202526 Private consumption and fixed investment contributed significantly to overall growth Net external demand however continued to be a drag with imports outpacing exports On the supply side real GVA growth of 73 per cent is driven by the buoyant services sector the resilient agricultural sector and revival in manufacturing activityOn the external front he pointed out that the global economy showed remarkable resilience in 2025 aided and supported by trade frontloading a milderthananticipated impact of tariffs broad fiscal stimulus and accommodative monetary policyHe said that inflation is on a path of gradual decline although it remains above target in several advanced economies US yields are trading with an upward bias amidst receding expectations of imminent rate cuts underpinned by firm economic data Equities supported by sustained investment in tech stocks have advanced even as fiscal strains geopolitical uncertainty and monetary policy divergence continue to impart volatility to financial markets IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-raises-growth-forecast-for-q1-and-q2-of-2026-27-661088.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-to-issue-new-rules-for-banks-to-compensate-customers-in-case-of-fraud-661094.html Mumbai Feb 6 RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced on Friday that the RBI is drawing up fresh rules on compensation for customers of banks in case of smallvalue fraudulent transactions The extant instructions on limiting the liability of customers in unauthorised electronic banking transactions were issued in 2017 which deal with scenarios and timelines for zero or limited liability of a customer In view of the rapid adoption of technology in the banking sector and payments systems since the issuance of these instructions the existing instructions have been reviewed Accordingly the draft revised instructions including a framework for compensation in case of smallvalue fraudulent transactions shall be issued shortly for public consultation the RBI Governor saidHe also said that the RBI is tightening rules to check banks and NBFCs from misselling financial products and servicesMisselling financial products and services by any bank or NBFC has significant consequences for both customers and the financial entity itselfThere is a felt need to ensure that thirdparty products and services that are being sold at the bank counters are suitable for customer needs and are commensurate with the risk appetite of individual clientsIt has therefore been decided to issue comprehensive instructions to REs on advertising marketing and sales of financial products and services The draft instructions in this regard shall be issued shortly for public consultation the RBI Governor saidHe also said that the RBI has decided to review and harmonise all the extant conductrelated instructions on engagement of recovery agents and other aspects related to recovery of loans Accordingly the draft instructions in this regard shall be issued shortly for public consultationCurrently different sets of instructions are applicable to different categories of Regulated Entities REs such as banks and NBFCs with respect to the engagement of recovery agents and conductrelated aspects of loan recovery IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-to-issue-new-rules-for-banks-to-compensate-customers-in-case-of-fraud-661094.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-to-issue-new-norms-soon-to-rev-up-corporate-bond-market-661101.html Mumbai Feb 6 As part of the move to develop a corporate bond market the RBI plans to issue a regulatory framework soon to enable the introduction of derivatives on credit indices and total return swaps on corporate bonds RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said that an active derivatives market can facilitate efficient management of credit risks improve liquidity and efficiency in the corporate bond market and facilitate issuance of corporate bonds across the rating spectrumAn announcement was made in the Union Budget speech delivered on February 1 2026 that total return swaps on corporate bonds and derivatives on corporate bond indices will be introduced Accordingly a regulatory framework to enable the introduction of derivatives on credit indices and total return swaps on corporate bonds will be issued shortly for public feedback he explainedThe RBI Governor further stated that the revised framework of allowing greater flexibility to Authorised Dealers with respect to foreign exchange products risk management and platforms will be issued shortly for public consultationBanks and standalone primary dealers authorised under FEMA 1999 access the foreign exchange market for market making balance sheet management and hedging of risks The regulatory framework governing the facilities for such Authorised Dealers ADs has been reviewed rationalised and refined in view of the current market practices and requirements domestically and globally he explained The Governor also announced that the RBI has decided that investments under the Voluntary Retention Route VRR will now be reckoned under the limit for FPI investments under the General Route and certain additional operational flexibilities will be provided to FPIs investing under the VRRThe Voluntary Retention Route VRR was introduced by the Reserve Bank in March 2019 to provide an additional channel for investments by Foreign Portfolio Investors FPIs with longterm investment interest in the Indian debt markets Over the years the Bank has been recalibrating the Route to improve operational flexibility and ease of doing businessThe VRR has been witnessing active investment by FPIs and over 80 per cent of the current investment limit of Rs 25 lakh crore has been utilised he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-to-issue-new-norms-soon-to-rev-up-corporate-bond-market-661101.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/govts-net-borrowing-is-on-lower-side-rbi-governor-661105.html Mumbai Feb 6 RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said on Friday that the governmentâs borrowing programme is on the lower side which would enable it to raise the required resources at reasonable prices Addressing the postmonetary policy press conference the RBI Governor said there was a need to focus on the net borrowing figure rather than gross borrowingsâIt may not be right to look at the gross borrowing number alone There are much more redemptions in FY27 so gross borrowing is expected to be higher Net borrowings however are only at Rs 1173 lakh crore which is only about Rs 20000 crore more than last year Given the size of the Budget one would have expected a much bigger increaseâ Malhotra observedHe said the government will also raise funds through Treasury Bills this year which should help authorities manage the yield curve better and handle the borrowing programme more efficientlyThe issuance of treasury bills in the next financial year will help further manage the yield curve better The budgeted number for the small savings scheme is conservative The Centres borrowing programme is on the lower side and can raise funds at reasonable prices he saidMalhotra further stated that the RBI has made sure there is ample liquidity into the system to ensure transmission of previous repo rate cuts in the economy The central bank is not looking at making any changes in liquidity management he addedHe further stated that tax holidays for data centres should help attract fresh investment signalling confidence that policy incentives can pull longterm capital into digital infrastructureThe RBI Governor also said that the near and medium term outlook on Indias external account is favourable He highlighted the string of trade deals over the last one year that is expected to boost exports draw foreign investments and raise productivityâEven after accounting for deficits India has sufficient foreign exchange reserves to cover its requirements The reserves are more than twice our shortterm external borrowings On the external front the position remains very comfortable he saidBesides he pointed out that the opening up of the insurance sector to FDI and the investments in Indias private banking space shows confidence in the growth storyOn the macroeconomic picture the Governor said he is confident India can meet its external sector requirements adding that the country is at the âsame sweet point or maybe betterâ on inflation compared with the last policy Growth also looks stronger than the last time the monetary policy committee met he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/govts-net-borrowing-is-on-lower-side-rbi-governor-661105.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cm-omar-abdullah-presents-rs-1-13-767-crore-budget-in-jk-assembly-focusing-on-investment-innovation-661108.html Jammu Feb 6 IANS Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tabled a Rs 113767 crore budget for 202627 in the Legislative Assembly on Friday saying the financial plan aims to lay a strong foundation for sustainable growth social harmony and economic prosperity in the union territorynbspHe said his government is committed to transforming the UT into a modern progressive and economically vibrant region by promoting investment innovation and participatory governanceWith deep humility and unwavering resolve I rise today to present my second Budget as Finance Minister It is a privilege to be entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the financial future of our land CM Abdullah said while presenting the BudgetDescribing the Budget as a roadmap for development he said This Budget is not merely a ledger of figures it is a fiscal compass charting our path towards a brighter horizon It lays strong foundations for enduring economic growth social harmony and sustainable prosperityThe chief minister urged members of the House to work collectively for the regions developmentAs we embark on this shared journey I invite every honourable member of this august House to come together and work collectively to build a strong and flourishing Jammu and Kashmir he saidHighlighting the resilience of the people CM Abdullah who also holds the UTs finance portfolio said his government is committed to transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a progressive and economically vibrant regionTogether we will turn obstacles into stepping stones and aspirations into achievements he added The chief minister said the government is focused on creating a businessfriendly ecosystem to attract investment and innovationHe said the Budget was prepared after wide consultations with elected representatives industry leaders and stakeholders to ensure it remains peoplecentricReferring to challenges faced in the past year the CM said geopolitical factors the Pahalgam terror attack and devastating floods in parts of the Jammu region adversely impacted economic activityAll sectors including tourism handicrafts horticulture and agriculture were badly affected leading to job losses and financial distress for families he saidOmar Abdullah said the Budget focuses on inclusive and sustainable growth through strategic investments in infrastructure public services and governanceHe added that the government aims to create opportunities for youth and women Flagging fiscal constraints the chief minister said own tax and nontax revenues meet only about 25 per cent of the UTs budgetary requirementsThe CM said revenue collections stood at Rs 10265 crore from taxes and Rs 4964 crore from nontax sources till December 31 2025 The chief minister said nearly 60 per cent of the overall expenditure is committed towards salaries pensions and debt servicing adding that the government is taking steps to manage debt and curb nonpriority spendingWe are strengthening debt sustainability by keeping borrowings within approved limits and improving liquidity management For the third consecutive year austerity measures have been enforced he saidHe said reforms in the power sector including expansion of the consumer base and execution of loss reduction works are being undertaken to ease financial stressThe CM also acknowledged the Centres support in addressing fiscal challengesThe Central government has remained cognizant of our difficulties and consistently supported us through special assistance he said adding that Jammu and Kashmir has been brought under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment schemeThe chief minister said the funds under the scheme would be utilised for infrastructure development hydroelectric projects and disaster mitigation works particularly in floodaffected areasThe chief minister said a roadmap would be announced in the coming months for the regularisation of daily wage workers whose contribution and services to JampampK were lauded by himHighlights of the BudgetOver 321 lakh houses completed under PMAY 14000 more under constructionInternational film festival in 20262963 women become Lakhpati DidisnbspNew cultural centres across JampampKnbspNew framework for MSMEsTwo Ayush hospitals next financial yearAIIMS Kashmir commissioning in 2026200 new ebuses announcednbspExpanded PET scan and mobile medical unitsnbspVocational education in 554 schools https://dailyworld.in/business/cm-omar-abdullah-presents-rs-1-13-767-crore-budget-in-jk-assembly-focusing-on-investment-innovation-661108.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistans-aim-to-reach-100-billion-exports-by-2030-a-wishful-thinking-than-credible-strategy-661111.html New Delhi Feb 6 The gap between how Pakistan actually lives and how it is officially governed is steadily eroding productivity deepening inequality and weakening the foundations of growth a new report has said adding that the rhetoric around reaching 100 billion in exports by 2030 is closer to wishful thinking than credible strategy Moreover latest package of incentives announced by the government may provide temporary relief but on their own they are unlikely to alter Pakistanâs export trajectory in any meaningful way without deeper structural reform argues Yousuf Nazar in The News InternationalProjections place Pakistanâs total exports of goods and services at roughly 40â41 billion in FY2025â26 with merchandise exports around 32 billion and services close to 8â9 billionâThat baseline is being weakened further by recent performance in the first seven months of FY2025â26 merchandise exports declined with July 2025âJanuary 2026 shipments falling to about 182 billion nearly 70 per cent lower than a year earlier widening the trade deficit by 282 per centâ said the reportThe report said that the 100 billion target remains aspirational rather than credible in the absence of âradical transformation in productivity urban infrastructure industrial clustering and export competitivenessâEconomics is not moved by slogans Without structural reform this is less a strategy than a sandcastle the report notesNotably only 38â39 per cent of Pakistanâs population as urban based on administrative boundaries drawn decades ago This framing obscures the scale of demographic change underway âA large and growing share of Pakistanis now live in dense builtup settlements that function economically and socially like cities but remain officially labelled âruralâ These areas absorb migrants host nonfarm employment and shape labour markets yet fall outside municipal governance urban investment and political attentionâ the report observesEconomically the contradiction is clear Urban areas generate the bulk of output services exports and tax revenue yet receive inadequate investment relative to their population and economic weight Environmental stress further compounds these challenges âPolitically however Pakistan remains anchored in a rural imagination Electoral incentives reward patronage over planning and land distribution over labour productivityâ it saysIf Pakistan is serious about exportled growth urban reform must move from the margins to the centre of economic policy said the report IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistans-aim-to-reach-100-billion-exports-by-2030-a-wishful-thinking-than-credible-strategy-661111.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-group-rolls-out-rs-70-000-crore-investment-roadmap-for-vidarbha-661119.html Nagpur Feb 6 IANS The Adani Group on Friday outlined a Rs 70000 crore longterm investment roadmap for Vidarbha across energy infrastructure logistics aviation and community development positioning the Maharashtra region as a future hub of clean energy industrial manufacturing and integrated logisticsnbspAddressing the Advantage Vidarbha 2026 conclave Adani Airports Director Jeet Adani said the Groups presence in Vidarbha was generational not transactional aligned with national priorities of energy security sustainable infrastructure and inclusive growthHe said Vidarbha was emerging as a critical pillar in Maharashtras and Indias growth story supported by strong political leadership infrastructure creation and private investmentThe Adani Group currently operates Maharashtras largest 3300 MW supercritical thermal power plant at Tiroda and has revived the 600 MW Butibori power plant in 2025 strengthening the states baseload power capacity Through a 25year supply agreement the Group now supplies 6600 MW of reliable electricity to Maharashtra combining solar power from Khavda with thermal generation to ensure grid stabilityThis power backbone supports Maharashtras industries cities and digital economy Jeet Adani saidA key announcement highlighted was the Rs 70000 crore Integrated Coal Gasification and Downstream Derivatives Complex at Linga Kalmeshwar The project is expected to generate around 30000 direct jobs develop advanced chemical manufacturing capabilities and reduce import dependence for critical industrial inputs Jeet Adani described the project as a platform for national selfreliance that would place Nagpur on the global map of cleanenergylinked industrial technologiesIn logistics the Adani Group is strengthening Vidarbhas role as a regional gateway through a 75acre Inland Container Depot at Borkhedi and the acquisition of 24 border check posts across Maharashtra aimed at reducing freight costs and improving export competitiveness for local industries The Groups underground coal mine at Gondkhairi was presented as a benchmark for responsible mining featuring minimal land use zero displacement no blasting rainwater harvesting and zero effluent dischargeVidarbhas aviation ecosystem is also expanding with the acquisition of Indamer Technics Pvt Ltd and the expansion of a 30acre Maintenance Repair and Overhaul MRO complex at MIHAN The facility with 15 aircraft bays and both FAA and DGCA certifications is positioning Nagpur as an emerging international MRO destination integrated with the Air Works global networkAlongside infrastructure investments Jeet Adani highlighted the Adani Foundations work across Gondia and Nagpur including primary healthcare education womens selfhelp groups nutrition programmes solar lighting clean water initiatives sports and school development On sustainability he said the Groups Tiroda plant follows zerowaterdischarge practices recycles fly ash for cement and agriculture and contributes to its pledge of planting 100 million trees by 2030 Adani Energy Solutions is targeting 60 per cent renewable energy sourcing by 2027He credited the national and state leadership for creating the conditions for Vidarbhas resurgence and said the region was no longer defined by potential alone but by visible progressVidarbha is ready to lead he remarked adding that the Adani Group would remain a longterm partner in building economic resilience highquality jobs and sustainable growth in the regionThe Vidarbhafocused strategy aligns with the Adani Groups wider commitment to MaharashtraAt the 56th World Economic Forum WEF in Davos last month Adani Enterprises Limited AEL Director Pranav Adani signed memoranda of understanding MoUs worth 66 billion with the Maharashtra government spanning renewable energy power transmission logistics data centres and infrastructure a company statement added https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-group-rolls-out-rs-70-000-crore-investment-roadmap-for-vidarbha-661119.html Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indian-oils-net-profit-surges-nearly-60-pc-in-q3-fy26-stock-jumps-660992.html Mumbai Feb 5 Shares of Indian Oil Corporation IOC rose on Thursday after the stateâowned refiner reported close to 60 per cent surge in profits during the December quarter of FY26 Indian Oil posted a 593 per cent increase in net profit to Rs 12126 crore for the quarter up from Rs 76105 crore in the September quarter Revenue during the reported quarter increased to Rs 204 lakh crore up about 143 per cent from Rs 178 lakh crore in the prior quarterEarnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation EBITDA climbed 428 per cent sequentially to Rs 208248 crore from Rs 14584 crore The EBITDA margin expanded by 200 basis points to 102 per cent from 82 per cent in the prior quarterAverage Gross Refining Margin GRM for the period April December 2025 is 841 per barrel April December 2024 369 per bbl the statement saidThe core GRM or the current price GRM for the period April December 2025 after offsetting inventory loss or gain stood at 986 per bbl the company saidIOCs stocks have gained 658 per cent over the past month and 3910 per cent in one yearAn international consortium comprising ONGC Videsh Limited OVL Indian Oil Corporation IOC Oil India Limited OIL Repsol of Spain and Petronas of Malaysia was declared the winner of an international bidding process in April 2008 to develop a multiâmilliondollar oil project integrated in Carabobo in the Orinoco belt of VenezuelaIndian Oil Corporation IOC had in January announced that it has taken an important step forward in Indiaâs upstream energy journey with the commencement of first domestic production from the Jyoti1 well in GujaratIOCâs shares rose 179 per cent on an intraday basis to close at Rs 17587 up Rs 309 on the day IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indian-oils-net-profit-surges-nearly-60-pc-in-q3-fy26-stock-jumps-660992.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/addressed-power-deficiency-by-adding-2896-gw-fresh-generation-capacity-since-2014-govt-660993.html New Delhi Feb 5 While Indias current installed power generation capacity stands at 513730 GW the government addressed the critical issue of power deficiency by adding 289607 GW of fresh generation capacity since April 2014 transforming the country from power deficit to power sufficient the Parliament was informed on Thursday Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha that the country successfully met the alltime maximum demand of 250 GW last yearHe further informed that the gap between âEnergy Suppliedâ and âEnergy Requirementâ has declined from 05 per cent during FY 202223 to âNILâ during the current yearSimilarly the peak demand not met has declined from 40 per cent during 202223 to almost NILduring the current year the minister saidAccording to the National Electricity Plan NEP installed generation capacity in 203132 is likely to be 874 GWThe minister said that with a view to ensuring generation capacity remains ahead of projected peak demand all the states in consultation with CEA have prepared their Resource Adequacy Plans RAPs which are dynamic 10year rolling plans and include power generation as well as power procurement planningThe projected thermal coal and lignite capacity requirement by the year 2034â35 is estimated at approximately 307000 MW as against the 211855 MW installed capacity as on 31032023To meet this requirement the Ministry of Power has envisaged setting up an additional minimumof 97000 MW coal and lignitebased thermal capacity the minister saidThermal capacities of around 17360 MW have already been commissioned since April 2023 till January 20 2026In addition 39545 MW of thermal capacity including 4845 MW of stressed thermal power projects is currently under constructionThe contracts of 22920 MW have been awarded and are due for construction Further 24020 MW of coal and lignitebased candidate capacity has been identified which is at various stages of planning in the country Naik saidAbout 129735 MW of hydroelectric projects are under construction Further 4274 MW of hydroelectric projects are under various stages of planning and targeted to be completed by 203132 Also 6600 MW of nuclear capacity is under construction and targeted to be completed by 202930 while another about 7000 MW is under various stages of planning and approvalNotably 157800 MW renewable capacity including 67280 MW of solar 6500 MW of wind and 60040 MW of hybrid power is under construction while 48720 MW of renewable capacity including 35440 MW of solar and 11480 MW of hybrid power is at various stages of planning and targeted to be completed by 202930 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/addressed-power-deficiency-by-adding-2896-gw-fresh-generation-capacity-since-2014-govt-660993.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/lic-clocks-17-per-cent-rise-in-q3-net-profit-at-rs-12-930-crore-660996.html Mumbai Feb 5 Life Insurance Corporation of India LIC reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 12930 crore for Q3 FY26 marking a 17 per cent yearonyear increase from the Rs 1100865 crore net profit reported in Q3 FY25 The insurers net premium income meanwhile rose to Rs 12598815 crore during the third quarter of FY 26The standalone net profit for the nine months ended December 31 2025 was Rs 33998 crore as compared to Rs 29138 crore for the nine months ended December 31 2024 registering a growth of 1668 per cent according to a company statementIn terms of market share measured by First Year Premium Income FYPI as per IRDAI LIC continues to be the market leader in the Indian life insurance business with an overall market share of 5707 per cent for the nine months ended December 31 2025 as compared to 5742 per cent for the nine months ended December 31st 2024 For the nine months ended December 31 2025 LIC had a market share of 3584 per cent in the individual business and 7136 per cent in the group businessThe total premium Income for nine months period ended December 31 2025 was Rs 371293 crore as compared to Rs 340563 crore compared to the same period of the previous year registering a growth of 902 per centIndividual New Business premium income for the ninemonth period ended December 31 2025 was Rs 44941 crore as compared to Rs 42441 crore for the same period of the previous year registering an increase of 589 per cent The individual renewal premium income for nine months period ended December 31 2025 was Rs 191050 crore as compared to Rs 178975 crore for the same period of the previous year registering an increase of 675 per centThe total individual business premium for the ninemonth period ended December 31 2025 increased to Rs 235991 crore from Rs 221416 crore for the comparable period of the previous year registering an increase of 658 per cent The group business total premium income for nine months period ended December 31 2025 was Rs 135302 crore as compared to Rs 119147 crore for the same period of the previous year registering an increase of 1356 per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/lic-clocks-17-per-cent-rise-in-q3-net-profit-at-rs-12-930-crore-660996.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-2026-27-improves-mediumterm-earnings-visibility-for-capexlinked-sectors-660818.html New Delhi Feb 4 The Union Budget 2026â27 strengthened mediumterm earnings visibility for sectors aligned with public capex and policy priorities even though earnings recovery will take time a report said on Wednesday The report from small case managers said the Budget opened actionable opportunities across defence ecosystems manufacturingâlinked businesses logistics select auto and ancillaries energyâtransition themes and innovationâled pharmaceuticalsThe report said sharp market reactions came to selective measures such as changes in derivatives taxation and argued that Budgetâs deeper signals point to continuity in capital formation strategic manufacturing and defenceâled expansionThe investment platform noted the recently announced IndiaâUS trade agreement as a positive development adding that oil and gas clean technology nuclear energy rare earths data centres and artificial intelligence are top sectors to benefit from the dealDivam Sharma smallcase manager and CEO amp coâfounder of Green Portfolio said many investors are experiencing their first prolonged phase of weak earnings and subdued sentimentIndian markets are no longer in an ultrahigh growth phase Nominal GDP growth has settled closer to 10 per cent which is a sign of maturityânot stressâ Sharma saidValuation resets and drawdowns especially in small caps are consistent with historical market behaviour and should be viewed as part of a longer wealthcreation cycle rather than a breakdown of the India story Sharma addedRegarding Budgets sectoral priorities Shashank Udupa smallcase Manager and SEBIregistered Research Analyst said âBudget allocations point to intent not optics The sharp increase in defence capital outlayâacross land systems aircraft engines heavy vehicles and RampDâclearly shows this is not a oneyear pushâBudget allocations point to building capability ecosystems and domestic scale Udupa addedHe also pointed to higher spending on pharmaceuticals biopharma research chemical parks and coal gasification as evidence that the government is addressing both innovation and energy securityThe report flagged that renewed interest in gold shortages in critical metals and persistent commodity inflation suggest global markets are entering a new structural phase rather than just another shortterm market cycle IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-2026-27-improves-mediumterm-earnings-visibility-for-capexlinked-sectors-660818.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/brent-crude-to-be-range-bound-under-70-per-barrel-due-to-supply-demand-mismatch-660824.html New Delhi Feb 4 Global crude oil prices may see only a marginal uptick in the near term and will be curtailed to 68â70 per barrel in the long term despite geopolitical and supplyâside uncertainties a report said on Wednesday Emkay Wealth Management Limited the wealth management arm of Emkay Global Financial Services said in a report that any upward movement is likely to be gradual and capped as market fundamentals point to slower global growth and cautious consumption across major economiesBrent crude has traded in a subdued 60â65 range for over a year despite OPEC production curbs amid lack of price breakout due to persistent imbalance between demand growth and emerging supply the report highlightedThe report further noted that demand forecasts continue to lag incremental production additions and prolonged low prices have curtailed capital expenditure across the energy sector with major oil and gas companies deferring investments to preserve liquidity and balanceâsheet stabilityOutput from Venezuela and Iran has normalised recently with a larger portion of it flowing to Asian markets particularly ChinaHowever fresh political developments and evolving geopolitical dynamics have reintroduced uncertainty around the continuity of these suppliesâWhile geopolitical developments could support oil prices in the very short term the underlying fundamentals suggest that any rally will be limited said Dr Joseph Thomas Head of Research Emkay Wealth ManagementEnergy companies and market participants will need to navigate this phase with capital discipline and a focus on operational efficiency rather than relying on priceâled growth he suggestedThe reports cited forecasts by the US Energy Information Administration that global oil inventories are expected to keep rising through 2026 exerting downward pressure on prices in the coming months The agency has projected an average Brent crude price of around USD 55 per barrel in 2026 underscoring expectations of continued oversupply IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/brent-crude-to-be-range-bound-under-70-per-barrel-due-to-supply-demand-mismatch-660824.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/rajasthan-to-gain-significantly-from-india-us-trade-deal-cm-bhajanlal-sharma-660827.html Jaipur Feb 4 Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Wednesday said the newlysigned trade agreement between India and the United States will be a game changer for the states economy CM Sharma said Rajasthan is expected to reap immense benefits from the newly signed trade agreement between India and the United StatesExpressing optimism over the agreement reached under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi the Chief Minister said the deal reflects growing global confidence in Indias economic strengthHighlighting the reduction in US tariffs on Indian products from 50 per cent to 18 per cent the Chief Minister said the move would make Indian goods more competitive in one of the worlds largest marketsThe sharp cut in tariffs will significantly improve market access for Indian exporters It gives fresh momentum to the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives at the global level he saidThe Chief Minister said Rajasthan being one of the countrys leading exportoriented states stands to benefit substantially particularly its textile industry which forms the backbone of the states economyWith easier access to the US market demand for Rajasthans garments and textile products is expected to rise sharply This will be especially beneficial for MSMEs which play a crucial role in employment generation CM Sharma saidReferring to Rajasthans rich cultural and artisanal heritage he said the agreement would open new opportunities for the states handicrafts sector including blue pottery miniature paintings marble and wooden crafts and handwoven textilesHe added that the deal would also bring relief and expansion opportunities for Jaipurs globally renowned gems and jewellery industry ensuring better prices and wider market reach for artisans and tradersAccording to the Chief Minister growth in exports would have a multiplier effect on the states economy creating new employment opportunities in allied sectors such as transport packaging banking and insuranceHe urged stakeholders and citizens to work collectively towards building a prosperous developed and selfreliant RajasthanHe also pointed to Indias expanding presence in global trade noting that the country has signed nine major trade agreements in the last six yearsWhen the worlds two largest democracies and economies collaborate the benefits reach entrepreneurs workers and ordinary citizens Today the global community is keen to strengthen its engagement with India CM Sharma said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/rajasthan-to-gain-significantly-from-india-us-trade-deal-cm-bhajanlal-sharma-660827.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/undp-backed-digital-platforms-boosting-indias-immunisation-ecosystem-report-660844.html New Delhi Feb 4 Governmentled digital platforms supported by the United Nations Development Programme UNDP including the UWIN and eVIN have strengthened Indiaâs immunisation ecosystem said a report from the UN agency on Wednesday In its annual report 2025 launched at UN House at the Country Programme Management Board meeting the UN agency noted that UWIN helped track immunisation services for 32 million pregnant women and 97 million children The eVIN on the other hand enabled monitoring of vaccine stocks and coldchain temperatures across 30000 coldchain points covering over 650 million doses Further the immunisation platforms also expanded insurance coverage to 42 million farmers while supporting 63000 people with climateresilient livelihoods in the country The report also demonstrated UNDPâs role in progress in areas including SDG localisation acceleration and financing digital healthcare solutions childcare support crop insurance and climate action âIndiaâs development progress in 2025 reflects strong government leadership in delivering at scale through public systems These systems are delivered across health insurance care and climate action reaching women children farmers waste workers and lowincome householdsâ said Angela Lusigi Resident Representative UNDP India UNDP is proud to have supported these efforts by strengthening technical expertise helping public programmes function more effectively and respond faster when support was needed she addedFurther the report noted that the UNDP worked with national and state governments to strengthen how the Sustainable Development Goals move from policy to delivery The SDG Coordination and Acceleration approach is now institutionalised across key ministries supporting more aligned implementation At the subnational level SDG monitoring frameworks are operational in 33 of 36 States and Union Territories improving how data informs planning and budgeting Further economic security was reinforced through stronger social protection and risk mitigation Indiaâs crop insurance scheme Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana PMFBY expanded coverage to 42 million farmers These measures helped farming households recover faster from climate and income shocks the report said Communitybased childcare models enabled women in lowincome urban areas to take up paid work while also creating jobs in the care economyIn 2025 UNDP supported India in designing its National Adaptation Plan and a genderresponsive Biodiversity Finance Plan Communityled restoration initiatives supported more than 63000 people with climateresilient livelihoods helping reduce vulnerability to environmental shocks while sustaining incomes the report said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/undp-backed-digital-platforms-boosting-indias-immunisation-ecosystem-report-660844.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-seen-as-key-emerging-global-power-660851.html New Delhi Feb 4 Over the past decade India has witnessed an economic and social transformation that has positioned the country as one of the most influential emerging powers of the 21st century according to a report in the UAEâs Khaleej Times Indiaâs growth story has not remained limited to a handful of metropolitan centres but has extended across statesGujarat has continued to consolidate its role as an industrial and logistics hub by leveraging ports manufacturing clusters and renewable energy investments Tamil Nadu has expanded its leadership in automobile manufacturing electronics and advanced industrial production while also investing in skilling and exportsMaharashtra anchored by Mumbai has combined financial services infrastructure modernisation and innovation driven entrepreneurship to remain a key driver of national growth the report points outAt the same time states once considered economically lagging have recorded visible gainsUttar Pradesh has invested heavily in expressways industrial parks and urban infrastructure improving connectivity between cities and opening new avenues for investmentMadhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have focussed on agriculture linked industries clean energy and logistics while Odisha has emerged as a major centre for metals minerals and downstream manufacturing supported by improved ease of doing business it further statesAmong the southern states Karnataka particularly Bengaluru has reinforced its global reputation as a technology and innovation hub extending beyond IT services into startups research and emerging technologiesAndhra Pradesh and Telangana have strengthened capabilities in pharmaceuticals food processing and digital services contributing to export growth and employmentBeyond physical infrastructure one of the most consequential changes of the last decade has been Indiaâs investment in institutional and social infrastructure Stronger child welfare frameworks have reinforced human capital formation across statesEqually significant has been progress in good governance The use of digital identity systems for targeted delivery of subsidies has improved efficiency and reduced leakages nationwide the report added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-seen-as-key-emerging-global-power-660851.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/netflixwarner-deal-sparks-antitrust-alarm-in-us-senate-660863.html Washington Feb 4 A US Senate panel has flagged serious antitrust risks in Netflixs 83billion bid for Warner Bros Discovery questioning whether the merger would give the streaming giant excessive market power and reshape competition across the entertainment industry Senate Antitrust Subcommittee Chair Mike Lee said the proposed transaction was extraordinary in both scale and in potential consequence and warranted close scrutinyHe said that Netflix the worlds largest streaming platform would gain control of Warner Bros film and television studios streaming services and an extensive library of iconic contentAt a Congressional hearing on Tuesday Lee said the merger raised horizontal antitrust concerns because Netflix and HBO Max compete directly for subscription streaming customers seeking premium films and web seriesHe also warned that the companies compete for creative talent including writers directors and actors and that consolidating two major employers could weaken competition in the labour marketLee also cited vertical risks saying that combining Netflixs dominant global distribution platform with Warner Bros content portfolio could disadvantage rivalsThe Utah Republican said the merged company could withhold marquee titles raise licensing fees or favour its own content through Netflixs recommendation algorithms even small changes that could affect visibility and competitionRanking Member Cory Booker said corporate concentration had reached levels not seen for generations and warned that selling Warner Bros to a competitor could have serious consequences for consumers and for the television and film industryThe New Jersey Democrat said consolidation had often led to higher subscription prices fewer choices and shrinking opportunities for artists and creatorsBooker also raised concerns about the broader cultural impact saying another large merger could give a single corporation greater control over what we see what we hear and the news we consume while tens of thousands of workers across the entertainment industry worried about their livelihoodsDefending the deal Netflix coCEO Ted Sarandos told lawmakers that a combined Netflix and Warner Bros would strengthen the American entertainment industry preserve choice and value for consumers and create opportunities for creatorsHe said Netflix planned to operate Warner Bros studios largely as they are today keep traditional 45day theatrical release windows for major films and continue investing in US productionSarandos said that the market remained highly competitive citing broadcast networks rival streamers and technology companiesHe said Netflix accounted for about nine per cent of US television viewing time and would rise to about 10 per cent after the mergerHe added that Netflix productions had created more than 155000 American jobs and contributed 225 billion to the US economyWarner Bros Discovery Chief Revenue and Strategy Officer Bruce Campbell said the companys board unanimously determined that Netflixs offer was the best option after reviewing competing bidsHe added that the vertical merger would pair Warner Bros studios with Netflixs streaming platform while allowing the planned separation of the companys news and sports networks into a new entitySeveral Senators pressed both executives on potential layoffs price increases and the future of movie theatersLee and others warned that the deal could divert major releases from theatres to streaming and reduce consumer choice while Sarandos insisted the company intended to support theatrical releases and keep investing in contentThe hearing comes as the US Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission review the proposed merger under federal antitrust law with lawmakers from both parties urging regulators to examine its impact on competition prices jobs and the future of the entertainment industry IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/netflixwarner-deal-sparks-antitrust-alarm-in-us-senate-660863.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/china-likely-to-send-delegation-to-indias-ai-summit-amid-improving-ties-660865.html New Delhi Feb 4 China is planning to send an official delegation to Indiaâs upcoming AI summit in the national capital in a fresh sign that relations between the two neighbours are gradually improving According to reports a vice minister from Chinaâs Ministry of Science and Technology likely to lead the delegationGeorge Chen partner and cochair of digital practice at consultancy The Asia Group said the Indian embassy in Beijing had reached out to arrange visas for the Chinese representativesThe Asia Group regularly engages with Chinese policymakers on artificial intelligence regulation as per reportsThis is the first public confirmation that China will attend the AI Impact Summit scheduled to take place in New Delhi from February 16 to 20In late December Chinese state media had cited Indian reports saying that New Delhi had officially invited Beijing to participate in the eventHowever there is no official statement or confirmation from the Indian embassy and Chinaâs Ministry of Science and TechnologyThe planned participation of Chinese officials and businesses comes at a time when ties between the two countries appear to be stabilising after several years of tensionRelations had deteriorated sharply following a deadly border clash in 2020 After the incident India banned dozens of Chinese mobile applications including TikTok citing security concernsHowever tensions began easing last year after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization SCO summit in Tianjin in AugustThe two leaders were also seen in a widely shared video along with Russian President Vladimir Putin signalling a thaw in diplomatic engagementSince then steps such as the resumption of direct flights and tourist visas have reflected improving tiesChina has increasingly used platforms such as the SCO to expand its influence in global AI developmentThe AI summit in India is also expected to draw several prominent global leaders including Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates and Anthropic CEO Dario AmodeiThe eventâs dates coincide with Chinaâs Lunar New Year holiday the countryâs biggest annual festival IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/china-likely-to-send-delegation-to-indias-ai-summit-amid-improving-ties-660865.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/post-pahalgam-terror-attack-178-crore-tourists-visited-jampk-making-loud-statement-of-faith-in-goodwill-of-local-people-l-g-sinha-660866.html Srinagar Feb 4 Despite the huge setback to the tourism industry by the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22 last year in which 26 innocent civilians including 25 tourists and a local pony owner were killed by Pakistani terrorists more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory in 2025 The hospitality of the people and the confidence reposed by the visitors in the goodwill of the locals has defeated the nefarious designs of the enemies of peace and prosperity in Jammu and KashmirJammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha has rightly said on Wednesday that despite security challenges tourism continues to be the pillar of the Union Territorys economyIn his address to the Legislative Assembly LG Sinha said that despite security challenges and natural calamities more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory last yearThe LG referred to challenges like the Pahalgam terror attack 2025 floods and Operation Sindoor He said because of its crucial economic importance tourism had been given the status of an industry in Jammu and Kashmir to attract investment and generate employmentThe LG had special word of appreciation for the Chrysanthemum garden called BagheGulDawood started first time as a major autumn tourist attraction in Srinagar last yearHe added that with more than 50 vibrant varieties of Chrysanthemum the garden is a strategic cornerstone in Kashmirs transition to yearround destinationFocus has been given to pilgrim tourism in Jammu adventure tourism in Kashmir and ecofriendly tourism in border areas for equitable growth of various regions of Jammu and Kashmir the LG saidHe added that the Union government is planning a sustainable project for emerging tourist destinations with publicprivate participationReferring to the power sector the LG said there has been structural transformation in this sector through new hydropower projects like Pakal Dul Kiru Ratle and Kwar projects having a united potential of 3014 megawattsLG Sinha noted with satisfaction that during the last five years 5708 MVA capacity has been added to distribution system and 4239 MVA capacity to transmission sector in Jammu and KashmirHe said power losses have been reduced by nine per cent while revenue realisation has increased by 16 per cent in the Union Territory He added that solarisation of government buildings and private homes through PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has further strengthened renewable energy adoptionThe LG said that under this Central flagship scheme so far 6700 government buildings and 16800 homes had been solarisedHe added that historic milestone in connectivity has been achieved by connecting the Valley with the rest of the country through a railway link He referred to modernisation of Jammu Tawi Railway station and the creation of a separate full fledged railway division for Jammu and Kashmir IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/post-pahalgam-terror-attack-178-crore-tourists-visited-jampk-making-loud-statement-of-faith-in-goodwill-of-local-people-l-g-sinha-660866.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/post-pahalgam-terror-attack-178-crore-tourists-visited-jampk-reposes-faith-in-goodwill-of-local-people-l-g-sinha-660868.html Srinagar Feb 4 Despite the huge setback to the tourism industry by the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22 last year in which 26 innocent civilians including 25 tourists and a local pony owner were killed by Pakistani terrorists more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory in 2025 The hospitality of the people and the confidence reposed by the visitors in the goodwill of the locals has defeated the nefarious designs of the enemies of peace and prosperity in Jammu and KashmirJammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha has rightly said on Wednesday that despite security challenges tourism continues to be the pillar of the Union Territorys economyIn his address to the Legislative Assembly LG Sinha said that despite security challenges and natural calamities more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory last yearThe LG referred to challenges like the Pahalgam terror attack 2025 floods and Operation SindoorHe said because of its crucial economic importance tourism had been given the status of an industry in Jammu and Kashmir to attract investment and generate employmentThe LG had special word of appreciation for the Chrysanthemum garden called BagheGulDawood started first time as a major autumn tourist attraction in Srinagar last yearHe added that with more than 50 vibrant varieties of Chrysanthemum the garden is a strategic cornerstone in Kashmirs transition to yearround destinationFocus has been given to pilgrim tourism in Jammu adventure tourism in Kashmir and ecofriendly tourism in border areas for equitable growth of various regions of Jammu and Kashmir the LG saidHe added that the Union government is planning a sustainable project for emerging tourist destinations with publicprivate participationReferring to the power sector the LG said there has been structural transformation in this sector through new hydropower projects like Pakal Dul Kiru Ratle and Kwar projects having a united potential of 3014 megawattsLG Sinha noted with satisfaction that during the last five years 5708 MVA capacity has been added to distribution system and 4239 MVA capacity to transmission sector in Jammu and KashmirHe said power losses have been reduced by nine per cent while revenue realisation has increased by 16 per cent in the Union TerritoryHe added that solarisation of government buildings and private homes through PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has further strengthened renewable energy adoptionThe LG said that under this Central flagship scheme so far 6700 government buildings and 16800 homes had been solarisedHe added that historic milestone in connectivity has been achieved by connecting the Valley with the rest of the country through a railway linkHe referred to modernisation of Jammu Tawi Railway station and the creation of a separate full fledged railway division for Jammu and Kashmir IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/post-pahalgam-terror-attack-178-crore-tourists-visited-jampk-reposes-faith-in-goodwill-of-local-people-l-g-sinha-660868.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/post-pahalgam-terror-attack-178-crore-tourists-visited-jampk-l-g-sinha-660869.html Srinagar Feb 4 Despite the huge setback to the tourism industry by the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22 last year in which 26 innocent civilians including 25 tourists and a local pony owner were killed by Pakistani terrorists more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory in 2025 The hospitality of the people and the confidence reposed by the visitors in the goodwill of the locals has defeated the nefarious designs of the enemies of peace and prosperity in Jammu and KashmirJammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha has rightly said on Wednesday that despite security challenges tourism continues to be the pillar of the Union Territorys economyIn his address to the Legislative Assembly LG Sinha said that despite security challenges and natural calamities more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory last yearThe LG referred to challenges like the Pahalgam terror attack 2025 floods and Operation SindoorHe said because of its crucial economic importance tourism had been given the status of an industry in Jammu and Kashmir to attract investment and generate employmentThe LG had special word of appreciation for the Chrysanthemum garden called BagheGulDawood started first time as a major autumn tourist attraction in Srinagar last yearHe added that with more than 50 vibrant varieties of Chrysanthemum the garden is a strategic cornerstone in Kashmirs transition to yearround destinationFocus has been given to pilgrim tourism in Jammu adventure tourism in Kashmir and ecofriendly tourism in border areas for equitable growth of various regions of Jammu and Kashmir the LG saidHe added that the Union government is planning a sustainable project for emerging tourist destinations with publicprivate participationReferring to the power sector the LG said there has been structural transformation in this sector through new hydropower projects like Pakal Dul Kiru Ratle and Kwar projects having a united potential of 3014 megawattsLG Sinha noted with satisfaction that during the last five years 5708 MVA capacity has been added to distribution system and 4239 MVA capacity to transmission sector in Jammu and KashmirHe said power losses have been reduced by nine per cent while revenue realisation has increased by 16 per cent in the Union TerritoryHe added that solarisation of government buildings and private homes through PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has further strengthened renewable energy adoptionThe LG said that under this Central flagship scheme so far 6700 government buildings and 16800 homes had been solarisedHe added that historic milestone in connectivity has been achieved by connecting the Valley with the rest of the country through a railway linkHe referred to modernisation of Jammu Tawi Railway station and the creation of a separate full fledged railway division for Jammu and Kashmir IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/post-pahalgam-terror-attack-178-crore-tourists-visited-jampk-l-g-sinha-660869.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tourist-influx-of-178-crore-after-pahalgam-attack-shows-faith-in-jampks-people-l-g-sinha-660870.html Srinagar Feb 4 Despite the huge setback to the tourism industry by the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Pahalgam on April 22 last year in which 26 innocent civilians including 25 tourists and a local pony owner were killed by Pakistani terrorists more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory in 2025 The hospitality of the people and the confidence reposed by the visitors in the goodwill of the locals has defeated the nefarious designs of the enemies of peace and prosperity in Jammu and KashmirJammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha has rightly said on Wednesday that despite security challenges tourism continues to be the pillar of the Union Territorys economyIn his address to the Legislative Assembly LG Sinha said that despite security challenges and natural calamities more than 178 crore tourists visited the Union Territory last yearThe LG referred to challenges like the Pahalgam terror attack 2025 floods and Operation SindoorHe said because of its crucial economic importance tourism had been given the status of an industry in Jammu and Kashmir to attract investment and generate employmentThe LG had special word of appreciation for the Chrysanthemum garden called BagheGulDawood started first time as a major autumn tourist attraction in Srinagar last yearHe added that with more than 50 vibrant varieties of Chrysanthemum the garden is a strategic cornerstone in Kashmirs transition to yearround destinationFocus has been given to pilgrim tourism in Jammu adventure tourism in Kashmir and ecofriendly tourism in border areas for equitable growth of various regions of Jammu and Kashmir the LG saidHe added that the Union government is planning a sustainable project for emerging tourist destinations with publicprivate participationReferring to the power sector the LG said there has been structural transformation in this sector through new hydropower projects like Pakal Dul Kiru Ratle and Kwar projects having a united potential of 3014 megawattsLG Sinha noted with satisfaction that during the last five years 5708 MVA capacity has been added to distribution system and 4239 MVA capacity to transmission sector in Jammu and KashmirHe said power losses have been reduced by nine per cent while revenue realisation has increased by 16 per cent in the Union TerritoryHe added that solarisation of government buildings and private homes through PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has further strengthened renewable energy adoptionThe LG said that under this Central flagship scheme so far 6700 government buildings and 16800 homes had been solarisedHe added that historic milestone in connectivity has been achieved by connecting the Valley with the rest of the country through a railway linkHe referred to modernisation of Jammu Tawi Railway station and the creation of a separate full fledged railway division for Jammu and Kashmir IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tourist-influx-of-178-crore-after-pahalgam-attack-shows-faith-in-jampks-people-l-g-sinha-660870.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/rajasthan-launches-semiconductor-policy-jodhpur-pali-marwar-kankani-to-be-priority-corridors-660884.html Jaipur Feb 4 In a major push towards hightech industrial growth and strategic selfreliance the Rajasthan government has announced the Rajasthan Semiconductor Policy aimed at positioning the state as a leading hub for semiconductor manufacturing and allied sectors With semiconductors emerging as the backbone of modern digital and automated technologies the new policy seeks to strengthen Rajasthanâs role in Indiaâs semiconductor ecosystem while supporting national goals of economic security and technological independenceUnder the policy the JodhpurPaliMarwar and Kankani industrial areas along with other suitable locations will be declared Priority Semiconductor Corridors These corridors will offer fasttrack land allotment coordinated utility support and singlewindow clearances to facilitate quick project execution and investor confidence The policy places special emphasis on attracting investments in Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test OSAT and Assembly Testing Marking and Packaging ATMP segments along with sensors and related electronics manufacturing It also aims to strengthen the fabless semiconductor design ecosystem in the state To support this vision the government plans to develop worldclass semiconductor parks and provide attractive incentives to projects approved under the India Semiconductor Mission Ensuring ease of doing business remains a key pillar of the policyThe state government will provide essential infrastructure such as uninterrupted water and power supply along with streamlined regulatory processes Investors will be required to apply through the RajNivesh portal for setting up semiconductor units in Rajasthan To ensure effective implementation two dedicated bodies the State Level Sanctioning Committee SLSC and the State Empowered Committee will be constituted The Department of Industries and Commerce will act as the nodal agency for policy execution and coordination The Rajasthan Semiconductor Policy aligns with the Centreâs broader semiconductor roadmapThe India Semiconductor Mission launched in 2021 received a significant boost in the recent Union Budget with an allocation of Rs 40000 crore for Mission 20 Central initiatives such as Make in India Production Linked Incentive PLI schemes Semicon India Programme and Electronic Systems Design and Manufacturing ESDM have created a strong foundation for domestic semiconductor growth With this policy Rajasthan aims to attract highvalue investments generate skilled employment and emerge as a key player in Indiaâs rapidly expanding semiconductor landscape IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/rajasthan-launches-semiconductor-policy-jodhpur-pali-marwar-kankani-to-be-priority-corridors-660884.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/us-vice-president-vance-secy-rubio-call-for-global-minerals-reset-660892.html Washington Feb 4 US Vice President J D Vance on Tuesday urged US allies and partners to act collectively to fix what he described as a broken global market for critical minerals warning that brittle and highly concentrated supply chains threaten economic growth and national security Opening the Critical Minerals Ministerial Vance said modern economies continued to depend on âreal thingsâ stressing that critical minerals were as essential as oil and gas for economic activity advanced manufacturing and defence systemsThe ministerial one of the largest ones hosted by the United States is being attended by over 50 countries India is being represented by External Affairs Minister S JaishankarâThere is no realer thing than critical mineralsâ Vance said arguing that governments had learned âthe hard wayâ how deeply their economies depended on stable access to these materialsHe said countries represented at the meeting together accounted for close to twothirds of global GDP and had the capacity to make themselves âmore independent more selfreliantâ if they worked togetherVance said the current international market was failing to support domestic supply chains or longterm investment He cited repeated instances in which mining and processing projects collapsed after sudden market flooding led to price crashes forcing investors to pull outâSupply chains remain brittle and exceptionally concentratedâ he said adding that erratic and unpredictable prices had made sustained investment nearly impossibleHe outlined the Trump administrationâs broader approach to addressing those vulnerabilities pointing to steps already taken over the past year including domestic and international agreements expanded public financing tools and new efforts to stockpile mineralsVance also described a proposed preferential trade zone for critical minerals built around reference prices intended to stabilize markets and protect supply chains from external disruption He said the initiative was designed to create diverse centers of production and supply chains immune to sudden shocks while strengthening partner countriesâOur alliances and our friendships can really help one anotherâ Vance saidSecretary of State Marco Rubio delivering his opening remarks after Vance echoed the call for coordinated international action and said the administration viewed critical minerals as central to both economic and national securityâCritical minerals are vital to the devices that we use every single dayâ Rubio said noting that they power infrastructure industry and national defenseRubio said US President Donald Trump had made the issue a top priority from his first day in office citing an executive order issued in March to accelerate permitting reform increase domestic mining and build reliable supply chains âboth at home and abroadââIn October alone the United States secured over 10 billion in critical mineral agreements across five countriesâ Rubio said pointing to existing efforts to deepen cooperation with allies and partnersHe also highlighted the Pax Silica Summit convened in December which he said launched a partnership dedicated to building a resilient silicon supply chain capable of supporting âa new era of global prosperityâ Rubio warned that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence would not be possible unless countries rebuilt factories and reopened minesDrawing on US history Rubio recalled how rare earth discoveries at Mountain Pass California helped usher in the jet age space age and computer age before mining was neglected and supply chains were outsourcedâWe woke up and realised we had outsourced our economic security and our very futureâ he saidRubio compared the current effort to the Washington Energy Conference held in the same room about 50 years ago which led to the creation of the International Energy Agency during a period of concentrated global oil supplies He said todayâs discussions were aimed at advancing Critical Minerals Framework Agreements to protect every stage of production from mining to refining and manufacturingâThis is not solely an American initiativeâ Rubio said âThis must be an international global initiative with likeminded countriesâThe ministerial brought together senior officials from dozens of countries as governments seek to reduce dependence on concentrated mineral supply chains amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing demand from clean energy defense and advanced technology sectors IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/us-vice-president-vance-secy-rubio-call-for-global-minerals-reset-660892.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tiruppur-exporters-expect-surge-in-investments-jobs-after-india-us-trade-pact-660894.html Tiruppur Feb 4 The textile industry in Tamil Nadus Tiruppur is poised for significant growth following the trade agreement between the India and the US according to the Tiruppur Exporters Association TEA Welcoming the IndiaâUS trade agreement TEA General Secretary Thiru Kumaran said the pact would greatly benefit the Indian textile sector with Tiruppur emerging as one of the key gainersHe also added that the agreement has reinforced global confidence in Indian textile exports and opened up new opportunities for manufacturers and exportersHe said that the proposed European UnionâIndia Free Trade Agreement FTA expected to be implemented later this year would provide an additional boost to the sectorWith both agreements in place the entire textile industry and Tiruppur in particular is expected to witness tremendous growth in the coming months We are confident of doubling our revenue in the next year Kumaran addedAt present Indias textile exports are valued at nearly 16 billion while exports from Tiruppur alone stand at around 52 billion say experts sharing the dataThe association expects both figures to double within the next three years which is likely to generate substantial investment opportunities and create more employment across the sectorThiru Kumaran expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh for facilitating the IndiaâUS trade agreement and advancing the IndiaâEU FTAHe also expressed gratitude to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for what he called presenting a growthoriented Union BudgetReacting on the Union Budget he said that the incentives announced would encourage fresh investments in the textile sector and accelerate exportled growthHe added that the growth in the textile sector would also be beneficial in terms of employment generation IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tiruppur-exporters-expect-surge-in-investments-jobs-after-india-us-trade-pact-660894.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/flower-cultivation-surges-in-tripura-over-59000-farmers-benefit-minister-660898.html Agartala Feb 4 Tripura has witnessed a sharp rise in flower cultivation and production over the past seven years benefitting more than 59000 farmers across the state Agriculture and Farmersâ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath said on Wednesday The Minister was speaking after inaugurating the Vivekananda Flower Garden in West Tripura Highlighting the growing importance of floriculture Nath said flowers are an integral part of social cultural and religious life âFlowers are required everywhere from greetings and religious programmes to social and cultural events Tripuraâs fertile soil and abundant rainfall make the state highly suitable for flower cultivationâ he said The Minister said that while flowers were earlier seen mainly as decorative items floriculture has now emerged as a profitable livelihood option with several farmers earning lakhs of rupees annually Citing examples he said Sentu Bhowmik of Barjala earns around Rs 8 lakh annually from flower cultivation Pradip Sarkar of Kanchanmala earns nearly Rs 12 lakh while farmers like Jayanta Dey of Chandibari and Indrajit Debnath of Baikhora earn between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 9 lakh âFlower cultivation has significantly improved the livelihoods of farmers Earlier marigold rose and rajanigandha were grown mostly in open fieldsâ Nath said He informed that before 2018 flowers were cultivated on 2738 kani one kani equal to 034 acres of land in Tripura which has now increased to 11720 kani over the last seven years âThe number of farmers engaged in floriculture has risen from 2190 to 59100 while production has increased from 1117 metric tonnes to 2704 metric tonnesâ the Minister said He added that earlier only 35 per cent of the stateâs flower requirement was met through local production whereas currently about 89 per cent is produced within the state with only around 21 per cent being sourced from outside Nath said that apart from openfield cultivation protected structures are increasingly being used for growing highvalue flowers such as orchids gerbera and anthurium âEarlier cultivation under protected structures was carried out in 225 units which has now increased to 504 units The share of such cultivation has also gone up from 25 per cent to 43 per cent reflecting the high demand for flowers in Tripuraâ he said Stressing the importance of farmers the Minister said agriculture remains one of the most respected professions in the world âThere is no one who does not love flowers and children Flowers have the power to transform people and bring positivityâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/flower-cultivation-surges-in-tripura-over-59000-farmers-benefit-minister-660898.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/1st-tranche-of-india-us-trade-deal-in-4-5-days-formal-pact-by-mid-march-piyush-goyal-660930.html New Delhi Feb 5 IANS India is set to roll out the first tranche of its Bilateral Trade Agreement BTA with the United States in matter of days which will see a reduction in tariffs on domestic exports to 18 per cent Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on ThursdaynbspThe minister said that a joint IndiaUS statement is likely to be released in the next four to five days Once an executive order is issued following the statement the reduced 18 per cent US tariff on Indian goods will come into forceA more comprehensive and formal agreement is targeted for signing by midMarch he addedGoyal further stated that India has already entered into a record eight trade agreements and the first tranche of the BTA with the US will soon become the ninth The FTAs signed by India under PM Narendra Modi will help in the thrust to modernise India he addedThe FTAs signed under PM Modi help us in our thrust to modernise India said the ministerGoyal also announced that India is signing the terms of reference for a free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council GCC which marks the revival of discussions that have been ongoing for nearly two decadesA holistic FTA with all six GCC nations would improve policy predictability encourage investments and strengthen food and energy security Goyal saidFood processing infrastructure petrochemicals and Information and Communications Technology are some of the many sectors that will benefit hugely from the IndiaGulf Cooperation Council GCC FTA Indias bilateral trade with the GCC currently stands at 179 billionThe IndiaGCC FTA will become a force multiplier for global good he addedMeanwhile Goyal announced in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday that the interests of Indias farmers have been protected in the IndiaUS trade deal as agricultural and dairy products have been kept outside the ambit of the dealThe minister said that India has successfully protected sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy while giving full attention to food and farming concerns in the IndiaUS trade agreementHe said the partnership will create new opportunities for MSMEs skilled workers and industry strengthen bilateral ties and ensure energy security which remains a top priority for 140 crore IndiansThe minister said that the trade deal will simplify the reach to advanced technologies and help in realising Indias Make in India for the World Design in India for the World and Innovate in India for the WorldIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/1st-tranche-of-india-us-trade-deal-in-4-5-days-formal-pact-by-mid-march-piyush-goyal-660930.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 14:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-us-trade-deal-in-final-stages-of-detailing-eam-jaishankar--660934.html Washington Feb 5 IANS Citing the historic IndiaUS trade deal which he said is in the final stages of detailing External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar on Thursday said that a strong momentum is evident in the growing engagement between New Delhi and Washingtonnbsp nbspThe EAM made the comment as he concluded his February 24 visit to the United States during which he also participated in the Critical Minerals Ministerial convened by the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesdaynbsp nbspConcluded a productive and positive visit to the US Thank Secretary Rubio for his warm hospitality he posted on XnbspThe historic IndiaUS trade deal is in the final stages of detailing that will be completed very soon It opens up a new phase in our bilateral ties with vast possibilities for the relationship Our critical mineral cooperation is also advancing rapidly Expect engagement on strategic issues defence and energy in the coming days Overall a strong momentum is evident EAM Jaishankar addednbspnbspDuring the significant visit the External Affairs Minister also hold meetings with senior members of the US administrationnbspThis included separate meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during which he held wideranging discussions on the IndiaUS strategic and economic partnershipnbspDelighted to meet US Secretary Rubio this afternoon Jaishankar said in a post on X after the meeting A wideranging conversation that covered our bilateral cooperation agenda regional and global issuesnbspThe discussions with Rubio he stated covered multiple pillars of the IndiaUS relationship Facets of India US Strategic Partnership discussed included trade energy nuclear defence critical minerals and technology EAM Jaishankar mentionednbspThe External Affairs Minister said both sides agreed to move quickly on followup engagements Agreed on the early meetings of various mechanisms to advance our shared interests he addedAccording to the US State Department readout EAM Jaishankar and Rubio discussed formalising bilateral cooperation on critical minerals exploration mining and processing an area that has emerged as a central pillar of the IndiaUS economic and strategic relationshipnbspThe meeting on Wednesday came a day after US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a trade deal aimed at lowering barriers and expanding market access between the worlds two largest democraciesnbspUS Secretary Rubio and EAM Jaishankar also welcomed the agreement underscoring the importance of the two democracies working together to unlock new economic opportunities and advance shared energy security goals the readout saidThe discussions also focused on the regional and multilateral dimensions of the partnership Rubio and EAM Jaishankar concluded their meeting by reaffirming their commitment to expanding bilateral and multilateral cooperation through the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue They acknowledged that a prosperous IndoPacific region remains vital to advancing shared interestsnbspEarlier on Wednesday EAM Jaishankar also met US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington Pleased to meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington DC today he said in a separate postnbspThe External Affairs Minister described the talks as productive Had a useful discussion on advancement of India US economic partnership and strategic cooperation he saidThe twin meetings reflected the broadening scope of IndiaUS engagement spanning diplomacy security trade and finance Senior officials on both sides have emphasised the need for closer coordination across departments to translate political momentum into concrete outcomesnbspIndia and the United States have expanded cooperation in recent years across defence energy and emerging technologies while also deepening economic ties through trade and investment Both countries have highlighted critical minerals and advanced technologies as priority areas given their importance to clean energy transitions and highend manufacturingThe latest highlevel engagements follow sustained dialogue between New Delhi and Washington on regional and global issues including developments in the IndoPacific Officials on both sides have described the IndiaUS partnership as a central pillar of their respective foreign policy strategiesIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-us-trade-deal-in-final-stages-of-detailing-eam-jaishankar--660934.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/ensuring-energy-security-of-14-billion-indians-remains-govts-supreme-priority-mea-660937.html New Delhi Feb 5 IANS Reiterating that ensuring energy security remains a top national priority India on Thursday said that the governments strategy to diversify energy sources is shaped by market conditions and evolving international dynamicsnbspIn so far as Indias energy security or energy sourcing is concerned the government has stated publicly on several occasions that ensuring the energy security of 14 billion Indians is its supreme priority Diversifying energy sourcing in keeping with objective market conditions and evolving international dynamics is at the core of our strategy to ensure this All of Indias decisions are taken and will continue to be taken with this objective in mind Ministry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on ThursdayReplying to another question on Indias energy engagement with Venezuela the MEA spokesperson stated that the South American nation has long been Indias key partner in the crude oil and trade and investment sectors He emphasised that New Delhi remains open to assessing the commercial viability of any crude supply options including from VenezuelanbspAs far as Venezuela is concerned it has been a longstanding partner for us in the area of energy both on the trade side and also on the investment side We were importing energy or crude oil from Venezuela till 201920 and thereafter we had to stop Again we started buying oil from Venezuela in 20232024 but had to stop because of the reimposition of sanctions Jaiswal statedAs you are aware Indian PSUs have established a partnership with the National Oil Company of Venezuela PDVSA and our PSUs have maintained a presence in the country since 2008 Consistent with our approach to energy security India remains open to exploring the commercial merits of any crude supply options including from Venezuela he addednbspLast week Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a telephone call from the Acting President of Venezuela Delcy Eloína Rodriguez Gomez with the two leaders having a detailed discussion on deepening the partnership between both countries during their conversationSpoke with Acting President of Venezuela Ms Delcy Rodríguez We agreed to further deepen and expand our bilateral partnership in all areas with a shared vision of taking IndiaVenezuela relations to new heights in the years ahead PM Modi posted on X after the phone callnbspAccording to the Prime Ministers Office PMO the two leaders agreed to further expand and deepen the IndiaVenezuela partnership in all areas including trade and investment energy digital technology health agriculture and peopletopeople ties https://dailyworld.in/business/ensuring-energy-security-of-14-billion-indians-remains-govts-supreme-priority-mea-660937.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-reits-and-invits-surpass-traditional-indices-in-giving-returns-in-2025-660945.html Mumbai Feb 5 Listed Real Estate Investment Trusts REITs and Infrastructure Investment Trusts InvITs in 2025 significantly outperformed traditional benchmarks delivering a strong 1955 per cent return on an equal weight basis a report showed on Thursday This was well ahead of the Nifty50 TRI total returns index at 1142 per cent and the G Sec Index at 681 per cent according to an ICRA Analytics reportData sourced from InfRE360 indicates that public trusts have emerged as one of the most resilient and rewarding asset classes during the yearAccording to the report REITs led the segment with an exceptional 2968 per cent return supported by robust leasing and stable yields while Power InvITs posted a healthy 2022 per cent Road InvITs trailed at 655 per cent reflecting asset specific and sectoral constraints December quarter distributions are yet to be accounted for which will further lift overall returns said the reportâREITs nearly doubled their returns rising from 1681 per cent in 2024 to 2968 per cent in 2025 reflecting sustained leasing momentum and consistent yield profilesâ said Madhubani Sengupta Head Knowledge Services ICRA AnalyticsPower InvITs advanced from 943 per cent to 2022 per cent reflecting operational resilience and market conditions whereas Road InvITs dipped from 949 per cent to 655 per cent highlighting mixed performance trends across infrastructure linked assets and the impact of new listings Sengupta addedAccording to the report the interest rate environment in 2025 tilted investor preference towards equity linked and yield oriented instruments which weighed GâSec performance In contrast trusts continued to attract strong interest supported by steady cash flows competitive yields and growing demand for infrastructure and real estate backed investment optionsPerformance figures for REITs InvITs and the broader trust category are based on an equal weight calculation across all listed entities rather than market cap weighting said the report IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-reits-and-invits-surpass-traditional-indices-in-giving-returns-in-2025-660945.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gold-slips-around-1-pc-silver-prices-plummet-8-pc-660949.html Mumbai Feb 5 Gold prices fell moderately on Thursday after two days of surge while silver posted a sharp fall of over 8 per cent MCX gold February futures fell 098 per cent to Rs 151552 per 10 grams around 1025 am on an intraday basis Meanwhile MCX silver March futures plummeted 839 per cent to Rs 246283 per kg Gold and silver prices had risen around 6 per cent in the early morning trade but failed to sustain those levels Analysts said that the fall in gold and silver at the beginning of the week was checked as markets largely absorbed the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the new Fed Chairman Despite diplomatic talks between the US and Iran safehaven buying still continues due to rising tensions after US forces shot down an Iranian drone Iran and the United States are scheduled to hold talks on Friday The support to the rally on Wednesday also came from a partial US government shutdown and profittaking in the dollar index from its highs The broader uptrend on COMEX Gold remains intact with the pullback reflecting profit booking and healthy price digestion Prices are trading below key moving averages indicating shortterm downward pressure and a corrective phase rather than a reversal of the broader trend market watchers said Strong support is seen in the Rs 145000 to Rs 148000 zone for MCX gold futures while resistance is anchored around the Rs 165000 to Rs 175000 zone The medium to longterm outlook on silver stays constructive on steady industrial demand and structural supply constraints despite elevated volatility they added Analysts said silver has a support band at Rs 235000 to Rs 250000 while resistance was seen at the Rs 300000Rs 325000 zone Structural supply deficits and steady industrial demand continue to underpin the bullish bias in silver Persistent safehaven demand steady centralbank accumulation and expectations of accommodative global monetary conditions continue to underpin prices of the yellow metal a recent report noted IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gold-slips-around-1-pc-silver-prices-plummet-8-pc-660949.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-first-cooperativemodel-ridehailing-app-bharattaxi-is-set-for-launch-today-660953.html Mumbai Feb 5 Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Thursday will launch Bharat Taxi Indias first rideâhailing service application based on a cooperative model The minister will unveil the application as a governmentâbacked alternative to established players such as Uber Ola and RapidoSupported by the Ministry of Cooperation and operated by Sahkar Taxi Cooperative Limited Bharat Taxi is being promoted as a driverâowned mobility service that follows a zeroâcommission model in its initial phase with 100 percent of ride payments going directly to driversThe Ministry of Cooperation said the platform will free drivers referred to as Sarathis from exploitative aggregatorbased modelsThe minimum fare for up to 4 km is Rs 30 412 km at Rs 23 per km and rides beyond 12 km are priced at Rs 18 per kmSimilar to other aggregators Bharat Taxi also integrates with public transit services such as the Metro allowing users to plan and complete journeys involving multiple modes of transport through a single appIn the initial phase 100 per cent of ride payments will go directly to drivers At a later stage the cooperative may retain a fee of around 20 per cent which it says will be redistributed to drivers in the form of incentivesUnlike existing platforms Bharat Taxi plans to avoid surge pricing although dynamic pricing may be applied in specific situationsAccording to the Ministry of Cooperation over 150 women drivers have joined Bharat Taxi so far The app experiences a surge in registrations with around 40000 to 45000 new users signing up every day over the past two daysAccording to a post by the Ministry of Cooperation on the social media platform X in January Bharat Taxi has already crossed four lakh registered customersThe app available on both Android and iOS was ranked ninth on the Google Play Store and thirteenth on Appleâs App StoreSafety features also include options to alert emergency contacts reach a safety team and activate a siren from within the appThe signup process requires only basic details like a mobile number name and email addressSimilar to Ola and Uber Bharat Taxi plans dedicated pickup and drop zones at airports with expansion to other transport hubs in the future IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-first-cooperativemodel-ridehailing-app-bharattaxi-is-set-for-launch-today-660953.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-first-cooperativemodel-ridehailing-app-bharattaxi-set-for-launch-today-660954.html Mumbai Feb 5 Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Thursday will launch Bharat Taxi Indias first rideâhailing service application based on a cooperative model The minister will unveil the application as a governmentâbacked alternative to established players such as Uber Ola and RapidoSupported by the Ministry of Cooperation and operated by Sahkar Taxi Cooperative Limited Bharat Taxi is being promoted as a driverâowned mobility service that follows a zeroâcommission model in its initial phase with 100 percent of ride payments going directly to driversThe Ministry of Cooperation said the platform will free drivers referred to as Sarathis from exploitative aggregatorbased modelsThe minimum fare for up to 4 km is Rs 30 412 km at Rs 23 per km and rides beyond 12 km are priced at Rs 18 per kmSimilar to other aggregators Bharat Taxi also integrates with public transit services such as the Metro allowing users to plan and complete journeys involving multiple modes of transport through a single appIn the initial phase 100 per cent of ride payments will go directly to drivers At a later stage the cooperative may retain a fee of around 20 per cent which it says will be redistributed to drivers in the form of incentivesUnlike existing platforms Bharat Taxi plans to avoid surge pricing although dynamic pricing may be applied in specific situationsAccording to the Ministry of Cooperation over 150 women drivers have joined Bharat Taxi so farThe app experiences a surge in registrations with around 40000 to 45000 new users signing up every day over the past two daysAccording to a post by the Ministry of Cooperation on the social media platform X in January Bharat Taxi has already crossed four lakh registered customersThe app available on both Android and iOS was ranked ninth on the Google Play Store and thirteenth on Appleâs App StoreSafety features also include options to alert emergency contacts reach a safety team and activate a siren from within the appThe signup process requires only basic details like a mobile number name and email addressSimilar to Ola and Uber Bharat Taxi plans dedicated pickup and drop zones at airports with expansion to other transport hubs in the future IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-first-cooperativemodel-ridehailing-app-bharattaxi-set-for-launch-today-660954.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-energy-1st-indian-firm-to-deliver-1-crore-electricity-smart-meters-across-discoms-660956.html Ahmedabad Feb 5 In a significant development Adani Energy Solutions Limited AESL on Thursday became the first player in India and perhaps globally to have successfully delivered 1 crore electricity smart meters across discoms â with the next 1 crore projected to be delivered in the coming financial year FY27 As Indiaâs leading AMISP Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider AESL has a mandate to install 25 crore smart meters across five states At 25000 per day its pace of installation is highest in the industry said the companyâReaching an installed base of 1 crore smart meters is a testament to our benchmarked execution excellence and deep engagement with distribution utilities and consumersâ said Kandarp Patel Chief Executive Officer Adani Energy Solutions Ltd AESL âThese smart meters are not just devices â these are catalysts for empowering consumers with realtime usage data improving grid reliability reducing losses and enabling efficient energy management We remain committed to playing a pivotal role in Indiaâs digital energy transitionâ he mentionedThis milestone comes much ahead of the companyâs guidance of reaching the 1 crore mark by March 31 2026 and underscores AESLâs commitment to drive digital transformation in the muchneeded retail electricity distribution providing invaluable data on consumption and for grid modernisation thereby supporting Indiaâs nationwide smart metering rollout under the Government of Indiaâs Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme RDSS AESLâs smart meter network delivers realtime consumer insights enhances billing transparency and strengthens utility operationsThe Adani Group company has been able to achieve the highest daily installation rate by taking an integrated and ecosystem approach It has tied up with sister firms like Adani Esyasoft Smart Solutionsâ smart metering and IoT division AdaniConneX for local data hosting besides signing up with tier I meter brands to ensure delivery timelines and manage platform relevance during the contract period The company began its smart metering journey in 2024 and has accomplished this significant milestone in approximately 24 months making it the quickest installation pace in the countryUnder the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme RDSS initiative India aims to replace 25 crore conventional meters with advanced smart meters to modernise the power distribution landscape IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-energy-1st-indian-firm-to-deliver-1-crore-electricity-smart-meters-across-discoms-660956.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/taiwan-to-deepen-us-ties-on-ai-critical-minerals-to-counter-beijing-report-660968.html Mumbai Feb 5 The Taiwanese governments move to deepen collaboration with the US in artificial intelligence AI and critical minerals aims to counter risks from growing competition with Beijing a new report has said The report from Modern Diplomacy said senior Taiwanese and US officials discussed cooperation on AI technology and drones at a highâlevel forum after which the US State Department described Taiwan as a âvital partnerâTaiwan must look to fellow democracies rather than China for trade and economic cooperation President Lai Chingte said earlier this weekLaiâs remarks came as Taipei seeks to strengthen economic and technological links with Washington amid intensifying strategic competition between the United States and China the report saidâTaiwan is on the right economic path and is striding confidently onto the world stageâ Lai said adding that the country had both the capability and confidence to work with democratic partners on strengthening technological linksThe report highlighted that the two sides signed statements on cooperation in economic security and on the Pax Silica Declaration a USâled initiative aimed at securing artificial intelligence and semiconductor supply chainsHowever Hsiao Hsutsen deputy chairman of Taiwanâs main opposition party the Kuomintang KMT said the country should cooperate across the Taiwan Strait to earn money from the world rather than oppose each other across the strait and let foreign countries reap the benefits exploiting Taiwan and hollowing it outHsiao was recently in Beijing for a thinkâtank exchange which reportedly discussed nonpolitical issues such as artificial intelligence and tourismPresident Lai however contrasted faster growth under his government with slower growth under the previous KMT government and asked âDo we want to continue collaborating with the US Japan Europe and other allied nations or again lock ourselves into ChinaâThe report highlighted that Lai framed the trade cooperation as a choice between democratic partners and China to âembed Taiwan more deeply in USled and allied supply chains particularly in highvalue sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/taiwan-to-deepen-us-ties-on-ai-critical-minerals-to-counter-beijing-report-660968.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistan-facing-water-bankruptcy-report-660970.html New Delhi Feb 5 Pakistan is facing water bankruptcy with the groundwater table declining sharply every year as states such as Punjab and Sindh remain locked in a dispute of sharing of water according to an article in the Karachibased The News International The article by Mohsin Leghari a former Irrigation and Finance Minister of Pakistanâs Punjab province cites the United Nations University Institute for Water Environment and Health UNUINWEH January 2026 report titled âGlobal Water Bankruptcy Living Beyond Our Hydrological Means in the PostCrisis Eraâ to highlight the depth of the water crisis in Pakistan For decades we have treated water as a âcrisisâ something acute that can be managed before returning to normal The report argues this framing has become misleading because it assumes the baseline remains viable In many regions that assumption has collapsed Rivers fail to reach the sea aquifers are pumped until land subsides wetlands disappear and glaciers retreat the article states âWater bankruptcyâ the report argues is a persistent postcrisis condition in which longterm use exceeds renewable inflows and safe depletion limits causing damage so severe that prior levels of supply cannot realistically be restored Bankruptcy has two components insolvency the use of more resources than are available and irreversibility the damage to the systemâs storage and ecological functions Pakistan exhibits both In Lahore the water table has dropped from below five metres in the 1950s to over 60 metres today in some areas potable water now requires drilling to depths of over 800 feet The damage is not only to quantity arsenic is also present in groundwater across Punjab with traces detected in human hair and milk the article laments Pakistanâs irrigation economy has normalised groundwater as a substitute for unreliable canal supplies to quench the thirst of waterintensive sugarcane and rice crops it points out What began as emergency pumping has become a permanent practice That is not resilience it is liquidation temporary comfort bought at permanent cost And solarpowered tubewells have removed even the price signal of scarcity with marginal pumping costs nearzero farmers have no economic reason to stop âHere is Pakistanâs deeper problem when claims exceed carrying capacity the contest becomes political not hydrological Our internal water debate between provinces between canal commands between head and tail farmers resembles a dispute over âmissing waterâ measurement credibility and trust In a bankrupt system when the ledger is disputed everything becomes a grievanceâ the article laments IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pakistan-facing-water-bankruptcy-report-660970.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-likely-to-maintain-status-quo-in-upcoming-policy-rate-decision-660973.html New Delhi Feb 5 The Reserve Bank of India RBI is likely to maintain status quo in the upcoming policy decision on Friday as despite policy rate easing government bond yields have exhibited persistent hardening in recent periods among other reasons According to economists the choice of eligible securities itself may influence the effectiveness of OMO operations even when the aggregate quantum of liquidity injection is unchangedâWe believe that the choice of eligible securities itself may influence the effectiveness of OMO operations even when the aggregate quantum of liquidity injection is unchangedâ said an SBI Research reportâRBI is thus likely to maintain status quo in the upcoming policyâ it addedSince the last policy one of the major policy changes is the EUIndia and USIndia trade deal resulting in reduction in tariffs on India to 18 per cent from 50 per cent earlierClearly India has now one of the lowest tariffs among Asian countries which will help in improving our export competitiveness said SBI ResearchHowever global economy continues to remain uncertain Our GeoEconomics Stress Index reveals heightened uncertainty leads to economic stress with a lag of 34 months Elsewhere metal prices have recovered after witnessing a significant selloff last week said the SBI reportMoreover slack in labour market stagnant real disposable incomes alongside reduced inflationary impact might lead to US Fed rate cutsAgainst this backdrop Indian currency seesawed between 8992 per dollar for the past two month and has depreciated by 58 per cent against USD most amongst the major economies since April 2 2025 when US announced sweeping tariff hikes across economies though it appreciated significantly more than Re 1 after the IndiaUS trade deal reducing the tariffs to 18 per centOMOs net purchase worth Rs 616 lakh crore has already been done and given the current global uncertainties âwe believe RBI may have to go up to Rs 50000 crore further OMOs purchase in the remaining part of FY to support durable liquidity quest amidst credit growthâ said the SBI report IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/rbi-likely-to-maintain-status-quo-in-upcoming-policy-rate-decision-660973.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/bangalore-metro-travel-to-cost-5-pc-dearer-from-feb-9-660974.html Bengaluru Feb 5 Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited BMRCL on Thursday officially hiked fare by five per cent and the revised rates will come into effect from February 9 BMRCL Public Relations Officer BL Yashwant Chauhan stated As per the Fare Fixation Committee every year according to a formula the calculation is made on a percentage A maximum of 5 per cent and a minimum of 4 per cent hike is made When the calculations are made a 10 per cent hike is required As it cant be implemented as per the FFC only 5 per cent hike could be done The minimum fare of Rs 10 will be hiked to Rs 11 and a maximum fare of Rs 90 will be increased to Rs 95 The statement said The FFC while recommending the revised fare structure for BMRCL observed that revision of fare after 75 years and optimisation of fare zones from 29 to 10 has resulted in an average increase of 5155 per cent With a view to avoiding such a situation of infrequent and steep fare increases in future the committee has recommended in its report to revise the fare annually by having a transparent Annual Automatic Fare Revision Formula linked with Operation and Management Cost or 5 per cent per annum whichever is lower by rounding off to the nearest rupeeThis mechanism helps with the introduction of a small annual fare revisionIn keeping with the recommendations of the FFC which is binding on BMRCL it is hereby notified that Annual Automatic Fare Revision will be implemented with effect from February 9 on expiry of 1 year from the date of implementation of FFCs recommended fares by BMRCLThe marginal increase is a minimum of Rs 1 and a maximum of Rs 5 across 10 fare zones on its entire network of 9610 kilometres the BMRCL statedBased on the Audited Financial Data for the financial year 202425 compared with base data of the financial year 202324 the formulabased index indicates a cost increase of 1020 per cent however the fare revision has been restricted to only 5 per cent in line with the FFC stipulation Now the zero to two kilometres metro travel will cost Rs 112 instead of Rs 10 Rs 214 for 4 kms and so onBMRCL stated that it will continue all existing commuterfriendly discounts for smartcardNCMC users like 5 per cent discount during peak hours 10 per cent discount during nonpeak hours on Sundays and on three National Highways However the annual increase of 5 per cent shall apply to tourist cards and group ticketsThe statement said BMRCL emphasises that this small annual revision is intended to ensure financial sustainability and service reliability while avoiding the need for large and sudden fare increases in the future The approach allows fares to move gradually in line with inflation and operating costs thereby protecting commuters from the sharp infrequent hikes IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/bangalore-metro-travel-to-cost-5-pc-dearer-from-feb-9-660974.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/ntpc-aims-for-30gw-nuclear-capacity-by-2047-shripad-naik-660979.html New Delhi Feb 5 Governmentowned power giant NTPC Ltd is planning to achieve 30 gigawatt GW nuclear capacity by 2047 Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik informed the Parliament on Thursday NTPC has formed a wholly owned nuclear subsidiary NTPC Parmanu Urja Nigam Limited NPUNL under the Companies Act after getting the requisite clearancesThe above target of 30GW is a part of the governmentâs decision of having 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 said the minister in a written reply to a question in the Lok SabhaNTPC is planning to set up nuclear power projects and Anu Shakti Vidyut Nigam Limited ASHVINI a joint venture of NTPC and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited NPCIL is in the process of establishing a 4X700 MW nuclear power project in Rajasthans Banswara districtThe plant is called Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project MBRAPP The current projections envisage initial testing of MBRAPPâs first 700 MW unit by FY 203233In order to explore various options and possible collaborations with international partners NTPC Ltd has issued an Expression of Interest EoI said the ministerMeanwhile NTPC last month announced a commercial capacity addition of 35958 MW through various solar projects of its subsidiaries in Gujarat and Rajasthan taking the groups total commercial capacity past the 855 GW markWith this the total installed commercial capacity of the NTPC group has reached 85541 MW 85541GW NTPC is contributing onefourth of Indiaâs power requirements and has an installed capacity of 85 GW with an additional capacity of 3090 GW under construction including 133 GW of renewable energy capacityThe company has set a target of 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032 strengthening Indiaâs Net Zero goalsAccording to the company with a diverse portfolio of thermal hydro solar and wind power plants the NTPC is focusing on delivering reliable affordable and sustainable electricity to the nationThe company is committed to adopting best practices fostering innovation and embracing clean energy technologies for a greener future the statement said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/ntpc-aims-for-30gw-nuclear-capacity-by-2047-shripad-naik-660979.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-deals-part-of-indias-long-term-economic-strategy-pm-modi-660986.html New Delhi Feb 5 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that futureready trade agreements are part of Indias longterm economic strategy adding that the trade agreement with the EU has been touted as mother of all trade dealsnbspStressing that the government is focusing on futureready policies with the reformperformtransform mantra PM Modi said India has boarded the Reform Express and from the fragile 5 India is moving fast towards becoming the worlds thirdlargest economyThere was a new world order after the Second World War and now the world is moving towards a new world order and the bent is towards India which is a vishwa bandhu PM Modi told the Rajya Sabha in his reply to the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents AddressnbspIndia has just announced a key trade deal with the US and with the EU a few days earliernbspThe countrys growing economic influence and partnerships position the country strongly in the evolving global order underlining its role as a trusted partner on the world stage the Prime Minister addednbspThe first quarter of the 21st century has been completed But this second quarter is decisive just like the second quarter of Indias freedom struggle in the last century was I can clearly see that in the direction of building Viksit Bharat this second quarter is going to be equally capable PM Modi highlightedPrime Minister further stated that when you have a strong manufacturing ecosystem the world will want to deal with younbspAmong major economies Indias growth is constantly high and robust and low inflation has been hailed by the world he addednbspIn the journey towards Viksit Bharat the last few years have been the years of rapid development This has been the era of change in every walk of life in every section of society The country is going ahead in the right direction at a very fast pace PM Modi notedIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-deals-part-of-indias-long-term-economic-strategy-pm-modi-660986.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sk-telecoms-2025-net-profit-plunges-73-pc-due-to-data-breach-660987.html Seoul Feb 5 SK Telecom South Korea leading mobile carrier said on Thursday its annual net profit plunged 73 per cent from a year earlier in 2025 due mainly to massive compensation costs following a data breach that affected its entire 25 millionuser base The company posted net profit of 3751 billion won 2556 million last year compared with a profit of 139 trillion won in 2024 the company said in a regulatory filing Its operating income fell 411 percent onyear to 107 trillion won and annual sales decreased 47 percent to 1709 trillion won reports Yonhap news agency For the fourth quarter of 2025 SK Telecoms net profit plummeted 754 percent onyear to 97 billion wonOperating profit fell 531 percent to 1191 billion won and revenue decreased 41 percent to 432 trillion wonSK Telecom said both its annual and quarterly earnings were weighed down by a compensation program and a decline in subscribers following a largescale data breach The company reported in April that a cyberattack on its main servers may have exposed the universal subscriber identity module USIM data of its entire user base It later offered to replace the USIM chips of all 25 million users along with a comprehensive compensation package and cybersecurity investment plan worth more than 1 trillion won while suspending new subscription services for two monthsLast month SK Telecom filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn a record 135 billionwon 91 million fine handed down by the state data protection regulator over a massive data leak last year that affected its entire 23 million user baseSK Telecom filed the suit with the Seoul Administrative Court just a day ahead of the deadline given to the company to seek a revocation of the decision by the Personal Information Protection Commission PIPC made in August last year according to the sourcesThe PIPC had imposed the fine on SK Telecom about four months after the wireless carrier belatedly disclosed a major leak of universal subscriber identity module USIM data from its servers The disclosure prompted the company to offer free USIM replacements to all of its users and an investigation by the regulator IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sk-telecoms-2025-net-profit-plunges-73-pc-due-to-data-breach-660987.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/nasscom-us-ceo-forumcharts-tech-led-economic-partnership-after-historic-tradedeal-660988.html New Delhi Feb 5 Nasscom US CEO Forum on Thursday held its first industry engagement after the trade deal announcement between India and America and discussed a techled economic partnership Convened at Capitol Hill in Washington DC on February 45 the Forumâs third meeting brought together leading Indian technology business leaders and senior US policymakers The leaders deliberated on enhancing innovation AI trusted supply chains workforce development and local job creation across the US âThe IndiaUS trade deal provides muchneeded macro predictability at a time when technology talent and trust are central to global competitiveness Indian technology companies are already delivering measurable outcomes for the US economy highquality jobs regional investment and innovation at scaleâ said Rajesh Nambiar President NasscomThe Nasscom US CEO Forum is focused on moving this partnership from collaboration to cocreation anchored in data accountability and longterm value creation he addedThe Forum discussions underscored the opportunity for deeper IndiaUS collaboration across the AI value chain aligned with the Pax Silica coalition led by the US As AI adoption accelerates globally Indian technology firms are wellpositioned to expand their role across key layers particularly enterprise and custom applications consulting and engineering services and emerging opportunities in silicon design and advanced platforms supporting trusted secure and scalable AI ecosystems This collaboration is expected to directly benefit most of the Fortune 500 companies while catalysing local job creation across multiple US states The industry has set its sights on supporting the joint target of 500 billion in IndiaUS trade Energy security also emerged as a strategic priority with the US scaling AIcritical energy capacity and India integrating green and nuclear energy to support nextgeneration data centres Indian technology companies are increasingly contributing to AIdriven energy optimisation grid analytics and digital infrastructure reinforcing the resilience of the US innovation ecosystem âIndia and the US have a generational opportunity to build a trusted technology alliance across AI semiconductors and digital infrastructure Indian tech companies are deeply embedded in the success of US enterprises supporting the majority of Fortune 500 firms while creating local jobs across US statesâ said Amit Chadha CEO amp MD â LampT Technology Services amp Vice Chair Nasscom US CEO Forum By supporting the joint USIndia target of a bilateral trade number of 500 billion we can help shape a more resilient innovationled future for both economies he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/nasscom-us-ceo-forumcharts-tech-led-economic-partnership-after-historic-tradedeal-660988.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cyber-fraud-3943-lakh-mobile-connections-disconnected-227-lakh-handsets-blacklisted-660990.html New Delhi Feb 5 The government said on Thursday that 3943 lakh mobile connections have been disconnected 227 lakh mobile handsets have been blacklisted and 131 lakh SMS templates have been blacklisted in the country in a bid to prevent cybercrimes and financial frauds Department of Telecommunications DoT has established Digital Intelligence Platform DIP for prevention of misuse of telecom resources in cybercrimes and financial frauds said Minister of State for Communications Dr Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya SabhaHe further added that the DoTâs Sanchar Saathi initiative is accessible through web portal and Mobile AppChakshu facility of Sanchar Saathi enables citizens to report suspected fraud communications under various categoriesThe âSanchar Saathiâ initiative empowers vigilant citizens to report suspected fraud communications where a fraud was attempted but not actually committedAccording to the minister cases involving actual financial loss due to frauds are handled by Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre I4C an organization under Ministry of Home Affairs MHA that has been mandated to handle cybercrime as per allocation of business rulesâAction is generally taken after giving opportunity for reverification to the mobile user The details of action taken based on such analysis are available on the dashboard of Sanchar Saathi portal Based on 77 lakh inputs provided by the citizens 3943 lakhs mobile connections have been disconnected 227 lakh mobile handsets have been blacklisted and 131 lakh SMS templates have been blacklistedâ said the ministerAccording to the minister based on the information shared on DIP stakeholders initiate necessary action as per their analysis on the associated accounts profiles in their respective domainAs reported by stakeholders total fraud amount prevented through FRI is more than Rs 1000 crore based on transaction decline and alertnotifications given to citizensâFurther WhatsApp has disengaged 28 lakh profilesaccounts associated with shared mobile numbersâ he informed IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/cyber-fraud-3943-lakh-mobile-connections-disconnected-227-lakh-handsets-blacklisted-660990.html Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/global-brokerages-hail-india-us-trade-deal-fii-flows-to-gradually-reverse-660744.html Mumbai Feb 3 Global and Indian brokerages on Tuesday largely welcomed the IndiaâUS trade deal calling it a major positive for Indiaâs economy corporate earnings and foreign investment sentiment The strong endorsement from financial experts was reflected in the stock markets with the Sensex soaring over 4200 points during intraday trade to touch a record high of 8587173Brokerages believe the reduction in reciprocal tariffs on Indian exports to the US will ease pressure on Indiaâs external balances and improve growth prospectsGoldman Sachs said the lower tariffs could help narrow Indiaâs current account deficit by around 025 per cent of GDP in 2026 bringing it down to nearly 08 per centThe firm also expects capital inflows to recover once the deal is fully implemented which could support the rupee and reduce downside risks to its dollarrupee forecastGoldman Sachs added that the Reserve Bank of India is likely at the end of its ratecut cycle and may keep the repo rate unchanged at 525 per cent through 2026It also noted that the trade agreement puts India in a slightly stronger position compared to other Asian emerging markets in terms of export competitivenessBernstein said the improving sentiment around India makes it a good time for investors to buy into the market even though corporate earnings have been soft in recent monthsNomura highlighted the likely return of foreign investment into India It expects both foreign portfolio investor FPI flows and foreign direct investment FDI commitments to gradually reverse after a weak FY26The brokerage is projecting a balance of payments surplus of around 7 billion in FY27 It also pointed out that the reduction in tariffs to 18 per cent will ease margin pressure on labourintensive export sectors such as textiles and manufacturingBofA Securities said India opening its markets to more US products could lead to higher technology imports and encourage longterm US investments into the countryIt added that even with some weakness in the rupee the impact of the new tariff structure will be limitedAccording to its estimates once existing US tariffs on items like steel aluminium and automobiles are considered Indiaâs effective tariff rate could fall to around 12â13 per cent compared to nearly 30â35 per cent earlierDomestic brokerage Motilal Oswal said markets will now focus more on the improving trend in corporate earningsAntique Stock Broking termed the agreement as highly positive for Indian equitiesIt said the key benefit would be the likely return of foreign investors which has been a major concern for markets over the past yearBased on this outlook Antique has set a Nifty 50 target of 29500 by March 2027 with a preference for sectors such as financials capital goods defence and consumerfocused stocks IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/global-brokerages-hail-india-us-trade-deal-fii-flows-to-gradually-reverse-660744.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-agriculture-gva-recorded-104-per-cent-growth-in-202425-minister-660747.html New Delhi Feb 3 The Gross Value Added GVA in Indiaâs agriculture and allied sector including crops livestock fisheries and horticulture at current prices was recorded at 104 per cent in 202425 the Parliament was informed on Tuesday Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ramnath Thakur told the Lok Sabha in a written reply to a question that in addition the total foodgrain production in the country during 202425 is estimated at a record 357732 lakh metric tonnes LMT which represents a 765 per cent increase over the corresponding figure of 332298 LMT achieved during 202324He said that the government is carrying out an examination of the key factors influencing agricultural growth including farm incomes input costs climate variability irrigation coverage access to credit and market linkages as a continuous process through various studies undertaken from time to time fieldlevel visits by officers and highlevel periodic reviewsThe government is following an integrated strategy for enhancing the farmersâ incomes and comprehensive growth of the agriculture sector which includes an increase in crop production reduction in the cost of production and better price realisation of farmersâ produce to enhance their incomes the minister addedAgricultural diversification developing postharvest value addition and adaptation to climate change for sustainable agricultureand mitigating against crop losses are other elements of the strategyHe further stated that the government has substantially enhanced the budget allocation of the Department of Agriculture amp Farmers Welfare from Rs 2193350 crore in the budget during 201314 to Rs 12729016 crore during 202526 Additionally it has increased MSPs for all mandated kharif rabi and other commercial crops with a minimum return of 50 per cent over all India weighted average cost of production from 201819 onwardsThe government has also implemented various policies reforms developmental programs and schemes from time to time covering the entire spectrum of agriculture to ensure the welfare and increase the income of farmers in the country by increasing production remunerative returns and providing income support These schemes encompass entire spectrum of agriculture including farm incomes input costs climate variability irrigation coverage access to credit and market linkages insurance income support infrastructure crops including horticulture seeds mechanisation organic and natural farming farmer collectives irrigation extension procurement of crops from farmers at minimum support prices and digital agriculture his reply added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-agriculture-gva-recorded-104-per-cent-growth-in-202425-minister-660747.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 02:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/visakhapatnam-steel-plant-back-on-path-of-profitability-says-cmd-660761.html Amaravati Feb 4 Public sector enterprise Visakhapatnam Steel Plant is back on the path to profitability with the support of the Central and Andhra Pradesh governments officials informed Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited RINL the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant claimed to have achieved unprecedented progress in a yearandahalf earning a profit of Rs 54 crore in January 2026The Chief Minister held a review meeting on the progress of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant at the Secretariat on TuesdayUnion Steel Ministry Secretary Sandeep Poundrik Vizag Steel Plant CMD Manish Raj Gupta Chief Secretary K Vijayanand and other senior state government officials attended the reviewThe plants CMD explained to the Chief Minister that with the continuous support from the Central and state governments the plant has overcome its past losses and is currently producing 19401 tonnes of hot metal per dayHe stated that in the second quarter of 202425 they were able to produce only 9215 tonnes per dayOfficials informed the Chief Minister that production has increased significantly as all three blast furnaces are now fully operational They stated that the steel plants capacity utilisation has reached a record high of 94 per cent They added that last year they were able to operate at only 45 per cent of their production capacityIt was explained that with the support provided by the state government in various areas such as taxes electricity dues and water supply the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant has moved from a phase of financial losses to profitabilityThey stated that with the Rs 11440 crore assistance provided by the Central government the steel plant has stabilised and is achieving good results It was also revealed that RINLs credit rating has improvedResponding to this the Chief Minister instructed the officials to introduce new policies in all departments to further strengthen the steel plant He said that this success was possible only with the cooperation of the workers employees officials and the Central and state governments IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/visakhapatnam-steel-plant-back-on-path-of-profitability-says-cmd-660761.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 02:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/andhra-pradesh-cm-welcomes-zero-excise-duty-on-unbranded-raw-tobacco-660791.html Amaravati Feb 4 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday welcomed the Central Governments decision to reduce the excise duty on unbranded raw tobacco products to zero He said that the move will benefit the unbranded tobacco trade in the stateAccording to an official release the state government has taken note of the gazette notification issued by the Central Finance Ministry in this regardThe Finance Ministry issued this gazette clarifying the duty structure applicable to unmanufactured tobacco As per the gazette from now onwards the excise duty on retail sales of unbranded tobacco will be zero The Finance Ministry issued this gazette to ensure uniformity clarity and transparency in the taxation of tobacco salesThe Chief Minister opined that this decision by the Central Government is a crucial step forward Previously due to the lack of a clear distinction between the purchase sale and trade of unbranded bulk tobacco problems arose due to different provisions in the law In the wake of farmers and traders suffering losses due to such ambiguous policies the decision was taken to reduce the duty on unbranded products to zero per cent This gazette will reduce the difficulties caused by different classifications in the imposition of excise dutyChief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said that this decision taken by the Central Government is beneficial to all tobacco farmers He explained that it will not only ensure a good price for farmers but also benefit traders and exporters He expressed the opinion that due to clear guidelines and regulations excise duty evasion will be significantly reducedHe stated that the Andhra Pradesh government supports this policy which prevents obtaining tax benefits through fraudulent meansThe state government has appealed to the Central Government and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs to strictly implement this notification uniformly across the countryThese changes are effective from February 1 2026 Tobacco products that are unbranded and not packaged for retail sale falling under the HS 2401 code will be subject to zero per cent excise duty Tobacco sold by farmers in sacks will fall under this categoryHowever tobacco products packaged in small packets for shops and tobacco bags and packets with company brand names printed on them will be subject to an 18 per cent excise duty as stated by the Central Finance Ministry in the gazetteThe state government clarified that these latest changes in excise duty will provide relief to the raw tobacco supply system It also revealed that there will be no impact on government revenue from products sold for commercial purposes IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/andhra-pradesh-cm-welcomes-zero-excise-duty-on-unbranded-raw-tobacco-660791.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-farmers-and-dairy-sector-have-been-protected-in-us-trade-deal-piyush-goyal-660794.html New Delhi Feb 4 IANS Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday that the interests of Indias farmers have been protected in the IndiaUS trade deal as agricultural and dairy products are out of its ambitnbspThe minister said that India has successfully protected sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy while giving full attention to food and farming concerns in the IndiaUS trade agreementnbspHe said the partnership will create new opportunities for MSMEs skilled workers and industry strengthen bilateral ties and ensure energy security which remains a top priority for 140 crore IndiansThe minister said that the trade deal will simplify the reach to advanced technologies and help in realising Indias Make in India for the World Design in India for the World and Innovate in India for the WorldnbspGoyal made his speech amid a ruckus created by unruly MPs of the opposition who resorted to shouting slogans in the Lok Sabha This led to the adjournment of the Lower House by the Speaker as the business could not proceed amid the chaosnbspPrime Minister Narendra Modi is set to respond to the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents address during the ongoing Budget Session on Wednesday as both Houses of Parliament are scheduled continue the discussionThe motion comes after President Droupadi Murmus address to a joint sitting of both Houses at the start of the Budget Session on January 28nbspEarlier on Tuesday Goyal said that PM Modi had clinched the deal which was stuck in lengthy negotiations at the official and ministerial levelsnbspHe explained that it was essential to finalise the trade deal as Indian exports of labourintensive products such as seafood and textiles to the US were hit due to the higher punitive tariff of 50 per cent imposed by the Trump administrationOn behalf of 140 crore Indians I want to thank PM Modi because this deal will bring a lot of opportunities for Indias economic growth for farmers poor fishermen women and youth he saidnbspGoyal launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accusing him of misleading the country and lacking concern for Indias developmentnbspHe said Leaders with negative thinking like Rahul Gandhi are misleading the country They have no concern for the nations progress The Congress government reduced India to the fragile five economies and if Rahul Gandhi has his way he will take the country back to the same stageIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-farmers-and-dairy-sector-have-been-protected-in-us-trade-deal-piyush-goyal-660794.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-end-flat-after-2-day-rally-660806.html Mumbai Feb 4 IANS Indian equity markets closed almost flat on Wednesday snapping a twoday rally as a sharp fall in information technology IT stocks weighed on the benchmark indicesnbspnbspInvestor sentiment turned cautious after fresh concerns about advances in artificial intelligence AI hit global software stocksAt the closing bell the Nifty rose 4845 points or 019 per cent to settle at 2577600 The Sensex gained 7856 points or 009 per cent to end at 8381769Nifty traded in a tight range today broadly between 25680 and 25820 indicating continued consolidation according to expertsThe index defended the 2565025700 support zone but faced supply near 2580025850 where selling pressure capped the upside an analyst statedA sustained breakout above this resistance could lead to further upside towards 26000 an expert addedThe biggest drag on the market was the Nifty IT index which plunged 6 per cent The fall came after software stocks on Wall Street declined sharplyThe weakness followed the launch of a new productivity tool for inhouse lawyers by AI startup AnthropicInvestors fear that rapid development of such AI tools could reduce demand for traditional software services and hurt profitability across the IT industryAmong the Sensex stocks Infosys TCS HCLTech and Tech Mahindra were among the top losers Banking stocks such as Axis Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank also ended lowerOn the other hand shares of Eternal Trent NTPC Power Grid and Adani Ports were among the top gainersIn the broader market performance was relatively better The Nifty MidCap index rose 063 per cent while the Nifty SmallCap index gained 127 per centApart from IT the Nifty Pharma index also ended slightly lower down 034 per cent On the positive side the Nifty Consumer Durable index led the gains with a rise of 26 per cent followed by the Nifty Oil and Gas index which climbed 2 per centAnalysts said that while headline indices ended marginally higher the sharp fall in IT stocks kept the market mood cautious amid growing concerns over the impact of AIdriven disruption on the technology sectorIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-end-flat-after-2-day-rally-660806.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sail-records-highest-ever-sales-with-16-pc-growth-in-fy26-so-far-660683.html New Delhi Feb 3 Steel Authority of India Limited SAIL one of the countryâs largest steelmaking companies and a Maharatna public sector enterprise on Tuesday announced it has achieved its highestever cumulative sales during the April to January period of the current financial year The company recorded total sales of 166 million tonnes during this period in FY 2025â26 showing a strong growth of 16 per cent compared to 143 million tonnes in the same period last financial year according to the official statementThis marks the best sales performance in SAILâs history for these months SAIL also delivered its bestever sales figures for the month of JanuaryâThe company achieved record dispatches from plants expanded door delivery volumes and enhanced warehouse sales underscoring its strong focus on customercentricity and logistics efficiency while deepening market penetrationâ it addedIn January 2026 the company sold 184 million tonnes of steel which is more than 10 per cent higher than the 168 million tonnes sold in January last financial yearThe strong sales performance helped the company reduce its inventory by around 025 million tonnesIt also led to a significant reduction in borrowings improving the companyâs financial positionAccording to the company the record achievements were seen across several areas such as sales dispatches cash collections and customer deliveriesSAIL increased the volume of steel delivered directly to customersâ locations expanded warehousebased sales and improved dispatches from its plantsThese improvements reflect the companyâs focus on better logistics and customer serviceThe marketing team played a key role in driving these results by strengthening market reach and meeting business targetsWith consistent growth and strong operational performance SAIL continues to strengthen its role as a major contributor to Indiaâs infrastructure and industrial development IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sail-records-highest-ever-sales-with-16-pc-growth-in-fy26-so-far-660683.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/dark-clouds-lifted-dea-secretary-hails-indiaus-trade-pact-660688.html New Delhi Feb 3 Senior government officials on Tuesday welcomed the IndiaUS trade deal saying it has reduced uncertainty in the global economic environment and brought relief to Indian industry Speaking at FICCIâs conference on Union Budget 2026â27 Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs Anuradha Thakur said a âgreat deal of uncertaintyâ was removed after the trade agreement was announced between India and the United StatesâDespite growing geopolitical challenges across the world the Indian economy has remained strong and stableâ she statedThakur explained that India is deeply connected with the global economy but continues to stand out as a country with strong macroeconomic fundamentalsShe credited the governmentâs careful fiscal policies and a stable financial system for supporting longterm growthâMaintaining consistency and credibility in economic management is important to attract investment and keep the growth momentum goingâ Thakur statedAt the same event Secretary of the Department of Financial Services M Nagaraju said that the global economic situation has become clearer after the trade dealHe described it as a major âdark cloudâ being lifted from the world economyNagaraju urged industry leaders to remain positive saying the government had already taken steps to reduce the impact of higher tariffs earlierHe said a credit guarantee scheme was introduced for exporters under which more than 4000 loan applications were approved and over Rs 1500 crore was disbursed to support affected industriesWith tariffs now reduced to 18 per cent he said businesses can finally feel a sense of relief and certaintyThe IndiaâUS trade deal was finalised on Monday after nearly a year of negotiations and several rounds of discussionsUnder the agreement tariffs on Indian goods exported to the US have been lowered from 25 per cent to 18 per centHowever many details of the deal are still unclear Key areas such as agriculture Indiaâs purchase of Russian oil and the services sector remain under discussionThis is especially important as the US has tightened immigration policies that could affect Indian professionals IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/dark-clouds-lifted-dea-secretary-hails-indiaus-trade-pact-660688.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sansera-engineering-forms-jv-with-japans-nichidia-shares-jump-6-pc-660693.html New Delhi Feb 3 Bengalurubased precisionengineered components manufacturer Sansera Engineering Limited could strengthen its position in the automotive value chain and create additional revenue streams through its joint venture with Japans Nichidai Corporation a report has said The report from Machine Maker said the strategic joint venture will help Sansera diversify its portfolio beyond internal combustion engine components access new customer segments and overseas marketsSansera Engineering Limited shares were trading at Rs 184840 apiece up Rs 10450 or 599 per cent on an intraday basis as of 3 pmThe partnership is also expected to benefit technology transfer to India and generate skilled employment and contribute to Karnatakaâs industrial development the report saidThe joint venture JV focuses on manufacture of highâprecision forged and machined aluminium and steel components for differential assemblies compressors driveline systems and other advanced automotive applicationsThe joint venture will be established as a private limited company based in Bengaluru in which Sansera will hold a 60 per cent equity stake while Nichidai will hold 40 per cent shareThe new venture aims to serve domestic and international markets with a domestically anchored ownership model aligned with Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat and benefitting from global manufacturing best practices the report addedThe strategic JV combines Nichidaiâs five decades of expertise in precision dies component manufacturing and filtration technologies with Sanseraâs manufacturing base and customer relationships in IndiaâThe joint venture marks an important milestone in the companyâs growth journey and aligns with its strategy to expand into highâvalue technologyâagnostic automotive componentsâ said S Sekhar Vasan Chairman amp Managing Director Sansera EngineeringAccess to Nichidaiâs Japanese precision engineering expertise would enable Sansera to deliver nextgeneration components to global OEMs Vasan addedIndia is one of the most attractive automotive manufacturing markets globally Naoki Ito President Nichidai Corporation noted while commenting on the partnership IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sansera-engineering-forms-jv-with-japans-nichidia-shares-jump-6-pc-660693.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-surges-2-073-points-rupee-posts-best-single-day-gain-since-dec-2018-660696.html Mumbai Feb 3 Indian stock markets witnessed a strong rally on Tuesday as investors cheered the finalisation of the longawaited IndiaâUS trade deal Both benchmark indices the Sensex and the Nifty posted sharp gains reflecting positive sentiment across Dalal StreetBy the end of the trading session the Sensex jumped 207267 points or 254 per cent to close at 8373913Meanwhile the Nifty climbed 63915 points or 255 per cent to settle at 2572755âThe key support zone remains at 25500â25600 gap support while 25900â26000 acts as a major psychological and supply resistance areaâ an analyst statedThe surge came after US President Donald Trump announced that the agreement would lower reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per centThe move boosted confidence among market participants who expect improved trade ties to benefit Indian companies and the broader economySeveral heavyweight stocks led the rally on the Sensex Shares of Adani Ports Bajaj Finance IndiGo and PowerGrid recorded strong gains during the dayOn the other hand Tech Mahindra and Bharat Electronics Limited BEL were the only stocks to end in negative territoryMarket optimism was visible across all sectors as every sectoral index closed higher The Nifty Realty index was the top performer rising by more than 4 per centOther sectors such as chemicals pharmaceuticals and consumer durables also saw solid buying interest with their indices jumping over 3 per cent eachThe broader market also participated in the rally The Nifty MidCap 100 index advanced 284 per cent while the Nifty SmallCap 100 index gained 282 per centAnalysts said that the strong performance highlighted investor confidence driven by positive developments on the trade front and expectations of improved economic prospectsIndian equities experienced a significant rally today driven by the longâanticipated IndiaâUS trade deal and a strengthening rupee which boosted expectations of renewed FII inflowsâ an expert saidMeanwhile Rupee traded sharply stronger appreciating by Rs 128 or nearly 140 per cent following the USâIndia trade deal announcement to record its best singleday gain since December 2018 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-surges-2-073-points-rupee-posts-best-single-day-gain-since-dec-2018-660696.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-enterprises-logs-90x-growth-in-q3-net-profit-consolidated-ebitda-at-rs-11-985-crore-in-april-dec-660697.html Ahmedabad Feb 3 Adani Enterprises Ltd AEL the flagship company of the Adani Group on Tuesday registered an impressive 90 times growth in net profit at Rs 5627 crore for the OctoberDecember quarter Q3 FY26 yearonyear For the nine months this fiscal FY26 consolidated EBITDA reached Rs 11985 crore while revenue stood at Rs 69756 crore the Adani Group company said in a statementAEL has strengthened its track record of consistently delivering operational and execution excellence during the quarter with the commencement of operations at the greenfield Navi Mumbai airport in less than five years of acquisitionThe flagship company has also successfully delivered outcomes within timelines by completing two HAM road projects and the inauguration of the integrated new terminal building at Guwahati airportWith resilient execution and a clear strategic focus Adani Enterprises has delivered a robust operating performance in the first nine months of FY26 reflecting the strength of our incubator model and the depth of our diversified infrastructure portfolio Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani saidThe commencement of operations at the Navi Mumbai International Airport represents a landmark achievement reinforcing our commitment to building nationally critical assets at scale and speed he addedOur continued progress across airports renewable manufacturing data centres and transport infrastructure alongside strong capital market support through our successful rights issue and NCD offerings positions us well to accelerate the next phase of growth Gautam Adani mentionedThe company successfully completed a rights issue raising Rs 24930 crore seeing oversubscription by 30 per cent from the market It also raised Rs 1000 crore through its third public issue of NCDs in January 2026Adani New Industries ANILGreen Hydrogen Ecosystem saw module sales continue to track over 1 GW per quarter as domestic solar module sales surged 40 per cent to 997 MW during the quarterAdani Solar ANIL is now the only Indian company in the top 10 global solar manufacturersWhile AEL water business received a letter of intent LoA to develop the Mithi river project ACX data centre operationalised 144 MW capacity and now has an operational capacity of 50MWAs India advances towards becoming a 5 trillion economy AEL remains steadfast in its mission to incubate globally competitive businesses that combine economic value creation with sustainability technological leadership and longterm national impact said Gautam Adani IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-enterprises-logs-90x-growth-in-q3-net-profit-consolidated-ebitda-at-rs-11-985-crore-in-april-dec-660697.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/lubricant-maker-castrol-india-logs-10-pc-decline-in-q3-net-profit-660701.html Mumbai Feb 3 Castrol India Limited on Tuesday reported a 99 per cent decline in its net profit for the third quarter of the current financial year Q3 FY26 even as the company posted its highest quarterly revenue in the last two decades The lubricant maker said its net profit for the OctoberâDecember quarter stood at Rs 244 crore which was 99 per cent lower compared to Rs 271 crore in the same period last financial year Q3 FY25However revenue from operations rose by 64 per cent yearonyear to Rs 1440 crore from Rs 1354 crore making it the companyâs strongest quarterly revenue performance in 20 yearsThe companyâs EBITDA a key measure of operating performance came in at Rs 3685 crore slightly lower than Rs 3764 crore reported a year agoThe EBITDA margin also slipped to 256 per cent from 278 per cent in the corresponding quarter last financial year as per its regulatory filingDespite the pressure on margins Castrol India recorded an 8 per cent rise in volumes during the quarterFor the full financial year 2025 Castrol India delivered its highestever revenue marking the eighth straight quarter of growthRevenue from operations for the year increased by 7 per cent to Rs 5722 crore while EBITDA grew 5 per cent to Rs 1348 croreAlong with its results the company announced a final dividend of Rs 525 per share for FY25This is in addition to the interim dividend already paid taking the total dividend for the year to Rs 875 per shareThe record date for the final dividend has been set as March 23 2026 and the payment will be made on or before April 27 2026 subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming annual general meetingCommenting on the performance Saugata Basuray Interim Chief Executive Officer of Castrol India said the company had delivered strong volumeled growth over the past eight quarters and improved its market shareâAs Castrol globally enters its next phase our approach in India remains unchanged grow the business by staying close to customers proactively respond to changes in the operating environment and execute with disciplineâ Basuray added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/lubricant-maker-castrol-india-logs-10-pc-decline-in-q3-net-profit-660701.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/debt-ridden-pakistan-surviving-on-foreign-borrowing-660707.html New Delhi Feb 3 Debtridden Pakistanâs recent request to the United Arab Emirates UAE for the rollover of 3 billion deposits reflects the heavy dependence of the countryâs economy on borrowing from friendly countries and the IMF to stay afloat This pattern of repeated rollovers and emergency funding from friendly states and the IMF has provided shortterm breathing space but has also entrenched a fragile economic model that discourages domestic reform distorts incentives and perpetuates dependence according to an article in the Colombobased Asian News PostThe article points out that in early January 2026 Pakistan sought roll over of 3 billion from the UAE currently deposited with the State Bank of Pakistan SBP in three separate 1 billion tranches originally deposited in 2021 to shore up Pakistanâs balance of payments and stave off pressure on the foreign exchange reservesThe article cites official sources as indicating that Pakistan expects the rollover process to be completed on time and has also assured the International Monetary Fund IMF that the UAE will maintain these deposits in line with commitments made under the ongoing IMF programme This request is systematic in which Pakistan leans heavily on bilateral partners notably Saudi Arabia the UAE and China to roll over central bank deposits and commercial loans whenever repayment deadlines approachFor the current fiscal year government sources estimate that Pakistan will rely on rollovers of around 12 billion from these three partners alone underscoring how the countryâs external account management has become structurally tied to friendly capital rather than domestic export capacity or productivityled growthThe SBP Governor recently highlighted that in fiscal year 2025â26 total external repayments amount to about 258 billion of which approximately 93 billion are expected to be rolled over illustrating how rollovers are now embedded as a routine pillar of debt management rather than an exceptional crisis toolThe borrowing from the IMF also follows similar lines The IMF Executive Board approved a new 7 billion 37âmonth Extended Fund Facility EFF for Pakistan in September 2024 with disbursement contingent on sound policies and reforms but also explicitly backed by substantial financing assurances and rollovers from China Saudi Arabia and the UAE IMF officials have acknowledged that Pakistan has already been through 22 previous IMF programmes since 1958 a frequency that itself is symptomatic of recurring external sector crises and the failure of past reform efforts to break the cycle of dependenceUnder the new programme Pakistan secured immediate disbursement of 1 billion and additional commitments yet the conditionality again focuses on stabilisation rather than a fundamental restructuring of the economic model the article added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/debt-ridden-pakistan-surviving-on-foreign-borrowing-660707.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-ustradedealgame-changer-formedtech-pharma-sectors-industry-660714.html New Delhi Feb 3 The trade deal between India and the US is a gamechanger for the Indian MedTech and pharma sectors said industry experts on Tuesday In a historic move the US has announced a reduction in tariffs on Indian exports to 18 per cent from 50 per cent which is a constructive development for the IndiaUS trade relationsThe US is Indiaâs largest export destination accounting for about 20 per cent of total exportsThe Association of Indian Medical Devices AiMeD hailed the deal and noted that it can prove to be a âvital boost for our manufacturers enhancing global competitiveness spurring investments and creating jobsââThe US tariff slash from 50 per cent to 18 per cent is a gamechanger for Indian medical devices slashing export costs and unlocking billions in US market potential amid China1 shifts We urge sustained IndiaUS regulatory harmonisation to capitalise fully on this opportunity for âMake in Indiaâ MedTech successâ said Rajiv Nath Forum Coordinator AiMeDFurther Nath noted that the US tariff cut to 18 per cent on Indian goods also provides Indian medical devices a competitive edge over Chinese counterparts which face higher Section 301 tariffs typically at 25 per cent plus additional hikes up to 5060 per cent on some items like respiratorsâPreviously India endured up to 50 per cent duties while China had around 30 per cent but the new deal aligns Indiaâs rate below Chinaâs base favouring India amid China1 diversificationâ he addedThe Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India Pharmexcil also highlighted the positive implications of the IndiaUS trade deal for the Indian pharma sectorâThe IndiaUS trade agreement represents a pivotal moment for the pharmaceutical sector with key highlights including the reduction of tariffs on Indian goods exportsâ said Namit Joshi Chairman â PharmexcilâThe reduction in reciprocal taxes is incrementally positive for Indian pharmaceutical companies particularly those with significant exposure to the US market which accounts for 3040 per cent of the sectors total revenueâ he addedJoshi noted that the deal also fosters greater market access for Indian generics and biosimilars strengthening Indiaâs position as the global leader in affordable medicinesâBy enhancing trade ties streamlining regulatory processes and ensuring supply chain resilience this agreement will drive growth in Indias pharmaceutical exports unlock new opportunities for innovation and reinforce the countryâs critical role in global healthcareâ the expert said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-ustradedealgame-changer-formedtech-pharma-sectors-industry-660714.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/lubricant-maker-castrol-india-logs-10-pc-decline-in-q4-net-profit-660719.html Mumbai Feb 3 Castrol India Limited on Tuesday reported a 99 per cent decline in its net profit for the fourth quarter of the current financial year Q4 FY26 even as the company posted its highest quarterly revenue in the last two decades The lubricant maker said its net profit for the OctoberâDecember quarter stood at Rs 244 crore which was 99 per cent lower compared to Rs 271 crore in the same period last financial year Q4 FY25However revenue from operations rose by 64 per cent yearonyear to Rs 1440 crore from Rs 1354 crore making it the companyâs strongest quarterly revenue performance in 20 yearsThe companyâs EBITDA a key measure of operating performance came in at Rs 3685 crore slightly lower than Rs 3764 crore reported a year agoThe EBITDA margin also slipped to 256 per cent from 278 per cent in the corresponding quarter last financial year as per its regulatory filingDespite the pressure on margins Castrol India recorded an 8 per cent rise in volumes during the quarterFor the full financial year 2025 Castrol India delivered its highestever revenue marking the eighth straight quarter of growthRevenue from operations for the year increased by 7 per cent to Rs 5722 crore while EBITDA grew 5 per cent to Rs 1348 croreAlong with its results the company announced a final dividend of Rs 525 per share for FY25This is in addition to the interim dividend already paid taking the total dividend for the year to Rs 875 per shareThe record date for the final dividend has been set as March 23 2026 and the payment will be made on or before April 27 2026 subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming annual general meetingCommenting on the performance Saugata Basuray Interim Chief Executive Officer of Castrol India said the company had delivered strong volumeled growth over the past eight quarters and improved its market shareâAs Castrol globally enters its next phase our approach in India remains unchanged grow the business by staying close to customers proactively respond to changes in the operating environment and execute with disciplineâ Basuray added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/lubricant-maker-castrol-india-logs-10-pc-decline-in-q4-net-profit-660719.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/high-cost-of-doing-business-cripples-pakistans-exporters-660723.html New Delhi Feb 3 The Pakistan Business Forum PBF has assessed the cost of doing business in the country to be around 34 per cent higher than in comparable regional economies which means Pakistani exporters are losing price competitiveness in international markets that determine survival according to an article in the Pakistani media For an economy that is trying desperately to pivot to exportgenerated growth employment and foreign exchange this disadvantage is simply unsustainable Pakistanâs exporters have already felt the consequences Despite a recovery in global trade across several sectors exports have remained stagnant since 2022 the article in the Karachibased Business Recorder observedIt highlights that regional competitors such as India Bangladesh and Vietnam have expanded market share by maintaining lower cost structures stable policy frameworks and predictable operating environments Pakistan by contrast has allowed costs to spiral through policy choices that actively undermine industrial competitivenessEnergy pricing is one of the most damaging factors Electricity and gas tariffs for industry remain significantly higher than regional benchmarks These costs are driven by inefficiencies misaligned subsidies and the continued treatment of productive sectors as a source of fiscal extraction rather than economic growth For exportoriented firms energy expenses feed directly into unit costs eroding margins and pricing them out of competitive bids Buyers do not wait for policy corrections they shift orders elsewhere the article lamentedTax policy has further compounded the problem The burden of revenue collection continues to fall disproportionately on a narrow group of documented businesses Instead of broadening the tax base and eliminating distortions policy has relied on higher effective rates withholding mechanisms and indirect levies that inflate costs throughout the supply chain This approach penalises formal production and weakens competitiveness while leaving structural leakages untouched the article observesNowhere is this policy failure more visible than in the cotton sector Cotton underpins Pakistanâs textile industry the countryâs largest export earner and a major source of rural livelihoods Yet more than 400 cotton ginning factories have closed disrupting the entire value chain the article statedConsequently Farmers face reduced demand and lower returns ginners have been pushed out of operation and textile manufacturers increasingly rely on imported cotton placing additional strain on foreign exchange reserves This situation is not sustainable and all relevant authorities are aware of it yet despite all the talk thereâs still nothing on the ground to offer any encouragement the article added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/high-cost-of-doing-business-cripples-pakistans-exporters-660723.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/bajaj-finances-q3-profit-falls-18-pc-sequentially-to-rs-4-066-crore-660725.html Mumbai Feb 3 Bajaj Finance on Tuesday reported a 56 per cent decline in consolidated net profit for the December quarter Q3 FY26 The nonbanking financial company NBFC posted a net profit of Rs 4066 crore compared to Rs 4308 crore in the same quarter last financial year Q3 FY25 according to its stock exchange filingOn a sequential basis profit fell 18 per cent from Rs 4947 crore reported in the September quarter Q2 FY26 as per its regulatory filingThe company said profitability was impacted by higher provisions including an accelerated expected credit loss ECL charge of Rs 1406 crore and a onetime gratuityrelated expense of Rs 265 crore following the implementation of new labour codesAdjusted for these items net profit would have stood at Rs 5317 crore reflecting a 23 per cent yearonyear growthDespite the drop in reported profit Bajaj Finance saw strong growth in its core lending businessNet interest income NII rose to Rs 11318 crore in the December quarter up from Rs 9383 crore in the yearago period as per its regulatory filingLoan growth remained steady during the quarter The company booked 1390 million new loans in Q3 FY26 up 15 per cent from 1206 million loans in the same quarter last financial yearThis helped assets under management AUM grow 22 per cent yearonyear to Rs 484 lakh crore compared with Rs 398 lakh crore a year agoLoan losses and provisions stood at Rs 3625 crore during the quarter Excluding the accelerated ECL provision of Rs 1406 crore loan losses and provisions were Rs 2219 crore up 9 per cent from Rs 2043 crore in the corresponding period last yearAs of December 31 2025 gross nonperforming assets GNPA stood at 156 per cent slightly higher than 141 per cent a year earlierNet NPAs remained stable at 061 per cent compared to the same level last financial year the company added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/bajaj-finances-q3-profit-falls-18-pc-sequentially-to-rs-4-066-crore-660725.html Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-deal-heralds-exciting-new-phase-in-our-partnership-indian-envoy-to-us-660625.html Washington Feb 3 Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra on Tuesday hailed the trade deal between the two nations and said that the new announcements herald an exciting new phase in our partnership This came as India and the US reached a trade deal on MondayTaking to X the Indian Ambassador said A big WIN for a consequential partnership under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump India and USA announce a trade deal creating vast new opportunities for the two economies and the people of our two great nations Todays announcements herald an exciting new phase in our partnershipEarlier on Monday the US President said that India and the United States had reached a trade deal outlining key elements after a phone conversation with PM Modi whom he described as one of my greatest friendsIn a detailed post on Truth Social Trump said the agreement would immediately reduce the US reciprocal tariff on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent calling it a major shift in bilateral trade ties linked to energy cooperation and broader geopolitical goalsTrump said the two leaders discussed many things including Trade and ending the War with Russia and Ukraine He claimed that PM Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil and to increase purchases from the United States and potentially from VenezuelaThis will help END THE WAR in Ukraine which is taking place right now with thousands of people dying each and every week Trump wroteAccording to Trump the trade deal would take effect immediately He said India would move forward to reduce their Tariffs and Non Tariff Barriers against the United States to ZEROTrump also said PM Modi is committed to BUY AMERICAN at a much higher level He added that India would purchase over 500 BILLION DOLLARS of US Energy Technology Agricultural Coal and many other productsOur amazing relationship with India will be even stronger going forward Trump wrote Prime Minister Modi and I are two people that GET THINGS DONEPM Modi also took to X and said Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 14 billion people of India for this wonderful announcementHe said that when two large economies and the worlds largest democracies work together it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperationHailing President Trumps leadership in advocating for global peace stability and prosperity the Prime Minister said India fully supports his efforts for peaceI look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights PM Modi added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-deal-heralds-exciting-new-phase-in-our-partnership-indian-envoy-to-us-660625.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indiaus-trade-agreement-strengthens-indias-global-trade-position-expert-660627.html Mumbai Feb 3 IANS Market expert Sunil Shah on Tuesday termed the IndiaUS trade deal a major sentiment booster for the Indian economy and capital markets saying it has laid a strong foundation for longterm growth and strengthened Indias position in global tradenbspReacting to the development Shah said the agreement has had an immediate positive impact on market sentiment which was clearly reflected in Tuesdays sharp rallyAfter the Budget the market was slightly weak but today the Sensex is up by over 2200 points and there is only one reason for this the IndiaUS trade deal he told IANSnbspExplaining its economic impact Shah noted that earlier concerns over high tariffs were limited in scope There were no high tariffs on software and services and pharma was not included in the 50 per cent category Only sectors like garments gems jewellery and a few others were affected and their volumes were not large enough to impact overall economic growth he said adding that the reduction of tariffs to 18 per cent is clearly positiveCalling the deal a strong beginning Shah said bilateral trade agreements should be viewed in relative terms Relative to whom With whom are you comparing I will leave that aside and say this is a beginning Just as we made a deal with the European Union we have now opened doors with the US he saidnbspHe stressed that the more bilateral trade deals a country signs the more beneficial it becomes for all stakeholders Trade deals are always a winwin In the absence of engagement challenges arise Shah said pointing out that Chinas extensive trade agreements with several countries are a key reason behind its large trade surplusShah cautioned that the benefits may not be visible immediately in hard numbers but said the agreement has paved the way for future growth You may not see instant results but this deal clearly demonstrates intent the US is with India the UK is with India and the EU is with India That itself is a powerful signal he addednbspCalling it a longawaited development Shah said the trade deal has significantly boosted confidence in Indias growth story and strengthened investor sentiment https://dailyworld.in/business/indiaus-trade-agreement-strengthens-indias-global-trade-position-expert-660627.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indiaus-economic-ties-set-to-reach-new-heights-rajnath-singh-welcomes-trade-deal-660630.html New Delhi Feb 3 Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday hailed the IndiaUS trade deal and said that it will open a new phase of deeper and greater cooperation between the two nations In a post on X Singh said A landmark moment for IndiaUS relations as a historic trade deal has been finalised bringing tariffs down to a significantly lower 18 per cent and opening a new chapter of deeper and greater economic cooperationCongratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on reaching a decisive agreement the Defence Minister said that it will significantly strengthen our strategic partnership and deliver tangible benefits to both the countries and their peopleWith this agreement IndiaâUS economic ties are set to reach new heights he addedEarlier on Monday Trump said a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi led to the deal cutting US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent and easing Indian trade barriers on US productsTrump said India would also stop buying Russian oil and increase purchases of US energy technology and agricultural products He said the agreement would strengthen ties between the two countries and support efforts to end the war in UkrainePM Modi also took to X and said Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 14 billion people of India for this wonderful announcementHe said that when two large economies and the worlds largest democracies work together it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperationHailing President Trumps leadership in advocating for global peace stability and prosperity the Prime Minister said India fully supports his efforts for peaceI look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights PM Modi added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indiaus-economic-ties-set-to-reach-new-heights-rajnath-singh-welcomes-trade-deal-660630.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tn-bjp-hails-india-us-trade-deal-as-game-changer-for-economic-ties-660632.html Chennai Feb 3 Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson ANS Prasad on Tuesday welcomed the landmark IndiaUS trade understanding announced after a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump describing it as a decisive moment that will reshape global trade dynamics and significantly strengthen bilateral relations between the worldâs two largest democracies In a statement Prasad said the agreement to slash US tariffs on Indian goods from levels as high as 50 per cent including punitive duties to a reciprocal rate of 18 per cent with immediate effect opens unprecedented opportunities for Indian exportersHe noted that the decision reflects mutual trust strategic clarity and strong personal diplomacy between the two leaders According to Prasad the tariff reduction will provide a major boost to Indian sectors such as manufacturing agriculture textiles engineering goods pharmaceuticals and technologyâThis breakthrough will directly benefit Indian youth farmers MSMEs entrepreneurs and manufacturers by expanding access to the American market accelerating exports and generating employmentâ he said adding that the development aligns seamlessly with the Make in India visionAs part of the reciprocal framework India has committed to progressively lower trade barriers on US goods with a roadmap toward nearzero tariffs in select areasPrasad highlighted that New Delhiâs decision to increase imports from the United States particularly in energy agriculture and advanced technology will further deepen economic interdependence between the two nationsHe also pointed to Indiaâs move to halt purchases of Russian oil as a significant strategic signal that underscores closer alignment with WashingtonDescribing the agreement as more than a commercial arrangement Prasad said it sends a powerful global message âWhen two major democracies choose cooperation over confrontation it promotes global stability fair trade and shared prosperityâ he saidThe accord he added demonstrates how pragmatic diplomacy can convert challenges into opportunities in an uncertain global environmentPrasad praised the âintelligent and decisive leadershipâ of PM Modi and Trump stating that their approach has elevated the IndiaUS strategic partnership to new heights He noted that the agreement sets a model for constructive international engagement based on reciprocity trust and longterm mutual benefitConcluding his remarks Prasad said the IndiaUS trade breakthrough reaffirms both countriesâ roles as pillars of democracy innovation and economic opportunity capable of shaping not just bilateral ties but the future direction of the global economy IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tn-bjp-hails-india-us-trade-deal-as-game-changer-for-economic-ties-660632.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/defining-step-forward-in-indiaus-economic-relations-nitin-gadkari-on-trade-deal-660642.html New Delhi Feb 3 Nitin Gadkari Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways on Tuesday welcomed the IndiaUS trade deal calling it a defining step forward in bilateral economic ties India and the US reached a trade deal on Monday following a phone call between PM Modi and President Trump cutting US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent and easing Indian trade barriers on US productsToday marks a defining step forward in IndiaâUS economic relations as the trade deal is finalised with tariffs reduced to 18 per cent opening new avenues for growth and cooperation My heartfelt congratulations to Honble PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump for their leadership in securing this historic outcome Gadkari posted on X He further stated that the agreement strengthens trust boosts business confidence and sets the stage for deeper trade investment and shared prosperity for both nationsEarlier on Monday Trump said a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi led to the dealHe said India would also stop buying Russian oil and increase purchases of US energy technology and agricultural products He said the agreement would strengthen ties between the two countries and support efforts to end the war in UkrainePM Modi also took to X and said Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 14 billion people of India for this wonderful announcementHe said that when two large economies and the worlds largest democracies work together it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperationHailing President Trumps leadership in advocating for global peace stability and prosperity the Prime Minister said India fully supports his efforts for peaceI look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights PM Modi added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/defining-step-forward-in-indiaus-economic-relations-nitin-gadkari-on-trade-deal-660642.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/spacex-acquires-xai-to-launch-spacebased-ai-data-centres-elon-musk-660643.html Mumbai Feb 3 USbased entrepreneur Elon Musk said that his aerospace firm SpaceX has acquired his AI startup xAI and shared plans to scale AI compute in space by launching large constellations of satellites that act as orbital data centres Launching a million tonnes per year of satellites generating kilowatts kW of compute power per tonne would add 100 gigawatts of AI compute capacity annually with no ongoing operational or maintenance needs Ultimately there is a path to launching 1 TWyear from Earth said Elon Musk in a statementThe SpaceX founder said that spaceâbased AI is the only viable longâterm path to meet the vast power needs of advanced AI arguing that nearâconstant solar power in orbit can deliver compute at far lower cost than terrestrial data centresThe costefficiency alone will enable companies to advance training their AI models and processing data at unprecedented speeds and scales the tech leader saidTo harness even a millionth of our Sunâs energy would require over a million times more energy than our civilisation currently uses The only logical solution therefore is to transport these resourceintensive efforts to a location with vast power and space he saidCurrent advances in AI are dependent on large terrestrial data centers which require immense amounts of power and cooling he saidMusk warned that global electricity demand for AI cannot be met with terrestrial solutions even in the near term without imposing hardship on communities and the environmentSpaceXs Starship will begin delivering the much more powerful V3 Starlink satellites to orbit in 2026 with each launch adding more than 20 times the capacity to the constellation as the current Falcon launches of the V2 Starlink satellitesIt will enable launches âevery hour carrying 200 tons per flightâ and ultimately lifting millions of tons to orbit and beyond he shared his planStarship will also launch the next generation of directtomobile satellites which will deliver full cellular coverage everywhere on Earth he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/spacex-acquires-xai-to-launch-spacebased-ai-data-centres-elon-musk-660643.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/us-trade-deal-to-boost-global-competitiveness-of-indian-products-create-jobs-industry-chambers-660648.html New Delhi Feb 3 Leading industry chambers on Tuesday said the IndiaUS trade deal will enhance the global competitiveness of Indian products while catalysing manufacturing growth employment creation and the development of resilient supply chains The US has immediately reduced reciprocal tariff on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent while waiving off the other 25 per cent tariffs imposed on the country for purchasing Russian oilâThe expected reduction of USIndia tariffs to 18 per cent marks a significant step forward in the strategic economic partnership between India and USâ said Rajiv Memani President CIIThe IndiaUS trade deal underscores the shared commitment of both the countries to deepen trade technology and investment ties in an increasingly competitive global landscapeâThe CII looks forward to continued engagement with business stakeholders in both countries to translate this momentum into tangible outcomes for businesses and sustained economic growthâ Memani notedPHDCCI President Rajeev Juneja said that by lowering tariff duties the United States signals a renewed commitment to trade openness and economic efficiencyâReduced tariffs cut input costs for domestic industries strengthen supply chains and ease inflation by lowering prices for businesses and consumers They benefit key sectors â including manufacturing technology healthcare and renewable energy â by improving access to intermediate goods capital equipment and critical componentsâ he mentioned in a statementImportantly this approach aligns with the spirit of cooperation fostered by the strong personal rapport between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump reinforcing trust and predictability in bilateral trade said JunejaDr A Sakthivel Chairman AEPC said that the breakthrough is a highly welcome and timely development for the Indian apparel industry which was stressed due to the high US tariff of 50 per centâThe United States is our single largest export market and improved trade terms will significantly enhance the competitiveness of Indian apparel products in the US market This development is expected to give a strong boost to apparel exports attract fresh investments across the value chain and reinforce Indiaâs position as a reliable global sourcing hubâ he said in a statementMost importantly the apparel sector being one of the largest employment generators this positive move will help secure existing jobs and create substantial new employment opportunities particularly for women and the workforce in laborintensive segments Sakthivel added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/us-trade-deal-to-boost-global-competitiveness-of-indian-products-create-jobs-industry-chambers-660648.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/chandrababu-naidu-hails-india-us-trade-deal-as-historic-milestone-660649.html Amaravati Feb 3 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday hailed the IndiaUS trade deal as a âhistoric milestoneâ for global economic stability He congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on concluding this âlandmarkâ trade agreement with the US âReducing tariffs to 18 is a visionary move that strengthens the bond between the worldâs two greatest democracies and ensures continued global growthâ said the Chief MinisterâUnder the PMs leadership India is cementing its role as a global economic powerhouse This deal will significantly boost Indias export competitiveness creating immense opportunities for our youth and farmers including those in Andhra Pradeshâ added Chandrababu Naidu whose Telugu Desam Party TDP is a key partner in the BJPled NDA government at the CentreDeputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on India reaching an agreement with the United StatesIn a social media post Pawan Kalyan extended his âheartfelt congratulations to PM Modi for âenergising Indiaâs economy by concluding two worldclass trade agreements within a span of a weekâThe Jana Sena leader stated that following last weekâs landmark âmother of all dealsâ with the European Union the agreement with the President of the United States Donald Trump is set to further strengthen our economic prospects âIn particular the reduction of tariff charges to 18 will significantly benefit our farmers by improving market access and export competitiveness I sincerely thank the Prime Minister for consistently taking timely and decisive steps that align with the aspirations of the people of Bharatâ wrote Pawan KalyanEarlier Minister for IT and HRD Nara Lokesh hailed the trade agreement with the US He called it a big win for India under the leadership of PM ModiâThe reduction of US tariffs from 25 to 18 is a major boost for Indiaâs exports and manufacturing This will directly benefit Andhra Pradeshâs marine seafood exports MSMEs agriexports and emerging manufacturing hubs while deepening the IndiaUS partnership Kudos to the negotiating teams Ministry of Commerce amp Industry and the leaderships of both countries for this major breakthroughâ posted Lokesh on X IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/chandrababu-naidu-hails-india-us-trade-deal-as-historic-milestone-660649.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-takes-decisive-steps-toward-self-reliance-in-critical-materials-660659.html New Delhi Feb 3 With coordinated domestic and global initiatives India is positioning itself as a reliable and competitive player in advanced materials value chains taking decisive steps toward selfreliance in critical materials by establishing a domestic ecosystem for Rare Earth Permanent Magnets REPMs an official statement said on Tuesday The Rs 7280 crore REPM Manufacturing Scheme and the Union Budget 2026â27 announcement of Dedicated Rare Earth Corridors together create an integrated framework for mining processing research and manufacturing the statement saidThe Budget 2026â27 has announced the creation of Dedicated Rare Earth Corridors in Odisha Kerala Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to promote mining processing research and manufacturingAccording to the statement Rare Earth Permanent Magnets REPMs are among the strongest types of permanent magnets known for their high magnetic strength and stabilityTheir compact size and powerful performance make them indispensable for advanced engineering applications such as electric vehicle motors wind turbine generators consumer and industrial electronics aerospace systems defence equipment and precision sensorsThe country possesses a substantial reserve of rareearth minerals providing a strong foundation for downstream industries like REPM manufacturingIndia holds 1315 million tonnes of monazite containing an estimated 723 million tonnes of rareearth oxides REO These deposits occur across Odisha Kerala Andhra Pradesh Tamil Nadu West Bengal Gujarat Maharashtra and Jharkhand primarily in coastal beach sands terired sands and inland alluviumIn Gujarat and Rajasthan 129 million tonnes of insitu REO resources have been identified in hardrock areas The Geological Survey of India GSI has further augmented reserves identifying 4826 million tonnes of rareearth ore resources in 34 exploration projectsHowever although India has a strong rareearth resource base domestic production of permanent magnets is still at a developing stage with imports mainly from China meeting most of the demand nearly 60â80 per cent by value and 85â90 per cent by quantity between 2022â25With the consumption of Rare Earth Permanent Magnets expected to double by 2030 due to rapid growth in electric mobility renewable energy electronics and defence applications it is essential for India to expand domestic capability and invest in this sector to reduce import dependence and ensure longterm selfreliance said the statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-takes-decisive-steps-toward-self-reliance-in-critical-materials-660659.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-us-trade-deal-togenerate-jobs-and-add-more-to-forexashishkumar-chauhan-660660.html New Delhi Feb 3 The IndiaUS trade agreement is the most important deal for the country and will generate more jobs and also add to foreign exchange said Ashishkumar Chauhan NSE MD and CEO on Tuesday Speaking to IANS Chauhan stated that the trade deal between the US and India was expected for a long time and now will be implemented immediately unlike the European deal which is expected to roll out after six monthsâIndia is the only country that has manpower hightech appreciation and technology adoption And that is why all countries are ready to negotiate with us With the deal India will export more generating more jobs and adding to its Forexâ Chauhan saidWith a reduction of US reciprocal tariff on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent âleather goods garments marine products all employmentgenerating areas will revive export to the USâ he said adding that in the next 10 years India will have a golden ageâChauhan stated that portfolio investors are also positive on the trade dealâEveryone is very happy especially the investors And because of the deal the chances of companies increasing their profits are very highâ he saidIndian investors have faith in the Prime Ministers vision for the countrys trajectory Consequently an increasing number of domestic investors are backing Indian companies every month I believe the recent trade deals are a direct result of that confidence demonstrating that Indian investors are now capable of selffunding their own growth the expert told IANSChauhan mentioned that NSEs own international exchange which runs in Gift City for about 22 hours closed at 25970 about 25 per cent high at 2 oclock last nightâEven today when the Indian market opened NSE also opened up by 25 per cent I feel that overall this is the initial reaction As companies analyse an increase in their profits they will get the rating furtherâ Chauhan saidThe expert further noted that for the last 3035 years the US and several countries in Europe were supporting China But now they see China as their competition and are thus moving away from itIndia needs the right partners who can import from us and to whom we can export our services skills and manufactured goods countries like the US Japan Australia and those in Europe China is unlikely to import our goods Therefore by negotiating with these nations we are effectively creating competition for China Chauhan said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-us-trade-deal-togenerate-jobs-and-add-more-to-forexashishkumar-chauhan-660660.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/over70pcindian-recruiters-turning-to-ai-to-find-hidden-talentreport-660664.html New Delhi Feb 3 Even as finding the right talent is getting harder 71 per cent of recruiters in India said that artificial intelligence AI has helped them uncover candidates with skills they would have previously missed according to a new report on Tuesday The report by professional networking website LinkedIn based on a survey of 6554 global HR professionals noted that recruiters are using AI to spot the right skills and hire fasterAbout 80 per cent of recruiters reported that AI makes gaining insight into a candidateâs skills easier More than threequarters 76 per cent believe AI is already speeding up hiringAround eight in 10 Indian recruiters said they plan to expand their use of AI to support hiring goals evaluate applicants and source top talentA majority also plan to increase AI use for prescreening interviews in 2026 believing it will lead to more valuable recruitercandidate conversations 83 per cent faster hiring experience 83 per cent and better candidate insights 82 per centWeâre seeing a structural shift in hiring from pedigree and past titles to demonstrate skills and capability This shift is hard to execute at scale without AI Used responsibly AI helps recruiters detect the right skills earlier reduce screening friction and create a more consistent and fair evaluation processâ said Ruchee Anand APAC VP LinkedIn Talent SolutionsThe research showed that 74 per cent of recruiters now struggle to find qualified candidates even as hiring activity runs 40 per cent above prepandemic levels in IndiaThis is because recruiters are facing a volumequality mismatch Among recruiters who say hiring has become more difficult over half point to a surge in AIgenerated applications 53 per cent while many cite continued shortages in indemand skills 47 per centFurther as AI becomes more embedded in hiring expectations from candidates are rising too Professionals increasingly want visibility into how hiring decisions are made signalling a clear demand for transparencyHalf of recruiters 50 per cent in India now say they are under pressure to explain how AI is being used in their processes and hiring flow particularly when it comes to screening and shortlisting candidatesâOur priority at LinkedIn is to build AI tools like Hiring Assistant that serve as a decisionsupport layer in hiring so recruiters can find the right talent more quickly and confidently without compromising on quality or candidate experienceâ Anand said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/over70pcindian-recruiters-turning-to-ai-to-find-hidden-talentreport-660664.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-gcc-market-to-touch-110-bn-growing-10-pc-annually-through-2030-660668.html New Delhi Feb 3 India is poised to host over 2400 GCCs by 2030 employing over 28 million professionals and the countrys GCC market could reach a size of 105 â 110 billion by growing at a compound annual growth rate of 10 per cent a report said on Tuesday The report from FICCI and ANAROCK said Indiaâs office market posted allâtime high leasing across the top seven cities in 2025 driven largely by Global Capability Centres that now account for more than 40 per cent of gross leasingBeating macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds Indiaâs office market in 2025 demonstrated marked resilience with alltime high office space leasing the report saidGCCs leased over 325 million square feet of the total 805 million square feet of gross office space in top seven cities in CY25Bengaluru continued to lead Indiaâs GCC landscape backed by its deep talent pool welldeveloped ecosystem and sustained global investment interestBengaluru captured over oneâthird of GCC leasing followed by Pune at 15 per cent and DelhiâNCR and Hyderabad at about 14 per cent eachThe sectorâs ability to attract and retain global talent coupled with Indiaâs cost efficiency and its skilled captive workforce continues to fuel demand for premium office spaces Further Indiaâs GCC footprint is rapidly expanding beyond the top 7 cities spreading steadily into Tier 2 cities such as Jaipur Indore Surat Kochi and CoimbatoreâOver the years Indiaâs GCC landscape has expanded rapidly with its market size rising from 30 billion in 2019 to around 64 billion in 2024 This growth is fuelled by an everincreasing demand from key sectors like ITITeS BFSI Healthcare amp Life Sciences and Engineering Research amp Development ERampDâ said Anuj Puri Chairman â ANAROCK GroupIndiaâs REIT market is markedly lower than in mature markets like the US Singapore and Japan it noted indicating there is significant room for growthIncreasing institutional participation policy support and expanding asset inclusion could lift REIT penetration toward 25â30 per cent by 2030 up from about 20 per cent today the report said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-gcc-market-to-touch-110-bn-growing-10-pc-annually-through-2030-660668.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-deal-with-us-protects-interests-of-farmers-fishermen-piyush-goyal-660681.html New Delhi Feb 3 IANS Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Tuesday that the trade deal finalised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the US is the best among the neighbouring countries and will protect the interests of the countrys farmers the dairy sector and fishermennbspAddressing a press conference he said that the Prime Minister had used his friendship with US President Donald Trump to clinch a very good deal for India giving priority to national interestnbspThe trade deal will benefit the labourintensive sectors of the economy such as textiles leather seafood and gems and jewellery as it opens up significant opportunities for exports to the US The engineering goods sector which includes auto components and other goods will also benefit from the deal he addedThe minister further stated that the MSME sector which creates the highest number of jobs in the economy would also benefit from the trade deal as the reduced tariff would make exports from the sector more competitivenbspGoyal said that PM Modi had clinched the deal which was stuck in lengthy negotiations at the official and ministers level that were not producing resultsnbspnbspHe contended that it was essential to finalise the trade deal as Indian exports of labourintensive products such as seafood and textiles to the US were hit due to the higher punitive tariff of 50 per cent imposed by the Trump administrationOn behalf of 140 crore Indians I want to thank PM Modi because this deal will bring a lot of opportunities for Indias economic growth for farmers poor fishermen women and youth he saidnbspGoyal launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accusing him of misleading the country and lacking concern for Indias developmentnbspLeaders with negative thinking like Rahul Gandhi are misleading the country They have no concern for the nations progress The Congress government reduced India to the fragile 5 economies and if Rahul Gandhi has his way he will take the country back to the same stage he allegedUS President Trump on Monday announced a trade deal with India that slashes US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from 50 per cent in exchange for India halting Russian oil purchases and lowering trade barriers Trump announced the deal on social media following a call with Prime Minister Modi noting that India would now buy oil from the US and potentially VenezuelaOut of friendship and respect for Prime Minister Modi and as per his request effective immediately we agreed to a Trade Deal between the United States and India whereby the United States will charge a reduced Reciprocal Tariff lowering it from 25 per cent to 18 per cent Trump posted on his social media platform Truth SocialIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-deal-with-us-protects-interests-of-farmers-fishermen-piyush-goyal-660681.html Tue, 03 Feb 2026 18:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/stt-hike-to-secure-household-savings-from-speculative-bets-cea-anantha-nageswaran-660555.html New Delhi Feb 2 IANS Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said on Monday that the increase in Securities Transaction Tax on derivatives trading announced in the Union Budget 202627 is aimed at securing household savings from highly speculative bets rather than generating revenue for the governmentnbspThe purpose of STT hike is not revenue generation the purpose is to ensure hardearned savings are used to maximise wealth in households The SEBI has pointed out how people lose money through FampampO the CEA told journalistsThe Union Budget 202627 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday proposed raising STT on futures to 005 per cent from the present 002 per cent and on options premium and exercise of options to be raised to 015 per cent from the present rate of 01 per cent and 0125 per cent respectivelynbspThe stock market crash in the shares of brokeragerelated companies after the presentation of the Budget was attributed to the hike in STTnbspThe tax changes are mechanical in design The STT applies per transaction so a higher rate increases the cost of trading for participants who buy and sell frequently including intraday strategies that rely on turnover By raising the transaction levy the government increases the allin cost of derivatives trades alongside exchange fees and other statutory chargesSimilarly Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava also said after the presentation of the budget that the volumes in the FampampO market are in the realm of heavy speculation when compared to the size of the countrys GDP or underlying securities marketnbspnbspThis results in huge losses to retail investors The governments intention is to discourage speculation The increase in STT is meant to handle the systemic risk in the derivatives market The rate is still modest compared to the volume he addednbspSitharaman said in her budget speech that the STT change was a course correction in the derivatives segment and it would also generate additional revenues for the governmentIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/stt-hike-to-secure-household-savings-from-speculative-bets-cea-anantha-nageswaran-660555.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/customs-duty-relief-in-budget-not-linked-to-us-tariffs-fm-sitharaman-660557.html New Delhi Feb 2 IANS Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that the customs duty changes announced in the Budget for 202627 are part of the Indian governments ongoing economic reforms to rationalise tariffs and are not linked in any way to the policy decisions of the USnbspWe have changed customs duties and we have been making customs duty changes in every Budget for a while now and we have continued the same in this Budget as well she pointed outThe Finance Minister maintained that these measures are part of a broader policy framework aimed at supporting Indian citizens and businessesnbspShe further stated that the government did not go in for any assessment of the potential impact of the US tariff hikes while drawing up the proposals for the BudgetnbspWe did not make any assessment of the impact of US tariffs to factor them into Budget decisions she remarkednbspCustoms duty on goods imported for personal use halved from 20 per cent to 10 per centnbspThe Finance Minister announced in her Budget speech that the proposals for Customs and Central Excise aim to further simplify the tariff structure support domestic manufacturing promote export competitiveness and correct inversion in dutynbspThe new Budget proposes to reduce the tariff rate on all dutiable goods imported for personal use from 20 per cent to 10 per cent to rationalise the customs duty structure To provide relief to patients particularly those suffering from cancer it proposes to exempt basic customs duty on 17 drugs or medicines The Budget also proposes to add 7 more rare diseases for the purposes of exempting import duties on personal imports of drugs medicines and Food for Special Medical Purposes FSMP used in their treatmentThe Union Budget further proposes to revise provisions governing baggage clearance during international travel to address the genuine concerns of passengers The revised rules will enhance dutyfree allowances and provide clarity in the temporary carriage of goods brought in or taken out Furthermore the honest taxpayers will now be able to settle their dues and close cases by paying an additional amount in lieu of penalty the Finance Minister saidnbspThe Budget also proposes many measures for customs processes to have minimal intervention for smoother and faster movement of goods and greater certainty for the trade https://dailyworld.in/business/customs-duty-relief-in-budget-not-linked-to-us-tariffs-fm-sitharaman-660557.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/at-93-e-sreedharan-pushes-ahead-with-kerala-high-speed-rail-vision-660564.html Malappuram Feb 2 Undeterred by age Metro Man E Sreedharan on Monday reaffirmed his determination to see the proposed highspeed rail project for Kerala become a reality inaugurating the projectâs official office at 9 am at Ponnani in Malappuram close to the residence where he currently lives The inauguration was marked by a simple yet symbolic ceremony with his wife taking the lead in lighting the traditional lamp underscoring the personal commitment behind the ambitious initiativeAt 93 Sreedharan remains resolute that he will continue to work as a professional master builder staying true to the vocation that has defined his life and produced some of the countryâs most iconic infrastructure projectsSpeaking on the occasion Sreedharan said the absence of any mention of the project in the Union Budget would not dampen his resolveHe expressed firm confidence that approval from the Railway Ministry would eventually come stressing that the infrastructure of this scale requires perseverance and clarity of purposeIn the initial phase the newly opened office will function as a public interface to address doubts and concerns surrounding the projectFrom February 15 a series of meetings will be held to explain the technical financial and social aspects of the highspeed rail corridor to the publicThe first round of meetings will begin in Malappuram after which similar outreach programmes will be organised in other districts through which the proposed alignment will passSreedharan also said that his discussions with the Union Railway Minister on January 16 were productiveAccording to him the Minister has instructed that the Detailed Project Report DPR be prepared and an official order authorising the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation DMRC to undertake this task is expected within three to four daysHe added that he remains in constant touch with the Railway Ministry regarding followup proceduresFor Sreedharan age is no barrier only a reminder of the urgency to contribute meaningfully while continuing the work he has pursued with distinction for decades IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/at-93-e-sreedharan-pushes-ahead-with-kerala-high-speed-rail-vision-660564.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 18:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-empty-on-key-issues-high-on-optics-congress-mp-from-punjab-660568.html New Delhi Feb 2 Congress MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla on Monday criticised the Union Budget 2026 alleging that the government has presented data only for media hype and failed to address key issues affecting the country Speaking to IANS Gurjeet Singh Aujla said that the budget offers no concrete solutions to the growing problem of unemploymentâIn this budget there is no solution for unemployment There is no serious discussion on industry or how it will take the country forward The allocation for health and education is very low Can the government honestly say that the education system across the country is doing very well Overall the government has presented data only to create media hypeâ he saidThe Congress MP further claimed that the budget lacks substance and fails to deliver real benefits to the peopleâThere is nothing in the Budget in reality It is an empty budget and there is nothing for Punjab Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Punjab yesterday but he went emptyhanded and returned emptyhandedâ Aujla told IANSFinance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026 on Sunday marking her ninth consecutive budget presentation The Finance Minister stated that the Budget was inspired by three âkartavyasâ or responsibilities aimed at accelerating and sustaining economic growth by enhancing competitiveness fulfilling aspirations and ensuring that every family community and region has access to resources and opportunities for participationCommenting on Pakistanâs decision to boycott its T20 World Cup match against India Aujla said that India should take a firm standâI think India should boycott Pakistan first We keep talking about Operation Sindoor and how it is progressing yet matches are still being played If Pakistan is boycotting the match it shows they have already accepted defeat at the first stage This decision should now be taken by the BCCI and Jay Shahâ he saidFor the unversed Pakistan government announced that its national cricket team will participate in T20 World Cup 2026 but will boycott its match against India Pakistan was scheduled to face Suryakumar Yadavled Indian team in Colombo on February 15 The decision announced on Sunday followed the International Cricket Councilâs verdict on Bangladeshâs request to shift its matches out of India a request that was ultimately rejected by the ICC IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-empty-on-key-issues-high-on-optics-congress-mp-from-punjab-660568.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/pragmatic-budget-with-capex-focus-zero-fireworks-report-660582.html New Delhi Feb 2 Union Budget 2026â27 marked a âpragmatic approachâ with âno fireworksâ laying the groundwork for a stable mediumâterm growth environment without focusing on immediate catalysts for equity markets a report has said Global Brokerage Jefferies India in the report lauded the renewed emphasis on capital expenditure particularly in defence which was enabled by slower fiscal consolidationThe brokerage also welcomed support for data centres and electronics component manufacturing as evidence of the governmentâs commitment to strengthen the domestic technology and manufacturing ecosystemFurther it said the governments strategy is clearly aligned with longâterm export competitiveness with export boost remaining the focusJefferies flagged the higher bond yields as a factor that could weigh on rateâsensitive sectors According to the brokerage the increase in securities transaction tax STT signalled the governmentâs discomfort with elevated derivatives trading volumes however adding that the outcome could negatively impact capitalâmarkets stocks and brokerage companiesThe report said the Budget is positive for cement and defence firms because of higher infrastructure capex and for electronics manufacturers to gain from higher allocations under the electronic manufacturing production linked incentive PLI scheme It also noted potential gains for select realty and digitalâpayments stocks due to a data centrerelated trigger and incentives for digital payments in the BudgetThe report also highlighted a large disinvestment budget adding that the planned divestment of IDBI Bank could be completed in FY27Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget 202627 with total budgeted expenditure at Rs 5347 lakh crore with the fiscal deficit targeted at 43 per cent of GDP an improvement from the 44 per cent revised estimate for 202526Capital expenditure rose by 9 per cent to reach Rs 122 lakh crore in 202627 marking one of the largest such allocations in recent times and equating to 44 per cent of GDPAmong the biggest increases defence secured Rs 785 lakh crore overall of which Rs 231 lakh crore goes towards capital spending IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/pragmatic-budget-with-capex-focus-zero-fireworks-report-660582.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/white-collar-hiring-sees-3-pc-growth-in-india-in-jan-non-it-sectors-lead-660587.html New Delhi Feb 2 Indias whitecollar hiring began 2026 on a steady footing with a 3 per cent rise yearonyear in January driven by nonIT sectors and fresher hiring a report showed on Monday NonIT sectors were the primary drivers of this growth with BPOITES surging more than 21 per cent hospitalitytravel climbing over 15 per cent insurance advancing more than 7 per cent and healthcare gaining more than 5 per cent as per the Naukri JobSpeak IndexBanking and financial services was one major nonIT sector to see a decline slipping 15 per cent onyear Meanwhile the IT sector remained flat for the month Within this landscape AIML roles sustained strong momentum with a more than 34 per cent riseOver the past three months BPOITES has consistently ranked among the top 5 sectors for doubledigit YoY growthIn January 2026 hiring in the sector rose 21 per cent YoY supported by broadbased demand across experience levels including a strong 39 per cent increase in fresher hiring and a 9 per cent rise among professionals with 1316 years of experience Nonmetro cities emerged as key drivers with Jaipur more than 66 per cent and Ahmedabad over 43 per cent posting standout contributionsForeign multinational corporations MNCs were a major force behind this surge contributing more than an 80 per cent increase in hiring activity said the reportâItâs encouraging to see sustained yearonyear growth in key sectors like BPOITES and Hospitality These areas have shown consistent momentum over recent months and have kicked off 2026 on a strong positive note Equally promising is the robust performance from Indian IT MNCs which bodes well for the overall job marketâ said Dr Pawan Goyal Chief Business Officer NaukriGeographically the uptick was spearheaded by Pune over 23 per cent Chennai 18 per cent Bengaluru 17 per cent and Ahmedabad 16 per cent reflecting strong contributions from both established southern hubs and fastemerging western markets the findings showed IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/white-collar-hiring-sees-3-pc-growth-in-india-in-jan-non-it-sectors-lead-660587.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/air-india-grounds-boeing-787-8-after-pilot-flags-possible-fuel-control-switch-issue-660589.html New Delhi Feb 2 IANS Tata Groupowned Air India on Monday said it has grounded one of its Boeing 7878 aircraft after a pilot reported a possible defect in the fuel control switchnbspThe airline confirmed the development in an official response Air India said that soon after receiving the information from the pilot the aircraft was taken out of service as a precautionary stepnbspThe airline has also involved aircraft manufacturer Boeing to examine the issue on a priority basis and address the pilots concernsnbspIn its statement an Air India spokesperson said the matter has been communicated to the aviation regulator the Directorate General of Civil AviationThe airline added that it is following all required safety procedures while the issue is being reviewednbspThe airline further clarified that it had earlier carried out checks on the fuel control switches of all Boeing 787 aircraft in its fleetnbspThese checks were conducted following a directive from the DGCA and no issues were found at that timenbspAir India assured passengers that safety remains its top priority The airline said the wellbeing of passengers and crew is paramount and it will continue to take all necessary steps to maintain the highest safety standardsThe airline in December said that a Mumbaibound flight returned to Delhi shortly after takeoff due to a technical issuenbspThe aircraft landed safely at Delhi and the passengers and crew have disembarked the airline said in a statement on December 22nbspThe aircraft is undergoing the necessary checks an airline spokesperson added https://dailyworld.in/business/air-india-grounds-boeing-787-8-after-pilot-flags-possible-fuel-control-switch-issue-660589.html Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-crashes-over-2-300-points-after-budget-nifty-down-over-600-points-660483.html Mumbai Feb 1 The Indian stock market saw a sharp intraday fall on Sunday after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget The Sensex crashed more than 2300 points from the dayâs high while Nifty slipped over 600 points during intraday trading as investors turned cautiousThe fall came despite the Budget announcing measures to accelerate economic growth while maintaining fiscal prudenceMarkets had opened nearly flat with Sensex adding a few points and Nifty slightly lower amid Budgetrelated caution and a weak rupee hovering near 92 per dollarAt the opening bell sectoral indices largely traded in the red Nifty metal emerged as the biggest loser down over 3 per cent while auto private banks oil and gas and consumer durables managed modest gainsBharat Electronics was among the top gainers on the Nifty as investors awaited increased allocation to the defence sector in the BudgetMarket analysts said the fall reflected investor caution as no major income tax reliefs were expected in this Budget following the significant tax cuts announced in 2025Minor tweaks in the tax regime and measures to support longterm growth were seen as positive but not enough to prevent the initial selloffâDefencelinked stocks and manufacturing exports could attract attention with PSU bank mergers and disinvestment announcements also being closely watchedâ analysts saidThe market is expected to remain volatile throughout the day with sharp movements possible depending on announcements related to fiscal policy capital expenditure sectoral incentives and the fiscal deficit target which is expected to be around 43â44 per cent of GDP for FY27Trading on the stock exchanges will continue until 330 pm though shares bought on January 30 cannot be sold today due to the settlement holidayAnalysts said investors are closely watching debt metrics deficit outcomes and borrowings scheduled for the coming year to gauge the governmentâs strategic direction IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-crashes-over-2-300-points-after-budget-nifty-down-over-600-points-660483.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 13:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/fiscal-deficit-cut-to-43-per-cent-in-budget-2026-27-as-govt-sticks-to-stable-growth-path-660484.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday projected a further reduction in the fiscal deficit to 43 per cent of GDP for 202627 as the government continues on the path of fiscal consolidation to ensure economic growth with stability Presenting the Budget 202627 she said that the government had fulfilled its commitment to reduce the fiscal deficit to 44 per cent in the Budget for 202526 and would now reduce it further to 43 per cent as it continues on the fiscal prudence pathFM Sitharaman said that the target reflects a balance between supporting economic momentum and keeping public finances stable The fiscal deficit represents the gap between the governmentâs total expenditure and its total revenueShe said that the government would go for net borrowing of Rs 117 lakh crore in FY27 from dated securities to fund its fiscal deficit while the gross market borrowing is pegged at Rs 172 lakh croreThe Finance Minister also said that Indiaâs debtGDP ratio has come down to 561 per cent in 202526 and would be further reduced in the Budget for 202627 to 556 per centThe decline in the debtGDP ratio will reduce the Governmentâs outgo on interest payments which will help to keep a lower fiscal deficit and free up resources for development she saidThe Finance Minister announced capital expenditure of Rs 122 lakh crore in the Budget for 202627 to boost bigticket infrastructure projects for boosting growth and jobs in the economyThis represents an increase of 22 lakh crore over the corresponding figure of the previous fiscal yearThe Finance Minister said that an Infrastructure Risk Development Fund would be set up to accelerate the development of big projectsShe said to push economic growth the Budget proposes to deliver a powerful push to infrastructure including highways ports railways and power projects scale up manufacturing in 7 strategic sectors and create champion MSMEsShe further stated that the government has maintained fiscal prudence and monetary stability whilst maintaining a strong thrust on public investmentsIndia must be deeply integrated with global markets exporting more and attracting foreign investment as well Sitharaman stressed IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/fiscal-deficit-cut-to-43-per-cent-in-budget-2026-27-as-govt-sticks-to-stable-growth-path-660484.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 13:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/no-change-in-income-tax-slabs-in-union-budget-2026-660487.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday presented the Union Budget 2026 keeping income tax rates and slabs unchanged following last yearâs major tax reforms While the basic tax structure remains the same the FM announced several measures aimed at simplifying tax compliance and providing relief to taxpayersThe FM proposed extending the timeline for revising income tax returns from December 31 to March 31 with a nominal feeFM Sitharaman also suggested staggered deadlines for filing returns individuals using ITRâ1 and ITRâ2 will continue to file by July 31 while nonaudit business cases and trusts will have time until August 31To benefit taxpayers further any interest awarded by the motor accident claims tribunal to an individual will now be exempt from income tax and the corresponding TDS will be removedNonresident Indians NRIs providing capital goods to Indian companies will also enjoy income tax exemption for a period of five yearsThe FM proposed changes to the tax collection at source TCS rates reducing it from 5 per cent and 20 per cent to 2 per cent on the sale of overseas tour packages without any minimum amountSimilarly TCS on education and medical expenses under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme LRS will drop from 5 per cent to 2 per centTo make compliance easier for small taxpayers a new rulebased automated system will allow obtaining a lower or nil deduction certificate without filing an application with the assessing officerAdditionally taxpayers holding securities in multiple companies will be able to submit Form 15G or 15H to depositories which will forward it directly to the relevant companiesOn the securities front the FM proposed increasing the securities transaction tax STT on futures from 002 per cent to 005 per cent and on options from 001 per cent to 015 per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/no-change-in-income-tax-slabs-in-union-budget-2026-660487.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 13:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-sitharaman-hikes-stt-on-futures-to-005-pc-in-budget-2026-660492.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announced a sharp hike in the Securities Transaction Tax STT on futures and options while presenting the Union Budget 202627 in Parliament The move marks a significant increase in transaction costs for traders in the derivatives segmentThe STT on futures has been raised to 005 per cent from the earlier 002 per cent amounting to a 150 per cent hikeIn the case of options the tax has been increased to 015 per cent from 010 per cent a rise of 50 per centâThis is a meaningful jump not a marginal tweak and it is likely to have a direct dampening effect on FampO volumes particularly among highfrequency traders proprietary desks and costsensitive strategiesâ Aakash Shah from Choice Equity Broking saidâOverall while the move may support nearterm tax collections it risks reducing liquidity and market depth in the derivatives segment at a time when regulators are already seeking to balance speculation control with maintaining Indiaâs competitiveness as a global trading destinationâ he addedSTT is a tax levied on the value of securities transactions carried out on recognised stock exchanges in IndiaIt applies to trades in equities equity mutual funds and derivatives such as futures and optionsThe tax is collected at the time of the transaction irrespective of whether the investor makes a profit or incurs a lossThe Securities Transaction Tax was introduced in India on October 1 2004 with the objective of simplifying tax collection and curbing evasion in equity and derivatives tradingAt the time it was brought in after the longterm capital gains LTCG tax on equities was removedHowever LTCG tax on listed equities was reintroduced in the Union Budget 2018 while STT continued to remain in forceIn the previous Budget the government had also raised capital gains taxes increasing LTCG tax to 125 per cent from 10 per cent and shortterm capital gains STCG tax to 20 per cent from 15 per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-sitharaman-hikes-stt-on-futures-to-005-pc-in-budget-2026-660492.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 14:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-sitharaman-hikes-stt-on-futures-to-005-pc-in-budget-2026-market-reacts-negatively-660494.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announced a sharp hike in the Securities Transaction Tax STT on futures and options while presenting the Union Budget 202627 in Parliament The move marks a significant increase in transaction costs for traders in the derivatives segment Experts attributed intradays stock market crash to hike in the chargesThe STT on futures has been raised to 005 per cent from the earlier 002 per cent amounting to a 150 per cent hikeIn the case of options the tax has been increased to 015 per cent from 010 per cent a rise of 50 per centâThis is a meaningful jump not a marginal tweak and it is likely to have a direct dampening effect on FampO volumes particularly among highfrequency traders proprietary desks and costsensitive strategiesâ Aakash Shah from Choice Equity Broking saidâOverall while the move may support nearterm tax collections it risks reducing liquidity and market depth in the derivatives segment at a time when regulators are already seeking to balance speculation control with maintaining Indiaâs competitiveness as a global trading destinationâ he addedSTT is a tax levied on the value of securities transactions carried out on recognised stock exchanges in IndiaIt applies to trades in equities equity mutual funds and derivatives such as futures and optionsThe tax is collected at the time of the transaction irrespective of whether the investor makes a profit or incurs a lossThe Securities Transaction Tax was introduced in India on October 1 2004 with the objective of simplifying tax collection and curbing evasion in equity and derivatives tradingAt the time it was brought in after the longterm capital gains LTCG tax on equities was removedHowever LTCG tax on listed equities was reintroduced in the Union Budget 2018 while STT continued to remain in forceIn the previous Budget the government had also raised capital gains taxes increasing LTCG tax to 125 per cent from 10 per cent and shortterm capital gains STCG tax to 20 per cent from 15 per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-sitharaman-hikes-stt-on-futures-to-005-pc-in-budget-2026-market-reacts-negatively-660494.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 14:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tata-motors-posts-january-sales-at-71-066-units-up-471-pc-660502.html Mumbai Feb 1 Indian automobile manufacturer Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd on Sunday said that its sales in the domestic and international market including that of electric vehicles EV stood at 71066 units in January 2026 marking a 471 per cent rise yearonyear The total sales including EVs were 48316 units in January 2025Passenger vehicle domestic sales including electric vehicles rose 461 per cent YoY to 70222 units in January 2026 from 48076 units a year earlier the release saidFurther the passenger vehicle international business sales were 844 units in January 2026 posting a 2517 per cent uptick from 240 units in January 2025Electric vehicle sales across international business and domestic markets reached 9052 units in January 2026 up 727 per cent YoY the release saidThe company shared a major milestone in December 2024 that over 25 lakh TATAev cars are running on Indian roads Tatas Nexonev also created history by becoming the first electric car in India to cross one lakh cumulative salesTata Motors said in December that it accounted for around 66 per cent of all electric passenger vehicles sold in India meaning nearly two out of every three EVs on the road come from the Tata stableIts EV portfolio includes the Tiagoev Punchev Nexonev Curvvev and HarrierevThe Ministry of Heavy Industries MHI accelerated Indiaâs transition towards greater adoption of electric vehicles during 2025 with record investments under its Production Linked Incentive Scheme for the auto sector and the successful implementation of the PM EDRIVE initiativeClaims to the tune of Rs 199994 crore were disbursed under the PLIAuto Scheme during 202425Till December 31 2025 incentives have been provided for over 1361 lakh electric vehicles which include more than 1042 lakh twowheelers over 238 lakh threewheelers 79540 electric cars and 1391 electric buses an official statement said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tata-motors-posts-january-sales-at-71-066-units-up-471-pc-660502.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 14:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tata-motors-posts-january-sales-at-71-066-units-up-by-471-pc-660503.html Mumbai Feb 1 Indian automobile manufacturer Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd on Sunday said that its sales in the domestic and international market including that of electric vehicles EV stood at 71066 units in January 2026 marking a 471 per cent rise yearonyear The total sales including EVs were 48316 units in January 2025Passenger vehicle domestic sales including electric vehicles rose 461 per cent YoY to 70222 units in January 2026 from 48076 units a year earlier the release saidFurther the passenger vehicle international business sales were 844 units in January 2026 posting a 2517 per cent uptick from 240 units in January 2025Electric vehicle sales across international business and domestic markets reached 9052 units in January 2026 up 727 per cent YoY the release saidThe company shared a major milestone in December 2024 that over 25 lakh TATAev cars are running on Indian roads Tatas Nexonev also created history by becoming the first electric car in India to cross one lakh cumulative salesTata Motors said in December that it accounted for around 66 per cent of all electric passenger vehicles sold in India meaning nearly two out of every three EVs on the road come from the Tata stableIts EV portfolio includes the Tiagoev Punchev Nexonev Curvvev and HarrierevThe Ministry of Heavy Industries MHI accelerated Indiaâs transition towards greater adoption of electric vehicles during 2025 with record investments under its Production Linked Incentive Scheme for the auto sector and the successful implementation of the PM EDRIVE initiativeClaims to the tune of Rs 199994 crore were disbursed under the PLIAuto Scheme during 202425Till December 31 2025 incentives have been provided for over 1361 lakh electric vehicles which include more than 1042 lakh twowheelers over 238 lakh threewheelers 79540 electric cars and 1391 electric buses an official statement said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tata-motors-posts-january-sales-at-71-066-units-up-by-471-pc-660503.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 14:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-charts-rare-earth-corridors-to-break-chinas-grip-on-critical-minerals-660504.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday unveiled a significant initiative designed to reshape Indiaâs engagement with critical minerals FM Sitharaman declared that the government will extend support to the mineralrich states of Odisha Kerala Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu in establishing specialised rare earth corridorsThese corridors are envisioned as comprehensive hubs that will encompass the entire value chain of rare earth developmentâspanning mining processing research and advanced manufacturingThis announcement builds upon the rare earth permanent magnet scheme introduced in November 2025 marking a deliberate step towards strengthening Indiaâs domestic capabilities in a sector long dominated by importsThe Cabinet approved the scheme in November to promote the manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets in the country with an investment of Rs 7280 croreThis firstofitskind initiative aims to establish 6000 metric tons per annum of integrated rare earth permanent magnet REPM manufacturing capacity in India thereby enhancing selfreliance and positioning India as a key player in the global market according to the Cabinet communiqueAt present India relies heavily on supplies from China a dependence that has raised strategic concerns given the importance of rare earths in electronics renewable energy electric vehicles defence technologies and frontier manufacturingBy fostering indigenous capacity the government aims to secure supply chains vital to national growth and securityThe choice of states is far from arbitrary Odisha Kerala Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu possess abundant deposits of monazite and other beach sand minerals particularly along their coastal beltsThese resources are rich in rare earth elements making them natural candidates for integrated developmentThe corridors will not merely focus on extraction but will extend to highvalue processing and the production of rare earth magnets thereby ensuring that India captures greater economic and technological value from its own reservesIndustry observers have welcomed the move interpreting it as a strategic response to global anxieties over Chinaâs nearmonopoly in rare earth production and exportsThe initiative dovetails neatly with the objectives of the National Critical Minerals Mission and complements recent reforms in the mining sector aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiencyIt signals Indiaâs determination to achieve selfreliance in critical minerals a cornerstone of its broader industrial and energy transition IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-charts-rare-earth-corridors-to-break-chinas-grip-on-critical-minerals-660504.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-2026-india-charts-rare-earth-mineral-corridors-to-break-chinas-monopoly-660506.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday unveiled a significant initiative designed to reshape Indiaâs engagement with critical minerals During her budget presentation in the Lok Sabha she announced that the government will extend support to the mineralrich states of Odisha Kerala Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu in establishing specialised rare earth corridors These corridors are intended to serve as allencompassing hubs that will cover the complete value chain of rare earth development including mining processing research and advanced manufacturingThis announcement builds upon the rare earth permanent magnet scheme introduced in November 2025 marking a deliberate step towards strengthening Indiaâs domestic capabilities in a sector long dominated by importsAt present India relies heavily on supplies from China a dependence that has raised strategic concerns given the importance of rare earths in electronics renewable energy electric vehicles defence technologies and frontier manufacturingBy fostering indigenous capacity the government aims to secure supply chains vital to national growth and securityThe choice of states is far from arbitrary Odisha Kerala Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu possess abundant deposits of monazite and other beach sand minerals particularly along their coastal belts These resources are rich in rare earth elements making them natural candidates for integrated developmentThe corridors will not merely focus on extraction but will extend to highvalue processing and the production of rare earth magnets thereby ensuring that India captures greater economic and technological value from its own reservesIndustry observers have welcomed the move interpreting it as a strategic response to global anxieties over Chinaâs nearmonopoly in rare earth production and exportsThe initiative dovetails neatly with the objectives of the National Critical Minerals Mission and complements recent reforms in the mining sector aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiencyIt signals Indiaâs determination to achieve selfreliance in critical minerals a cornerstone of its broader industrial and energy transitionThe Finance Ministerâs announcement is expected to catalyse investment flows generate employment opportunities and stimulate innovation in mineral technologies It also positions India more prominently in the global shift towards green energy and advanced technology ecosystemsWhile specifics on funding timelines and incentives are yet to be detailed the corridors represent a bold stride in the governmentâs wider agenda to scale manufacturing in strategic sectors IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-2026-india-charts-rare-earth-mineral-corridors-to-break-chinas-monopoly-660506.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/nris-can-now-invest-in-indian-stocks-through-portfolio-investment-scheme-660508.html New Delhi Feb 1 The government on Sunday said Indians living abroad can now invest in stocks through the Portfolio Investment Scheme PIS Other measures for nonresident investment announced in Budget 2026 including raising the individual investment limit for Persons Resident Outside India PROIs from 5 per cent to 10 per cent increasing the overall investment limit for all PROIs from 10 per cent to 24 per cent and allowing residents living abroad to invest in Indian equities via a portfolio routeThe Portfolio Investment Scheme allows nonresident Indians and foreign investors to buy and sell Indian stocks through a special bank account approved by the RBIThe scheme sets clear limits on how much an investor and a company can invest or receive ensures regulatory compliance and permits investors to repatriate their fundsIt sets investment limits usually 5 per cent per individual and 10 per cent total per company and ensures all transactions follow regulatory rules Funds invested can be repatriatedIn her Budget speech Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed relaxing these limits for foreign individualsShe announced that the investment cap per investor will be raised from 5 per cent to 10 per cent while the overall foreign ownership limit in a company will increase from 10 per cent to 24 per centThe new rules will also allow Indians living abroad to invest in Indian equities through the portfolio routeThe government said the higher limits are aimed at bringing more longterm foreign capital into Indian companies by widening the investor baseThis move is expected to attract more stable investment flows and further strengthen Indiaâs domestic capital marketsMeanwhile Finance Minister also proposed a Rs 5000 crore outlay for the City Economic Regions scheme She also announced a review of Foreign Exchange Management Act FEMA rules related to nondebt instruments IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/nris-can-now-invest-in-indian-stocks-through-portfolio-investment-scheme-660508.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-sets-aside-rs-14-lakh-crore-for-states-as-finance-commission-grants-660509.html New Delhi Feb 1 The Union Budget for 202627 provides an allocation of Rs 14 lakh crore to the states as Finance Commission Grants based on a 41 per cent share of the devolution Presenting the Union Budget 202627 in Parliament on Sunday Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said The government has accepted the recommendation of the Commission to retain the vertical share of devolution at 41 per cent As recommended by the Commission I have provided Rs 14 lakh crore to the States for the FY 202627 as Finance Commission Grants These include rural and urban local body and disaster management grantsShe further said that the Commission submitted its report to the President on November 17 2025 and the government is to lay the report along with the explanatory memorandum on the action taken report on the recommendations of the Commission in Parliament as mandated under Article 281 of the ConstitutionSitharaman further stated that the government has maintained fiscal prudence and monetary stability whilst maintaining a strong thrust on public investmentsShe has projected a further reduction in the fiscal deficit to 43 per cent of GDP for 202627 as the government continues on the path of fiscal consolidationThe Finance Minister said that the government had fulfilled its commitment to reduce the fiscal deficit to 44 per cent in the Budget for 202526 and would now reduce it further to 43 per cent as it continues on the fiscal prudence pathShe said that the target reflects a balance between supporting economic momentum and keeping public finances stableSitharman also announced a capital expenditure of Rs 122 lakh crore in the Budget for 202627 to boost bigticket infrastructure projects for growth and jobs in the economyThe Finance Minister said that an Infrastructure Risk Development Fund would be set up to accelerate the development of big projectsShe said to push economic growth the Budget proposes to deliver a powerful push to infrastructure including highways ports railways and power projects IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-sets-aside-rs-14-lakh-crore-for-states-as-finance-commission-grants-660509.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cii-lauds-budget-2026-27-for-fiscal-prudence-capex-push-660511.html New Delhi Feb 1 The Confederation of Indian Industry CII on Sunday said the Union Budget 202627 with its nextâgeneration reforms builds confidence and its thrust on public capital expenditure will enhance private investment CII welcomed the continued focus on fiscal prudence noting that the fiscal deficit target of 43 per cent of GDP for FY27 reinforces confidence in Indiaâs macroeconomic managementThere is broad recognition on fiscal discipline including adherence to the debttoGDP glide path to reach 50 per cent of GDP by FY31 balanced with flexible policy calibrated to economic realities the industry body saidThe increase in public capital expenditure to Rs 122 lakh crore with effective capital expenditure exceeding Rs 17 lakh crore will crowd in private investment strengthen infrastructure and improve productivity across sectors it addedAt a time of heightened global uncertainty the Budget sends a reassuring signal of continuity credibility confidence and longterm vision for Indiaâs development journey said Chandrajit Banerjee Director General CIIFurther the focus on highquality infrastructure through new freight corridors expansion of inland waterways highspeed rail networks and the proposed infrastructure risk guarantee framework will significantly enhance logistics efficiency and reduce the cost of doing businessCII also highlighted that the emphasis on sectors such as semiconductors biopharma chemicals capital goods textiles sports goods critical minerals and electronics is timely and aligned with Indiaâs ambition to emerge as a global manufacturing hubThe expansion of the India Semiconductor Mission support for critical minerals and rejuvenation of industrial clusters will help deepen domestic value chains strengthen selfreliance and enhance export competitivenessThe industry body also welcomed strong support for MSMEs including the Rs 10000 crore SME Growth Fund enhanced credit support through TReDS and simplified compliance mechanisms which will improve access to finance and formalisationFurther the CII lauded the emphasis on ease of doing business commending the riskbased customs clearance greater digitisation reduced compliance burden and enhanced regulatory certainty which will improve the investment climate and support faster execution of projects IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/cii-lauds-budget-2026-27-for-fiscal-prudence-capex-push-660511.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-2026-gives-strong-push-to-logistics-manufacturing-and-viksit-bharat-industry-leaders-660515.html New Delhi Feb 1 Industry experts on Sunday welcomed the Union Budget 2026 calling it progressive balanced and aligned with Indiaâs longterm growth goals Speaking to IANS Vipin Vohra Chairman of Continental Carriers Private Limited said the budget is very positive for the logistics sectorâThe government has laid strong emphasis on logistics as exports from India continue to riseâ he notedVohra highlighted that one of the most important announcements for the sector is the allocation of Rs 10000 crore for container manufacturing which he believes will strengthen Indiaâs logistics ecosystem and support export growthAs far as logistic sector is concerned you know this is a very progressive budget and a lot of things have been said about the logisticsâ Vohra addedâThe most important first thing which they have given is Rs 10000 crores they have allocated on container manufacturing he mentionedSharing his views Abani Kant Jha Group Chief Financial Officer of Saatvik said that while the budget did not fully meet the expectations of his sector it still offered some reliefHe pointed out that the government has extended the basic customs duty exemption on inputs used to manufacture glass and lithium batteriesHowever Jha added that the industry had hoped for inclusion under the Production Linked Incentive PLI scheme which was not announced in this budgetMeanwhile Secretary General of Assocham Saurabh Sanyal described the Union Budget 2026 as a very balanced budgetHe said the proposals presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman provide a clear thrust towards the vision of Viksit Bharat while maintaining overall economic stabilityThe budget which has been presented today by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is a very very balanced budget and it gives a thrust to Viksit Bharat Sanyal stated IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-2026-gives-strong-push-to-logistics-manufacturing-and-viksit-bharat-industry-leaders-660515.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-northeasts-key-industry-body-hails-focus-on-msmes-infra-jobs-660516.html Guwahati Feb 1 The Federation of Industry and Commerce of the North Eastern Region FINER on Sunday expressed satisfaction with the Union Budget 202627 terming it a wellbalanced and growthoriented budget that addresses the needs of industry while maintaining fiscal discipline The FINER the key industrial body of the Northeast region welcomed the governmentâs emphasis on reform over rhetoric and said the fiscal consolidation glide path has been maintained as targetedIt particularly appreciated the balancing of fiscal prudence with the highestever capital expenditure of Rs 122 lakh crore noting that this would provide a strong boost to infrastructure creation investment and employment generationThe industry body lauded the budgetâs strong focus on MSMEs highlighting initiatives such as the creation of Champion SMEs and the proposed Rs 10000 crore SME growth fund which are expected to improve access to finance and further strengthen the backbone of the economyThe FINER in a statement also welcomed the thrust on manufacturing and technology citing initiatives such as the establishment of three dedicated Chemical Parks the expansion of the India Semiconductor Mission ISM 20 the setting up of HiTech Tool Rooms and duty exemptions for lithiumion cell manufacturingThese measures it said will enhance domestic manufacturing capacity and promote import substitutionThe federation appreciated continued support for textiles handloom handicrafts and khadi along with targeted skilling initiatives such as Samarth 20 which are expected to boost employment particularly in rural and semiurban areasMeasures aimed at strengthening tourism urban infrastructure highspeed rail corridors and educationtoemployment linkages were also welcomed as steps towards balanced regional developmentFrom a macroeconomic perspective FINER said the budget reflects a firm commitment to fiscal consolidation a declining debttoGDP ratio and improved compliance through tax reforms including rationalisation of TCS rates and extension of timelines for income tax return revisionsOverall FINER said the Union Budget 202627 provides a positive and enabling policy environment for industries across sectors and regions including the Northeastern Region and will contribute significantly to inclusive and sustainable economic growth IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/union-budget-northeasts-key-industry-body-hails-focus-on-msmes-infra-jobs-660516.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/deeply-disappointing-for-rajasthan-says-ashok-gehlot-on-union-budget-660518.html Jaipur Feb 1 Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Ashok Gehlot on Sunday strongly criticised the Union Budget alleging stepmotherly treatment towards the state and calling the budget deeply disappointing for the state He said that it was extremely unfortunate that Rajasthan the largest state in the country was not even mentioned in the Union Budget speechAccording to Gehlot this omission itself reflects the discriminatory approach of the Central government towards RajasthanThe former Chief Minister pointed out that the budget completely ignored the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project ERCP a longpending and vital project that would address drinking water and irrigation needs of several districts in the stateDespite repeated assurances the ERCP was not mentioned exposing the Centres lack of seriousness towards Rajasthans water crisis he saidGehlot further noted that no new railway lines metro projects or major infrastructure initiatives were announced for Rajasthan even though such projects are crucial for employment generation and economic growthHe also expressed concern over the absence of meaningful relief for the poor labourers farmers and the vast unorganised sector which has been struggling due to rising inflation and unemploymentThe budget has failed to provide concrete measures to support those at the bottom of the economic pyramid Gehlot said adding that the needs of common people were completely sidelinedTaking a dig at the BJPs slogan Gehlot remarked that despite tall claims of a doubleengine government Rajasthan has received nothing substantial from this budgetFor Rajasthan this budget is nothing more than a damp squib he said accusing the Centre of neglecting the states development prioritiesOverall Gehlot said the budget lacks vision fairness and sensitivity towards Rajasthan and its peopleLeader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi accused the Centre of failing to address key issues facing the nationSamajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP of ignoring the concerns of the common man IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/deeply-disappointing-for-rajasthan-says-ashok-gehlot-on-union-budget-660518.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/defence-allocation-hiked-15-per-cent-to-rs-78-lakh-crore-in-budget-2026-27-660521.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced an allocation of Rs 78 lakh crore for the countryâs defence sector in the Union Budget for 202627 representing a 15 per cent increase over the corresponding figure of Rs 681 lakh crore for the previous financial year The defence forces have been allocated Rs 219 lakh crore for the purchase of military hardware as part of the capital outlay in the Budget which constitutes a 218 per cent increase compared with the Rs 180 lakh crore allocated in FY 202526The increased outlay comes against the backdrop of Operation Sindoor and the changing geopolitical landscape The approach is also in line with the governments push for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat or selfreliant India by encouraging indigenous research and manufacturingFinance Minister Sitharaman also proposed the waiving of basic customs duty on raw materials imported for the manufacture of parts of aircraft to be used in maintenance repair or overhaul requirements which will benefit units in the defence sectorCommenting on the Budget 202627 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said This budget following the historic success of Operation Sindoor has reinforced our resolve to further strengthen the countrys defence system This budget strengthens the balance between security development and selfrelianceThe approach of the Budget is a continuation of the broader strategic shift to prioritise spending on force modernisation air defence systems and nextgeneration platformsThe increase in capex has been driven by higher allocations for fighter jets warships missiles artillery guns and other stateoftheart defence equipmentThe higher allocation of the purchase of defence equipment is expected to benefit both defence public sector undertakings and their privatesector suppliers especially as order books across the sector have expanded sharplyThe public sector companies expected to benefit include Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd which has an order book mainly from the Indian Air Force Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders which produces warships for the Indian Navy and Bharat Electronics Ltd which produces electronics equipment for the forcesSmaller private sector companies such as MIDHANI BEML Bharat Dynamics and various startups in the drones sector are expected to benefit too as part of Indiaâs indigenous procurement push IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/defence-allocation-hiked-15-per-cent-to-rs-78-lakh-crore-in-budget-2026-27-660521.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-focuses-on-pushing-growth-reforms-and-jobs-across-sectors-fm-660522.html New Delhi Feb 1 IANS Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday said that the Union Budget 202627 is designed to accelerate economic growth and create more jobs across sectorsnbspAddressing journalists after the presentation of the budget the Finance Minister said The Budget focuses on building an ecosystem with structural reforms to improve productivity and create an environment that ensures employment generation across sectors It is designed to maintain growth momentum through sustained economic expansionThe emphasis on growth reforms and job creation reflects the governments push for a techdriven and inclusive economic framework she saidExplaining the fine print of her key proposals the Finance Minister highlighted that the Rs 10000 crore outlay earmarked in the Budget for the biopharma sector is aimed at ensuring India maintains its leadership in the global biopharma industryBudget proposing Rs 10000 crore investment in biopharma sector over next five years ensures India maintains lead in the sector she remarkedThe Finance Minister also highlighted that in this years budget health has been given equal importance with special emphasis on mental healthThe Budget marks a significant milestone in the governments ongoing efforts to strengthen Indias healthcare system with a substantial enhancement in the allocation for the Ministry of Health ampamp Family Welfare to Rs 10653042 crores reflecting an increase of nearly 10 per cent over the Revised Estimates of FY 202526Her budget proposals include the creation of 1 lakh Allied Health Professionals AHPs in 10 disciplines like optometry radiology anaesthesia over the next five years as part of the Budget proposals Besides more emergency and trauma centres as well as mental health institutions like NIMHANS are to be set upSitharaman also announced that as many as 15 lakh caregivers would be created for geriatric and NSQFaligned programmes in the countryShe also expressed optimism about Indias new rare earth corridors proposed in the budget She cited the example of the success achieved in the development of the existing defence corridors to illustrate her pointShe further stated that this budget is the first one in the second quarter of the century leading towards the vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047 along with Sabka Saath Sabka VikasAsked why the Union Budget 202627 did not give special emphasis to states with upcoming elections like West Bengal Kerala and Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Sitharaman quipped The government faces criticism either wayIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-focuses-on-pushing-growth-reforms-and-jobs-across-sectors-fm-660522.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 19:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-open-nearly-flat-on-budget-day-660449.html Mumbai Jan 31 The Indian equity markets on Sunday traded with increased volatility amidst Budget caution and a weak rupee hovering near 92 per dollar As of 924 am Sensex added 9 points or 001 per cent to reach 82278 and Nifty lost 28 points or 011 per cent to settle at 25291Main broadcap indices posted notable losses as the Nifty Midcap 100 declined 073 per cent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 lost 155 per centAll sectoral indices were trading in the red except auto private bank oil and gas as well as consumer durables Nifty metal was the major loser down 310 per cent Nifty auto was the notable gainer up 030 per centBharat Electronics was among the major gainers on the Nifty as investors await increased allocation to defense in the BudgetImmediate support lies at 25100 level while resistance is anchored at 25450â25500 zone market watchers saidAnalysts said that investors donât expect any major tax reliefs in this Budget since the 2025 Budget delivered huge income tax reliefs though minor tweaks in tax regime is likelyAn increase in exemption for longterm capital gains tax from Rs 125 lakhs presently to a higher limit that would be desirable Market prefers a fiscally prudent growthoriented Budget If rumours of exemption from longterm capital gains tax for certain categories of FIIs turn true a rally is likely they addedDefenceâlinked stocks are expected to draw investor attention during as a moderate 8 to 10 per cent rise in defence allocation is likelyA thrust area of the Budget could be exports particularly manufacturing exports which the Economic Survey harps on Announcements relating to PSU bank mergers and disinvestment in PSUs will be keenly watched they suggesteddIndiaâs stock exchanges will hold regular trading sessions on Sunday from 915 am to 330 pmAs it is a settlement holiday any shares purchased on January 30 will not be eligible for sale on February 1 Similarly stocks bought during the Budget Day cannot be offloaded the following dayMarkets are likely to remain highly volatile with sharp moves possible in either direction depending on key announcements around fiscal policy capex push sectorspecific incentives and the fiscal deficit target expected around 43â44 per cent of GDP for FY27 market watchers saidInvestors look for cues from debt metrics deficit outcome and scheduled borrowings for the next year Budget to align with the governments strategic objectivesOn January 30 foreign institutional investors FIIs net bought equities worth Rs 2251 crore while domestic institutional investors DIIs were net sellers of equities worth Rs 601 crore IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/sensex-nifty-open-nearly-flat-on-budget-day-660449.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/commercial-lpg-cylinder-prices-rise-by-rs-49-from-feb-1-660450.html New Delhi Feb 1 Commercial LPG cylinder prices have been increased by Rs 49 from February 1 bringing higher costs for businesses that rely on these cylinders for daily operations Oil marketing companies announced the hike as part of their regular monthly price revisionThe increase applies to the 19kg commercial LPG cylinder which is commonly used by hotels restaurants and small food outletsIn Delhi the new retail price of a commercial cylinder has gone up to Rs 174050 However prices of domestic LPG cylinders of 142 kg remain unchangedHowever there is some relief for households as the price of the 142kg domestic LPG cylinder has not been changedOil companies confirmed that there is no revision in cooking gas prices for home consumers from February 1Officials said LPG prices are reviewed at the start of every month and are adjusted based on global fuel prices exchange rates and transportation costsThe latest hike is likely to affect the food and hospitality sector where commercial LPG is an essential fuel for cooking and daily business activitiesBusinesses may face higher expenses which could also impact food prices in the coming daysBefore the recent hikes commercial LPG prices remained relatively moderateSince April 2025 the rates of commercial cylinders were cut six times leading to a cumulative reduction of Rs 223 per cylinder including small rollbacks in November and December IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/commercial-lpg-cylinder-prices-rise-by-rs-49-from-feb-1-660450.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gst-collections-rise-62-pc-to-rs-1-93-384-crore-in-january-660453.html New Delhi Feb 1 The Goods and Services Tax GST collections reached Rs 193384 crore in the month of January up 62 per cent from the same month last year official data showed on Sunday Gross GST collections were Rs 182094 crore in January On a yeartodate basis AprilâJanuary gross collections jumped to Rs 1843423 crore marking a strong 83 per cent growth onyear the data showedMoreover the net GST revenue for January stood at Rs 170719 crore up 76 per cent from the same month last year Yeartodate net revenue reached Rs 1595752 crore an annual growth of 68 per centDomestic GST collections rose 48 per cent yearonyear to Rs 141132 crore Import GST collections remained strong with gross import revenue at Rs 52253 crore up 101 per cent from January 2025The compensation cess continuing as a transitional measure dropped to Rs 5768 crore down from Rs 13009 crore last yearTotal refunds recorded at Rs 22665 crore for January a slight decline of 31 per cent yearonyear Statewise postsettlement GST revenues showed a mixed pictureIn December GST collection recorded a 61 per cent increase to Rs 174550 crore compared to Rs 164556 crore in the same month of the previous year reflecting the increase in economic activity during the month Central GST collections rose to Rs 34289 crore state GST collections to Rs 41368 crore and integrated GST collections to Rs 98894 croreMeanwhile the Finance Ministry issued a series of notifications that brought into effect the new tax regime for tobacco products from February 1The ministry also released an FAQ list to explain that under the Goods and Services Tax regime the excise duty on cigarettes had so far been rendered a nominal amount of a fraction of a paisa per cigarette stick and that the GST compensation cess rate on tobacco products had not been increased since it was implemented in July 2017 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gst-collections-rise-62-pc-to-rs-1-93-384-crore-in-january-660453.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gold-silver-prices-dip-7-to-9-pc-as-aggressive-profit-taking-continues-660457.html Mumbai Feb 1 Gold and silver prices continued their sharp decline on Sunday as investors booked profits post an unprecedented rally over the past year MCX gold February futures fell 712 per cent to Rs 139000 per 10 grams around 10 am on an intraday basis Meanwhile MCX silver March futures dipped 9 per cent to Rs 265652 per kgCME Group raised margin requirements on Comex gold and silver futures after the metal prices saw steep declines which raised investor cautionFurther the US dollar strengthened and domestic investors expected a customs duty cut in Budget 2026 which fuelled the fall in precious metalsInternational markets saw spot gold prices heading for their steepest daily fall since 1983 while silver is set for its worst day on recordCME Group said on Friday that margins for gold futures under the nonheightened risk profile will be raised to 8 per cent of the underlying contract value from the current 6 per cent For positions under the heightened risk profile the new margins will be 88 per cent up from 66 per centHigher margins will lead to traders locking more money upfront to hold the same futures position which reduces speculative interestsAnalysts said that MCX Gold futures have witnessed a sharp rejection from the Rs 180000âRs 181000 zone followed by an aggressive breakdown confirming shortterm trend exhaustionHowever they maintained that the broader longterm trend of the yellow metal was bullishThe breakdown in MCX silver invalidates the steep bullish channel and signals panic unwinding of leveraged long positions they said adding that momentum indicators have flipped from extreme overbought to oversold within a very short span highlighting structural instability rather than healthy correctionFor silver a critical support zone lies at Rs 260000Rs 255000 zone they said adding that a pullback toward Rs 300000Rs 310000 zone is expected to attract selling pressureThe trend remains bearish biased in the short term with volatility expected to stay elevated analysts noted IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gold-silver-prices-dip-7-to-9-pc-as-aggressive-profit-taking-continues-660457.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 11:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/what-does-delhiites-expect-from-union-budget-2026-27-660460.html New Delhi Feb 1 As Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2026â27 in Parliament on Sunday residents of Delhi shared their expectations saying that sectors such as education and railways should be given priority with increased budgetary allocations to address public needs Speaking to IANS several residents expressed hope that the upcoming Budget would focus on easing the financial burden on common peopleAnil a Delhi resident said The Budget should be beneficial for poor people It should be designed in such a way that it reaches the common man and improves their quality of life so that people can live with dignity and happinessâSeema Bansal another resident said she expects measures to lessen household expensesHome appliances and householdrelated items should become cheaper Travel should also be made more affordable Flight fares and train ticket prices should be reduced and inflation must be brought under controlâ she saidAnother resident echoed similar views stating that the budget should aim to make daily life easierWe expect relief from rising inflation Travelling should be more convenient and affordable for everyone the resident saidAmrit a senior citizen highlighted the issue of taxation and railway concessionsWe should get relief from high taxes While senior citizens are promised benefits we are not getting adequate relief in railway ticket prices he saidAbhishek Yadav a student stressed the need for higher spending on educationThe government should increase expenditure on education to at least 5 per cent or more Compared to other countries our spending is very low Stipends scholarships and teachers salaries should be increased he saidAnother resident praised the Modi governments performance but stressed the importance of railway safetyThe government is doing well and India is showing positive results while other countries are struggling Railways should be given priority and safety must be ensured the resident addedMeanwhile FM Sitharaman arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday and met President Droupadi Murmu ahead of presenting the Union Budget 202627 in Parliament This marks her ninth consecutive Budget presentation making her the first woman finance minister to achieve this milestoneThe Budget is expected to balance fiscal prudence with measures aimed at sustaining growth boosting infrastructure and generating employmentEconomists anticipate an emphasis on defence infrastructure capital expenditure power and affordable housing alongside selective initiatives to stimulate consumption Maintaining fiscal discipline will also be a priority with the fiscal deficit projected to ease to 44 per cent for FY26 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/what-does-delhiites-expect-from-union-budget-2026-27-660460.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 11:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cabinet-approves-union-budget-2026-27-660461.html New Delhi Feb 1 The Cabinet on Sunday approved the Union Budget 202627 during a meeting in Parliament chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi A meeting of the Union Cabinet was held at Sansad Bhawan at 10 am and after the Cabinetâs approval Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proceeded to Parliament to present the BudgetEarlier FM Sitharaman met President Droupadi Murmu and offered her a copy of the digital budgetThe President also offered dahicheeni curd and sugar to Sitharaman when she arrived at the Rashtrapati Bhavan The Finance Minister was seen carrying her trademark bahikhata a tablet wrapped in a redcoloured cloth bearing a goldencoloured national emblem on itMinister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary Chief Economic Advisor Dr V Anantha Nageswaran Central Board of Direct Taxes CBDT Chairman Ravi Agrawal and other officials were seen accompanying the Finance MinisterSitharaman was set to present her ninth consecutive Union Budget in the Lok Sabha In 2021 she switched to using a digital tablet to carry the Budget papers further promoting a modern and ecofriendly approachThe bahikhata is a red pouch that holds the digital tablet containing the Budget documentsThis year Sitharaman opted for a deep maroon Kanjeevaram saree from Tamil Nadu The saree featured a deep maroon base with a contrasting border and subtle gold detailing paired with a yellow blouseThe Budget is likely to strike a deft balance of sustaining growth momentum and maintaining fiscal consolidation It also needs to address nearterm challenges emanating from unprecedented geopolitical flux said economistsAccording to economists the budget is likely to focus more on capital expenditure especially in sectors deemed to be strategically important owing to prevailing geopolitical compulsionsWhile the FY26 Budget was more tilted towards stimulating middleclass consumption with tax reliefs the FY27 Budgetâs approach to stimulating consumption will be selective they added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/cabinet-approves-union-budget-2026-27-660461.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 11:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/what-do-delhiites-expect-from-union-budget-2026-27-660464.html New Delhi Feb 1 As Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2026â27 in Parliament on Sunday residents of Delhi shared their expectations saying that sectors such as education and railways should be given priority with increased budgetary allocations to address public needs Speaking to IANS several residents expressed hope that the upcoming Budget would focus on easing the financial burden on common peopleAnil a Delhi resident said The Budget should be beneficial for poor people It should be designed in such a way that it reaches the common man and improves their quality of life so that people can live with dignity and happinessâSeema Bansal another resident said she expects measures to lessen household expensesHome appliances and householdrelated items should become cheaper Travel should also be made more affordable Flight fares and train ticket prices should be reduced and inflation must be brought under controlâ she saidAnother resident echoed similar views stating that the budget should aim to make daily life easierWe expect relief from rising inflation Travelling should be more convenient and affordable for everyone the resident saidAmrit a senior citizen highlighted the issue of taxation and railway concessionsWe should get relief from high taxes While senior citizens are promised benefits we are not getting adequate relief in railway ticket prices he saidAbhishek Yadav a student stressed the need for higher spending on educationThe government should increase expenditure on education to at least 5 per cent or more Compared to other countries our spending is very low Stipends scholarships and teachers salaries should be increased he saidAnother resident praised the Modi governments performance but stressed the importance of railway safetyThe government is doing well and India is showing positive results while other countries are struggling Railways should be given priority and safety must be ensured the resident addedMeanwhile FM Sitharaman arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday and met President Droupadi Murmu ahead of presenting the Union Budget 202627 in Parliament This marks her ninth consecutive Budget presentation making her the first woman finance minister to achieve this milestoneThe Budget is expected to balance fiscal prudence with measures aimed at sustaining growth boosting infrastructure and generating employmentEconomists anticipate an emphasis on defence infrastructure capital expenditure power and affordable housing alongside selective initiatives to stimulate consumption Maintaining fiscal discipline will also be a priority with the fiscal deficit projected to ease to 44 per cent for FY26 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/what-do-delhiites-expect-from-union-budget-2026-27-660464.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 11:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/giant-6-ft-artwork-of-nirmala-sitharaman-created-by-up-artist-for-budget-day-660466.html Amroha Feb 1 An artist from Uttar Pradeshs Amroha Juhaib Khan created a sixfoot sketch of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on a wall as the Union Budget 2026 is being presented Speaking to IANS Juhaib Khan said âI create paintings based on real events using charcoal As the budget is being presented today and Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting it for the ninth time I decided to make a sixfoot sketch of herIn the artwork Khan has depicted wheat grains a happy family and a battleready soldier among other things Through this sketch I hope that the country continues to progress and reaches new heightsâ he saidEarlier in the day the Cabinet approved the Union Budget 202627 during a meeting in Parliament chaired by Prime Minister Narendra ModiA meeting of the Union Cabinet was held at Sansad Bhawan at 10 am and after the Cabinetâs approval Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proceeded to Parliament to present the BudgetEarlier FM Sitharaman met President Droupadi Murmu and offered her a copy of the digital budgetThe President also offered dahicheeni curd and sugar to Sitharaman when she arrived at the Rashtrapati Bhavan The Finance Minister was seen carrying her trademark bahikhata a tablet wrapped in a redcoloured cloth bearing a goldencoloured national emblem on itMinister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary Chief Economic Advisor Dr V Anantha Nageswaran Central Board of Direct Taxes CBDT Chairman Ravi Agrawal and other officials were seen accompanying the Finance MinisterSitharaman is presenting her ninth consecutive Union Budget in the Lok Sabha In 2021 she switched to using a digital tablet to carry the Budget papers further promoting a modern and ecofriendly approachThe bahikhata is a red pouch that holds the digital tablet containing the Budget documentsFM Sitharaman first replaced the old leather briefcase a symbol inherited from British times with the traditional bahikhata in 2019Two years later in 2021 she switched to using a digital tablet to carry the Budget papers further promoting a modern and ecofriendly approachThis year Sitharaman opted for a deep maroon Kanjeevaram saree from Tamil Nadu The saree featured a deep maroon base with a contrasting border and subtle gold detailing paired with a yellow blouse IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/giant-6-ft-artwork-of-nirmala-sitharaman-created-by-up-artist-for-budget-day-660466.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 11:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/govt-hikes-component-manufacturing-outlay-to-rs-40-000-crore-announces-india-semiconductor-mission-20-660470.html New Delhi Feb 1 Giving a thrust to âMake in Indiaâ and domestic manufacturing Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announced the launch of the India Semiconductor Mission ISM 20 while increasing the outlay for electronics component manufacturing to Rs 40000 crore to strengthen local production and innovation Indiaâs Semiconductor Mission 10 expanded the countryâs semiconductor capabilities and building on this the government will launch ISM 20 to produce equipment and materials develop fullstack Indian IP and strengthen supply chains she said while presenting the Budget 202627We will also focus on industryled research and training centres to develop technology and a skilled workforce The Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme launched in April 2025 with an outlay of Rs 22999 crore already has investment commitments at double the targets the Finance Minister told the HouseThe Union Budget 202627 also proposed to introduce a dedicated Rs 10000 crore SME growth fund to create future jobs incentivising enterprises based on select criteriaâFor the labourintensive textile sector the Finance Minister proposed an integrated programme with five key components The first is the National Fibre Scheme aimed at achieving selfreliance in natural fibres like silk wool and jute as well as manmade and new industrialage fibresThe second is the Textile Expansion and Employment Scheme which seeks to modernise traditional clusters by providing capital support for machinery technology upgrades and common testing and certification centresThe third component is the National Handloom and Handicraft Programme NHHP designed to integrate and strengthen existing schemes while ensuring targeted support for weavers and artisansA government scheme for rareearth permanent magnets was launched in November 2025We now propose to support the mineralrich states of Odisha Kerala Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to establish dedicated rare earth corridors announced FM Sitharaman during her Budget speech IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/govt-hikes-component-manufacturing-outlay-to-rs-40-000-crore-announces-india-semiconductor-mission-20-660470.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-2026-27-hikes-govt-capex-to-rs-122-lakh-crore-in-big-push-to-infra-660473.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announced a capital expenditure of Rs 122 lakh crore in the Budget for 202627 to boost bigticket infrastructure projects for growth and jobs in the economy Presenting the Budget the Finance Minister said that an Infrastructure Risk Development Fund would be set up to accelerate the development of big projectsShe said to push economic growth the Budget proposes to deliver a powerful push to infrastructure including highways ports railways and power projects scale up manufacturing in 7 strategic sectors and create champion MSMEsThe government has maintained fiscal prudence and monetary stability whilst maintaining a strong thrust on public investments she said stressing that India must deeply integrate with global markets exporting more and attracting foreign investment as wellThe Finance Minister said that the government has undertaken comprehensive reforms towards creating employment boosting productivity and accelerating growth Over 350 reforms have been rolled out and the Reforms Express is well on its way and India will continue to take confident steps towards Viksit Bharat balancing ambition with inclusion she saidSithamaraman said that the Union Budget prepared in Kartivya Bhavan is based on three karatavyas duties We are inspired by three kartavya accelerate and sustain economic growth fulfill aspirations of people and build capacity and the third is to ensure that every family community and region has access to resourcesThe first kartavya is to scale up manufacturing in seven strategic and frontier sectors she saidShe said that the first requirement is to sustain the moment of momentum of structural reforms continuous adaptive and forwardlookingCuttingedge technologies including AI can serve as growth multipliers she addedOver 350 reforms have been rolled out As a growing economy with expanding trade and capital needs India must also remain deeply integrated with global markets she added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/budget-2026-27-hikes-govt-capex-to-rs-122-lakh-crore-in-big-push-to-infra-660473.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-proposes-7-high-speed-rail-corridors-to-link-growth-cities-660474.html New Delhi Feb 1 The Central government on Sunday proposed to develop seven highspeed rail corridors across key urban and economic centres These corridors will act as growth connectors cutting travel time reducing emissions and supporting regional development said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her Union Budget 202627 speechThe proposed routes include MumbaiPune PuneHyderabad HyderabadBengaluru HyderabadChennai ChennaiBengaluru DelhiVaranasi and VaranasiSiliguriTogether they will link Indiaâs financial hubs technology centres manufacturing clusters and emerging cities with faster and cleaner mobility said the Union MinisterIn order to promote environmentally sustainable passenger systems we will develop seven highspeed rail corridors between cities as growth connectors namely Mumbai to Pune Pune to Hyderabad Hyderabad to Bengaluru Hyderabad to Chennai Chennai to Bengaluru Delhi to Varanasi Varanasi to Siliguri she saidThe Finance Minister said the government will also set up a highlevel committee on banking for Viksit Bharat This group will review the entire banking system and suggest changes to support Indiaâs next stage of economic growth At the same time it will focus on financial stability inclusion and protecting consumersThe Minister sent a clear message about the strength and future direction of Indiaâs financial sector saying that Indian banks are now in a strong position with healthy balance sheets high profits and better control over bad loansFor foreign investors the rules on nondebt investments under foreign exchange laws will be reviewed The aim is to make them more modern and userfriendly in line with Indiaâs changing economic priorities she mentioned during her Budget speechFor the labourintensive textile sector FM Sitharaman proposed an integrated programme with five key components The first is the National Fibre Scheme aimed at achieving selfreliance in natural fibres like silk wool and jute as well as manmade and new industrialage fibres IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-proposes-7-high-speed-rail-corridors-to-link-growth-cities-660474.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/govt-to-set-up-high-level-committee-on-banking-for-viksit-bharat-bolster-nbfcs-660476.html New Delhi Feb 1 Sending a clear message about Indiaâs robust financial sector to the world Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday said to keep reforms on track the government will set up a highlevel committee on banking for Viksit Bharat This group will review the entire banking system and suggest changes to support Indiaâs next stage of economic growth At the same time it will focus on financial stability inclusion and protecting consumers said Sitharaman while delivering her 9th consecutive Budget speech in ParliamentShe said Indian banks are now in a strong position with healthy balance sheets high profits and better control over bad loans With asset quality improving and coverage crossing 98 per cent the sector is seen as stable and ready for the next phase of growthShe further stated that to improve efficiency in public sector NBFCs the government plans to restructure them into larger stronger entities like the Power Finance Corporation and the Rural Electrification CorporationFor foreign investors the rules on nondebt investments under foreign exchange laws will be reviewed The aim is to make them more modern and userfriendly in line with Indiaâs changing economic priorities the Finance Minister saidThe government also plans to strengthen the corporate bond market by introducing a marketmaking framework with access to funds and derivatives on corporate bond indices Additionally total return swaps on corporate bonds will be introducedShe said that to promote the municipal bond market larger cities issuing highvalue bonds will be incentivised with Rs 100 crore for a single bond issuance exceeding Rs 1000 crore building on the existing âAmritâ scheme âDuring the course of preparing the Budget various inputs have been sought from the countryâs citizens including youth through various platforms IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/govt-to-set-up-high-level-committee-on-banking-for-viksit-bharat-bolster-nbfcs-660476.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/healthcare-gets-booster-shot-with-rs-10-000-crore-for-bio-pharma-shakti-in-budget-2026-27-660478.html New Delhi Feb 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announced a Rs 10000 crore outlay for the Bio Pharma Shakti scheme for biologics and biosimilar drugs to make India a global biopharma hub Presenting the Budget 202627 she said these bio medicines would help the country tackle the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases like diabetesThe Finance Minister also said that the government would create 1 lakh Allied Health Professionals AHPs in 10 disciplines like optometry radiology and anaesthesia over the next five years as part of the Budget proposalsSitharaman also announced that as many as 15 lakh caregivers would be created for geriatric and NSQFaligned programmes in the countryBesides more emergency and trauma centres would be set up in the country and mental health institutions would be built on the lines of the NIMHANSIn her Budget 202627 presentation the Finance Minister also said that since the Narendra Modi government assumed office the Indian economic trajectory has been marked by fiscal discipline and sustained growthThe FM has proposed interventions in 6 sectors including manufacturing strategic and frontier sectors healthcare and advanced technology in the Budget for 202627Among other announcements she proposed scaling up manufacturing in strategic and frontier sectors and developing city economic regionsThe Finance Minister further stated that the government has undertaken comprehensive reforms towards creating employment boosting productivity and accelerating growth Over 350 reforms have been rolled out and the Reforms Express is well on its way and India will continue to take confident steps towards Viksit Bharat balancing ambition with inclusion the Finance Minister saidSithamaraman said that the Union Budget prepared in Kartivya Bhavan is based on three karatavyas duties We are inspired by three kartavya accelerate and sustain economic growth fulfil aspirations of people and build capacity and the third is to ensure that every family community and region has access to resources IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/healthcare-gets-booster-shot-with-rs-10-000-crore-for-bio-pharma-shakti-in-budget-2026-27-660478.html Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-converting-waste-to-clean-energy-at-scale-hardeep-puri-660263.html New Delhi Jan 30 Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday highlighted that the Biofuels Zone at India Energy Week 2026 showcases how waste is being transformed into clean energy at scale in the country With 133 CBG compressed biogas plants commissioned of 926 TPD tonnes per day capacity and availability at 410 retail outlets Indiaâs CBG ecosystem is expanding rapidly strengthening energy security and sustainability the minister saidAnother 83 CBG are under construction and will create an additional capacity of around 700 TPD The TPD represents the daily capacity of waste feedstock such as agricultural residue that a plant can process to generate compressed biogas and organic manureCBG plants convert organic waste such as agricultural residue cattle dung municipal solid waste and sugarcane press mud into purified compressed methane These plants promoted under the SATAT scheme to reduce pollution and import dependency produce a renewable fuel with over 9095 per cent methane content acting as a direct green alternative to CNG in vehicles and industriesOrganic waste undergoes anaerobic decomposition to produce biogas which is then purified to remove carbon dioxide hydrogen sulphide and water vapour at the CBG plants CBG is similar to CNG in calorific value making it suitable for automotive industrial and commercial use It reduces reliance on imported natural gas promotes wastetoenergy decreases carbon emissions and boosts rural incomes The production of CBG also helps reduce reliance on imported natural gas and crude oilBesides the CBG plants produce highquality organic manure fermented organic manure as a byproduct which can be used in farms to increase crop yieldsThe SATAT Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation scheme was launched on October 1 2018 aiming to establish 5000 CBG plants nationwide The plants also play a key role in responsible waste management and the reduction of pollutionIndia Energy Week 2026 Indiaâs flagship energy exhibition and conference is being held in Goa from January 27 to 30 It has brought together over 75000 energy professionals more than 700 global exhibitors from 120 countries along with global ministers senior policymakers industry leaders innovators and investors IEW 2026 highlights Indiaâs role in balancing energy access with decarbonisation goals while supporting discussions on secure sustainable and affordable energy through strategic investments new technologies and global partnerships IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-converting-waste-to-clean-energy-at-scale-hardeep-puri-660263.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/strong-economic-growth-jobsand-positive2026outlookdrivingconsumer-confidence-in-india-660266.html New Delhi Jan 30 A strong economic growth coupled with increasing job prospects and a positive outlook for 2026 is driving consumer confidence in India according to a report Market research firm Ipsosâ report showed that consumer sentiment in India increased by 14 percentage points in January 2026 placing the country second among 30 markets with a national index score of 607The report showed that this month the GCCI rose 05 points to 499 After stagnating for much of 2025 the index has increased for the third consecutive month reflecting an improved global mood to start 2026 The GCCI is currently 13 points higher than the same time last yearâThe rise in consumer sentiment reflects confidence in Indiaâs economic fundamentals supported by sustained domestic demand improving employment expectations and a positive outlook for growthâ said Suresh Ramalingam CEO Ipsos IndiaâTogether these factors are shaping more optimistic consumer perceptions and reinforcing Indiaâs position among the strongerperforming markets globallyâ he addedThe report cited mixed trends across subindices The PCSI economic expectations subindex rose sharply by 66 points while the PCSI employment subindex increased by 63 points reflecting strong optimism about future economic activity and job opportunitiesMeanwhile the current personal financial conditions subindex edged down slightly by 06 points and the investment climate subindex fell 20 points signalling some caution around personal finances and investmentFurther the Global Consumer Confidence Index GCCI is based on a monthly survey of more than 21000 adults under the age of 75 from 30 countries conducted on Ipsosâ Global Advisor online platform GCCI is calculated as the average of all surveyed countriesâ overall or ânationalâ indicesAmong the 30 countries surveyed Indonesia 626 leads the National Index followed by India 607 Only these two markets surpassed the 60point mark this monthEleven additional countries scored above 50 including Malaysia Thailand Sweden Brazil Mexico Australia the US the Netherlands Singapore Colombia and PolandAt the lower end France 398 Hungary 361 and Türkiye 346 recorded National Index scores below 40 the report said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/strong-economic-growth-jobsand-positive2026outlookdrivingconsumer-confidence-in-india-660266.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/ambuja-cements-clocks-258-pc-net-profit-jump-in-q3-with-highest-ever-quarterly-volume-660270.html Ahmedabad Jan 30 Adani Groupâs Ambuja Cements on Friday posted strong results for the OctoberDecember quarter Q3 FY26 with net profit surging 258 per cent yearonyear at Rs 3781 crore with highestever quarterly volume at 189 million tonnes up 17 per cent onyear While revenue was up 20 per cent EBITDA rose 53 per cent at Rs 1353 crore in the quarterWith net worth at Rs 69854 crore up by Rs 361 crore the cement major remains debt free and continues to maintain highest rating Crisil and CARE AAA stableA1 with healthy cash flows to sustain the capex programmeThe December quarter has been transformative for Ambuja Cements Among the most defining steps is the announcement of the amalgamation of ACC Limited and Orient Cement Limited with Ambuja Cements Limited creating a unified âOne Cement Platformâ that will accelerate âour growth trajectory operational excellence capital efficiency strengthen our leadership position and longterm value creationâ said the company in a statementAligned to its growth blueprint the company commissioned the 24 MTPA Marwar Grinding Unit expanding its total cement capacity to 109 MTPAâWe achieved highest ever quarterly volumes higher tradepremium cement sales resulting into better realisation than industry peers and better base capacity volume growth This has helped us to improve our market leadershipâ said Vinod Bahety Whole Time Director and CEO Ambuja CementsâWe are now working to fix some of the specific issues on cost importantly power cost share of green power fuel efficiency improvement of WHRSAFR improvement of logistics cost which is part of the blueprint to achieve the targeted cost of Rs 3650 PMT by March 2028â he informedThe company commissioned 225 MW solar power in the quarter taking renewable energy capacity to 898 MW and remains on track for 1122 MW by FY27âThe cost leadership journey has resulted in a 2 per cent lower cost of sales in Q3 same for 9 months FY26 is 3 per cent YoY and enabled our existing assets to deliver EBITDA of Rs 850 PMT in Q3 Rs 1045 in 9M and an overall EBITDA of Rs 718 PMT in Q3 Rs 943 in 9M The One Cement Platform will help us to accelerate on our efforts on efficiency and growthâ said Bahety IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/ambuja-cements-clocks-258-pc-net-profit-jump-in-q3-with-highest-ever-quarterly-volume-660270.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/china-based-manga-piracy-website-forced-to-shut-down-report-660278.html New Delhi Jan 30 A Chinabased manga piracy website has been forced to shut down after a criminal complaint was filed with Chinese authorities multiple reports said Japanâs antipiracy coalition Content Overseas Distribution Association CODA worked with cyber security experts to identify the operator of BatoToIt is believed to be one of the worlds biggest manga piracy sites and the illegally uploaded content included Japanese manga reports www3nhkorjpCODA says the site had 60 domains and was accessed up to 350 million times a monthReports said that Batotoâs operator has since been released on bail and is expected to be formally indicted Batoâs operator was reportedly making over 57000 a month in illicit advertising revenueAccording to the coalition the website âobtained illegally uploaded manga for scanning and translating comic books The site is said to have had content in about 50 languages The problem of copyright piracy is getting worse as translation has been made easier through the widespread use of artificial intelligenceGoto Takero CODA Representative Director was quoted as saying that his group will continue to tackle the problem in view of the global popularity of Japanese mangaCODA announced the arrest of an individual on suspicion of copyright infringement on November 19th who âhas admitted to operatingâ Batoto and approximately 60 related sites such as xbatocom and mangaparkioBatoto grew to become one of the most recognisable online platforms for âscanalationâIn this technique manga manhwa and other comics are scanned edited with translated text and then distributed by online user communities according to reportsAccording to reports the 60 shuttered sites recorded a combined 350 million visits in May 2025 alone with Batoto making more than 400000 yuan around 57000 in advertising revenue during peak months IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/china-based-manga-piracy-website-forced-to-shut-down-report-660278.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-foundation-adani-electricityobservenational-girl-child-day-across-mumbai-schools-660279.html New Delhi Jan 30 Adani Foundation supported by Adani Electricity recently observed National Girl Child Day with students from Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation BMC schools in Mumbai The day was observed on January 24 as part of the flagship CSR initiative Project UtthanIn a collaborative effort to promote early empowerment and equality Project Utthan by Adani Foundation supported by Adani Electricity in collaboration with the BMC observed National Girl Child Day across BMC schoolsâ according to an official statementRecognising that a just society begins with the foundational years the programme focused on early empowerment safety and equality for students in Classes 1 to 4Moving beyond traditional celebrations the initiative utilised experiential learning such as roleplaying and problemsolving to position girls as confident decisionmakersBy involving boys as allies the programme successfully reinforced values of empathy and shared responsibilityAligned with NEP 2020 and the NIPUN Bharat Mission this collaboration reaffirms a commitment to closing learning gaps and nurturing a generation of aware compassionate and empowered young citizens the statement saidIn Mumbai the Adani Foundation and Adani Electricity in collaboration with the BMC Education Department have extended Utthan to all 947 BMC primary schools reaching 148 lakh students across 25 wards and eight mediumsThe project places special emphasis on Priya Vidyarthis progressive learners offering focused academic guidance and joyful learning experiences that help them grow steadilyA team of over 300 trained women Utthan Sahayaks forms the core of the programmeDrawn from local communities they support classroom teaching help students overcome learning gaps engage regularly with parents document childrenâs progress and strengthen trust at the community level Their presence has brought structure warmth and continuity to daily learningAcross India Project Utthan operates in five states supporting 1200 government schools and reaching nearly 180 lakh studentsIts focus on equitable access personalised support and NEPaligned practices positions it as a strong model for strengthening government education systems and helping children build the skills and confidence they need to succeed IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/adani-foundation-adani-electricityobservenational-girl-child-day-across-mumbai-schools-660279.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/wavex-invites-applications-from-startups-for-india-ai-summit-next-month-660281.html New Delhi Jan 30 Governmentâs startup accelerator platform WaveX on Friday said it has invited applications from startups for participation in the âIndia AI Impact Summit 2026â next month WaveX will facilitate a dedicated Startup Exhibition Programme enabling selected startups to showcase their AIdriven products and solutions to a diverse national and international audienceAccording to IT Ministry startups operating in the AVGCXR segment and working on AIdriven products will be provided with dedicated showcase and business networking opportunities at the MIB Pavilion during the AI Impact SummitâThe MIB Pavilion will serve as a central hub for showcasing cuttingedge and emerging AI technologies in the media and entertainment sector enabling innovators to engage with policymakers industry leaders investors and global stakeholders and fostering collaboration across the creative and technology ecosystemâ said the ministryThe Summit from February 1620 at Bharat Mandapam here will serve as a key national platform for showcasing innovative Artificial Intelligence AI solutions and fostering collaboration across Indiaâs rapidly growing AI ecosystemThe âIndia AI Impact Summit 2026â is expected to play a significant role in strengthening Indiaâs AI innovation ecosystem by facilitating structured engagement between startups and key stakeholdersWaveX focuses on fostering innovation in the media entertainment and language technology ecosystem It serves as a bridge between innovators government institutions and industry leadersThe upcoming AI Impact Summit has been designed with a clear focus on three outcomes as India gradually emerges as trusted partner in the world thanks to sovereign Models safety frameworks and a strong semiconductor ecosystemThe first objective of the Summit is impact â how AI models applications and the overall AI ecosystem can be used to improve efficiency increase productivity and create a multiplier effect for the economy The second objective is accessibility particularly for India and the Global South The third objective of the AI Impact Summit is safety IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/wavex-invites-applications-from-startups-for-india-ai-summit-next-month-660281.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-fiscal-deficit-in-april-december-touches-545-per-cent-of-full-year-target-660282.html New Delhi Jan 30 Indias fiscal deficit for the first nine months AprilDecember of the financial year 202526 stood at Rs 855 lakh crore which works out to 545 per cent of the annual target set in the Budget for the full financial year according to data released by the Finance Ministry on Friday The fiscal deficit is lower than the corresponding figure of 567 per cent recorded in the same period of the previous yearTotal receipts during the first nine months of the current financial year stood at Rs 2525 lakh crore which constitutes 722 per cent of the target for the full year while overall expenditure in April to December was at Rs 3381 lakh crore which is 667 per cent of this fiscal years budget targetTotal receipts in the same period of the previous year were 723 per cent of the targeted estimate while expenditure was 67 per centNet tax receipts at Rs 194 lakh crore up â from Rs 184 lakh crore collected in the same period a year agoNontax revenue went up to Rs 54 lakh crore from Rs 45 lakh crore in the same period of the previous financial yearTotal government expenditure rose to 338 lakh crore compared with Rs 323 lakh crore in the same period a year earlierCapital expenditure or â spending on infrastructure such as highways ports and railways shot up to Rs 79 lakh crore from Rs â 69 lakh crore in the same period last year as the government continued its focus on these big projects to boost growth and employment in the economyA sum of Rs 1038164 crore has been transferred to state governments as devolution of share of taxes by the Centre during this period which is Rs 137014 crore higher than the previous year the Finance Ministry addedFinance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman set the fiscal deficit target in the budget for 202526 at 44 per cent of GDP which works out to Rs 157 lakh crore This is part of the governmentâs commitment to follow a descending gliding path on the deficit to strengthen the countryâs fiscal position Indiaâs fiscal deficit for 202425 stood at 48 per cent of GDP as part of the revised estimateA decline in the fiscal deficit strengthens the fundamentals of the economy and paves the way for growth with price stability It leads to a reduction in borrowing by the government thus leaving more funds in the banking sector for lending to corporates and consumers which leads to higher economic growth IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-fiscal-deficit-in-april-december-touches-545-per-cent-of-full-year-target-660282.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cash-crunch-to-cut-shortpakistans-polio-vaccinationcampaign-660288.html IslamabadNew Delhi Jan 30 Pakistan has cut short the antipolio campaign over cash crunch and a slash in workers payments according to a media report The Tribune Express reported that the duration of the antipolio drive has been reduced to just four days from the earlier scheduled seven daysMajor cuts have also been made to the compensation of male and female polio workers area incharges and union council medical officersWhile polio workers previously paid a lump sum of 13000 Pakistani Rupees per campaign will now be paid 7000 Pakistani Rupees area incharges who earlier received a total of 19000 Pakistani Rupees for the campaign period will now be paid 9216 Pakistani RupeesThe Union council medical officers also face a slash in salary from 25000 Pakistani Rupees per campaign they will now receive only 16000 Pakistani Rupees the report saidThe reduced compensation is due to a shortage of funds with the health department facing a severe financial and economic crisis it addedAmid concerns over the possibility of further reductions polio workers have also launched a protest demanding a rollback of the wage cuts and restoration of the full previous compensation They warned of intensifying protests if the demands are not metTerming the move unjust female polio workers urged the government to curb âits own extravagance instead of robbing poor dailywage workers of their compensationâ The Pakistani government meanwhile has decided to continue the wage cuts in phases the report saidShockingly the report noted that claims by the district administration about eliminating polio in Rawalpindi last year are fake with new sampling has found a large presence of the polio virus in the citys sewageOfficial records also cite a significant increase in refusal cases in Rawalpindi including in posh areas such as KhayabaneSir Syed and Satellite TownTo curb the spread the health authorities have called for monthly antipolio campaigns and targetting families refusing polio dropsThe next antipolio campaign in Rawalpindi district will begin on February 2 and will continue from Monday February 2 to Thursday February 5 the report said IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/cash-crunch-to-cut-shortpakistans-polio-vaccinationcampaign-660288.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-eu-free-trade-pact-rattles-bangladesh-660290.html New Delhi Jan 30 The EUâIndia free trade agreement has emerged as a major cause for concern in Dhaka as it delivers market access gains for India in the textiles apparel leather and footwear sectors that have long underpinned Bangladeshâs export success in Europe a Bangladeshi media report said With Bangladesh set to graduate from LDC status in November 2026 and its preferential access to the EU market expected to erode after a threeyear transition period the timing of this deal could not be more unsettling the article in the Daily Star newspaper saidFor decades Indian exports of garments textiles leather and footwear entered the EU facing substantial tariffs However the EUâIndia FTA would slash duties on footwear from 17 per cent to zero and apparel and textiles from 9â12 per cent to zero substantially strengthening Indiaâs competitiveness it pointed outBy leveraging LDC dutyfree access while competitors such as India and Vietnam continued to face tariffs Bangladesh was able to expand its share of the EU apparel market at a remarkable pace As Chinaâs share of EU apparel imports declined from 45 per cent in 2010 to 28 per cent in 2025 Bangladeshâs share rose sharply from about 7 per cent to 21 per centThis shift is particularly striking given that in 2005 Bangladesh and India held almost identical market shares in the EU but over the next two decades Bangladesh was able to increase its share by threefold while Indiaâs share declined to 5 per cent Bangladeshâs rise was driven not only by tariff advantages but also by favourable EU rules of origin for LDCs notably the single transformation rule the article pointed outTherefore in a twist of irony the very advantages of preferential margins that once propelled Bangladeshâs rapid ascent in the EU market are now eroding just as key competitors secure permanent dutyfree access through free trade agreements it lamentedMoreover given the safeguard provisions embedded in the EUâs Generalised System of Preferences there is a genuine risk that even if Bangladesh qualifies for GSP after graduation its garment exports could still face full MFN tariffs fundamentally altering the competitive balance in the EU market the article observesIt also highlights that the Indian government has set an ambitious target of 100 billion in textile and apparel exports by 2030 from currently around 40 billion and backed it with a layered policy framework that combines outputlinked subsidies export rebate schemes that refund embedded taxes inputside support and extensive infrastructure and logistics investments These measures reflect a sustained commitment to building competitiveness scale and upgrading capacityExternal developments further intensify the challenge With US reciprocal tariffs constraining Indiaâs export prospects Indian exporters are likely to redirect efforts toward alternative markets The EUâIndia FTA facilitates this shift intensifying competition in Europe with Bangladesh among those most exposed the article added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-eu-free-trade-pact-rattles-bangladesh-660290.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-to-soon-sign-fta-with-chile-to-boost-access-to-critical-minerals-piyush-goyal-660298.html New Delhi Jan 30 India will soon conclude a free trade agreement FTA with Chile which will help the country secure access to critical minerals Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday Referring to the agreement with the EFTA countries he said it includes a commitment of 100 billion in foreign direct investment into India aimed at supporting infrastructure development innovation and precision manufacturingThis investment he said has the potential to generate nearly 50 lakh jobs He also highlighted New Zealandâs commitment to invest 20 billion in India over the next 15 years compared to its total investment of only 70 million over the past 25 yearsIndia has signed eight free trade agreements in the last four years reflecting a fundamental shift in the countryâs engagement with the global economy the minister informedThese agreements cover major economies across Europe and other regions including the 27nation European Union the fournation EFTA bloc comprising Switzerland Liechtenstein Norway and Iceland the United Kingdom Australia New Zealand the United Arab Emirates and OmanThe Minister noted that these agreements are opening up new and significant opportunities for Indian talent skills and young professionals while strengthening Indiaâs integration with global value chainsCiting the IndiaâEuropean Union FTA Goyal said it covers nearly onethird of humanity accounts for about 25 per cent of global GDP and represents a significant share of global trade while addressing the World Forum of Accountants organised by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India ICAI in Greater NoidaHe said it was for no small reason that the President of the European Commission had described the IndiaâEU FTA as the âmother of all dealsâGoyal said that the European Union alone imports goods worth nearly 7 trillion and services worth 3 trillion together representing a 10 trillion market He said that Indiaâs current exports are only a small fraction of this potential and emphasised that the opportunities before India are unprecedented and must be seized IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-to-soon-sign-fta-with-chile-to-boost-access-to-critical-minerals-piyush-goyal-660298.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/soaring-food-inflation-unemployment-ratesdeepenpakistans-socioeconomiccrisis-660299.html New Delhi Jan 30 Pakistanâs socioeconomic crisis is being worsened by rising food inflation and unemployment rates according to a media report Maldives Insight cited the World Bankâs data to show that about 45 per cent of the population in Pakistan is classified as living below the Poverty Line BPL The countryâs unemployment rate remains at a 21year low with investment at a 50year low and gross debttoGDP ratio at 713 per centâAll this deepens stagnation inequality fiscal strain and IMF dependency complicates reforms even as debt default risk increasesâ the report saidFurther the report cited increasing monthly household expenditure on food from 8679 in 201819 to 8807 in 202324The data from the latest Household Integrated Economic Survey also showed a decline in food consumption to 8147 kg from 8695 kg during the same periodâA major share of household income is spent on basic food items The second largest share of expenditure is on housing water electricity gas and other fuels reflecting the rising cost of housing and utilitiesâ reads the survey published by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics PBSIn addition a declining foreign inflow increased Pakistanâs debttoGDP ratio It reached 714 per cent even though the statutory limit set by law is 60 per centAs a result the countrys investment ratio fell to just 131 per cent of GDP the lowest in 50 years instead of the target of 15 per cent forcing it to seek external loans to meet its development needs the report said It added that the ratio may further slip below 13 per centAlmost 560 per cent of Pakistanâs budget goes to debt servicing forcing international financial institutions to call Pakistanâs debt unsustainableâHow can any investor commit capital to a nation where deeprooted uncertainty is the norm a fact clearly mirrored in the steady decrease of foreign direct investmentâ said Aamir Aziz a textile manufacturer and exporter from PakistanAccording to Yousuf Nazar former head of Citigroupâs emerging markets investments Pakistanâs debt has emerged as the central limitation on both fiscal policy and economic growthâPakistanâs debt burden has already breached the threshold of sustainabilityâ he saidâThe choice now is stark summon the political will for reform or remain trapped in a cycle where yesterdayâs borrowing consumes each new budget Debt service has become not just a fiscal constraint but a social crisisâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/soaring-food-inflation-unemployment-ratesdeepenpakistans-socioeconomiccrisis-660299.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/maritime-sector-to-anchor-indias-growth-viksit-bharat-2047-vision-dg-shipping-660303.html Kochi Jan 30 Indiaâs maritime domain will be a central pillar of the countryâs economic expansion and global competitiveness under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision Director General of Shipping Shyam Jagannathan said on Friday underscoring the strategic role of the Blue Economy in driving sustainable growth His statement came on the concluding day of COMARSEM 2026 which saw key stakeholders from across the global maritime industry including policymakers industry leaders technologists academicians and maritime professionals providing a highimpact platform for dialogue collaboration and knowledge exchangeJagannathan said over 90 per cent of Indiaâs trade by volume is carried through sea routes placing the maritime sector at the heart of the countryâs trade logistics and infrastructure ecosystemIndiaâs maritime sector is integral to our economic growth story With over 1520 merchant vessels and more than 13 million gross tonnage capacity the country is steadily strengthening its global footprint in shipping and maritime services he saidThe DG Shipping noted that India is emerging as a global Blue Economy hub supported by focused policy interventions across ports shipbuilding logistics renewable energy and allied maritime industriesThe governmentâs objective he said is to position India among the worldâs top 10 shipbuilding and ship repair nations by scaling capacity from 30000 gross tonnage to over 500000 gross tonnageSustainability he said is a key pillar of the maritime strategyMore than 60 per cent renewable energy usage at major ports expansion of green belts across at least onethird of port areas and promotion of circular economy practices through ship recycling are among the priority goals India currently accounts for 30â35 per cent of global ship recycling tonnage and meets nearly a quarter of domestic ferrous scrap demandThe AlangâSosiya cluster in Gujarat hosts 115 yards compliant with the Hong Kong Convention supporting the Green Steel ecosystem and largescale employment generationReferring to the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 Jagannathan said the advanced phase targets a topfive global position in shipbuilding while retaining leadership in ship recyclingKey initiatives include the development of carbonneutral ports the promotion of green and alternate fuels green bunkering infrastructure and incentives for lowemission vessels including 20â30 per cent financial assistance for green shipbuilding and retrofittingGreen shipping is no longer just about compliance it is about competitiveness in a lowcarbon global economy Jagannathan said adding that Indiaâs transition is aligned with Maritime India Vision 2030 Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 the IMOâs Net Zero 2050 roadmap and Indiaâs Panchamrit commitmentsHe urged professional bodies such as the Institute of Marine Engineers India to work closely with the administration to effectively implement the new initiatives IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/maritime-sector-to-anchor-indias-growth-viksit-bharat-2047-vision-dg-shipping-660303.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/nse-finally-gets-sebi-nod-for-ipo-all-eyes-on-drhp-now-660306.html Mumbai Jan 30 The National Stock Exchange NSE on Friday announced it has received the SEBI approval for its longawaited initial public offering IPO NSEs IPO plans had been stalled for more than a decade as the markets regulator did not grant approval due to regulatory concerns related to governance lapses and the colocation caseWith SEBIâs nod in place NSE will now finalise the structure and timing of its IPO NSE is reportedly said to be planning to file its draft listing papers by the March end and is in discussions with investment bankers and law firms to finalise the IPO papersHowever the NSE IPO depends on the clearing of the draft red herring prospectus DRHPâWe are delighted to receive SEBI approval for our IPO â a significant milestone in our growth journey With SEBIâs approval we embark on a new chapter of value creation for all our stakeholdersâ said Srinivas Injeti Chairperson NSEâThis approval also reinforces confidence in NSE being an integral part of the Indian economy and a beacon of Indian capital marketsâ he said in a statementNSE has been trying to list its shares since 2016 However the plan was held up due to regulatory probes linked to its colocation facility and broader governance issuesAshishkumar Chauhan Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NSE this month visited Tirupati with his family and offered prayers at the temple of Lord Venkateshwara seeking blessings for the exchange its members shareholders and the country He said that prayers were offered for the wellbeing of NSE and for the broader growth of the nationEarlier SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey stated that NSE was expected to receive approval for its muchawaited IPO within this monthMarket participants were closely watching regulatory developments around NSEâs proposed IPO which is expected to be one of the most significant listings in Indiaâs capital markets NSE is the most widely held unlisted firm in India IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/nse-finally-gets-sebi-nod-for-ipo-all-eyes-on-drhp-now-660306.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 01:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/trump-picks-warsh-to-lead-the-federal-reserve-660314.html Washington Jan 30 President Donald Trump on Friday said he will nominate Kevin Warsh to serve as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System âI am pleased to announce that I am nominating Kevin Warsh to be the CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEMâ Trump said in a statementTrump pointed to Warshâs current academic and professional roles He said Warsh âcurrently serves as the Shepard Family Distinguished Visiting Fellow in Economics at the Hoover Institution and Lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of BusinessâHe is a Partner of Stanley Druckenmiller at Duquesne Family Office He said Warsh âreceived his AB from Stanford University and JD from Harvard Law School He also said Warsh âhas conducted extensive research in the field of Economics and FinanceâThe president cited Warshâs work abroad He said Warsh âissued an Independent Report to the Bank of England proposing reforms in the conduct of Monetary Policy in the United Kingdomâ Trump said âParliament adopted the Reportâs recommendationsâTrump emphasised Warshâs prior service at the US central bank He said Warsh âbecame the youngest Fed Governor ever at 35â Warsh served âas a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System from 2006 until 2011âDuring that period Trump said Warsh took on several senior roles He served âas the Federal Reserveâs Representative to the Group of Twenty G20â He also served âas the Boardâs Emissary to the Emerging and Advanced Economies in AsiaâTrump said Warsh also held internal leadership duties at the Fed He said Warsh was âAdministrative Governor managing and overseeing the Boardâs operations personnel and financial performanceâBefore joining the Federal Reserve Warsh worked in the White House From 2002 until 2006 he served âas Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policyâ He was also âExecutive Secretary of the White House National Economic Councilâ Trump saidTrump pointed to Warshâs privatesector background as well He said Warsh âwas a member of the Mergers amp Acquisitions Department at Morgan Stanley amp Co in New Yorkâ Warsh served there âas Vice President and Executive DirectorâTrump offered strong personal praise âI have known Kevin for a long period of timeâ he said Trump added that he has âno doubt that he will go down as one of the GREAT Fed Chairmen maybe the bestâ He also said âOn top of everything else he is âcentral castingâ and he will never let you downâWarsh would replace Jerome Powell who has led the Federal Reserve since 2018 Powell was first nominated as Fed chair by Trump during his earlier term He guided US monetary policy through the COVID19 pandemic and a sharp rise in inflation Under Powell the Fed raised interest rates aggressively to curb price pressures His tenure has had a major impact on global markets and economies worldwide IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/trump-picks-warsh-to-lead-the-federal-reserve-660314.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 01:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-new-ftas-mark-a-shift-to-growth-driving-trade-policy-660318.html New Delhi Jan 30 Indiaâs recent free trade agreements FTAs reflect a strategic shift from defensive trade policy toward a targeted growthdriven approach which is focused on partners where trade complementarities are already strong logistics are efficient and economic interests are aligned an Australian media article said In a decisive departure from earlier trade strategies India is increasingly choosing partners where bilateral trade was already expanding and where agreements can amplify existing momentum rather than attempting to create new trade relationships from scratch the article by Anna MahjarBarducci in the Australian Institute of International Affairs observedBetween FY 2020â21 and FY 2024â25 Indiaâs total trade with countries covered by FTAs signed since 2021 rose by 92 per cent far outpacing the 415 per cent growth in Indiaâs global trade The share of these partners in Indiaâs overall trade basket increased from roughly 1112 per cent in FY 2021 to nearly 165 per cent by FY 2025This shift reflects a deliberate strategy of prioritising highintensity bilateral tradeoriented economies aligned with Indiaâs strengths in manufacturing energy processing pharmaceuticals services and investmentled growthThe article cites the examples of Indiaâs recent FTAs with Australia New Zealand the UK and the EFTA countries to drive home this pointIt highlights that after India signed the FTA with Australia in 2022 bilateral trade has grown rapidly increasing by 96 per cent between FY 2020â21 and FY 2024â25 Australia supplies coal critical minerals metal ores and energy inputs central to Indiaâs industrial base while India exports refined petroleum products pharmaceuticals machinery textiles and consumer goods The agreement also strengthens services links particularly in education and professional services and supports cooperation in clean energy and critical minerals Strategically Australia helps India diversify supply chains and secure key resource inputs for longterm growthIT further states that after India signed an FTA with New Zealand in 2025 trade has risen by about 50 per cent from a small base reflecting the complementarities India exports pharmaceuticals machinery and manufactured goods while importing wool agricultural products metals and raw materials The agreement is carefully calibrated balancing market access with domestic sensitivities particularly in agriculture and includes an investment dimension that signals confidence in Indiaâs mediumterm growth prospects the article statedIndia signed an FTA with the UK in 2025 IndiaâUK trade expanded by 76 per cent between FY 2021 and FY 2025 even before the agreementâs formal conclusion The UK is a highincome highstandard market where India competes strongly in pharmaceuticals textiles engineering goods chemicals auto components and services The agreement improves market access addresses barriers in services and professional mobility and strengthens investment ties in technology finance advanced manufacturing and clean energy It reflects Indiaâs confidence in engaging developed markets without undermining domestic policy space the article explainsIndia signed a trade deal with the EFTA countries in 2024 Merchandise trade growth of around 19 per cent understates the agreementâs significance Imports from the EFTA are concentrated in highvalue items such as gold precision instruments and chemicals keeping trade volumes stable The real value lies in embedded investment commitments technology collaboration and highskill job creation The IndiaâEFTA pact marks a shift from viewing FTAs purely as tariff instruments to using them as vehicles for capital formation and industrial upgrading the article added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-new-ftas-mark-a-shift-to-growth-driving-trade-policy-660318.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 01:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/tariff-talks-between-s-korea-howard-lutnick-conclude-without-agreement-660359.html Washington Jan 31 South Koreas Industry Minister Kim Jungkwan said that his talks with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick over renewed trade tensions ended without reaching a conclusion but their understanding of each others positions has deepened They met at the Commerce Department in Washington for the second straight day after US President Donald Trumps threatened on Monday to raise reciprocal tariffs and auto duties on Korea to 25 percent from 15 percent citing a delay in the Asian countrys legislative process supporting the implementation of a bilateral trade deal reports Yonhap news agencyOur understanding of each others positions has deepened There were discussions on how to find a middle ground Kim told reporters as he walked out of the Commerce DepartmentWe need more talks We have not yet reached a conclusion he addedAsked if there were discussions about when the US will actually raise the tariffs he refused to elaborate Negotiations are ongoing he saidKim and Lutnick plan to continue talks via video link after Kim returns home the minister saidDuring this weeks talks with Lutnick Kim was expected to underscore Seouls commitment to fulfilling its investment pledge under the trade deal with Washington that was first struck in late July and finalised months laterUnder the deal South Korea has committed to investing US350 billion in the United States among other pledges in return for the US lowering of reciprocal tariffs on South KoreaUS President Donald Trump earlier said that his administration will work something out with South Korea after he threatened earlier this week to raise reciprocal tariffs and other levies on the Asian allyWe will work something out with South Korea he said during a press availability at the White House responding to a question about whether he would increase tariffs on KoreaOn Monday Trump made the surprise announcement of a plan to increase reciprocal tariffs and auto lumber and pharmaceutical duties on South Korea to 25 percent from 15 percent taking issue with a delay in Seouls legislative procedures supporting the implementation of the trade deal IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/tariff-talks-between-s-korea-howard-lutnick-conclude-without-agreement-660359.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-cracks-down-to-curb-diversion-misuse-of-fertilisers-in-crop-season-660371.html New Delhi Jan 31 The government has issued 14692 showcause notices suspended or cancelled 6373 licenses and registered 766 first information reports FIRs to curb the diversion and misuse of fertilisers during the Kharif and the ongoing Rabi season 2025â26 AprilâMid January 2026 to safeguard farmer interests and ensure the integrity of the national fertiliser supply chain an official statement said on Saturday In collaboration with state governments and districtlevel authorities extensive enforcement actions including inspections raids and legal proceedings were carried out during the crop season The Department of Fertilizers DoF in coordination with the Department of Agriculture and Farmersâ Welfare DAampFW undertook a comprehensive enforcement driveâThese proactive and stringent measures ensure the timely availability of fertilisers strengthen market discipline and preserve the integrity of fertiliser distribution systems nationwideâ said the statementImbalanced fertilisation has farreaching consequences beyond soil degradation These processes further contribute to environmental contamination and pose potential health risksAccording to the statement the adverse effects also extend to the livestock sector as crops cultivated on nutrientdepleted soils often lack essential minerals required in feed and fodder resulting in compromised animal health and diminished productivityConsequently nutrient imbalance constitutes a significant constraint to the longterm sustainability and efficiency of integrated croplivestock production systemsThe government has been actively promoting balanced fertilisation as a core strategy to restore and sustain soil health thereby supporting sustainable agricultural productivityNotably the soil health card provides farmers with a comprehensive understanding of the nutrient status and physicochemical conditions of their soilsIt also offers cropspecific recommendations on the appropriate use of chemical fertilisers biofertilisers organic inputs and soil treatments to support informed decisionmaking and longterm soil health managementBy July 2025 the scheme had provided more than 93000 farmer training programmes approximately 68 lakh field demonstrations and thousands of awareness campaignsâAs of midNovember 2025 over 2555 crore soil health cards have been distributed across the country reflecting the scale and outreach of the scheme in promoting balanced nutrient managementâ said the statement IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/centre-cracks-down-to-curb-diversion-misuse-of-fertilisers-in-crop-season-660371.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/american-express-investors-question-growth-costs-660372.html Washington Jan 31 Investors on Friday pressed American Express executives on slowing net card additions rising growth costs and signs of middlemarket softness even as the payments company defended its push into premium cardholders and heavy investment The questions came after the company reported record results for 2025 and forecast another year of neardoubledigit growth but analysts on the fourthquarter earnings call probed whether the strategy is becoming more expensive to sustainâNet cards acquiredâ was âa big talking point with investors before the call beganâ UBS said asking whether the shift toward feepaying premium products could weigh on future momentumAmerican Express stock fell 35 per cent on Friday Overrall AmEx shares are down 31 per cent this yearChief Executive Stephen Squeri said card counts were not the right metric âWe donât really focus so much on acquiring cards as much as we focus on acquiring revenueâ he said adding that the company is meeting its revenue and return targetsFor 2025 American Express Company reported revenue up 10 per cent to a record 72 billion and earnings per share of 1538 up 15 per cent excluding the Accertify gain Squeri said card fee growth remained in double digits and credit quality stayed strongStill skepticism persisted Truist said investors are concerned âthe cost to grow is getting too highâ pointing to elevated spending on rewards marketing and benefits needed to attract affluent customersSqueri rejected the idea that the business is overheating âI donât look at the cost to grow as all that expensive right nowâ he said adding that American Express avoids portfolios it considers ânoneconomicalâChief Financial Officer Christophe Le Caillec said the economics are improving as the portfolio becomes more premium âThe overall portfolio is slowly getting more premiumâ he said noting that annual card fee revenue reached 10 billion and that delinquency and writeoff rates remain âbestinclassâ and below 2019 levelsAmerican Express forecast 2026 revenue growth of 9 per cent to 10 per cent and earnings per share of 1730 to 1790 and said it plans to raise its quarterly dividend by 16 per cent to 095 Squeri said the outlook reflects âthe strength and stability in our premium customer baseâ and flexibility in the business modelSome analysts questioned whether engagement from the revamped US Platinum Card could fade as the initial launch effect wears off Financial Technology Partners asked whether fourthquarter spending benefited from a ânew car smellâ effectSqueri said engagement has largely stabilized âNot every Card Member uses every single benefitâ he said adding that spending patterns tend to settle once customers decide how they use the productQuestions also focused on commercial services Keefe Bruyette amp Woods said small and medium enterprise spending âstill remains pretty weakâ particularly in the middle marketSqueri acknowledged the divergence âSmall business is really really strongâ he said while âmiddle market is where you see a little bit of the slowdownâ He also cited intensifying competition calling the space âhighly competitiveâ as rivals expand through acquisitions and softwaredriven offeringsRegulatory risk was another pressure point Morgan Stanley asked about proposals to cap credit card interest rates at 10 per cent Squeri warned such a move would have broad consequences âI donât think a 10 per cent credit card cap is the answerâ he said arguing it would reduce card availability shrink credit lines and âimpact small businessesâLe Caillec said spending trends remain solid heading into 2026 âWe continue to see good momentum in spend trendsâ he said noting that international billed business rose 12 per cent on a foreignexchange adjusted basis in the fourth quarterTechnology spending also drew attention Squeri said the company spends about 5 billion a year on technology and highlighted a new cloudbased data and analytics platform that is âalready reducing the time for key processes in marketing and fraud by 90 per centâ with full migration targeted by 2027 IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/american-express-investors-question-growth-costs-660372.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/gujarat-becomes-indias-largest-contributor-to-renewable-energy-capacity-with-165-pc-share--660387.html Gandhinagar Jan 31 IANS Gujarat has emerged as the largest contributor to Indias renewable energy capacity accounting for 1650 per cent of the national total with the states installed renewable power reaching 42583 GW as of December 2025 according to official figuresThe progress places Gujarat at the forefront of Indias transition to clean energy as the country works to meet its target of sourcing 50 per cent of electricity from renewables by 2030 and achieving netzero emissions by 2070Under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Gujarat ranks first among Indian states in total installed renewable energy capacity and wind power capacity and second in solar power capacityOf the total renewable capacity wind energy accounts for 1482094 MW while solar energy contributes 2552940 MWThe remaining capacity comes from hybrid and offgrid renewable sources Gujarat also leads the country in rooftop solar installations with more than 11 million systems installed across residential commercial and industrial sectors generating 641280 MWOfficials said the state alone accounts for over 25 per cent of Indias total rooftop solar installationsRooftop solar capacity includes 207365 MW under the Surya Gujarat scheme 1913 MW under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana and 226704 MW from other programmesIn the solar sector Gujarat has an installed capacity of 2552940 MW comprising 1777121 MW from groundmounted projects 641280 MW from rooftop systems 117238 MW from windsolar hybrid projects and 17301 MW from offgrid systems including those under the PM KUSUM schemeSolar parks are operational at Charanka 749 MW Radhanesda 700 MW and Dholera 300 MW The renewable energy park at Khavda in Kutch planned with a capacity of 3735 GW has already commissioned 1133 GW making it the largest renewable energy park under development globallyWind energy installations stand at 1482064 MW with Kutch contributing 747673 MW Other major wind power districts include Jamnagar 186765 MW Devbhumi Dwarka 128126 MW Amreli 97385 MW Rajkot 87490 MW Bhavnagar 61880 MW Morbi 56860 MW Surendranagar 45660 MW and Patan 20820 MWWindsolar hybrid projects developed under the 2018 Hybrid Policy and the Renewable Energy Policy 2023 have added 239877 MWChief Minister Patel said Gujarats renewable energy expansion reflected consistent policy support and efficient implementation aligned with national climate goalsOfficials estimate that renewable energy projects in the state have generated around 237 lakh direct and indirect jobsGujarat currently has 5203 renewable energy projects under implementation including 4992 solar projects with a combined capacity of 3222 GW 72 wind projects with a combined capacity of 15 GW and 139 hybrid projects with a combined capacity to 2115 GWThe state has set a target of achieving 105 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 contributing about 20 per cent to Indias planned 500 GW nonfossil fuel energy capacityIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/gujarat-becomes-indias-largest-contributor-to-renewable-energy-capacity-with-165-pc-share--660387.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-smartphone-purchase-pattern-changes-as-iphone-16-tops-sales-chart-660391.html Mumbai Jan 31 Indian consumersâ smartphone buying patterns showed a marked shift moving away from the traditional budgetâsegment dominance as Apple Incâs iPhone 16 base variant emerged as the topâselling smartphone model in 2025 a report has said Counterpoint Research report said that India recorded about 154 million smartphone shipments in 2025 of which the iPhone 16 base model accounted for roughly 616 million units representing about 4 per cent of the overall market by volumeThe iPhone 16 launched in September 2024 is priced at around Rs 71000 for the base variantAround 60 per cent of premium smartphones in India are now purchased on equated monthly instalment EMI plans Counterpoint Research foundThe deviceâs strong selling in India is due to Apples brand appeal and financing options such as EMIs that have broadened affordability further supported by exchange offersApple CEO Tim Cook recently has said that the Cupertinobased company set a quarterly revenue record during the OctoberDecember period in IndiaIndia has seen Apple production and exports touching new highs with each quarterFor the December quarter Apple set alltime revenue records in the Americas Europe Japan and the rest of Asia PacificâWe continued to gain momentum in emerging markets which includes India where we saw strong doubledigit revenue growthâ said Cook during the earnings call late on Thursday US time adding that the company has plans to open another store in Mumbai soonResponding to an analyst the Apple CEO said they did set a quarterly revenue record during the December quarter in IndiaâIndia is the secondlargest smartphone market in the world and the fourth largest PC marketâ he said adding that the company set quarterly revenue records on iPhone and Mac and iPad and an alltime revenue record on servicesKevan Parekh Appleâs CFO said iPhone revenue was 853 billion up 23 per cent yearoveryear driven by the iPhone 17 family IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/indias-smartphone-purchase-pattern-changes-as-iphone-16-tops-sales-chart-660391.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/higher-stt-backfiring-on-revenue-collection-zerodhas-nithin-kamath-660393.html Mumbai Jan 31 Zerodha cofounder Nithin Kamath has raised concerns over the repeated increase in Securities Transaction Tax STT saying that higher taxes are slowly hurting trading activity in the markets In a recent social media post Kamath explained that STT was introduced at a time when longterm capital gains LTCG tax was removedHowever even after LTCG was brought back STT has continued to rise with every Union BudgetHe said that as a market participant he always hopes for a reduction in STT but instead sees it increasing year after yearâAs a market participant I always hope the budget will reduce STT but it keeps going up STT was introduced when LTCG was made 0 but now that LTCG is backâ Kamath said in a post on social media platform XKamath highlighted the sharp hike announced in Budget 2024 where STT on futures and options FampO trades was raised by 60 per centThe tax on futures went up from 00125 per cent to 002 per cent while the levy on options increased from 00625 per cent to 01 per centAccording to him the impact was not immediately visible because markets were in a strong bull phase and trading activity remained highâThe 60 per cent FampO STT increase from Budget 2024 00125 per cent to 002 per cent on futures and 00625 per cent to 01 per cent on options didnt impact volumes much at first the bull market continued with surging participationâ he statedâBut markets dont always have bull runs the impact showed up in the year we just hadâ he addedHowever as market conditions cooled over the past year the higher STT began to affect volumesHe also pointed to government projections for STT collections in the financial year 202526 which were estimated at Rs 78000 croreBut as of January 11 collections had reached only around Rs 45000 crore Even if another Rs 12000 crore is collected by the end of March the total would be close to Rs 57000 crore falling nearly 25 per cent short of the targetâI think the government wouldve collected a lot more without the 2024 hikeâ Kamath mentioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/higher-stt-backfiring-on-revenue-collection-zerodhas-nithin-kamath-660393.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/nse-ipo-will-be-ofs-draft-papers-to-be-prepared-in-34-months-ceo-660398.html New Delhi Jan 31 National Stock Exchange NSE Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ashish Chauhan said on Saturday that it will take around three to four months to prepare the draft Red Herring Prospectus DRHP which is a key document required for launching the IPO Speaking to IANS on the sideline of an event here Chauhan thanked SEBI for clearing the way after nearly a decade of delayâAfter 10 years SEBI has agreed to start the IPO process We thank SEBI for thisâ he statedHe said that along with preparing the DRHP NSE will also work in parallel on the offer for sale OFS part of the IPOâIt will take 34 months for the draft of Red Herring Prospectus to be madeâ Chauhan told IANSThe exchange currently has around 191 lakh existing shareholders and those who are eligible and willing to sell their shares through OFS will be able to participate in the processâIn parallel there are 191000 existing shareholders Those who are eligible and want to sell their shares in OFS we will collect those shares in parallel for offer for sale he mentionedThe approval from SEBI marks a major milestone for NSE whose IPO plans had been stuck for more than 10 years due to regulatory concerns including issues linked to governance lapses and the colocation caseWith the regulatorâs green signal now in place NSE will move ahead with finalising the structure and timeline of its public issueEarlier NSE Chairperson Srinivas Injeti had described SEBIâs approval as a significant step in the exchangeâs growth journeyHe said the move opens a new chapter of value creation for stakeholders and reflects confidence in NSEâs role in strengthening Indiaâs capital marketsNSE has been trying to list its shares since 2016 but the process was repeatedly delayed due to regulatory probesRecently SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey had indicated that approval for NSEâs IPO was expected soon raising hopes among market participants IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/nse-ipo-will-be-ofs-draft-papers-to-be-prepared-in-34-months-ceo-660398.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/nse-ipo-will-be-ofs-draft-papers-to-be-prepared-in-3-4-months-ceo-660399.html New Delhi Jan 31 National Stock Exchange NSE Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ashish Chauhan said on Saturday that it will take around three to four months to prepare the draft Red Herring Prospectus DRHP which is a key document required for launching the IPO Speaking to IANS on the sideline of an event here Chauhan thanked SEBI for clearing the way after nearly a decade of delayâAfter 10 years SEBI has agreed to start the IPO process We thank SEBI for thisâ he statedHe said that along with preparing the DRHP NSE will also work in parallel on the offer for sale OFS part of the IPOâIt will take 34 months for the draft of Red Herring Prospectus to be madeâ Chauhan told IANSThe exchange currently has around 191 lakh existing shareholders and those who are eligible and willing to sell their shares through OFS will be able to participate in the processâIn parallel there are 191000 existing shareholders Those who are eligible and want to sell their shares in OFS we will collect those shares in parallel for offer for sale he mentionedThe approval from SEBI marks a major milestone for NSE whose IPO plans had been stuck for more than 10 years due to regulatory concerns including issues linked to governance lapses and the colocation caseWith the regulatorâs green signal now in place NSE will move ahead with finalising the structure and timeline of its public issueEarlier NSE Chairperson Srinivas Injeti had described SEBIâs approval as a significant step in the exchangeâs growth journeyHe said the move opens a new chapter of value creation for stakeholders and reflects confidence in NSEâs role in strengthening Indiaâs capital marketsNSE has been trying to list its shares since 2016 but the process was repeatedly delayed due to regulatory probesRecently SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey had indicated that approval for NSEâs IPO was expected soon raising hopes among market participants IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/nse-ipo-will-be-ofs-draft-papers-to-be-prepared-in-3-4-months-ceo-660399.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/defence-psu-stocks-in-focus-as-markets-expect-8-10-pc-hike-in-budget-allocation-660408.html Mumbai Jan 31 Defenceâlinked stocks are expected to draw investor attention during the Union Budget 2026 announcement on February 1 with market participants looking for a moderate 8 to 10 per cent rise in defence allocation and improvement in execution momentum Analysts said that investors are keen on cues of faster order finalisation and clearer procurement timelines rather than large headline increases in defence allocations according to media reportsThe market broadly anticipates the emphasis on capital expenditure and indigenisation and is looking for a clearer indication of acceleration in contract awards and timely payments to manufacturersAmong stateâowned defence companies Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd is expected to benefit from its aircraft and engine manufacturing pipeline while Bharat Electronics Ltd can benefit from announcements related to defence electronics radar and communicationsBharat Dynamics Ltd remains in focus for missile programmes and shipbuilders such as Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Garden Reach Shipbuilders can gain from programs related to naval modernisationAnalysts said stock performance will be stockâspecific and hinge on clear execution timelines strong cash flows and longterm earnings visibilityHowever some market watchers maintained that much of the optimism is already priced inBudget 2026 will maintain fiscal prudence and prioritise strategic capexâheavy sectors making the defence sector the top beneficiary a report saidAnother recent report stated that nearly 40 per cent of investment managers flagged the defence sector as the top Budget beneficiary due to higher allocations driven by indigenisation modernisation export potential and sustained government spendingInfrastructure ranked as the second top beneficiary with about 29 per cent of respondents favouring it reflecting confidence in public capex and longâterm growth multipliersEquity managers reflected confidence in Indiaâs mediumterm equity outlook with a strong preference for capexled sectors and expectations of shortterm market volatilityManufacturing accounted for about 18 per cent of sectoral responses supported by expectations of continued PLIled policy support Consumption and agriculture were cited by roughly 7 per cent each IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/defence-psu-stocks-in-focus-as-markets-expect-8-10-pc-hike-in-budget-allocation-660408.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/farmers-look-to-budget-2026-27-for-relief-and-guarantees-660410.html New Delhi Jan 31 IANS When Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman rises to present her ninth consecutive budget on Sunday February 1 farmers across India look ahead for a mix of assurances that range from subsidies a guarantee on a profitable Minimum Support Price MSP expanding credit access investing in modern technology and infrastructure to providing climateresilient support She has repeatedly assured that Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly believes to focus on four major castes Garib poor Mahilayen women Yuva youth and Annadata farmer India protects its farmers through a mix of budgetary support targeted schemes and institutional reforms The agriculture budget has steadily increased over the past decade and most farmers benefit from direct income transfers crop insurance access to credit and subsidised inputs Budgetary allocations to the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare DAampampFW have risen from Rs 21933 crores in 201314 to Rs 127 lakh crore in the Budget Estimates BE for 202526 Agricultural expenditure is also channelled through several ministries which include irrigation renewable energy fertilisers rural employment and research This demonstrates consistent fiscal commitment and highlights an evolving wholeofgovernment strategy Allocation has more than doubled since 2018 underscoring the governments priority to strengthen farm incomes and resilience However agricultures share within the growing public expenditure framework is steadily declining Well build up our ongoing demand for MSP Meanwhile fertiliser subsidy is going down irrigation facilities need improvement also farmers are not being compensated for crop loss due to natural disasters like flood and drought stated P Krishnaprasad a Leftleaning farmer leader associated with the Samyukta Kisan Morcha SKM When pointed out that the PM Fasal Bima Yojana was launched specifically for this purpose to provide affordable insurance against crop loss due to droughts floods and pests he cited instances where the scheme is lacking in delivery Insisting on a price guarantee Krishnaprasad cited a recent incident in which growers were forced to sell onions for between 50 p and Rs 2 claiming he was buying the same product in Delhi for as much as Rs 3550 a kiloThe government should monitor and assure farmers a profit rather than the middlemen benefitting he urged Incidentally onion is not among the 22 crops covered under MSP Meanwhile the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh BKS is demanding easier and wider market access for growers rather than a guaranteed base price The average input expense of say farmers in Odisha or West Bengal will not be the same as that in Punjab for example In case of uniform MSP what may profit the former may not even meet the expenses of the latter argued BKS General Secretary Mohini Mohan Mishra Rather open market access so that they can have easy means to sell their produce and have more options he added The farmers body affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS is also seeking a review of GST on pumps and pipes used in irrigation support for organic farming and controlled imports of pulses and oilseeds to ensure Indias selfsufficiency in these products Additionally the BKS wants the government to encourage smallholding or landless farmers to diversify into animal and beekeeping or mushroom cultivation to sustain themselves It has also sought budgetary allocation for agri education and research rather than depending on global tieups Despite the government supporting its farmers through MSP affordable insurance cover subsidies and direct income transfers small and marginal farmers owning less than 2 hectares who comprise over 80 per cent of Indias farmers face unique vulnerabilities The way forward may lie in broader policy changes rather than doleouts Indias farmers now wait for Sundays budget pledges IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/farmers-look-to-budget-2026-27-for-relief-and-guarantees-660410.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/industry-minister-says-unnecessary-misunderstandings-resolved-via-tariff-talks-with-us-660424.html Seoul Jan 31 South Koreas Industry Minister Kim Jungkwan said on Saturday that he thinks unnecessary misunderstandings were resolved through his talks with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington over renewed trade tensions this week Kim made the remark upon his return home at Incheon International Airport in Incheon west of Seoul after holding meetings at the Commerce Department on Thursday and Friday US time which ended without reaching a conclusion reports Yonhap news agencyOur mutual understanding has deepened significantly Kim said I believe some unnecessary misunderstandings have been resolvedKims trip came after US President Donald Trump threatened Monday to raise reciprocal tariffs and auto duties on South Korea to 25 percent from 15 percent citing delays in the Asian countrys legislative process supporting the implementation of a bilateral trade dealLast year the two countries agreed on a trade deal under which South Korea would invest 350 billion in the United States in return for a cut in tariff ratesThe ruling Democratic Party submitted a bill to parliament in November to implement the bilateral trade and investment deal which has yet to be passedWe have sufficiently explained that the South Korean government has no intention at all not to implement the tariff agreement reached then nor delay it Kim saidThe industry minister noted that the special bill is expected to be processed quickly and explained the background of the delay to the US sideMeanwhile Jungkwan his talks with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick over renewed trade tensions ended without reaching a conclusion but their understanding of each others positions has deepenedThey met at the Commerce Department in Washington for the second straight day after US President Donald Trumps threatened on Monday to raise reciprocal tariffs and auto duties on Korea to 25 percent from 15 percent citing a delay in the Asian countrys legislative process supporting the implementation of a bilateral trade dealOur understanding of each others positions has deepened There were discussions on how to find a middle ground Kim told reporters as he walked out of the Commerce DepartmentWe need more talks We have not yet reached a conclusion he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/industry-minister-says-unnecessary-misunderstandings-resolved-via-tariff-talks-with-us-660424.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/record-remittances-in-pakistan-actually-obscures-the-devastating-reality-report-660430.html New Delhi Jan 31 As the Pakistanâs government goes gaga over record remittances â 385 billion in FY25 â the narrative actually obscures the devastating reality that the country is haemorrhaging its future a new report has revealed The reality is that mass departure of doctors engineers and skilled professionals âshould not be called a point of pride but a shameful and profound policy failureâ reports The Express TribuneA nation cannot build its future on money wired from abroad while the talent needed to deploy it productively walks out the door the report argued adding that for a country the size of Pakistan it is actually a disaster in the makingAbout 5000 doctors 11000 engineers and 13000 accountants left Pakistan between 2024 and 2025 along with hundreds of thousands of other skilled and unskilled workersâThis exodus is hollowing out hospitals while stalling innovation and entrepreneurshipâ said the reportIT further argued that remittances may increase consumption and bolster foreign reserves but they are not a growth engineâRather than cheering the departure of our best and brightest there is a need to create a country where they want to stayâ it addedEmigration is a survival strategy borne of rational desperation for stability meritocracy and safetyâUnfortunately even where the state rewards merit such as subsidised medical education starting salaries in highly skilled professions are so low that people without familial wealth cannot even afford room and boardâ said the reportAnother report said that labour is now Pakistanâs biggest export above and beyond any single physical commodity and this is not about to changeâThe vast majority of Pakistanis abroad are engaged in lowskilled occupations often informal and precarious especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAEâ says the report in Dawn IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/record-remittances-in-pakistan-actually-obscures-the-devastating-reality-report-660430.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 18:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/record-remittances-in-pakistan-actually-obscure-the-devastating-reality-report-660432.html New Delhi Jan 31 As the Pakistanâs government goes gaga over record remittances â 385 billion in FY25 â the narrative actually obscures the devastating reality that the country is haemorrhaging its future a new report has revealed The reality is that mass departure of doctors engineers and skilled professionals âshould not be called a point of pride but a shameful and profound policy failureâ reports The Express TribuneA nation cannot build its future on money wired from abroad while the talent needed to deploy it productively walks out the door the report argued adding that for a country the size of Pakistan it is actually a disaster in the makingAbout 5000 doctors 11000 engineers and 13000 accountants left Pakistan between 2024 and 2025 along with hundreds of thousands of other skilled and unskilled workersâThis exodus is hollowing out hospitals while stalling innovation and entrepreneurshipâ said the reportIT further argued that remittances may increase consumption and bolster foreign reserves but they are not a growth engineâRather than cheering the departure of our best and brightest there is a need to create a country where they want to stayâ it addedEmigration is a survival strategy borne of rational desperation for stability meritocracy and safetyâUnfortunately even where the state rewards merit such as subsidised medical education starting salaries in highly skilled professions are so low that people without familial wealth cannot even afford room and boardâ said the reportAnother report said that labour is now Pakistanâs biggest export above and beyond any single physical commodity and this is not about to changeâThe vast majority of Pakistanis abroad are engaged in lowskilled occupations often informal and precarious especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAEâ says the report in Dawn IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/record-remittances-in-pakistan-actually-obscure-the-devastating-reality-report-660432.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 18:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/cooking-appliances-maker-stove-krafts-profit-plunges-67-pc-in-q3-660433.html Mumbai Jan 31 Stove Kraft on Saturday posted a 666 per cent yearonyear fall in profit for the December quarter Q3 FY26 as weak demand in the consumer durables market affected sales The companyâs net profit dropped to Rs 4 crore as compared to yearago period according to its stock exchange filingRevenue also declined by 64 per cent to Rs 3783 crore compared to the same period last financial year Q3 FY25Operating performance softened with EBITDA falling 15 per cent to Rs 342 crore The operating margin narrowed to 9 per cent down from 10 per cent a year agoStove Kraft said pressure cookers and small appliances together made up around 30 per cent of its total revenue for the quarterDuring the period the company continued to expand its retail presence by adding 17 new stores This took its total number of outlets to 313 across 21 states and 138 citiesThe companyâs earnings were also impacted by certain onetime costs It incurred Rs 124 crore towards gratuity provision and leave encashment following the implementation of the new labour codeIn addition it recorded a forex loss of Rs 190 crore according to its stock exchange filingCommenting on the results Managing Director Rajendra Gandhi said the company delivered a resilient performance despite a tough business environmentHe added that strong execution and operational efficiency helped support the business during the quarterFor the first nine months of FY26 Stove Kraftâs revenue stood at Rs 11929 crore marking a 49 per cent increase from the same period last financial yearGross margins improved to 388 per cent during this period The companyâs flagship brand Pigeon recorded a yeartodate growth of 97 per cent on a compounded basisWorking capital days also improved reducing to 43 days the company said in its exchange filingLooking ahead Stove Kraft said it remains on track to meet its goal of opening 500 standalone Exclusive Pigeon Stores by calendar year 2027The expansion will continue through a mix of companyowned and franchiseoperated store models IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/cooking-appliances-maker-stove-krafts-profit-plunges-67-pc-in-q3-660433.html Sat, 31 Jan 2026 19:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/hyundai-steels-net-profit-plunges-84-pc-in-2025-on-construction-downturn-protectionism-660241.html Seoul Jan 30 Hyundai Steel Co South Koreas secondlargest steelmaker said on Friday its net profit plunged 84 percent in 2025 from a year earlier due to a downturn in the construction sector and rising protectionism Net profit fell to 14 billion won 970000 last year from 88 billion won the previous year the company said in a press releaseA prolonged slump in the construction industry and growing protectionism including US import tariffs weighed on earnings a company spokesperson said reports Yonhap news agencyThe United States currently imposes tariffs of up to 50 percent on steel products imported from South KoreaOperating profit rose 37 percent to 2192 billion won from 1595 billion won during the same period Sales fell 21 percent to 2273 trillion won from 2322 trillion wonIncreased sales of highend products and government measures aimed at curbing an influx of lowpriced steel imports helped lift operating profit the company saidTo improve profitability Hyundai Steel said it plans to begin mass production of thirdgeneration advanced highstrength steel AHSS in the first quarter and expand supplies of thick steel plates for offshore wind power facilities and nuclear reactors this year said the reportHyundai Steel is also building a 27 milliontonperyear electric arc furnace EAF steel mill in Louisiana scheduled for completion by 2029 to supply automotive steel to US plants operated by its affiliates Hyundai Motor Co and Kia CorpThe company has said it aims to begin construction of the plant in the third quarter and start commercial production in the first quarter of 2029Hyundai Steel announced the 58 billion investment plan in March last year as part of Hyundai Motor Groups broader US investment strategy the report mentioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/hyundai-steels-net-profit-plunges-84-pc-in-2025-on-construction-downturn-protectionism-660241.html Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-pacts-were-rushed-in-upa-era-india-often-conceded-far-more-than-it-gained-piyush-goyal-660248.html New Delhi Jan 30 IANS Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said the successful conclusion of the IndiaEU Free Trade Agreement FTA is truly a historic milestone unlike the UPA era where agreements were rushed and India often conceded far more than it gainednbspnbspThe minister said the EU trade deal will strengthen key sectors of our economy while fostering prosperity as every region and citizen stands to gain from its many benefitsnbspI also draw a sharp contrast with the UPA era where agreements were rushed and India often conceded far more than it gained he posted on X social media platformNow guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modis decisive leadership and strategic vision deals prioritise Indias core interests while expanding markets creating jobs and driving economic growthnbspEarlier Goyal strongly countered the Congress criticism of the IndiaEU FTA asserting that the deal is not a zerosum pact but a mutually beneficial one that will fuel Indias economic growth and open up large opportunities for businesses and citizensAccording to PM Modi this agreement will deepen economic ties create opportunities for our people and strengthen the IndiaEurope partnership for a prosperous futurenbspThe historic agreement with EU which is Indias largest FTA in history has substantial benefits for the 14 billion people of India It will unlock access to European markets easier for our farmers and small industries create new opportunities in manufacturing and strengthen cooperation between our services sectors said PM ModiThis landmark deal between the second largest and fourth largest economies of the world promise to create unprecedented opportunities and open new avenues of growth as well as cooperation This deal will benefit the entire global community he further statednbspThe FTA would also help create quality jobs in key sectors enable further mobility for our youth professional talent students and researchers and unlock the potential of the digital age Importantly it will foster innovation and strengthen economic ties for mutual growth The IndiaEU Business Forum was a great platform to discuss the wideranging economic linkages between India and Europe https://dailyworld.in/business/trade-pacts-were-rushed-in-upa-era-india-often-conceded-far-more-than-it-gained-piyush-goyal-660248.html Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/india-eu-free-trade-pact-aligns-with-vision-of-a-developed-india-pm-modi-660253.html New Delhi Jan 30 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday highlighted that the historic IndiaEU free trade agreement fully aligns with the vision of making India a developed countrynbspnbspThe Prime Minister referred to an article written by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stating that the government has delivered a transformative agreement that expands markets creates jobs and protects Indias core interestsIn the article Goyal has stated that the IndiaEU free trade agreement is a historic milestone in Prime Minister Modis economic diplomacy It will generate millions of jobs create vast opportunities for Indias youth and farmers and create wealth for nearly 2 billion people who together account for a quarter of the global economyThe agreement between the worlds second and fourthlargest economies is among the biggest trade deals ever signed In fact it is far more than a trade deal It represents a comprehensive partnership that fosters cooperation in critical sectors such as artificial intelligence defence and semiconductors The FTA will benefit every region and citizen of India the article observedThe FTA ensures rulesbased trade and stability in economic policies making India even more attractive for domestic and foreign investment This will create numerous opportunities for small businesses startups and workersThe world has applauded PM Modis announcement calling it the mother of all deals It comes as a breath of fresh air at a tumultuous time for global trade and supplychain realignment The agreement positions India and the EU as trusted partners committed to open markets predictability and inclusive growth Goyal has statedIndia has secured unprecedented market access for more than 99 per cent of its exports to the EU by trade value strongly bolstering the Make in India initiative The FTA gives a decisive boost to labourintensive sectors such as textiles apparel leather footwear marine products gems and jewellery handicrafts engineering goods and automobiles the minister contendedIt will eliminate tariffs of up to 10 per cent on nearly 33 billion worth of Indian exports The agreement also empowers workers artisans women youth and MSMEs while integrating Indian businesses more deeply into global value chains and reinforcing Indias role as a key supplier in global tradeThe deal also eases mobility for businesspersons and professionals and opens new opportunities in services such as education information technology financial services and computers These commitments unlock highvalue employment opportunities and further strengthen Indias position as a global hub for talent innovation and sustainable economic growth the article addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/business/india-eu-free-trade-pact-aligns-with-vision-of-a-developed-india-pm-modi-660253.html Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-sitharaman-to-brainstorm-with-students-after-presenting-budget-on-feb-1-660256.html New Delhi Jan 30 IANS After the presentation of the Union Budget 202627 on February 1 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will interact with around 30 college students from different regions of the country according to an official statement issued on FridaynbspAs part of this initiative the college students will also get to witness the presentation of the Union Budget live from the Lok Sabha Gallery offering them a chance to view one of the most significant Parliamentary proceedings of the year the statement saidThe students come from a variety of academic disciplines including commerce economics medical education and vocational courses from various states across IndianbspThe students will also visit the Ministry of Finance housed at Kartavya Bhawan1 and interact with various senior officials to gain an understanding of its functioning the policy formulation processes and the role of institutions in nationbuildingnbspLater in the evening Finance Minister Sitharaman will interact with the students and engage in a freewheeling discussion on the key priorities of the Budget its vision for Indias future and its implications for the youth Students will also share their ideas perspectives and aspirations and offer their views concerning the youth and the nation during the interaction the statement saidThis initiative aims to provide exposure to promote greater awareness among students about finance economics governance and democratic processes while encouraging informed constructive participation of youth in Indias financial and Parliamentary procedures it addednbspDuring the course of preparing the Budget various inputs have been sought from the countrys citizens including youth through various platforms which will be reflected in the upcoming Union Budget 202627nbspThe interaction signifies that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi places importance on the ambitions and voice of our youth the statement added https://dailyworld.in/business/fm-sitharaman-to-brainstorm-with-students-after-presenting-budget-on-feb-1-660256.html Fri, 30 Jan 2026 23:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/kerala-budget-welfare-health-cover-and-education-take-centre-stage-660050.html Thiruvananthapuram Jan 29 State Finance Minister KN Balagopal on Thursday presented his sixth consecutive budget of the LDF government in the Kerala Assembly opting for a full budget despite Assembly elections being scheduled later this year when conventionally a voteonaccount is presented The final budget of the secondterm Pinarayi Vijayan government places strong emphasis on social security healthcare education and inclusive welfare measures with a series of announcements aimed at students workers and vulnerable sectionsOne of the key highlights is the introduction of accident insurance for students from Classes 1 to 12The Finance Minister said the scheme would cost Rs 15 crore annually which has been fully provided for in the budgetIn a major step for higher education the government also announced free undergraduate education for Arts and Science students in the state extending Keralaâs free education framework beyond Class 12 for the first timeHealthcare received significant attention with the announcement of Medisep 20 an upgraded version of the stateâs flagship health insurance scheme for government employees to be launched from February 1The revamped scheme will offer enhanced benefits and wider hospital coverageSimilar insurance coverage on the Medisep model will be extended to pensioners as well as employees of public sector undertakings and cooperative institutionsIn a major public health intervention the Finance Minister announced that victims of road accidents will be provided free treatment for the first five days under the newly introduced âLife Saverâ projectThe scheme will be implemented in government hospitals and selected private hospitals with an allocation of Rs 15 croreThe budget also announced a new health insurance scheme for families not covered under the Karunya health scheme with Rs 50 crore earmarked for the initiativeASHA workers received relief with an increase of Rs 1000 in their monthly honorariumAddressing concerns raised by the Special Intensive Revision SIR particularly among religious minorities the government announced the introduction of a Nativity Card supported by new legislationAn allocation of Rs 10 crore has been made to promote religious and communal harmonyTaken together the budget underscores the LDF governmentâs continued focus on welfareled governance healthcare expansion and educational access while signalling its intent to carry forward flagship social sector initiatives into the final year of its second term IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/kerala-budget-welfare-health-cover-and-education-take-centre-stage-660050.html Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/economic-survey-pegs-indias-potential-growth-rate-at-7-per-cent-660057.html New Delhi Jan 29 The Economic Survey for 202526 tabled in Parliament on Friday has raised Indiaâs potential growth rate to 70 per cent up from 65 per cent three years ago as âsustained domestic reforms and public investment are lifting the economyâs underlying growth capacityâ despite the global headwinds âThe expansion of infrastructure illustrated by the doubling of the airport network over the past decade and the rapid growth of freight movement through inland waterways is easing logistics constraints and raising economywide efficiencyâ the economic survey notesAt the same time while headline inflation continues to reflect volatility in food prices the subdued trajectory of core inflation excluding gold and silver indicates a strengthening of supplyside conditions across the economy consistent with rising productive capacity and improved logistics In parallel sustained statelevel deregulation efforts are enabling small and medium enterprises to expand and integrate more effectively into formal value chains elevating the economyâs mediumterm growth potential the survey observesThe survey also observes that a predictable and credible fiscal trajectory by the Centre over the past years has anchored overall macroeconomic stability by balancing growth imperatives with fiscal sustainabilityThe Central governmentâs fiscal consolidation experience underscores the value of clearly defined fiscal targets alongside retained flexibility thereby allowing fiscal policy to support rather than constrain growth during periods of uncertaintyIn this context the Union Budget for FY22 articulated a mediumterm glide path targeting a fiscal deficit below 45 per cent of GDP by FY26 instead of binding annual targets to ensure that growthenhancing expenditure particularly capex was not compromised the survey points outThe global environment is being reshaped by geopolitical realignments that will influence investment supply chains and growth prospects for years to come Against todayâs global churn India must choose to build resilience innovate relentlessly and stay the course towards Viksit Bharat rather than seek quick fixes to visible shortterm pressures Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran has noted in his commentâThe good news is that on balance the evidence presented in this Survey shows that India will choose wellâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/economic-survey-pegs-indias-potential-growth-rate-at-7-per-cent-660057.html Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/business/silver-rally-likely-to-end-soon-investors-should-rotate-profit-to-indian-stocks-report-660064.html New Delhi Jan 29 Investors should consider booking profits on silver and rebalance into diversified Indian equity funds or blueâchip stocks a report said on Thursday The report from WhiteOak Capital Mutual Fund said that investors should trim precious metals allocation back to a safeâhaven allocation level and stop chasing further upsideBook profits on silver as its current valuation is the most overextended relative to historical periods Trim precious metals back to a safe haven level in your total portfolio the report saidThe mutual fund said that silverâs huge outperformance relative to gold often signals the final speculative phase of a rally and warned that the metalâs current premium leaves it vulnerable to a sharp correctionWhen silver outperforms gold with high velocity or parabolic moves it often signals the final speculative stage of a run one that historically ends against investorsâ best interests the asset manager saidThe current GoldâtoâSilver ratio has collapsed to about 461 versus a 10âyear average near 801 the report said The GoldtoSilver Ratio GSR measures the relative value between the two metalsWhen it drops below 501 silver is no longer cheap In previous cycles a ratio this low has preceded a mean reversion where silver prices corrected significantly faster relative to gold the fund house further saidA weakening Rupee is often used to justify holding metals but history shows it cannot save the investor from a speculative burst it addedâAn ounce of gold or silver produces no cash flow In contrast the Nifty 50 companies reinvest profits to grow and reward investors by returning cash in the form of dividends as well as through capital appreciationâ the fund house shared its viewSince inception the Nifty 50 TRI has matched or exceeded goldâs CAGR of around 132 per cent while providing far superior liquidity compared to holding physical metal the report noted IANS https://dailyworld.in/business/silver-rally-likely-to-end-soon-investors-should-rotate-profit-to-indian-stocks-report-660064.html Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:22:00 +0530