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Bharat Mart, AI & Gold: The Evolving Face of UAE-India Trade

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  The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and India has already reshaped trade dynamics between the two nations — but where is it headed next? One key shift came in July 2024, when silver imports under CEPA, once tariff-advantaged, became costlier due to an 8 percent duty, compared to a new standard rate of 6 percent. “As a result, silver imports from the UAE under CEPA completely stopped after July 2024, resolving earlier concerns about inflated import volumes,” Mohan told AGBI . While silver lost its edge, gold saw a surge. Analysts attribute this to improved trading technologies and India’s domestic initiatives to support gold inflows. As a major global gold trading hub, the UAE continues to attract refineries and dealers thanks to its low taxes, regulatory flexibility, and geographic proximity to Asia. Looking ahead, CEPA is set to broaden its scope to include eight additional sectors, from artificial intelligence and digital technology to financ...
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India to develop 6 Mega Ports under Maritime AmritKaal Vision 2047.

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  As part of its ambitious Maritime AmritKaal Vision 2047 , the Government of India has unveiled plans to develop six state-of-the-art mega ports aimed at transforming the nation's maritime infrastructure and boosting trade. This strategic initiative aligns with India’s long-term goal of becoming a global maritime hub by 2047. The six mega ports identified under the vision include: Cochin – Vizhinjam Port Cluster : Positioned to become a key transshipment hub on the west coast, leveraging its proximity to international shipping lanes. Galathea South Bay Port : Located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this port will enhance connectivity and strategic presence in the eastern Indian Ocean. Chennai – Kamarajar – Cuddalore Port Cluster : This integrated cluster will strengthen maritime logistics and industrial connectivity along Tamil Nadu’s coastline. Paradip and other Non-Major Ports : With a focus on the eastern seaboard, this development will drive regional trade and i...
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PM Modi Offers Linking UPI with Payment Systems of BIMSTEC Nations

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  In a significant move aimed at enhancing regional economic integration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed linking India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the payment systems of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) nations. The offer was made during a recent BIMSTEC summit, where digital cooperation was highlighted as a key area of focus. PM Modi emphasized the potential of digital public infrastructure like UPI to transform financial inclusion and boost cross-border trade. “India is ready to share its experience and technology to help build seamless and secure digital payment ecosystems across the BIMSTEC region,” he said. The proposal is expected to foster greater financial connectivity among member states—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—enhancing ease of business, tourism, and remittances. Several countries have already expressed interest in integrating with UPI, which has seen ...
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UPI Transactions Touch a Record High of ₹24.77 Lakh Crore in March 2025

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  India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has achieved a new milestone, processing transactions worth a record ₹24.77 lakh crore in March 2025. This marks a significant jump in digital payments, reinforcing UPI's dominance in the country’s financial ecosystem. According to the latest data, the average daily transactions during March stood at ₹79,903 crore, highlighting the growing adoption of cashless payments. The surge can be attributed to increased merchant transactions, peer-to-peer transfers, and the continued push for financial digitization. Experts believe that the expansion of UPI services, including credit on UPI and international transactions, has played a key role in this remarkable growth. With ongoing innovations and greater user trust, UPI is expected to set new records in the coming months.
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India's Largest Solar Cell Manufacturing Gigafactory Inaugurated in Chikhali, Gujarat

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  India has taken a significant leap in solar energy production with the inauguration of the country’s largest solar cell manufacturing gigafactory in Chikhali, Gujarat. Spread across 150 acres, with a built-up area of 101 acres, this state-of-the-art facility is set to boost India's renewable energy sector and reduce dependency on imported solar components. The gigafactory is expected to play a crucial role in achieving India's ambitious renewable energy targets by increasing domestic solar cell production capacity. With cutting-edge technology and large-scale production capabilities, the facility aims to drive cost efficiency and innovation in the industry. This development aligns with India's commitment to clean energy and self-reliance, further strengthening its position as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions. The new plant will also generate employment opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of the region.
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BSNL Begins Testing 5G Infrastructure in Key Cities

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  Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has officially started testing its 5G infrastructure, marking a significant step toward rolling out next-generation connectivity in India. The initial test sites are operational in Jaipur, Lucknow, Chandigarh, and Bhopal, where BSNL has deployed 5G towers to assess network performance and reliability. This move aligns with the government’s push for indigenous 5G deployment, leveraging BSNL’s existing infrastructure to provide high-speed internet and improved connectivity. The trials will evaluate network speed, latency, and coverage before a broader rollout. BSNL's 5G expansion is expected to enhance digital services, boost industry growth, and bridge connectivity gaps, particularly in underserved regions. If successful, this initiative could position BSNL as a competitive player in India’s rapidly evolving telecom landscape.
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India Plans World-Class Cruise Terminals in Mumbai, Goa, and Chennai

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  India is set to enhance its cruise tourism infrastructure by developing world-class cruise terminals in Mumbai, Goa, and Chennai. Inspired by Singapore’s state-of-the-art cruise terminals, these new facilities aim to boost international and domestic cruise travel, positioning India as a key player in global maritime tourism. The initiative is part of India's broader vision to promote coastal tourism and improve connectivity through luxury cruise services. The new terminals will feature modern amenities, seamless passenger handling, and enhanced security, catering to the growing demand for high-end cruise experiences. By adopting global best practices, India seeks to attract major international cruise lines, increase tourist footfall, and generate economic opportunities in coastal regions. This move is expected to create jobs, boost local businesses, and strengthen India's presence in the global cruise tourism market.
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