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Showing posts from July, 2025

India, Peru Eye FTA and Mineral Cooperation

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  India and Peru are expected to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of 2025 or early 2026, paving the way for stronger economic and strategic ties between the two nations. The agreement, currently under negotiation, aims to enhance trade flows and reduce tariffs across key sectors. As part of the growing partnership, Peru has invited Indian companies to invest in its mining sector, particularly in critical minerals such as lithium and copper. The Latin American nation is encouraging joint venture exploration and technological collaborations to facilitate sustainable mineral sourcing and boost bilateral trade in high-demand resources essential for energy transition and digital technologies.

Odisha Plans ‘New Cuttack’ City Modelled on GIFT City

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  The Odisha government has announced plans to develop a modern township named "New Cuttack," inspired by Gujarat’s GIFT City. This ambitious project will come up on the outskirts of the existing Cuttack city and aims to serve as a hub for financial, technological, and service-based industries. Envisioned as a smart and sustainable urban centre, New Cuttack will integrate modern infrastructure, global investment zones, and high-quality urban amenities. The initiative is expected to generate employment, attract private investment, and boost Odisha’s economic profile. Master planning for the city is currently underway, with consultations from national and international experts. The move aligns with the state’s broader push toward urban transformation and economic diversification.

AP Govt Allots Land to LuLu Group for Mega Malls in Vijayawada, Vizag

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  The Andhra Pradesh government has officially allotted land to the UAE-based LuLu Group for the development of large-scale shopping malls in Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. This marks a significant step in boosting the state's retail and infrastructure landscape. The LuLu Group, known for its global retail presence and mall operations, plans to invest substantially in the two cities to create world-class shopping, entertainment, and hospitality hubs. The move is expected to generate thousands of local jobs and attract more commercial investments to Andhra Pradesh. The government sees this partnership as a key step in transforming the urban economy and enhancing lifestyle opportunities for residents and tourists alike.

India’s First AI-Powered Anganwadi Launched in Nagpur by Maharashtra CM

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  In a pioneering step towards transforming early childhood care, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde launched India’s first AI-powered Anganwadi centre in Nagpur. This innovative model integrates artificial intelligence and smart technology to improve nutrition tracking, learning outcomes, and overall service delivery for children and mothers. The upgraded Anganwadi features digital attendance systems, health monitoring tools, AI-driven educational modules, and real-time data sharing with government departments. Officials say this tech-enabled approach will enhance transparency, reduce manual workload for workers, and ensure better developmental tracking for children.

AP Clears ₹21,616 Crore Metro Project for Vijayawada, Vizag

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  The Andhra Pradesh government has approved metro rail project tenders worth ₹21,616 crore, marking a major step toward enhancing urban transportation in the state. Of the total outlay, ₹10,118 crore has been allocated for the Vijayawada metro project, while ₹11,498 crore is earmarked for the Vizag (Visakhapatnam) metro. These projects are set to significantly reduce traffic congestion, improve connectivity, and promote sustainable urban mobility. The move also aligns with the state's vision to modernize infrastructure and boost economic development through efficient public transport systems.

India, Maldives Sign ₹4,850 Cr Credit Deal

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  India and the Maldives have signed a significant agreement providing a ₹4,850 crore Line of Credit (LoC) to support development projects in the island nation. The agreement was finalized during talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in Malé. The leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation across sectors. India also agreed to amend earlier credit terms, easing the Maldives’ annual debt repayment obligations. Key areas of cooperation include infrastructure, health, climate change, digital transformation, and aquaculture. New Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were inked on fisheries, weather services, and digital public infrastructure. The two sides also agreed to advance discussions on a potential Free Trade Agreement (FTA), underscoring mutual goals for regional peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean.

India, UK Sign Landmark Free Trade Pact to Boost £25.5 Billion Trade Surge

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  In a historic move, India and the United Kingdom signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) today, formalised in London in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal also joined the signing ceremony. The deal, finalised on May 6, 2025, is projected to grow annual bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, add £4.8 billion to the UK economy, and raise wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long term. The FTA sets an ambitious goal of doubling trade to $120 billion by 2030, with an additional $40 billion expansion by 2040. Key provisions include India removing import taxes on leather, textiles, and footwear, while the UK slashes tariffs on whisky, gin, lamb, cosmetics, and farm goods. India will now permit UK car imports at just 10% duty, down from over 100%, raising domestic industry concerns. UK firms gain access to India’s telecom, insurance, and banking sectors, though India secured only limited visa concessions. Add...

Denso to Invest ₹250 Crore in New EV Component Plant in Uttar Pradesh

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  Japanese automotive giant Denso Corporation is set to invest ₹250 crore to establish a new electric vehicle (EV) component manufacturing facility in Uttar Pradesh. The announcement marks a significant boost to India’s EV ecosystem and aligns with the country’s growing focus on clean mobility and local manufacturing. The new plant will be located in Greater Noida and will focus on producing advanced components critical for EVs, such as power control units, inverters, and thermal management systems. Denso’s decision underscores India’s strategic importance as an emerging hub for EV production and technology. This investment is expected to generate employment opportunities and strengthen the Make in India initiative by promoting local sourcing and innovation in the green mobility sector. State officials welcomed the move, calling it a testament to Uttar Pradesh’s improved industrial environment and infrastructure readiness. The plant is expected to begin operations in 2026.

PayPal Partners with NPCI to Launch Global UPI-Enabled Payments Platform

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  In a significant step towards globalizing India's digital payment infrastructure, PayPal has partnered with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to launch a Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-enabled global payments platform. This collaboration aims to allow Indian users and international merchants to leverage the speed, convenience, and security of UPI for cross-border transactions. The integration will enable seamless real-time payments across countries, providing Indian users with more options for global e-commerce and digital transactions. It also marks a milestone in UPI's global expansion and aligns with India’s push to internationalize its indigenous payment systems. This move is expected to enhance financial inclusion, simplify international transactions for small businesses and freelancers, and further solidify India's role as a leader in fintech innovation.

India Ranks 10th Globally in AI Private Investment: UN Report

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  India has secured the 10th position globally in terms of private investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to a recent United Nations report. The country attracted $1.4 billion in private AI investments in 2023, marking a significant milestone in its technological advancement and innovation landscape. The UN’s "Technology and Innovation Report 2024" highlights India’s growing role as a global player in the AI ecosystem. With AI applications spanning sectors like healthcare, agriculture, finance, and governance, India’s vibrant startup ecosystem and policy push toward digital transformation have been key enablers. The report also emphasizes the need for inclusive and responsible AI development to ensure that technological gains contribute to equitable growth.

India-France Partnership to Build Drones for Defence and Global Exports

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  India and France have deepened their strategic ties by agreeing to jointly manufacture drones for defence use and international markets. This collaboration, announced during high-level talks between the two nations, is aimed at boosting indigenous capabilities and creating a strong export-oriented drone ecosystem. The agreement includes co-development and co-production of high-performance drones, leveraging India's manufacturing strength and France's advanced defence technology. The initiative will not only serve the defence forces of both countries but also open avenues for exporting to allied nations. This move aligns with India's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) campaigns while reinforcing the Indo-French defence alliance as a global force in unmanned aerial systems.

Andhra Pradesh to Develop Green Hydrogen Valley

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  Andhra Pradesh has unveiled plans to establish a Green Hydrogen Valley, aiming to position itself as a leader in clean energy innovation. The initiative aligns with India’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and transition to sustainable fuels. The Green Hydrogen Valley will promote large-scale production, storage, and utilization of green hydrogen across key sectors including transportation, industry, and power. Backed by public-private partnerships, the project will also foster R&D and infrastructure development. With its vast renewable energy potential—especially in solar and wind—Andhra Pradesh seeks to attract major investments and create a new ecosystem that supports both environmental goals and economic growth.

INS Nistar Commissioned: Indian Navy’s First Indigenous Diving Support Vessel

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  In a major boost to India’s underwater capabilities, the Indian Navy commissioned its first indigenous Diving Support Vessel (DSV), INS Nistar , at Visakhapatnam today. Built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, the vessel marks a significant milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in defence under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. INS Nistar is designed to support submarine rescue operations, deep-sea diving, and underwater repairs. Equipped with state-of-the-art saturation diving systems, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and advanced sonar technology, the vessel enhances the Navy’s ability to undertake complex underwater missions. The induction of INS Nistar strengthens India's maritime readiness and highlights the growing prowess of its indigenous shipbuilding industry.

Rail Line Doubling Survey Approved Between Jammu and Katra

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  Indian Railways has approved a survey for the doubling of the railway line between Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. The move aims to enhance rail capacity, reduce travel time, and improve connectivity to one of India’s most visited pilgrimage sites. This crucial infrastructure step is expected to decongest the existing route, which currently handles a high volume of passengers, especially during festival seasons. The survey will assess feasibility, environmental impact, and alignment options to support future development. Once completed, the project will significantly boost tourism, facilitate smoother travel, and strengthen the region's overall rail infrastructure.

Hitachi Unveils India’s First 400 kV Green Transformer

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  Hitachi Energy has launched India’s first 400 kV synthetic ester fluid-filled transformer for Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. (PGCIL). This cutting-edge transformer marks a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in high-voltage infrastructure. Unlike traditional mineral oil, synthetic ester is biodegradable and offers a higher fire safety rating, reducing environmental and operational risks. This innovation aligns with India’s green energy goals and supports Power Grid's mission to build a cleaner, safer, and more efficient power transmission network. With this launch, Hitachi Energy reinforces its commitment to pioneering eco-friendly technologies in the country’s power sector.

Tesla Opens First India Showroom in Mumbai's BKC

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  Tesla has officially entered the Indian automobile market with the launch of its first showroom at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai. This marks a significant milestone for the U.S.-based electric vehicle giant as it sets its sights on the rapidly growing Indian EV segment. India, now the world’s third-largest automobile market, offers immense potential for Tesla, which will compete with luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, along with homegrown EV manufacturers such as Tata Motors and Mahindra. The BKC showroom is expected to serve as a flagship space for showcasing Tesla’s models and technology, signaling a bold start to its India journey.

India’s First Offshore Airport Coming Up Near Vadhavan Port

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  Maharashtra is set to make aviation history with the construction of India’s first offshore airport near the upcoming Vadhavan Port in Palghar district. This will be Mumbai’s third airport, aimed at easing congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and the under-construction Navi Mumbai airport. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that work on the ambitious project is scheduled to begin in 2026. The new airport is expected to complement the strategic maritime infrastructure being developed at Vadhavan, boosting both regional connectivity and economic activity along the Konkan coast.

Foxconn Begins Importing iPhone 17 Parts to India

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  Foxconn has initiated the import of key components from China to India in preparation for assembling Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17. This move signals Apple’s continued push to diversify its manufacturing footprint and strengthen its production capabilities in India.  The early component shipments highlight Apple's strategy to ramp up local assembly and reduce dependence on China, aligning with broader supply chain realignments amid geopolitical and economic shifts. The iPhone 17 is expected to be launched in 2026, with India playing a more prominent role in its manufacturing journey.

India, Namibia Sign MoU to Launch UPI Services

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 India and Namibia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the southern African nation. The agreement marks a key step in expanding India’s digital payment infrastructure globally. UPI, developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), enables real-time money transfers through mobile platforms.  With this partnership, Namibia aims to enhance its digital financial ecosystem, improve cross-border transactions, and boost financial inclusion. This collaboration highlights India’s growing role in exporting fintech innovations to developing economies.

Karnataka's First Sea Ambulance to Be Ready by Next Fishing Season

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  Karnataka is all set to launch its first-ever sea ambulance to enhance maritime emergency response and coastal healthcare. Expected to be operational by the next fishing season, the sea ambulance will serve the fishing communities and coastal population along the Arabian Sea. Equipped with modern medical facilities, it will enable swift rescue and treatment during emergencies at sea. The initiative, led by the state fisheries department, aims to boost marine safety, especially during the monsoon and peak fishing periods when accidents are more frequent.

Bihar CM Announces 35% Job Quota for Women in Government Jobs Across All Departments

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In a landmark move to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a 35% reservation for women in all state government jobs. This quota will be applicable across every department, ensuring broader representation of women in administrative and public service roles. The Chief Minister emphasized that inclusive governance and equal opportunity are essential for Bihar’s development. This policy follows earlier reservations in police and education sectors and now expands to encompass all government services, including civil, technical, and clerical posts. The decision is being widely praised as a progressive step toward a more equitable workforce.

UPI Set to Go IoT-Ready for Smart, Automated Payments

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  The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is working on an Internet of Things (IoT)-ready version of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), paving the way for automated digital payments through smart appliances, connected vehicles, wearables, and other IoT devices. This next-gen UPI will enable frictionless machine-to-machine payments without human intervention, ideal for scenarios like paying tolls through smart cars or settling bills via connected refrigerators. The move aligns with India’s digital vision and is expected to revolutionize micro-payments across the smart tech ecosystem.

Andhra Pradesh to Roll Out AI-Powered Smart Mosquito Control

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  In a pioneering move to combat vector-borne diseases, the Andhra Pradesh government is set to launch an AI-enabled ‘smart mosquito control’ programme. The initiative will utilize artificial intelligence and data analytics to identify mosquito breeding hotspots, track mosquito density, and optimize fogging and spraying operations in real time. Aimed at curbing diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya, this smart surveillance system will be integrated with IoT devices and GIS mapping for precise intervention. Authorities believe this tech-driven approach will significantly enhance public health outcomes and set a benchmark for other states to follow.

Rain Museum Coming to Mawsynram

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  Mawsynram in Meghalaya — the wettest place on Earth — is set to host the world’s first Rain Museum. The museum will showcase the science, culture, and environmental impact of rainfall. It aims to celebrate the region’s unique weather patterns and raise awareness about climate change.  The initiative, supported by the state government and environmental experts, is expected to boost eco-tourism and provide educational opportunities for visitors from around the world. Construction is expected to begin later this year.

Amaravati Expansion: AP Govt to Acquire 45,000 Acres

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  The Andhra Pradesh government has announced plans to acquire 45,000 acres of land to expand the capital city of Amaravati. As part of this ambitious development push, 5,000 acres will be earmarked for a new international airport, 2,500 acres for smart industrial zones, and another 2,500 acres for a world-class sports city. Officials stated that this move aims to boost economic growth, attract investment, and enhance urban infrastructure in the capital region.

India Plans 3 New Strategic Oil Reserves

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  The Indian government is planning to set up three additional strategic petroleum reserves in Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. This move aims to enhance the country’s energy security by increasing its emergency crude oil storage capacity.  These new facilities will supplement the existing reserves in Visakhapatnam, Mangaluru, and Padur. The proposed sites are strategically selected to ensure wider geographic distribution and quicker access during global supply disruptions or price volatility.

Cab Fares Set to Rise During Peak Hours

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  Cab rides may soon become costlier during rush hours as the Union government has approved a new policy allowing cab aggregators like Ola, Uber, and Rapido to charge up to twice the base fare during peak times.  The revised guidelines aim to help platforms balance supply and demand more effectively. While companies argue the surge pricing model incentivizes drivers during high-demand periods, consumer rights groups have raised concerns over fare affordability and transparency. The final implementation will depend on state governments, who are expected to notify specific regulations soon.

UP First to Offer Subsidy for EV Charging Infra

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  Uttar Pradesh has become the first state in India to offer subsidies for upstream infrastructure in electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The initiative includes financial assistance for transformers, electricity lines, and other critical infrastructure needed to set up EV charging points. This move aims to boost the adoption of EVs by easing the burden on private and public players setting up charging stations. The policy is expected to accelerate EV infrastructure rollout across the state, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. UP's proactive approach aligns with India's broader goal of promoting clean mobility and reducing carbon emissions.