India Observers

  Adani-run Mundra Port has handled its first export shipment of four high-tech locomotives manufactured by Wabtec India. The shipment is headed to Guinea, marking a milestone in India’s growing role as a global hub for advanced rail equipment manufacturing. Wabtec, a leading US-based rail technology firm, has been producing modern locomotives in India to serve both domestic and international markets. The successful dispatch from Mundra demonstrates the country’s increasing contribution to global supply chains and highlights Mundra Port’s capacity to handle large-scale, specialized cargo. This development also strengthens India’s reputation in the heavy engineering and transport manufacturing sector, aligning with the government’s vision to boost exports under "Make in India."

  The Karnataka government has announced plans to establish a new steel plant in Koppal district with an investment of ₹2,345 crore . The project aims to boost industrial growth in the region, generate local employment, and strengthen the state’s position in the steel sector. The upcoming facility is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while supporting ancillary industries such as logistics, fabrication, and engineering. Authorities said the project aligns with Karnataka’s broader vision of promoting industrial corridors and attracting large-scale investments to North Karnataka. Once operational, the Koppal steel plant will significantly contribute to the state’s economy and cater to both domestic and export markets.

  The Maharashtra government has announced plans to establish a new Information Technology (IT) park in Purandar, located close to the upcoming Pune International Airport. The project is aimed at boosting Pune’s position as a major technology hub while creating employment opportunities for thousands of skilled professionals. Officials highlighted that Purandar’s proximity to the new airport and strong connectivity to Pune city make it an ideal destination for IT and allied industries. The upcoming park is expected to attract both domestic and global companies, further strengthening the state’s digital economy. The initiative aligns with Maharashtra’s broader push to expand its technology infrastructure beyond traditional IT hubs like Hinjewadi and Kharadi, diversifying growth across the Pune region.

  Apple’s biggest iPhone production facility in India, operated by Foxconn, has become fully operational and is rolling out the latest iPhone 17. The plant marks a major milestone in Apple’s strategy to expand manufacturing outside China and strengthen its presence in India. Located in Tamil Nadu, the facility is expected to play a key role in meeting both domestic demand and global exports. With the iPhone 17 now in production, India is set to emerge as a central hub in Apple’s global supply chain. The move also aligns with the Indian government’s push for large-scale electronics manufacturing under its “Make in India” initiative, creating thousands of jobs while boosting the country’s high-tech ecosystem.

  Indian Railways is set to launch the much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper Express between Delhi and Patna ahead of Diwali. Designed to offer a faster and more comfortable overnight journey, the train will feature modern sleeper coaches with advanced amenities. This marks the first time the Vande Bharat line will expand into long-distance sleeper services, aimed at easing festive travel rush on one of the busiest routes in the country. The move is expected to provide passengers with a premium alternative to existing trains, combining speed, convenience, and comfort during the festive season.

  The Karnataka government has approved the establishment of a 6-acre Quantum City at Hesaraghatta, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. The project is envisioned as a hub for advanced research, innovation, and startups in quantum technologies — including computing, communication, and materials science. Officials say the initiative will strengthen Bengaluru’s position as India’s leading science and technology capital while fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and global research institutions. The Quantum City is expected to attract significant investment, generate skilled jobs, and place Karnataka at the forefront of next-generation technologies.

  India has launched its first port-based green hydrogen pilot project at VO Chidambaranar Port, Tamil Nadu. The project marks a significant step in the nation’s push toward clean energy and maritime decarbonization. The initiative, part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, aims to produce, store, and use green hydrogen for port operations and allied activities. It is expected to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and support India’s target of becoming a global hub for green hydrogen production. Officials highlighted that the pilot project will serve as a model for other Indian ports, driving sustainable practices and boosting the nation’s energy transition.

  Japanese major Fujifilm Electronic has announced plans to establish a new manufacturing facility in Gujarat. The move underscores India’s growing importance as a global manufacturing hub, particularly in electronics and high-tech industries. The proposed factory will not only strengthen Fujifilm’s presence in India but also boost local job creation and technology transfer. Gujarat, known for its robust industrial ecosystem and investor-friendly policies, has become a preferred destination for global players seeking to expand operations in Asia. This investment is expected to further enhance India’s position in the global supply chain while supporting the government’s “Make in India” initiative.

  Gujarat has emerged as a significant contributor to India’s tender coconut production, generating more than 260.9 million units annually . Over the past decade, the state has expanded its cultivation area by 5,746 hectares , showcasing a strong push towards horticultural growth. The steady rise in cultivation not only meets increasing domestic demand but also strengthens opportunities for value-added products such as coconut water, oil, and coir-based goods. With sustained efforts, Gujarat is positioning itself as a leading state in the coconut economy, supporting farmers and boosting rural livelihoods.

  Ashok Leyland, a leading Indian commercial vehicle manufacturer, has announced plans to invest ₹5,000 crore to establish battery manufacturing facilities in India. The company has entered into a strategic partnership with China Aviation Lithium Battery (CALB), one of the world’s top battery producers. The collaboration aims to develop advanced battery solutions to support India’s growing electric mobility sector, especially in commercial vehicles and buses. The investment will focus on setting up large-scale production, ensuring cost efficiency, and boosting India’s push for clean energy adoption. By joining forces with CALB, Ashok Leyland seeks to combine global battery expertise with local manufacturing capabilities, strengthening India’s position in the global EV ecosystem.

  India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are set to deepen their economic partnership with a bold vision of achieving $100 billion in trade by 2030. This ambitious target focuses on expanding beyond oil and precious metals, emphasizing growth in non-traditional sectors such as pharmaceuticals, Ayurveda, healthcare innovation, and advanced manufacturing. A key driver of this partnership is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which seeks to streamline trade processes, reduce barriers, and encourage cross-sectoral collaboration. The initiative highlights the pharmaceutical sector’s role in boosting bilateral trade, with efforts directed at faster drug approvals and research-driven cooperation. India’s heritage in Ayurveda is also emerging as a unique opportunity, catering to the UAE’s rising demand for health and wellness solutions. By leveraging their respective strengths, both nations are positioning themselves for sustainable growth, innovation, and investmen...

  . Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reaffirmed India’s close ties with Russia, telling President Vladimir Putin that the two nations “have always walked shoulder to shoulder even in the most difficult situations.” The remark came after Putin addressed Modi as his “dear friend” and invited him for a ride in his armoured Aurus limousine during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China. Modi, Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping were seen walking together, exchanging smiles and words through translators. Later, Modi posted a picture on X of himself with Putin inside the Russian leader’s official limousine. At their bilateral meeting, Putin hailed India-Russia ties as “special, friendly and trusting,” describing them as a foundation for future cooperation. Modi highlighted the importance of collaboration in sectors such as trade, fertilisers, space, security, and culture, adding that the partnership is vital for “regional and global stability.” The ...