eznews.in
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced the disbursement of Rs 7,000 to 47 lakh farmers under the 'Annadatha Sukhibhava' scheme, part of a broader initiative promising Rs 20,000 annually to eligible farmers. The scheme, which combines state and central funds, aims to alleviate financial burdens on farmers and is a key component of Naidu's 'Super Six' election promises ahead of the 2024 polls. During the launch in Prakasam district, Naidu emphasized the importance of supporting farmers, stating, "all the struggles are limited to him." He also outlined plans for river interlinking and the completion of the Polavaram Project by 2027. Addressing concerns over US tariffs impacting aquaculture, Naidu pledged to develop a strategy to assist affected farmers. He criticized opposition leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for alleged misconduct towards women and reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Andhra Pradesh into a prosperous state. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 5 pmeznews.inUnion Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has been actively engaging with key industry leaders in Mumbai over three days to discuss strategies for enhancing India's export capabilities amid the backdrop of a 25% tariff imposed by the US on Indian goods. In a series of social media posts, Goyal highlighted his discussions with representatives from the textiles, engineering goods, and steel sectors, focusing on innovative approaches to boost global competitiveness and sustainability. He emphasized the importance of value-added exports, particularly in agriculture, food processing, and seafood, stating that these sectors are vital for India's food security. Goyal also addressed the need for advanced technology adoption and reducing logistics costs to strengthen the steel industry and enhance the competitiveness of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in global value chains. His efforts aim to position India as a formidable player in the global market. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 9 pmeznews.inThe Indian government is set to implement a barrier-less toll collection system, introducing an enforcement mechanism that includes 'E-Notices' for violators who evade toll payments. This Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system will utilize RFID scanners and AI-enabled Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to facilitate real-time toll deductions, aiming to reduce congestion and travel time. The Centre has integrated the system with the national vehicle registry, VAHAN, enhancing enforcement capabilities and ensuring that only verified vehicles receive FASTags. A new Annual FASTag Pass, effective August 15, 2025, will allow non-commercial vehicles up to 200 toll-free crossings for ₹3,000, simplifying payments for regular users. Additionally, recent amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules link toll compliance to essential vehicle services, marking a significant shift in vehicle regulation. The Choryasi Toll Plaza in Gujarat will serve as the first pilot site for this initiative, with further evaluations planned at strategic locations. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 7 pmeznews.inThe Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is advancing plans to construct multiple tunnels and high-altitude passes in eastern Ladakh to enhance all-weather road connectivity, a senior officer announced on Saturday. Col. Deepak Palande, director of Project Himank, highlighted that the initiative aims to improve access to strategic areas near the Line of Actual Control with China, with the planning phase nearing completion. The project includes the construction of tunnels along key passes such as Baralacha and Tanglang, with timelines ranging from five to seven years depending on geological factors. Currently, eight of the world's highest motorable passes are under Project Himank, including Umling La, the highest at 19,024 feet, soon to be surpassed by Mig La at 19,400 feet. The BRO is leveraging new technologies, including pre-cast methods, to optimize construction within the limited working season of six months. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 7 pmeznews.inThe global synthetic rubber market is set for significant growth by 2025, driven by demand from the automotive, industrial, and sustainability sectors. The automotive industry, particularly tyre production, is expected to account for over 69% of synthetic rubber consumption, with a notable shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) necessitating advanced materials like bio-based solution styrene-butadiene rubber (SSBR) for improved efficiency. Concurrently, companies are investing in bio-based alternatives to reduce fossil fuel dependency, with manufacturers like Continental aiming for 65% renewable content in their tyres. Beyond automotive applications, synthetic rubber is increasingly utilized in industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, and electronics, thanks to its durability and customizable properties. The Asia-Pacific region leads global consumption, fueled by rapid EV and automotive production, particularly in China and India. Overall, the market is expected to thrive amid technological advancements and a growing emphasis on sustainability, despite facing price and regulatory challenges. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 5 pmeznews.inThe performance of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies in Q1 FY26 faced significant challenges due to erratic weather and unseasonal rains, particularly impacting summer-centric categories. Analysts had anticipated this disruption, with companies like Dabur India reporting a 4.4% decline in glucose sales, while Tata Consumer Products noted that early monsoon conditions adversely affected its Ready-to-Drink (RTD) segment, despite achieving positive volume growth overall. Hindustan Unilever also acknowledged that its ice cream sales were hindered by the weather, although it experienced high-single-digit volume growth. Analysts from Nomura warned of potential year-on-year declines in sales for categories such as juices, soft drinks, and ice creams. Nevertheless, FMCG firms reported a gradual recovery in urban demand, with improved market sentiment and expectations for stable consumption in FY26, suggesting resilience amid adverse conditions. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 5 pmeznews.inAt the inaugural session of the International Kolkata Foodtech 2025, industry leaders highlighted the significant growth potential of the food sector in eastern India, despite existing challenges. While the region excels in the bakery segment, it notably lags in ice cream production, accounting for only 15% of the country's total consumption, compared to 35% in the west and 25% in both the north and south. Dream Bake CEO Nemisha Ghia emphasized the need for sustainable packaging and urged stakeholders to position the region as a leader in the food industry. Bhikharam Chandmal Director Ashish Agarwal pointed out that despite being a major consumer of sweets and namkeen, eastern India has yet to establish itself as a manufacturing hub. The B2B exhibition, taking place at the Biswa Bangla Milan Mela Complex, will run until August 4, showcasing opportunities for growth in the sector. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 5 pmeznews.inIn a groundbreaking initiative, Bengaluru's Namma Metro successfully facilitated the transportation of a donated human liver for transplant on August 1, marking a first for the metro system. The liver was securely transferred from Vydehi Hospital to Whitefield Metro Station at 8.38 PM, accompanied by a medical team of eight, including a doctor. Upon arrival, the team was met by Metro personnel who coordinated the necessary security checks. The liver was then transported on a train that departed at 8.42 PM and arrived at Rajarajeshwarinagar Metro Station by 9.48 PM, where another medical team ensured a smooth transfer to a waiting ambulance for delivery to Sparsh Hospital. This operation adhered to guidelines set by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and follows a similar successful organ transport by Hyderabad Metro earlier this year, showcasing innovative solutions in organ transportation across India. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 3 pmeznews.inThe Election Commission (EC) announced on Saturday a significant increase in the annual remuneration for booth-level officers (BLOs), who are essential in preparing electoral rolls. Their pay has doubled from ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 per annum, reflecting the vital role they play in updating voters' lists at the grassroots level. Typically comprised of teachers and state government employees, BLOs manage voter registration within booths that will not exceed 1,200 voters. Additionally, the EC has introduced a special incentive of ₹6,000 for BLOs involved in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters' list, currently underway in Bihar. The remuneration for BLO supervisors has also been raised from ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 annually, while electoral registration officers (EROs) and assistant EROs (AEROs) will receive honorariums of ₹30,000 and ₹25,000, respectively. The EC emphasized that accurate electoral rolls are fundamental to democracy. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 4 pmeznews.inBritish families awaiting the identification of remains from the Air India 171 crash, which claimed 241 lives including 52 British nationals, are anticipating DNA match confirmations following high-level discussions between India and the UK. Legal representatives from Keystone Law, assisting the families, have urged for expedited processes amid concerns over mislabelled remains, with two out of twelve caskets repatriated to the UK found to be incorrectly identified. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has asserted that all remains were handled with professionalism. A preliminary report indicated that fuel supply to both engines was cut off shortly after takeoff, leading to the crash. Keystone Law has called for transparency regarding the investigation and potential compensation from Tata Group, which is reportedly considering a fund to support affected families. The UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch is also reviewing the findings of the crash investigation. 
Published: Aug 02 2025, 3 pm
For the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
