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Stalin to Modi: Metro project rejection fuels resentment

Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed his disappointment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Centre's rejection of Metro Rail project proposals for Coimbatore and Madurai, which he said has sparked public resentment. In a letter, Stalin emphasized the necessity of high-capacity public transport in Tamil Nadu, the country's most urbanized state, and highlighted that the population of both cities exceeds the 2 million threshold cited by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) as a reason for rejection. He argued that the selective application of this criterion suggests discrimination against Tamil Nadu, especially when similar projects have been approved in other states. Stalin urged Modi to reconsider the decision and offered to meet in New Delhi to discuss the matter further, asserting that the Comprehensive Mobility Plans for both cities justify the need for Metro Rail corridors. He also assured that land acquisition would not hinder the projects. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 5 pm

Air India and Air Canada renew codeshare partnership

Air India has announced the reinstatement of its codeshare partnership with Air Canada, which had been suspended for over five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This renewed agreement allows Air India to offer its passengers access to six additional destinations in Canada, including Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montréal, and Halifax, alongside its existing routes from Vancouver and London Heathrow. Under the partnership, Air India will place its 'AI' designator code on Air Canada-operated flights, facilitating seamless travel on a single ticket. In return, Air Canada customers will gain improved connectivity to various Indian cities such as Amritsar, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kochi via Delhi. This marks Air India's only codeshare partnership with a North American airline, as the carrier currently maintains 23 codeshare and 96 interline partnerships following the pandemic-related suspensions. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 5 pm

Namo Bharat trains now for birthdays and pre-wedding shoots

The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has launched its Namo Bharat trains and stations for private events, including birthdays and pre-wedding shoots, as part of a new initiative announced on Saturday. Individuals and event organisers can book either static or running Namo Bharat coaches, with a mock-up coach available at the Duhai Depot for static shoots. Bookings start at Rs 5,000 per hour, allowing 30 minutes for setup and takedown. The NCRTC aims to provide a unique experience with its modern, internationally designed coaches, while ensuring that celebrations occur between 6 am and 11 pm without disrupting train operations. All events will be supervised by NCRTC staff for safety. Additionally, a detailed hiring policy for film shoots and other visual projects at Namo Bharat locations has been established, offering competitive rates to attract residents along the Delhi-Meerut corridor. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 4 pm

US Tariffs Boost Other Countries' Share in India's Exports

India's merchandise exports are experiencing a shift, with the share of the US declining since July 2025, according to a report from SBI's Economic Research Department. While exports to the US grew by 13% to $45 billion in the first half of FY26, its share of total exports fell to 15% from 19.8% in FY25. In contrast, countries like the UAE, China, and Hong Kong have increased their shares in India's export basket, indicating a diversification strategy. The report highlights that the US's steep 50% import tariff on Indian goods has particularly affected labour-intensive sectors such as textiles and seafood. To bolster exporters, the Indian government has approved ₹45,060 crore in support measures, including credit guarantees, aimed at enhancing competitiveness and facilitating access to new markets. The ongoing trade discussions with the US reflect India's intent to negotiate better tariff conditions while strengthening its export capabilities. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 4 pm

$510M in Russian-refined petroleum imported by Australia, US, UK, EU

In October 2025, Australia, the European Union (EU), the UK, and the US collectively imported over $1 billion in petroleum products from Indian and Turkish refiners, with more than half derived from Russian crude oil, according to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). The total imports amounted to $1.12 billion, with approximately $510 million processed from Russian crude. Notably, while the EU and UK saw significant month-on-month reductions in imports—9% and 73% respectively—Australia's imports surged by 140% to €93 million, and US imports rose by 17% to €126.6 million. The US and Australia have yet to impose bans on Russian oil products. Meanwhile, India's imports of Russian crude increased by 11% month-on-month, making it the second-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels. However, a decline in purchases is anticipated from December 2025 due to impending US sanctions on major Russian oil companies. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 3 pm

Insurance Bill for Full FDI Scheduled for Winter Session

The Indian government has introduced the Insurance Bill for the winter session, aiming to raise the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%. This move, part of the FY26 Budget announcement, seeks to enhance growth, deepen market penetration, and improve the ease of doing business. The bill proposes amendments to key legislation, including the Insurance Act of 1928 and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act of 1999, to facilitate composite licenses for insurers and lower entry capital requirements for underserved segments. The Financial Services Department highlighted that removing the FDI cap could unlock the sector's potential, projected to grow at 7.1% annually over the next five years. By aligning with global best practices, the government aims to attract stable foreign investment, foster competition, and ultimately improve insurance accessibility and affordability across India. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 2 pm

India's shrimp exports grow by entering non-US markets

India's shrimp exports have shown robust growth in the first five months of the 2025-26 fiscal year, with total export value rising 18% year-on-year to $2.43 billion, driven by an 11% increase in shipment volumes to 3.48 lakh metric tonnes, according to CareEdge Ratings. While exports to the US, traditionally a key market, grew only 5% due to heightened tariffs and a significant drop in August, non-US markets surged by 30%, accounting for 57% of total exports. Key markets such as China, Vietnam, and Belgium contributed significantly to this growth. However, the report warns of a potential slowdown in the latter half of the fiscal year due to ongoing tariff pressures and a decline in fresh orders. Despite these challenges, Indian exporters are diversifying their markets and adapting to maintain competitiveness against rivals like Ecuador and Indonesia. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 1 pm

India's October merchandise exports drop 11.8%: Crisil

India's merchandise exports fell by 11.8% year-on-year to $34.38 billion in October 2025, according to a report by Crisil. This decline follows a significant increase in US tariffs, which rose by 50% on August 27, impacting exports for the second consecutive month. The downturn was widespread, affecting key sectors such as petroleum products, gems and jewellery, and core exports, which dropped by 10.4% and 10.2% respectively. Exports to the US decreased by 8.6% to $6.3 billion, although this was an improvement from a sharper decline in September. Conversely, exports to non-US markets fell by 12.5%. However, the recent US announcement to reduce tariffs on 254 food items may benefit agricultural exports like tea and spices. Despite these challenges, India's current account deficit is expected to remain manageable, bolstered by strong services trade and remittances, while imports held steady at $76.06 billion. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 12 pm

Transforming agri-waste: India's farmers driving green economy

India faces a significant challenge with its agricultural waste, generating over 500 million tonnes annually from crops like rice, sugarcane, and wheat, much of which is burned, exacerbating air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. However, this waste presents a unique opportunity for a greener economy. By reimagining crop residues as valuable raw materials, India can drive sustainable manufacturing, create rural jobs, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Innovations in material science are transforming these by-products into biodegradable packaging and other eco-friendly products. Empowering farmers through technology and fair pricing can enhance their income while promoting sustainable practices. Collaboration among policymakers, industries, and consumers is essential to foster a circular economy where agricultural waste becomes a resource. If harnessed effectively, India's agricultural base could lead the way in global sustainability efforts, demonstrating that economic growth and environmental stewardship can coexist harmoniously. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 11 am

"Low Pressure System Approaches Sri Lanka, South Tamil Nadu"

Thunderstorms and heavy rain are forecasted across a corridor stretching from the Malacca Strait to Sri Lanka and southern Tamil Nadu, as a low-pressure area is expected to form over the South Andaman Sea. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is monitoring an upper air cyclonic circulation that has persisted in the Strait of Malacca, which is anticipated to evolve into a low-pressure system and move west-northwest into the southeast Bay of Bengal, potentially intensifying into a depression by Monday. Global models suggest this system could develop into a cyclone by the end of next week, with a possible landfall along the Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh coast. Meanwhile, the Thai Meteorological Department reports a strong northeast monsoon affecting the region, with heavy rainfall expected in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and moderate rain forecasted for Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the coming days. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also anticipated across several areas. sources

Published:
Nov 22 2025, 11 am

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