Trending Economy

Listen as Radio

E-bus adoption hindered by charging issues and delivery delays

The adoption of electric buses (e-buses) in India faces significant hurdles despite government efforts to promote their use, according to India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra). E-buses have higher upfront costs compared to diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, but they offer lower operating costs and a reduced environmental impact. Challenges such as inadequate charging infrastructure, delayed deliveries due to supply chain issues, and the exclusion of private operators from key government schemes hinder progress. Currently, India has less than one-third of the necessary EV charging stations compared to traditional fuel stations. Ind-Ra anticipates that e-buses will comprise 10-12% of new bus sales by FY27, up from 5% in FY25, driven by supportive policies and a growing order book. However, the ongoing issues with infrastructure and supply chains will continue to pose challenges in the near term, particularly as e-bus deployment remains concentrated in major cities. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 1 pm

Akasa Air anticipates quicker Boeing deliveries, plans international flights

Akasa Air, which commenced operations in August 2022, is set to expand its international flight offerings from Delhi, according to Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer Praveen Iyer. The airline currently operates a fleet of 30 aircraft, servicing 24 domestic and six international destinations, including Doha, Jeddah, and Phuket. Iyer announced plans for new routes to countries such as Singapore, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam, with 24 daily departures from the national capital. The airline has a firm order for 226 Boeing 737 MAX planes but has faced delivery delays. However, with Boeing ramping up production, Akasa Air anticipates quicker aircraft deliveries. Iyer also noted a positive trend in ancillary revenue and stated that the airline is maintaining a balance in load factors and airfares. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 2 pm

India becomes finished steel net exporter in October

India has reported a significant shift in its steel trade dynamics, becoming a net exporter of finished steel in October, with shipments reaching 0.6 million metric tons, marking a 44.7% increase from the previous year. Provisional government data revealed that the country, the world's second-largest crude steel producer, imported only 0.5 million metric tons during the same month, a sharp decline of 55.6% year-on-year. Finished steel production rose to 13.4 million metric tons, reflecting a 10% increase, while consumption also saw a rise of 4.7%, totaling 13.6 million metric tons. Additionally, India's crude steel production reached 14.02 million metric tons, up 9.4% from a year earlier. This data underscores India's growing self-sufficiency in steel production and its evolving role in the global steel market. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 2 pm

Coconut Oil Stays Strong Amid Increased Copra Arrivals

Coconut oil traders are cautiously optimistic as prices remain firm despite increased copra arrivals in markets following the Onam festival. Contrary to expectations of a price drop, wholesale coconut oil prices have reached ₹362 per kg in Kerala and ₹310 in Tamil Nadu, with copra prices at ₹222 and ₹217, respectively. Thalath Mahmood, president of the Cochin Oil Merchants Association, noted that many small mills are struggling to operate due to high copra costs, which have been exacerbated by stockpiling in Tamil Nadu. Official sources attribute the sustained prices to strong export demand and supply concerns from producing countries like Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Exports of coconuts from India have surged, with total exports reaching ₹2546 crore this year. The rising global demand for coconut products, driven by a shift towards plant-based ingredients, is expected to keep prices elevated, with supply constraints anticipated to persist into 2025. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 2 pm

AVPL and CSC e-Governance Partner to Support Rural Enterprises

AVPL International (AITMC Ventures Ltd) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd to enhance rural entrepreneurship through drone technology. The partnership will see AVPL provide its ‘Viraj UAS’ agricultural drones, spare parts, and training programs via CSC’s extensive network of over 500,000 village-level entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to facilitate the sale and distribution of drone solutions through CSC's digital platform, enabling rural entrepreneurs to access and profit from drone-based services. AVPL will also train rural youth in drone operations and data-driven agricultural practices, promoting modern farming techniques such as crop monitoring and yield optimization. Additionally, AVPL will offer after-sales support and maintenance for its products, while CSC will assist in onboarding these products and enhancing local outreach. Preet Sandhuu, Founder of AVPL, emphasized the goal of fostering self-reliance in rural India by creating a drone entrepreneur in every village. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 2 pm

PM Modi's Bhutan Visit to Discuss Energy and Development Projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Bhutan on November 11-12, 2025, to enhance cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and development projects, amid growing Chinese influence in the region. During his visit, Modi and Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk will inaugurate the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a joint initiative. Modi will also participate in celebrations for the 70th birthday of Bhutan's fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and meet Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. The visit coincides with the enshrinement of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha in Thimphu, which Modi praised as a symbol of the spiritual bond between India and Bhutan. India has pledged ₹10,000 crore to support Bhutan's 13th Five Year Plan (2024-2029), reinforcing its commitment to being Bhutan's primary development partner amid China's expanding presence. This marks Modi's fourth visit to Bhutan since 2014, reflecting India's "neighbourhood first" policy. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 1 pm

FAIFA criticizes WHO-FCTC COP11 for excluding tobacco farmers

The Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA) has condemned the exclusion of tobacco farmers from the upcoming 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, scheduled for November 17-22, 2025, in Geneva. The COP Secretariat denied FAIFA's request for participation, claiming farmers' interests do not align with FCTC objectives, a reasoning the federation deems discriminatory and illogical. FAIFA highlights that the FCTC's Article 17 and 18 mandates the protection of farmers' livelihoods. As the world's second-largest tobacco producer, India plays a significant role in the global tobacco market, with exports valued at ₹12,006 crore in 2023-24. FAIFA President P S Murali Babu criticized the decision as undemocratic, arguing it undermines the principles of inclusivity and transparency, and warned that such policy isolation threatens the livelihoods of over 36 million people reliant on the tobacco industry. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 1 pm

Hyderabad to host World Aquaculture India 2025 from Nov 11-13

The World Aquaculture Society (WAS) is set to host the World Aquaculture India 2025 conference and exposition at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre from November 11-13. This international event will attract participants from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, focusing on various facets of aquaculture. A key feature will be a parallel session by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), themed “Harnessing India’s Blue Revolution for Export Growth in Aquaculture.” As global demand for fisheries rises and natural stocks dwindle, the session aims to promote sustainable fishery resource utilization for export. Discussions will cover topics such as export-oriented aquaculture, stakeholder consultations, innovation, and the marine product export potential of various states. Experts will share insights and success stories to address challenges in the seafood export sector, with MPEDA seeking to formulate actionable recommendations for the industry's responsible growth. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 12 pm

India to permit 1.5 million tonnes of sugar exports

India is set to permit sugar exports of 1.5 million metric tonnes for the upcoming season, a significant increase from the 1 million tonnes allowed in the previous season. This decision, confirmed by government and trade sources to Reuters, is attributed to a projected reduction in the diversion of sugar for ethanol production, which is anticipated to result in a larger domestic surplus. The move aims to bolster India's position in the global sugar market, as the country navigates its agricultural policies amid fluctuating demand and production levels. The announcement, made on November 10, 2025, reflects India's ongoing efforts to balance domestic needs with export opportunities in the sugar sector. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 11 am

IT Sector Growth Expected in H2 from AI Projects, Engagement

The Indian information technology (IT) sector is poised for a stronger second half of the financial year, driven by AI-led initiatives, enhanced client engagement, and increased discretionary spending, according to a report by Centrum Research. The report anticipates growth in H2FY26, fueled by improved deal conversions and the ramp-up of large client projects, particularly in the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sectors, which are expected to lead the recovery. However, the retail and automotive sectors may face challenges due to external policy issues and subdued spending. Despite a cautious business environment reflected in Q2FY26, deal activity remains robust as companies prioritize digital transformation and AI adoption. Margins have stabilized, supported by disciplined execution, while workforce management strategies align with deal visibility. Overall, the sector is expected to gradually recover, bolstered by strong client demand for transformation and sustainable growth in IT services. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 11 am

For the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews

End of news stories. Come back in an hour!