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EU carbon tax threatens steel exports to Europe

India, the world's second-largest crude steel producer after China, faces a potential decline in steel exports to Europe as the European Union's carbon tax, part of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), comes into effect on January 1. This levy, aimed at promoting decarbonisation, will impact not only steel but also cement, electricity, and fertilisers. With approximately two-thirds of India's steel exports directed to Europe, industry experts warn that Indian mills must reduce carbon emissions to remain competitive. Many companies are exploring alternative markets in Africa and the Middle East, as domestic demand continues to rise due to government infrastructure spending. However, uncertainty surrounds the tax's implementation, with steelmakers seeking clarity on its calculation. To mitigate the impact, some are considering transitioning to electric arc furnaces, which produce significantly lower emissions than traditional blast furnaces. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 12 pm

India considers 12-year extension for coal power expansion

India is contemplating a significant expansion of its coal power capacity, potentially allowing for the construction of new plants until at least 2047. This proposal, currently under discussion between the Power Ministry and NITI Aayog, represents a notable departure from earlier projections that anticipated net additions peaking by 2035. The plan aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of achieving energy independence and elevating India from a developing to a developed nation by 2047. Policymakers are considering increasing coal-fired capacity to 420 gigawatts, an 87% rise from current levels, leveraging the country's substantial coal reserves. While the government also aims to expand renewable energy and battery storage, concerns over geopolitical risks, particularly regarding supply chains dominated by China, remain a significant consideration. A spokesperson for the Power Ministry has yet to comment on the discussions. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 1 pm

IndiGo's 500 Cancellations Spark Monopoly Worries in Rajya Sabha

In the Rajya Sabha on Friday, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari raised alarm over IndiGo's cancellation of approximately 500 flights over the past two days, highlighting the airline's monopoly and its adverse effects on both parliamentarians and the public. During Zero Hour, Tiwari noted that many MPs had planned travel for the weekend, only to face disruptions due to the cancellations. He urged the government to address the issue, questioning the rationale behind the airline's operational challenges and seeking clarity on potential solutions. In response, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju assured the House that the government was investigating the situation, having already consulted with the Civil Aviation Minister. Rijiju committed to keeping both parliamentarians and citizens informed about the developments regarding the airline's technical difficulties and the government's response. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 12 pm

US team expected in India next week for trade talks

A delegation of US officials is set to visit India next week for discussions on a proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), marking the second such visit since the US imposed a 25% tariff and an additional penalty on Indian goods linked to the purchase of Russian crude oil. The talks aim to finalize the first tranche of the trade pact, which seeks to address tariff challenges faced by Indian exporters. India's Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal has expressed optimism about reaching a framework deal this year, despite acknowledging that negotiations will take time. The BTA is part of a broader effort to more than double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030. Recent data indicates a decline in India's merchandise exports to the US, attributed to the tariffs, while imports have risen. The US remains India's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at USD 131.84 billion in 2024-25. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 11 am

Amit Shah to review Banas Dairy on December 6

Union Minister for Home and Cooperation, Amit Shah, is set to chair a meeting at Banas Dairy in Gujarat on December 6 to review cooperative dairy development initiatives. During his visit, Shah will attend a public meeting in Sanadar, Banaskantha district, where he will inaugurate the Agthala Bio-CNG and Fertilizer Plant, aimed at enhancing farmers' income and promoting sustainable energy. He will also lay the foundation for a new 150 TPD Milk Powder and Baby Food Plant. Accompanying Shah will be members of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Cooperation, who will tour Banas Dairy's advanced processing facilities, including Cheese and UHT Plants. The delegation will also assess livestock-centric initiatives at the Dama Semen Station and Embryo Transfer Lab, and visit the Sherpura Village Dairy Cooperative Society and the Banas Soil Testing Lab in Tharad. Ministers of State for Cooperation and senior officials will join the visit. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 11 am

Indigo cancels 102 flights in Bengaluru on Friday

In a significant disruption for air travel in India, IndiGo has cancelled over 350 flights on Thursday and Friday due to a pilot shortage, affecting major airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. On Friday alone, the airline cancelled 102 flights in Bengaluru, comprising 52 arrivals and 50 departures, following 99 cancellations the previous day. The airline has informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) that it will reduce flight operations starting December 8 to alleviate further disruptions, citing difficulties in planning duty rosters. IndiGo has requested exemptions from flight duty time regulations, promising that normal operations will resume by February 10. The pilot shortage has also led to operational challenges at other airports, with Pune experiencing diversions of six flights due to a grounded IndiGo aircraft occupying all parking bays. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 11 am

GE Aerospace delivers fifth F404-IN20 engine to HAL

GE Aerospace has delivered the fifth F404-IN20 jet engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in New Delhi, marking a significant step in the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A project. This delivery is part of a larger order placed in 2021, which includes a total of 113 engines to support the production of 97 LCA Mk1A aircraft. HAL confirmed that the engines are expected to be delivered between 2027 and 2032. In a related development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently inaugurated the third production line for the LCA Tejas Mk1A and the second line for the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 at HAL's Nashik facility. Additionally, GE Aerospace announced a $14 million investment to enhance its Pune manufacturing capabilities, building on a previous $30 million investment aimed at upgrading processes and automation for advanced engine components. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 11 am

Dighi Port to handle 200,000 cars yearly with Motherson partnership

Dighi Port in Maharashtra is poised to become a key hub for automobile exports following a partnership between Motherson and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ). Through their joint venture, Samvardhana Motherson Hamakyorex Engineered Logistics Limited (SAMRX), the companies will establish a dedicated Roll-on and Roll-off (RoRo) terminal, enhancing logistics for major automotive manufacturers in the Mumbai-Pune region. The facility will feature advanced infrastructure for end-to-end Finished Vehicle logistics, including AI-driven yard optimisation and a single-window operation for various services such as storage and vessel loading. Additionally, it will provide the fastest evacuation route via NH-66 and support electric vehicle exports with an EV-ready logistics hub. Both companies aim to streamline operations, reduce logistics costs, and strengthen India's automotive supply chain, delivering long-term value to customers and communities. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 10 am

Heating appliance sales rise 15% year-over-year this winter

As winter arrives early in India, heating equipment manufacturers are experiencing a significant surge in sales, with a year-on-year increase of up to 15%. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) anticipate a further growth of 20% in sales for December and January 2026, driven by heightened consumer demand for energy-efficient solutions. Amit Sahni, Head of Air Coolers & Water Heaters at Tata Voltas, noted that the geyser segment is expected to reach around 5.5 million units in FY26. The Indian electric water-heater market, valued at ₹2,587 crore in 2024, is projected to grow at a 7.2% CAGR through 2033, with the overall category expected to exceed ₹17,724 crore. E-commerce is playing a crucial role, accounting for nearly 30% of sales, while the adoption of smart technology in heating solutions is on the rise, as highlighted by Panasonic's new IoT-enabled products. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 10 am

RBI boosts FY26 GDP growth forecast to 7.3%

In a significant monetary policy shift, Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced a unanimous decision by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points, lowering it from 5.50% to 5.25%. This move coincides with an upward revision of the FY26 real GDP growth projection to 7.30%, an increase of 50 basis points, while the CPI inflation forecast has been reduced by 60 basis points to 2%. Malhotra highlighted a notable moderation in inflation, attributing it to robust agricultural prospects and favorable financial conditions. He noted that while domestic factors support growth, external uncertainties and challenges in merchandise exports pose risks. The RBI projects Q3 and Q4 GDP growth at 7.0% and 6.5%, respectively, with CPI inflation expected to remain low, particularly due to falling food prices. The outlook reflects a balanced risk assessment for the economy. sources

Published:
Dec 05 2025, 10 am

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