eznews.inIn a pioneering move for maritime security, the V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, has become the first Indian port to implement an advanced Anti-Drone System. The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) has signed an agreement with Central Electronics Limited (CEL) to deploy a sophisticated integrated Radio Frequency (RF) and radar-based system designed for complex port environments. This system offers 360-degree coverage and an effective range of up to 5 km, enabling real-time detection, tracking, classification, and neutralisation of unauthorised drones. The comprehensive security solution, which includes a drone detector, detection radar, and man-pack jammer, is tailored for rapid deployment in sensitive operational areas, significantly enhancing the port's ability to protect critical infrastructure and personnel. This initiative marks a notable advancement in India's indigenous electronic countermeasure capabilities, reinforcing the security of vital maritime operations. 
Published: Feb 06 2026, 7 pmeznews.inThe Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), in collaboration with national labour organisations, has announced a nationwide strike for app-based transport workers on February 7, demanding government-regulated minimum base fares and a ban on private vehicles for commercial transport. The union, representing drivers from platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido, highlighted the income insecurity and exploitation faced by workers due to unregulated fares. In a letter to the Union Road Transport Ministry, they called for the implementation of the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, which require regulatory oversight and fare transparency. The TGPWU insists that fare structures should be developed in consultation with recognised worker unions and that private vehicles should either be banned from commercial use or converted to commercial status. This strike follows a previous protest on December 31, reflecting a growing movement among app-based workers in India.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 7 pmeznews.inKochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, have formalized a partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing sustainable urban mobility and public transport systems. The collaboration seeks to leverage KMRL's operational expertise alongside IISc's data-driven research capabilities, focusing on areas such as sustainable mobility planning and the integration of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and blockchain. Loknath Behera, Managing Director of KMRL, emphasized that the initiative will enhance Kochi's livability and resilience, addressing critical issues like air quality and accessibility. Ashish Verma, a professor at IISc, highlighted the importance of evidence-based research in tackling urban challenges, asserting that their advanced simulation models will enable policymakers to test transport interventions effectively. This partnership positions Kochi as a potential model for sustainable urban mobility solutions, aiming to reduce congestion and carbon emissions while improving overall quality of life.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 7 pmeznews.inThe Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised its real GDP growth projections for the first two quarters of FY27, increasing estimates by 20 basis points to 6.9% and 7.0%, respectively, amid a positive growth outlook. Concurrently, the RBI raised its Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation estimates for these quarters by 10 and 20 basis points, now forecasting 4.0% and 4.2%. The overall CPI inflation for FY26 is projected at 2.1%, slightly up from 2.0%, primarily due to rising precious metal prices. Experts suggest these adjustments indicate a likely pause in the policy repo rate, with ICRA noting diminished prospects for near-term rate cuts. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra highlighted the resilience of economic activity, driven by domestic factors, while cautioning that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will await new GDP and CPI data before making further projections. The MPC's next assessment is expected in April 2026.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 7 pmeznews.inArvind Virmani, a member of NITI Aayog, announced that employment generation in India is now outpacing population growth, highlighting the country's potential in a speech at a conference on trade relations organized by the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry. He underscored the importance of skilling, asserting that India's share in the global labor force is set to increase, providing a significant advantage in human capital. Virmani noted that India is strategically positioned to meet the rising global demand for manufacturing, especially in comparison to China, which he stated cannot dominate global manufacturing alone. He called for key reforms, including updates to labor codes and tax compliance, to enhance global competitiveness. Virmani expressed optimism that India could transition to an Upper-Middle-Income Country and eventually achieve High-Income Country status, as defined by the World Bank based on Gross National Income per capita.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 6 pmeznews.inThe Indian government's recent decision to classify extra long staple (ELS) cotton, defined as cotton with a fibre length of 33 mm and above, under the First Schedule with zero customs duty is poised to significantly enhance the country's textile and apparel exports. The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has welcomed this move, highlighting its potential to bolster India's position as a global manufacturing hub and its ambition to become the world's third-largest economy. CAI Chairman Vinay N Kotak emphasized that this change will alleviate manufacturing costs and improve access to high-quality ELS cotton, which is primarily imported from the USA and Egypt, as domestic production is limited. ELS cotton is crucial for producing premium yarns and high-end garments, and the removal of import duties is expected to increase India's competitiveness in the global textile market. ELS cotton is mainly cultivated in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 6 pmeznews.inPineapple production in India is projected to reach 6.25 lakh tonnes this year, buoyed by a surge in prices that have hit a decade-high, with rates for ripe and green fruit ranging between ₹50 and ₹52 per kg. The Pineapple Growers Association's president, Baby John, attributed this price increase to seasonal factors, including an early summer in North India and the onset of the marriage season, which has spurred demand. Additionally, a decline in production due to severe heat and drought-like conditions, exacerbated by a lack of rainfall since December, has further strained supply. Improved highway connectivity has allowed for quicker transport of pineapples to North Indian markets, enhancing freshness and demand. As Ramadan approaches, consumption is expected to rise, with the fruit being a staple in Iftar meals. However, a significant labour shortage, particularly due to migrant workers returning home, poses challenges for timely harvesting.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 4 pmeznews.inThe upcoming 'Global Spice Summit' in Jaipur, Rajasthan, on February 13 and 14, will focus on the market outlook for key spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chillies. Organised by NNS Media Group, the summit aims to create a strategic roadmap for sustainable growth in the spice sector, with discussions led by industry leaders on various challenges and strategies. Vinod Kumar Jain, CEO of NNS Media Group, highlighted the importance of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, in promoting sustainable practices within the industry. The event is expected to attract around 350-400 delegates, including manufacturers, suppliers, and farmers, with approximately 50 experts participating in panel discussions. Notable speakers include Rajasthan's Minister for Industries, Col Rajyavardhan Rathore, and Minister for Agriculture, Kirodi Lal Meena, who will address attendees on the summit's opening and closing days, respectively.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 5 pmeznews.inThe Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Department of Posts to enhance the logistics and quality control of agricultural inputs, including seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. This initiative aims to establish a secure, faceless, and fully traceable system for the transportation of samples, ensuring their timely and tamper-proof movement to laboratories. Union Minister Ramnath Thakur highlighted that the MoU will improve transparency and accountability, helping to prevent the circulation of sub-standard products and safeguarding farmers' interests. The Department of Posts will implement QR code-based address masking and digital tracking to maintain confidentiality and traceability. Additionally, the draft Seeds Bill aims to strengthen seed quality regulation while protecting farmers' rights. In related news, India's spice exports have surged by nearly 31% in 2024-25, reflecting the country's growing presence in global markets.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 5 pmeznews.inIndia has abandoned a proposed concession for small cars in its upcoming fuel-efficiency regulations, following objections from major automakers like Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra, who argued it would disproportionately benefit Maruti Suzuki, the dominant player in the small-car market. The revised draft, which will take effect in April 2027, imposes stricter emissions targets and reduces the advantages previously granted to heavier vehicles, thereby promoting a more equitable compliance landscape. The new rules aim to cut average fleet emissions from 114 grams/km to approximately 100 grams/km by March 2032, with potential reductions to 76 grams/km if electric vehicles constitute 11% of total sales. A credit system will incentivize manufacturers to increase their electric and hybrid offerings, while penalties for non-compliance could reach $550 per vehicle. The changes reflect India's commitment to reducing transport-related carbon emissions, which account for 12% of the country's energy use.
Published: Feb 06 2026, 4 pm
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