eznews.inIndia's largest FMCG brand, Amul, is expanding its protein product portfolio significantly, targeting a five-fold increase in protein production capacity. Currently producing three million litres of whey protein daily, Amul is leveraging the Indian Premier League (IPL) to promote its message of daily protein consumption, aiming to reach a broader consumer base beyond fitness enthusiasts. The company has launched 15 protein-rich products, including a new "Protein Kulfi," and is focusing on direct-to-consumer sales through its app and website. Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, highlighted the potential of whey as a valuable resource for creating diverse, affordable protein products. Amul's marketing strategy includes partnerships with nine IPL teams, generating significant engagement through digital content and in-stadium sales, as it seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for protein in India. 
Published: Apr 28 2025, 2 pmeznews.inThe closure of the Afghanistan-India border, driven by escalating tensions with Pakistan, is poised to significantly impact the domestic dry fruit market ahead of the festival season. Afghanistan, a key supplier of nuts and dried fruits to India, exports approximately 20,000 tonnes annually, including popular items like almonds, pistachios, and raisins. The current restrictions have already led to a 10-15% price increase for imported dried fruits, with traders warning of further cost escalations as India may need to explore alternative import routes, such as through Chabahar Port in Iran, which could take up to a month compared to the usual 3-4 days by road. Additionally, limited cargo flights from Kabul may compromise the quality of high-value products. While the domestic market currently has sufficient stock for the upcoming wedding season, the situation remains precarious as demand is expected to surge.
Published: Apr 28 2025, 1 pmeznews.inAs geopolitical uncertainties persist, many companies are experiencing improved employee retention, with professionals opting for job security over career mobility. This trend is evident in major tech firms like Meta and Google, which have implemented layoffs amid cautious hiring practices due to tightening budgets. Analysts report a notable shift, with candidates increasingly accepting smaller salary increases or even cuts, prioritizing stability in a market with fewer job openings, particularly in tech and startups. Job stickiness is particularly pronounced in manufacturing, while the IT sector sees a moderate attrition rate of 12-14%. Despite these retention gains, companies face the challenge of keeping employees engaged, as many remain in their roles out of necessity rather than satisfaction. To address this, organizations are enhancing growth opportunities and upskilling initiatives, yet employee motivation continues to be a significant concern, as many feel trapped by limited options.
Published: Apr 28 2025, 11 ameznews.inMicro Finance Institutions (MFIs) are set to implement new guidelines from June 1 aimed at enhancing client protection and addressing issues of pricing, over-indebtedness, and discipline. Jiji Mammen, Executive Director and CEO of Sa-Dhan, emphasized the need for stronger regulations to safeguard the microfinance sector. The revised framework, known as SANKALP 2.0, mandates that MFIs adopt transparent loan pricing practices and cap processing fees at 1.5%. To combat over-indebtedness, households will be limited to three lenders and a total microfinance and retail loan exposure of ₹2 lakhs. Additionally, a comprehensive credit bureau check will be required for all microfinance loans. The guidelines also stipulate that no loans should be issued to clients in default for over 60 days. Furthermore, MFIs are encouraged to use PAN Cards as the primary identification for KYC and credit reporting, aiming for 30% coverage by the fiscal year's end.
Published: Apr 28 2025, 10 ameznews.inAt the ongoing Canton Fair in Guangzhou, which runs until May 5, Indian exporters are being approached by Chinese companies seeking to fulfill orders for US customers amid escalating trade tensions. With US tariffs on Chinese goods soaring to 145%, many Chinese firms are turning to India, where tariffs are significantly lower, to maintain their American clientele. Indian companies, such as Jalandhar-based OayKay Tools and Victor Forgings, are negotiating to supply products under Chinese brands or co-branded arrangements. The Indian government is also making strides in trade discussions with the US, aiming to secure a deal that could mitigate future tariff increases. Despite the limited American presence at the fair, the impact of tariffs is a central theme, as both nations remain locked in a trade standoff, with China denouncing the levies as "meaningless."
Published: Apr 28 2025, 8 ameznews.inPakistan's decision to suspend all trade with India, including through third countries like Dubai, is poised to have a more significant impact on its economy than on India's, given Pakistan's greater reliance on Indian imports. The trade suspension, initially enacted in 2019 following the Pulwama attack, had seen some easing for specific items, such as pharmaceuticals and organic chemicals, which are challenging for Pakistan to source competitively elsewhere. Experts suggest that a similar pattern of gradual re-allowance of imports may emerge again. In contrast, Indian exporters are unlikely to feel a substantial impact, as exports to Pakistan accounted for only $455 million out of India's total $358.63 billion exports during the April-January 2024-25 period. However, informal trade, particularly through Dubai, is expected to increase, with an estimated $10 billion worth of goods from India reaching Pakistan annually under the guise of 'Made in UAE' products.
Published: Apr 27 2025, 8 pmeznews.inIn a compelling address at the US-India Economic Forum in Washington, D.C., Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra urged US companies to invest and innovate in India, highlighting the nation's political, policy, and financial stability as key attractions. He noted that India is on track to become the world's third-largest economy, driven by strong domestic demand, which constitutes 90% of its GDP, and a robust average growth rate of 8.2% over the past four years. Despite global economic uncertainties, India is projected to maintain a growth rate of 6.5% this year, outpacing many advanced economies. Malhotra emphasized India's transparent and forward-looking policy ecosystem as ideal for long-term investments, inviting global partners to join in shaping a prosperous future. He reiterated India's ambition to evolve into a developed economy by 2047, marking a century of independence.
Published: Apr 27 2025, 6 pmeznews.inIndia's agriculture ministry has set a target to procure 31.27 million tonnes (mt) of wheat for the 2024-25 crop year, anticipating a record production of 115.43 mt. Despite improved production and procurement, the government has reiterated its ban on wheat exports, prioritizing the replenishment of buffer stocks to ensure adequate supply for ration shops. This follows a trend of missed procurement targets in recent years, with only 19.86 mt purchased so far this season, compared to 13.58 mt last year. The government aims to adjust wheat-rice allocations under the National Food Security Act, potentially requiring an additional 3.5-4 mt of wheat annually. Retail prices for wheat and atta have risen by 2.5% and 3.6%, respectively, while the Food Corporation of India holds 11.79 mt in stock, exceeding the buffer norm. The ban on exports, initially imposed in May 2022, remains in place despite previous shipments to friendly nations.
Published: Apr 27 2025, 6 pmeznews.inThe Indian government has allocated ₹500 crore for the deployment of electric ambulances (e-Ambulances) under the Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme, which aims to promote electric mobility. Launched in September 2022, the scheme has seen limited progress, with only Force Motors, Maruti Suzuki India, and Tata Motors expected to participate. Maruti Suzuki's MD, Hisashi Takeuchi, indicated that while the company is in the early stages of manufacturing, a launch timeline remains uncertain. Force Motors had initially committed to launching an e-Ambulance by March 2023, but delays have hindered the process, preventing the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) from issuing subsidy guidelines. The MHI is also collaborating with other ministries to establish performance and safety standards for e-Ambulances, while the broader PM E-DRIVE scheme supports various electric vehicles, including e-Buses and e-3 Wheelers.
Published: Apr 27 2025, 6 pmeznews.inThe Indian Navy has successfully conducted multiple anti-ship firings to reaffirm its readiness for long-range precision offensive strikes, as tensions escalate with Pakistan following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilian lives. The Navy's demonstration of combat capabilities comes amid India's vow to deliver severe repercussions to those responsible for the attack, which has drawn widespread condemnation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the "perpetrators and conspirators" will face the "harshest response," assuring justice for the victims' families. In retaliation, Pakistan has heightened military alertness and responded to Indian fire along the Line of Control. India has also implemented punitive measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and downgrading diplomatic relations, prompting Pakistan to close its airspace to Indian flights and halt trade. The situation remains tense as both nations navigate this volatile landscape.
Published: Apr 27 2025, 5 pm
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