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Heavy rain alert for South Peninsula, Central India issued

The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts has indicated that most of India will experience dry conditions until July 30, with the exception of the West Coast, parts of East India, and the Himalayan foothills. A fresh low-pressure area is expected to develop over the Bay of Bengal around July 25, potentially bringing increased rainfall to East and Central India in the latter part of the month. Currently, a depression over south-east Uttar Pradesh is exacerbating flooding in the region, while a western disturbance is enhancing rainfall across North-West India. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for extremely heavy rainfall in Kerala, coastal Karnataka, and parts of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Despite these localized downpours, significant rainfall deficits persist in East and North-East India, as well as the South Peninsula, with the country overall reporting a 9% surplus above normal rainfall as of mid-July. sources

Published:
Jul 17 2025, 6 pm

Govt seeks solutions for US tariff hike impact: DEA Secy

The Indian government is formulating an action plan to address the repercussions of a 50% tariff increase imposed by the US on Indian exports, according to Economic Affairs Secretary Anuradha Thakur. She acknowledged that certain employment-intensive sectors may be adversely affected and emphasized the government's commitment to assessing the impact and exploring solutions. To bolster domestic demand and support manufacturing, the government has introduced measures such as zero income tax for earnings up to ₹12 lakh and GST reforms aimed at reducing commodity prices. Thakur expressed confidence in meeting the fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of GDP for 2025-26, despite a rise to 29.9% of the full-year target by July. India's economy grew by 7.8% in the April-June quarter, driven by strong agricultural performance and robust domestic demand, reinforcing its status as the fastest-growing major economy, outpacing China's 5.2% growth. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 11 am

Nominal GDP growth hits 3-quarter low; WPI deflator at 23-quarter low

India's nominal GDP growth rate for the April-June quarter of FY26 has fallen to 8.8%, the lowest in three quarters, despite a real growth rate reaching a five-quarter high. This decline in nominal growth, which reflects the value of goods and services at current prices, could impact the fiscal deficit, projected at ₹15.69 lakh crore or 4.4% of an estimated GDP of ₹357 lakh crore. The GDP deflator, a key inflation measure, has also dropped to 0.9%, its lowest in 23 quarters, influenced by subdued wholesale and retail inflation rates. Tax revenue growth has slowed to just 0.8% year-on-year, significantly below the anticipated 10.8% for FY26, while revenue expenditure has surged by 17.1%. Experts warn that proposed GST rate changes could significantly affect fiscal targets if they do not stimulate demand. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 11 am

"Luxury Carmakers Seek Quick GST Clarity for Festive Sales"

The upcoming GST Council meeting on September 3-4, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is crucial for the auto industry, particularly the luxury car segment, as clarity on new GST rates could stimulate sales during the festive season. BMW Group India President Hardeep Singh Brar highlighted that consumer uncertainty surrounding potential GST changes has led to a cautious approach among buyers, impacting vehicle sales. He emphasized the need for clarity to bolster economic growth and maintain the existing 5% GST on electric vehicles to support sustainable adoption. Audi India and Mercedes-Benz India executives expressed optimism for the festive season, anticipating increased consumer confidence post-GST clarification. However, Icra's Jitin Makkar cautioned that luxury car sales may only see mid-single-digit growth this festive season due to external economic pressures, with a potential GST cut for smaller cars possibly benefiting the mass market while the luxury segment faces challenges. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 11 am

Air India flight returns to Delhi after engine fire alert

An Air India flight bound for Indore made an emergency landing in Delhi at approximately 6:15 am on Sunday after the cockpit crew received a "fire indication" from the right engine. The A320 neo aircraft, carrying over 90 passengers, was airborne for more than 30 minutes before the pilot decided to shut down the affected engine and return to the airport. Air India confirmed that the flight, designated AI2913, landed safely and has since been grounded for inspection. Passengers are being transferred to an alternative aircraft to continue their journey to Indore. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been notified of the incident, which follows a series of recent technical issues involving Air India planes. The airline, owned by the Tata Group, has not provided further details regarding the incident. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 10 am

"Supporting India's Ethanol Blending: Facts vs. Myths"

India's Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) is a pivotal element of the country's energy strategy, yet it faces ongoing criticism rooted in misconceptions. Detractors often cite concerns over fuel performance, claiming E20 fuel causes significant mileage reduction and engine damage. However, studies from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Automotive Research Association of India indicate minimal impact on mileage and confirm E20's safety, with ethanol actually enhancing engine performance. The program strategically utilizes agricultural surplus and non-food crops, addressing the "food versus fuel" debate while promoting rural economic growth. With projected payments to farmers reaching ₹40,000 crore by 2025, the EBP not only bolsters energy security but also supports sustainable agricultural practices. As misinformation persists, the EBP emerges as a necessary investment in India's self-reliant future, balancing economic, environmental, and food security concerns effectively. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 10 am

Lagos Free Zone offers US market access for Indian firms

Indian businesses facing high US tariffs can benefit from manufacturing or assembling products in Nigeria's Lagos Free Zone (LFZ), which offers preferential access to the US and other global markets, according to LFZ Managing Director Adesuwa Ladoja. The US has imposed a 50% tariff on many Indian products, potentially impacting $49 billion in exports. In contrast, Nigerian exports to the US incur tariffs as low as 14%, providing a significant advantage for Indian firms operating in LFZ. Additionally, LFZ facilitates access to the European Union through the Generalized System of Preferences, allowing zero or low-duty tariffs, and connects to the African Continental Free Trade Area, opening a market of 1.4 billion people. Ladoja highlighted LFZ's strategic role in enhancing supply chain resilience and fostering long-term growth, supported by its integration with Lekki Port, West Africa's deepest seaport. Tata International has already established an assembly plant in LFZ for commercial vehicles. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 10 am

India's Top Startup Bets: AI, Drones, and Sustainability

India's agricultural sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a new wave of ClimateTech startups that integrate artificial intelligence and drone technology into farming practices. Traditionally reliant on manual labor and seasonal monsoons, farmers can now utilize AI-powered platforms to monitor soil moisture, pest risks, and crop health from their mobile devices, enhancing efficiency and resilience against climate change. Drones play a crucial role in executing precise agricultural tasks, such as targeted pesticide application and crop monitoring, which saves time and resources. Government incentives are further facilitating this shift, making it easier for farmers to adopt these technologies. For investors, the intersection of ClimateTech and agriculture presents a lucrative opportunity, with subscription-based models offering stable cash flows and the potential for export to other emerging markets. As this sector evolves, it promises not only financial returns but also a sustainable future for food production in India. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 9 am

NHAI launches India's first Multi-Lane Free Flow toll in Gujarat

In a significant advancement for tolling on Indian highways, the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) has partnered with ICICI Bank to launch the country's first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system at the Choryasi Fee Plaza in Gujarat, located on NH-48. The agreement, signed in New Delhi with NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav present, aims to create a barrier-free tolling experience, facilitating seamless Electronic Toll Collection via FASTag. Choryasi will be the first toll plaza to implement this system, with plans to extend MLFF to around 25 additional fee plazas across the nation this financial year. Yadav emphasized that this initiative represents a pivotal moment in modernizing tolling in India, enhancing efficiency and transparency while reducing congestion and emissions. The MLFF system utilizes advanced RFID and ANPR technology to enable toll transactions without halting vehicles, ultimately improving toll revenue and fostering a smarter highway network. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 9 am

"Triple Win: A Business Case for Indian Agriculture"

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of India's economy, crucial for food security and employment, as the nation aspires to achieve developed status. The "triple win" approach aims to enhance farmer incomes, secure yields, and reduce environmental impact, addressing the vulnerabilities farmers face from climate change. Initiatives like the PM-PRANAM scheme promote fertilizer optimization, while improvements in dairy productivity and sustainable fisheries are essential for resilience and economic growth. Groundwater management is increasingly critical as water scarcity rises. The agricultural sector must evolve beyond subsistence practices to embrace sustainable, profitable models that attract investment and meet global standards. Countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh demonstrate that sustainability and growth can coexist, presenting a significant opportunity for India. To capitalize on this potential, government, industry, and financiers must collaborate on climate-smart agritech solutions, ensuring India leads in sustainable agricultural practices and secures its position in future markets. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 9 am

US Tariffs Drive Rampur's Mentha Oil Industry into Crisis

The mentha oil industry in India is facing a severe crisis due to a 50% tariff imposed by the US on Indian imports, which exporters warn could lead to losses amounting to several crores of rupees. This tariff, part of a broader trade dispute initiated by former President Donald Trump, threatens the livelihoods of over one million farmers and factory workers reliant on mentha oil production. Exporter Amrit Kapoor reported that orders have been put on hold or cancelled, with product prices skyrocketing from $20 to $30, making them unmarketable. The situation is echoed in Moradabad, known for its handicrafts, where exports worth ₹300 crore have been halted, potentially leading to a 50% drop in US-bound exports and significant job losses. Industry leaders are urging the government to implement support schemes to mitigate the impact of these tariffs, which they hope is a temporary setback. sources

Published:
Aug 31 2025, 9 am

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