Trending Economy

Listen as Radio

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

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

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

US airlines see over 2,000 daily cancellations again

US airlines faced significant disruptions over the weekend, with over 2,100 flights cancelled on Sunday alone, as the ongoing government shutdown continues to impact air travel. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that air traffic could "slow to a trickle" as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implementing flight cuts at major airports due to staffing shortages among air traffic controllers, many of whom have gone unpaid for nearly a month. The FAA's reductions, which began at 4% and are set to rise to 10% by November 14, have already led to thousands of delays and cancellations, particularly affecting Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta and Newark Liberty International Airport. Duffy noted that the situation could worsen, with potential additional cuts of up to 20% if the shutdown persists, as controller retirements accelerate. Airlines for America reported that staffing-related delays exceeded 3,000 hours on Saturday alone. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 9 am

October sees highest thermal coal imports in four months

India's thermal coal imports rose nearly 3% year-on-year to 12.95 million tonnes in October 2025, driven by a decline in domestic production and increased industrial demand post-monsoon, according to data from global analytics provider Kpler. Monthly imports also saw a 3.6% increase, although they remained below the five-year average of 14 million tonnes due to high stockpiles, above-average rainfall, and a new GST framework that reduced the competitiveness of imported coal. Looking ahead, Kpler projects imports to stabilize around 12 million tonnes through year-end, as improved domestic supply and high inventories are expected to limit further demand. Meanwhile, metallurgical coal imports rose 11% year-on-year to 6 million tonnes, although they fell 7.7% compared to the first half of FY26 due to high steel inventories and price softness. Overall, India's energy consumption decreased by 6% year-on-year in October. sources

Published:
Nov 09 2025, 7 pm

CBDT reveals ₹9,169 cr fake political donation scheme

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has uncovered a sophisticated money laundering network involving Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs), chartered accountants, and intermediaries, which has allegedly laundered ₹9,169 crore disguised as political donations to evade taxes. Investigations revealed that excess tax deductions were claimed over two assessment years—₹6,116 crore for 2022-23 and ₹3,053 crore for 2023-24—following a report on RUPPs exploiting legal loopholes. CBDT teams examined 420 bank accounts, 200 case files, and extensive WhatsApp records to trace the operations, finding that 36 RUPPs alone illegally routed ₹5,591 crore. The scheme involved donors transferring large sums to RUPPs through intermediaries, claiming tax-free donations, while receiving cash refunds. The CBDT's findings included fabricated documents aimed at obscuring audit trails, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in monitoring and data-sharing. sources

Published:
Nov 09 2025, 8 pm

Air India Enhances Customer Focus Post-Vistara Merger Anniversary

Air India, following its merger with Vistara last November, is focusing on enhancing customer service and fostering a new organizational culture amid challenges such as the Ahmedabad air crash and Pakistan's airspace closure, which have led to increased costs and reduced flight operations. Since the merger, Air India's weekly flights have decreased by 16% to 4,700, with a reduction in destinations and fleet size due to aircraft retrofitting and route transfers to Air India Express. Despite efforts to boost premium economy sales, challenges persist, prompting regular upgrades from economy class. However, improvements in ground and in-flight services have been noted, including standardized crew engagement and a new bar menu tailored to destinations. Air India is also working on co-creating a unified culture, blending practices from both airlines, with a focus on a more collaborative and less hierarchical environment. sources

Published:
Nov 09 2025, 7 pm

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

End of news stories. Come back in an hour!