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India to establish global aviation hubs, says Minister Naidu

India is set to enhance its civil aviation sector by establishing hub airports nationwide, aiming to create an "independent and self-sufficient" international flight network, according to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. In an exclusive interview with _businessline_, Naidu emphasized the necessity of this network to meet the aspirations of a nation that has become the world's fourth-largest economy. He highlighted the upcoming 81st IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address. The minister noted that two major airport projects in Noida and Navi Mumbai are nearing completion, with plans for additional airports and a revamped UDAN scheme to boost connectivity. Despite challenges in global aircraft supply, Naidu expressed optimism about developing local manufacturing for aircraft parts and reducing operational costs through reforms, aiming to make air travel more accessible for all Indians. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 7 pm

EaseMyTrip unveils investment initiative for scalable startups

EaseMyTrip.com has unveiled its strategic investment initiative, EaseMyTrip 2.0, aimed at partnering with high-potential businesses in the travel sector and adjacent industries. Spearheaded by Chairman and Founder Nishant Pitti, the initiative allows the company to acquire up to 49% equity in selected ventures while enabling founders to maintain full operational control. The investment model emphasizes working capital partnerships, granting partner businesses access to EaseMyTrip’s extensive customer base of over 30 million users and its robust digital marketing ecosystem. Target sectors include domestic and international holidays, religious tourism, student travel, luxury travel, and last-mile mobility solutions, among others. The company, which has been profitable since its inception in 2008, reported a 47% CAGR growth in profits before tax from FY20-24, solidifying its status as one of India’s fastest-growing internet firms. As of 2:28 PM, shares of Easy Trip Planners Limited were trading at ₹11.02, down 1.78%. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 2 pm

Vintage Coffee launches new liquid coffee product line

In a notable market update, the SENSEX closed at 81,173.09, down by 277.92 points, while the NIFTY fell 83.05 points to settle at 24,667.65. In contrast, crude oil prices rose by 169.00 to reach 5,372.00, and gold saw an increase of 1,636.00, now priced at 96,280.00. Silver also experienced a gain, climbing 1,053.00 to 98,068.00. Meanwhile, Vintage Coffee and Beverages Limited has launched a new liquid coffee product through its subsidiary, targeting the growing demand in global markets, especially in South East Asia. The product aims to provide a versatile coffee concentrate for various beverages, catering to coffee shops and restaurants seeking cost-effective solutions. Managing Director Balakrishna Tati emphasized that this launch aligns with the company's strategy to diversify its offerings and meet specific market needs. Vintage Coffee shares traded at ₹117.92, down 0.46% on the NSE. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 3 pm

Record High Diesel and Petrol Consumption in May

India's diesel and petrol consumption reached record highs in May 2025, driven by strong manufacturing activity, exporters racing to meet US tariff deadlines, and increased agricultural activity due to early monsoons and the marriage season. According to the Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell (PPAC), diesel consumption rose 4% month-on-month and nearly 2% year-on-year to 8.57 million tonnes, while petrol surged almost 10% month-on-month and 9% year-on-year to 3.77 million tonnes. The demand for aviation turbine fuel (ATF) also increased, rising over 1% month-on-month and 4% year-on-year to 775,000 tonnes. Analysts noted that the uptick in petrol consumption reflects growing affluence and a trend towards personal vehicle purchases, particularly two-wheelers and SUVs. Meanwhile, jet fuel demand remained robust, nearing record levels, supported by rising domestic and international air travel as income levels increase. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 3 pm

Early kharif sowing of maize, pulses boosted by surplus rain

Karnataka has experienced a significant surge in pre-monsoon rainfall, receiving 286 mm from March 1 to May 31, 2025, which is 149% above the normal level of 115 mm. This has led to an early sowing of kharif crops, with 3.06 lakh hectares planted by the end of May, compared to 2.36 lakh hectares during the same period last year, according to the Karnataka Agriculture Department. The state aims for a foodgrain production target of 111.4 lakh tonnes for the 2025-26 kharif season, including 96.14 lakh tonnes of cereals and 15.26 lakh tonnes of pulses. Notably, maize sowing has surged by 160% to 0.714 lakh hectares, while jowar and pulses like blackgram and moong have also seen increased planting. Additionally, commercial crops such as sugarcane and tobacco have gained popularity among farmers, reflecting a robust agricultural response to the favorable weather conditions. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 3 pm

Government updates age-based film certification categories for U/A

The Indian government has introduced a revised age-based movie certification system aimed at ensuring that young viewers are exposed to age-appropriate content. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has amended rules established in 1991, expanding the Unrestricted Public Exhibition (U/A) category to include three new sub-categories: U/A 7+, U/A 13+, and U/A 16+. This change replaces the previous singular U/A classification for children under 12. The Central Board of Film Certification will now provide guidance for parents regarding the suitability of films for children aged seven, thirteen, and sixteen. The Ministry emphasized that these age markers are recommendatory, designed to balance the protection of vulnerable audiences with the principles of freedom of expression. The new certification system follows the enactment of the Cinematograph (Amendment) Act in 2023 and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules in 2024. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 3 pm

Farmers worry about price drop from crude oil duty cut

The recent reduction in import duties on crude edible oil has sparked concern among oil palm growers in India, who fear it will undermine their earnings and the nation's goal of self-sufficiency in edible oils. Farmers, like Mahesh Reddy from Khammam, expressed disappointment as they anticipated better prices during the peak selling season from May to September. Last year, an increase in import duties had led to a significant rise in the price of Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFBs), but the new duty cut threatens to reverse these gains. Telangana's Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao has urged the central government to reconsider the decision, warning it could deter new oil palm cultivation and erode farmers' trust. The Telangana government aims to expand oil palm acreage from 1 lakh to 8 lakh hectares, but has struggled to meet targets, prompting a proposed subsidy to support farmers in the coming years. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 2 pm

Rattan Lal named Global Ambassador for regenagri

Eminent soil scientist Rattan Lal has been appointed as the Global Ambassador of regenagri, an international initiative aimed at promoting regenerative agriculture to enhance land health and support farming communities. This recognition celebrates Lal's extensive contributions to soil science and regenerative practices over several decades. In his new role, Lal will advocate for the benefits of regenerative agriculture, guiding the regenagri team in developing standards and participating in discussions to advance the initiative's goals. He emphasized that regenagri represents innovative farming systems that can restore degraded soils, combat climate change, and promote biodiversity while ensuring the production of nutritious food. Franco Costantini, CEO of regenagri, expressed enthusiasm for Lal's appointment, highlighting the urgency of restoring global soil health. A Distinguished University Professor at The Ohio State University and recipient of multiple prestigious awards, Lal is recognized for his pioneering work in soil-centric agricultural management and climate-resilient practices. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 2 pm

AI-ML Hiring Rises 25% in May; IT Sector Declines 5%

Hiring trends in India for May 2025 revealed a mixed landscape, with significant declines in sectors such as Retail, Telecom/ISP, and Banking, Finance & Broking, which saw an 8-9% drop. In contrast, the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning sectors experienced a robust 25% year-on-year growth, although the broader Information Technology sector overall faced a 5% decline in job opportunities. Notably, unicorns in Banking and Financial Services increased hiring by 29%. The Naukri JobSpeak report highlighted growth in real estate (5%) and insurance (6%), while cities like Hyderabad and Kochi reported hiring increases of 7% and 8%, respectively, largely driven by senior-level positions. Pune also saw a 4% rise, bolstered by a 26% surge in start-up hiring. The JobSpeak index, which tracks job listings and recruiter activity, underscores these trends across various industries and experience levels. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 2 pm

India, US seek preferential market access; trade talks ongoing

India and the United States are actively pursuing a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) aimed at significantly increasing bilateral trade from $191 billion to $500 billion by 2030. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that teams from both nations are collaborating on this initiative, which was initially discussed by US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February, with a target completion date set for fall 2025. Amid rising tensions over tariffs, including Trump's recent decision to double tariffs on steel and aluminium, Goyal emphasized the importance of resolving trade issues bilaterally. The US remains India's largest trading partner, accounting for 18% of India's exports. Additionally, India is advancing its free trade pact with the European Free Trade Association, which is expected to generate $100 billion in foreign direct investment. The ongoing negotiations signal a commitment to strengthening economic ties between India and the US. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 1 pm

"Integrated Strategies Needed for Arctic Climate Risks: UN-ESCAP"

As climate change intensifies, experts emphasize the need for integrated research and policy linking the Arctic and the Third Pole, a crucial ice reserve in Central Asia. Sanjay Srivastava, Chief of Disaster Risk Reduction at UN-ESCAP, highlights that the warming Arctic influences weather patterns and glacier behavior across Central and South Asia, necessitating a collaborative approach to climate diplomacy. The Third Pole, which houses significant ice reserves, is at risk due to interconnected climate anomalies driven by atmospheric and oceanic systems. To address these challenges, Srivastava advocates for a two-pronged strategy: expanding climate risk assessments to include glacial dynamics and identifying key drivers of glacial risk. Regional cooperation is vital, with initiatives like the Third Pole Regional Climate Centre Network linking various climate outlook forums to enhance forecasting and preparedness. The International Year of Glacial Preservation in 2025 presents a pivotal opportunity for collective action in this domain. sources

Published:
Jun 02 2025, 1 pm

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