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India has achieved a significant milestone by reaching 20% ethanol blending (E-20) in petrol, five years ahead of its 2030 target, showcasing the country's commitment to energy transition. This accomplishment is largely attributed to robust policy governance and the sugar sector's investment of over ₹40,000 crores, which has enabled an ethanol production capacity exceeding 900 crore litres annually. The sugar industry has not only supported the government's ethanol blending programme but has also improved financial health for farmers and created rural jobs. However, with current blending requirements at 1,048 crore litres and offers at 1,776 crore litres, a clear roadmap is essential to prevent idle capacities and ensure future investments in biofuels. The promotion of flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) and strong hybrid vehicles (SHEVs) is crucial for cleaner mobility, and reforms such as reduced GST rates and consumer incentives are needed to enhance the viability of ethanol as a cornerstone of India's low-carbon growth strategy. 
Published: Nov 23 2025, 10 ameznews.inIndia's fisheries sector is undergoing a significant transformation driven by recent policy initiatives and budget allocations aimed at modernisation and sustainability. The Union Budget for 2025-26 has earmarked a record ₹2,703.67 crore for fisheries, extending the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) until 2026, with approved projects worth ₹21,274.16 crore focusing on hatcheries, cold chains, and digitalisation. Key technological advancements include biofloc and recirculating aquaculture systems, alongside smart landing centres equipped with AI and IoT. The National Fisheries Digital Platform, launched in 2024, aims to unify services for fishers and farmers, enhancing access to credit and insurance. New regulations for sustainable fishing in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are set to support climate-resilient practices. By 2030, the sector is expected to shift towards intensive aquaculture and digital value chains, bolstering livelihoods while aligning with climate goals through initiatives like seaweed cultivation.
Published: Nov 23 2025, 9 ameznews.inHoldings in silver exchange-traded products (ETPs) in India have surged by 200% compounded annually since their launch in 2022, according to a survey by the New York-based Silver Institute. The report highlights that Indian investors have significantly expanded their investment portfolios, with silver ETP holdings increasing over 18 times to exceed 58 million ounces (1,800 tonnes) by the end of 2024. Inflows into silver ETPs reached 25.1 million ounces (782 tonnes) in 2024, representing 44% of the country's physical silver investment for the year, while gold ETPs have struggled to attract similar interest. India has emerged as the world's second-largest market for physical silver, occasionally surpassing the US. Despite recent price surges, selling has remained modest, reflecting strong investor confidence. The survey anticipates a slight decline in purchases due to profit-taking, yet overall demand is expected to remain historically high.
Published: Nov 23 2025, 8 ameznews.inIndia's grain-based ethanol industry is transforming challenges into opportunities, reinforcing the nation's commitment to green energy and rural development. Leveraging surplus grains, particularly maize and damaged food grains, the sector is reducing reliance on fossil fuels while addressing food waste. Government initiatives, including the 2018-19 expansion of the ethanol blending programme and favorable pricing for grain-based ethanol, have spurred production, with 2023-24 figures showing a supply of approximately 672.49 crore litres, predominantly from grains. The National Bio-fuel Policy 2018 supports this growth by allowing surplus food grains for ethanol production, aiming for a blending rate of 20% by 2025. This shift not only mitigates climate risks but also boosts rural economies, providing farmers with additional income and creating jobs in the ethanol supply chain. With projections of ethanol consumption reaching 10 billion litres by 2026, the industry is poised for significant growth and sustainability.
Published: Nov 23 2025, 9 ameznews.inChief Minister M K Stalin expressed his disappointment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Centre's rejection of Metro Rail project proposals for Coimbatore and Madurai, which he said has sparked public resentment. In a letter, Stalin emphasized the necessity of high-capacity public transport in Tamil Nadu, the country's most urbanized state, and highlighted that the population of both cities exceeds the 2 million threshold cited by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) as a reason for rejection. He argued that the selective application of this criterion suggests discrimination against Tamil Nadu, especially when similar projects have been approved in other states. Stalin urged Modi to reconsider the decision and offered to meet in New Delhi to discuss the matter further, asserting that the Comprehensive Mobility Plans for both cities justify the need for Metro Rail corridors. He also assured that land acquisition would not hinder the projects.
Published: Nov 22 2025, 5 pmeznews.inAir India has announced the reinstatement of its codeshare partnership with Air Canada, which had been suspended for over five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This renewed agreement allows Air India to offer its passengers access to six additional destinations in Canada, including Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montréal, and Halifax, alongside its existing routes from Vancouver and London Heathrow. Under the partnership, Air India will place its 'AI' designator code on Air Canada-operated flights, facilitating seamless travel on a single ticket. In return, Air Canada customers will gain improved connectivity to various Indian cities such as Amritsar, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kochi via Delhi. This marks Air India's only codeshare partnership with a North American airline, as the carrier currently maintains 23 codeshare and 96 interline partnerships following the pandemic-related suspensions.
Published: Nov 22 2025, 5 pmeznews.inThe National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has launched its Namo Bharat trains and stations for private events, including birthdays and pre-wedding shoots, as part of a new initiative announced on Saturday. Individuals and event organisers can book either static or running Namo Bharat coaches, with a mock-up coach available at the Duhai Depot for static shoots. Bookings start at Rs 5,000 per hour, allowing 30 minutes for setup and takedown. The NCRTC aims to provide a unique experience with its modern, internationally designed coaches, while ensuring that celebrations occur between 6 am and 11 pm without disrupting train operations. All events will be supervised by NCRTC staff for safety. Additionally, a detailed hiring policy for film shoots and other visual projects at Namo Bharat locations has been established, offering competitive rates to attract residents along the Delhi-Meerut corridor.
Published: Nov 22 2025, 4 pmeznews.inIndia's merchandise exports are experiencing a shift, with the share of the US declining since July 2025, according to a report from SBI's Economic Research Department. While exports to the US grew by 13% to $45 billion in the first half of FY26, its share of total exports fell to 15% from 19.8% in FY25. In contrast, countries like the UAE, China, and Hong Kong have increased their shares in India's export basket, indicating a diversification strategy. The report highlights that the US's steep 50% import tariff on Indian goods has particularly affected labour-intensive sectors such as textiles and seafood. To bolster exporters, the Indian government has approved ₹45,060 crore in support measures, including credit guarantees, aimed at enhancing competitiveness and facilitating access to new markets. The ongoing trade discussions with the US reflect India's intent to negotiate better tariff conditions while strengthening its export capabilities.
Published: Nov 22 2025, 4 pmeznews.inIn October 2025, Australia, the European Union (EU), the UK, and the US collectively imported over $1 billion in petroleum products from Indian and Turkish refiners, with more than half derived from Russian crude oil, according to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). The total imports amounted to $1.12 billion, with approximately $510 million processed from Russian crude. Notably, while the EU and UK saw significant month-on-month reductions in imports—9% and 73% respectively—Australia's imports surged by 140% to €93 million, and US imports rose by 17% to €126.6 million. The US and Australia have yet to impose bans on Russian oil products. Meanwhile, India's imports of Russian crude increased by 11% month-on-month, making it the second-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels. However, a decline in purchases is anticipated from December 2025 due to impending US sanctions on major Russian oil companies.
Published: Nov 22 2025, 3 pmeznews.inThe Indian government has introduced the Insurance Bill for the winter session, aiming to raise the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%. This move, part of the FY26 Budget announcement, seeks to enhance growth, deepen market penetration, and improve the ease of doing business. The bill proposes amendments to key legislation, including the Insurance Act of 1928 and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act of 1999, to facilitate composite licenses for insurers and lower entry capital requirements for underserved segments. The Financial Services Department highlighted that removing the FDI cap could unlock the sector's potential, projected to grow at 7.1% annually over the next five years. By aligning with global best practices, the government aims to attract stable foreign investment, foster competition, and ultimately improve insurance accessibility and affordability across India.
Published: Nov 22 2025, 2 pm
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