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India's electronics manufacturing to hit $282 billion by 2030

PwC has projected that India's electronics manufacturing sector could reach a conservative size of $282 billion by 2030, driven primarily by the mobile and wearables segment, which is expected to account for $160 billion. The company described India as “a melting point of a lot of investments,” highlighting its diverse industrial landscape. However, growth estimates could vary significantly, ranging from $282 billion to $418 billion, contingent on government infrastructure support. Sujay Shetty, Executive Director at PwC India, noted that even a conservative growth forecast represents a substantial increase, with major brands ramping up investments in the sector. Electronics manufacturing is poised to become a leading contributor to India's GDP, potentially rivaling the automotive sector. Additionally, the IT market is projected to reach $32 billion by 2030, with a tenfold increase in demand for data servers anticipated due to technological advancements. sources

Published:
Jun 11 2025, 8 pm

Air India Boeing 787 crashed after minimal ascent

Air India flight 171, a Boeing 787 en route to London, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad on Thursday, reaching a maximum altitude of just 625 feet before descending rapidly. Flight tracking data indicated the aircraft lost signal less than a minute into its ascent, with experts suggesting a potential loss of engine thrust as the cause. Notably, a video captured before the crash showed the landing gear still extended, which could have increased drag and hindered the aircraft's climb. Investigators will examine various factors, including weather conditions and aircraft weight, while the possibility of a bird strike affecting engine performance is also being considered. General Electric, which manufactures the aircraft's engines, expressed condolences and confirmed the activation of their emergency response team to assist with the investigation. The incident has raised significant concerns within the aviation community regarding engine reliability and safety protocols. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 10 pm

Air India plane insured for $120 million

In a tragic incident on June 12, 2025, an Air India Boeing 787 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, with wreckage landing on a nearby building. The aircraft was insured for approximately $120 million as part of a broader $20 billion insurance policy finalized by Air India in April, with Tata AIG as the lead insurer. This policy covers damages from accidents and includes separate provisions for passenger and third-party liabilities, which will be activated following the crash. Insurance surveyors are set to assess the damage and gather information to determine the cause of the incident. While the airline is expected to receive full claims under the hull loss policy, compensation for passengers will adhere to the Montreal Convention, which outlines minimum compensation for injured individuals and the families of those deceased. The overall liability remains uncertain at this stage, according to industry experts. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 10 pm

Air India: 241 confirmed dead in flight crash

In a tragic incident on June 12, 2025, an Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in the deaths of 241 individuals on board. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which departed at 1:38 PM, was carrying 242 passengers and crew, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian national. Air India confirmed that the sole survivor is a British national of Indian origin, who is currently receiving medical treatment. The airline expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and stated that a team of caregivers has been dispatched to support those affected. Air India is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation and has established a dedicated hotline for inquiries, emphasizing its commitment to assist the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 6 am

Boeing supports Air India crash; CEO speaks to N Chandrasekaran

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg expressed condolences following the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport. In a statement, Ortberg conveyed his sympathies to the families of the passengers and crew, emphasizing Boeing's commitment to support the investigation led by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). The London-bound Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which crashed into a medical college complex, was carrying 242 individuals, including 12 crew members. Among the passengers were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian national. Ortberg confirmed that a Boeing team is prepared to assist the investigation while adhering to protocols set by the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization. This incident marks one of the deadliest air disasters in India’s history, with reports suggesting a high fatality rate among those on board. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 12 am

ADM to onboard more FPOs as direct procurement hits 80%

ADM Agro Industries India, a subsidiary of a US nutrition firm, has significantly increased its direct procurement from farmer producer companies (FPOs), rising from 20% to 80% over the past two years. Despite this growth, the company remains non-committal about expanding its operations beyond Maharashtra, Telangana, and Karnataka. During a recent webinar, manager Amol Dhawan revealed that ADM Agro's soyabean processing plant has procured 1.45 lakh tonnes of soyabean worth ₹700 crore from FPOs last year, with 75,000 tonnes already purchased in 2025. The company has partnered with 300 FPOs, transacting with 147 in 2024. Other corporates, including Olam India and Britannia, are also engaging with FPOs, encouraged by government initiatives to connect farmers with businesses. This shift allows FPOs to secure better prices for their produce, as direct sales reduce transaction costs. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 10 pm

India considers grounding Boeing 787-8 after initial inquiry

India is considering grounding its entire fleet of Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners following a crash involving Air India flight AI171 shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad. The aircraft, which was purchased in 2012, was part of a fleet of 26 787-8s operated by Air India. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is in discussions with Boeing India, the US National Transportation Safety Board, and the Federal Aviation Administration regarding the incident. Previous allegations of manufacturing defects in the 787s had been settled in favor of Boeing, but concerns have resurfaced after this crash. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has initiated an investigation, while the Directorate General of Civil Aviation is considering mandatory checks for all operational 787s. Aviation expert Mark Martin expressed shock at the incident, highlighting the aircraft's safety record and the experience of the crew involved. Boeing has stated it is ready to assist Air India in the investigation. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 8 pm

India's Rare Earth Wealth Untapped Amid China's Dominance

India, possessing the world's fifth-largest rare earth element (REE) reserves at nearly 7 million tonnes, faces challenges in capitalizing on this potential as China's export restrictions tighten. Despite significant untapped deposits in states like Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, India's mining efforts remain stunted due to a lack of advanced processing technology. The US Geological Survey ranks India third globally in REE reserves, yet the country mined only 2,900 tonnes in 2023 and 2024. Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) is exploring international partnerships for REE cooperation, but domestic production is hampered by regulatory constraints and insufficient technology. With China controlling 70% of the REE market, India's response, including policy adjustments and mineral auctions, appears sluggish. The urgency to develop domestic capabilities is underscored by soaring global demand for REEs, particularly for electric vehicles and high-tech components, as India seeks to reduce its reliance on imports. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 9 pm

India, China discuss lifting rare earth export controls: MEA

Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are negotiating a trade deal that could see China commit to supplying rare earth materials to the United States. Meanwhile, India is engaging with China regarding its recent export controls on rare earth products, which were implemented in April and have impacted global manufacturers, particularly in the automotive sector. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the need for predictability in trade aligned with international norms. China's export restrictions were a response to U.S. tariffs, but the country has expressed a willingness to discuss these controls with India. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian stated that China is open to enhancing dialogue and cooperation to stabilize global industrial and supply chains. As the U.S.-China negotiations progress, other nations may face challenges if they do not address their own supply concerns. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 9 pm

Reservoir storage in India dips as monsoon pauses

The water levels in India's 161 major reservoirs have seen a slight decline this week, dropping to 55.519 billion cubic metres (BCM), or 30.43% of their total capacity, following a two-week increase as the south-west monsoon paused for 10 days. The Central Water Commission (CWC) reported that current storage levels are nearly 40% higher than last year and 30% above the 10-year average. The India Meteorological Department noted that 72% of the country's districts experienced deficient rainfall between June 1 and June 11. While eastern and southern regions saw storage increases, northern and western regions reported declines. However, with forecasts of surplus rainfall during the monsoon, experts anticipate improved agricultural production, building on last year's record outputs in rice, wheat, and maize, and projecting agricultural growth of over 3.5% for the current fiscal year. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 8 pm

Retail inflation falls to 2.82%, lowest in six years

Retail inflation in India fell to a 75-month low of 2.82% in May, down from 3.16% in April, primarily driven by declining food prices, according to the National Statistics Office (NSO). This decrease, attributed to lower costs for pulses, vegetables, and cereals, may not prompt the Reserve Bank of India to cut interest rates in its upcoming August meeting. The Consumer Food Price Index also saw a drop to 0.99% from 1.78% in April. Despite recent increases in vegetable prices due to heavy rainfall, HDFC Bank forecasts inflation to remain between 2.7% and 3.1% in June, aided by reduced import duties on edible oils. Rajni Sinha, Chief Economist at CareEdge, noted that the depreciation of the US dollar index has alleviated concerns over imported inflation, although geopolitical tensions have caused a recent rise in Brent crude prices. Economists predict a continued downward trend in inflation, with potential rate cuts if growth slows. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 8 pm

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