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JSW Infra aims ₹700-800 crore revenue, ₹100 crore EBITDA by FY26

JSW Infrastructure Ltd, India's second-largest commercial port operator, is significantly expanding its logistics arm, targeting a turnover of ₹700-800 crore and an EBITDA of ₹100 crore by FY26. The logistics strategy will leverage captive volumes from the JSW Group and return cargo from EXIM players, with a capital investment exceeding ₹9,000 crore planned to support long-term growth. Following its acquisition of Navkar Corporation for ₹1,700 crore, JSW Infra aims to enhance its logistics capabilities, including the establishment of new Gati Shakti terminals and strategic acquisitions. The company is also focused on doubling its cargo handling capacity from 177 million tonnes per annum to 400 million tonnes by FY30. With a manageable net debt of ₹1,246 crore, JSW Infra is well-positioned to pursue its ambitious growth plans, which include multiple port projects and the development of a pan-India multi-modal logistics network. sources

Published:
Jul 30 2025, 6 pm

Global steel production falls 2.2% in early 2025

Global steel production fell by 2.2% to 934.3 million tonnes in the first half of 2025, primarily due to a 3% decline in output from China, the world's largest producer, which reported 514.8 million tonnes. India was the only major producer to see growth, increasing its output by 9.2% to 80.9 million tonnes. Other notable declines included Japan, down 5% to 40.6 million tonnes, and Germany, which saw an 11.6% drop to 17.1 million tonnes. In June alone, production decreased by 5.8% to 151.4 million tonnes, with China producing 83.2 million tonnes, a 9.2% decrease, while India’s output rose by 13.3% to 13.6 million tonnes. Regionally, Africa's production grew by 3%, while the EU and Russia experienced declines of 8.2% and 8.8%, respectively. The data was released by the World Steel Association on July 31, 2025. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 5 pm

Exporters: US tariff poses no threat to cashew sector

The imposition of a 25 per cent tariff on cashew imports by the Trump administration is unlikely to significantly impact Indian cashew exporters, who currently hold a small share of the US market, according to industry experts. Pankaj N Sampat of Samson Traders noted that shipments to the US are minimal, suggesting that while American consumers may face higher prices for cashews and other imported goods, the overall effect on India's cashew exports will be limited. The US accounts for 18-20 per cent of global cashew consumption, which could influence prices, but the market is expected to adjust over time. Meanwhile, African nations like Côte d’Ivoire and Benin, benefiting from lower tariffs and enhancing their processing capabilities, pose a growing competitive threat to Indian cashews. J Rajmohan Pillai of NutKing emphasized the uncertainty surrounding future tariffs, indicating that predictions remain difficult until more information is available. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 5 pm

India's Growth Surprises Analysts, Contradicting Trump's 'Dead Economy' View

India is increasingly recognized as a hub for talent, particularly in the tech sector, and remains a significant exporter of services, especially to the United States. Despite US President Donald Trump's recent disparaging remarks, labeling India a "dead economy," analysts argue that such views are misguided. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) continues to project India as the fastest-growing major economy, with growth rates expected at 6.4% for 2025 and 2026, reflecting a positive shift in global economic dynamics towards the Global South. EY India highlights the youthful demographic of India, with a median age of 28.8 years compared to 38.5 in the US and 42.8 in Europe, positioning it as a vibrant contributor to advanced fields like AI and space technology. As developed economies face aging populations, India's robust economic policies and skilled workforce are seen as pivotal for its ambition to become an advanced economy by 2047. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 5 pm

Air India's Dreamliner aborts Delhi takeoff over technical issue

Air India faced another setback on July 31, 2025, when its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, scheduled to fly from Delhi to London, aborted takeoff due to a suspected technical issue. The airline confirmed that the cockpit crew followed standard operating procedures, returning the aircraft to the bay for precautionary checks. An alternative aircraft is being arranged to transport passengers to London as soon as possible, with ground staff providing support to minimize inconvenience. This incident adds to a series of recent operational challenges for Air India, which has come under regulatory scrutiny following a tragic accident on June 12, when a Boeing 787-8 crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, resulting in the deaths of 260 people. The airline's ongoing issues have raised concerns about its safety protocols and operational reliability. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 5 pm

IIT Madras creates eco-friendly packaging from agricultural waste

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, have developed a sustainable packaging material derived from agricultural waste, offering a viable alternative to conventional plastic foams. The study, published in *Bioresource Technology Reports*, highlights the creation of mycelium-based biocomposites that exhibit desirable mechanical properties, water resistance, and biodegradability. Assistant Professor Lakshminath Kundanati emphasized the dual impact of this innovation, addressing both plastic pollution—over four million tonnes generated annually in India—and the disposal of 350 million tonnes of agricultural waste. By cultivating specific fungi on these residues, the research not only diverts waste from burning but also aligns with circular economy principles. The team aims to optimize these materials for scalability and extended shelf life, ultimately promoting eco-friendly packaging solutions that could transform the industry and contribute to a healthier environment. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 4 pm

India's August monsoon rainfall expected to be average, says bureau

India is expected to experience average monsoon rainfall in August, following a 5% increase above normal levels in July, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the IMD's director-general, announced during a virtual news conference that September is projected to see above-average rainfall, potentially exceeding 106% of the 50-year average. This forecast is crucial for the country's economy, as monsoon rains play a vital role in agriculture and water supply. The announcement comes as office workers in New Delhi's Connaught Place were recently caught in a sudden downpour, highlighting the ongoing impact of the monsoon season across the region. The weather patterns are being closely monitored as they hold significant implications for various sectors reliant on consistent rainfall. (Reporting by Rajendra Jadhav; Editing by Sharon Singleton) sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 4 pm

India-UK Pact Could Elevate Technical Textile Exports to $1B

India's technical textiles sector is set for significant growth following the recent Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) with the UK, which grants 100% duty-free access for Indian exports across 99% of the UK's tariff lines. Currently, the UK imports technical textiles worth over $7 billion annually, and Indian exports in this segment, valued at $240 million, are projected to exceed $1 billion by 2030. Bhadresh Dodhia, former chairman of the Manmade Fibre and Technical Textiles Export Promotion Council (Matexil), highlighted that the agreement provides India a competitive edge over China, which lacks a free trade agreement with the UK. Key sub-segments such as agrotech, geotech, and medical textiles are expected to thrive, bolstered by India's manufacturing capabilities. Matexil is actively working with industry stakeholders to ensure compliance with UK standards and facilitate market entry for Indian exporters. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 3 pm

KJ Patel appointed new MD of IFFCO, succeeding US Awasthi

Fertiliser cooperative IFFCO has appointed KJ Patel as its new Managing Director following the retirement of US Awasthi, who stepped down after turning 80. IFFCO Chairman Dileep Sanghani announced the board's decision, expressing confidence that Patel, previously Director - Technical and head of the Paradip plant, will lead the cooperative into a new era of innovation. Patel, a Mechanical Engineering graduate from Saurashtra University, brings over 32 years of experience in the fertiliser industry. Sanghani praised Awasthi for his three-decade tenure, during which he transformed IFFCO into a globally recognized cooperative, increasing production capacity by 292% and expanding into diversified businesses. Under Awasthi's leadership, IFFCO reported a 16% rise in net profit to ₹2,823 crore for the 2024-25 fiscal year, driven by higher sales of conventional and nano fertilisers. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 3 pm

Uber Intercity Launches 3,000+ Routes in India

Uber has announced a significant expansion of its intercity services in India, increasing its routes by 50% to over 3,000, with plans for similar growth in the coming year. The ride-hailing giant also introduced the Uber Intercity Motorhome, a limited-time offering available from August 7 to September 6, which can be booked for trips originating from the Delhi-NCR region. Each motorhome, designed to accommodate 4-5 passengers, will come with a driver and a helper, and features amenities such as a television, lavatory, microwave, and mini-refrigerator for added comfort. Shweta Mantri, Head of Rider Verticals for Uber India and South Asia, highlighted that by the end of 2024, Uber Intercity aims to be operational across 2,000 routes, reflecting the company's commitment to enhancing travel options in the region. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 3 pm

Amlan Bora named Chief Representative for Rotterdam Port in South Asia

Amlan Bora has been appointed as the Chief Representative for India and South Asia for the Port of Rotterdam Authority, as announced in an official release on Thursday. Operating through Dhanoni Advisory LLP from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Bora's role aims to strengthen partnerships between the Port of Rotterdam and countries including India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. His responsibilities will focus on establishing equitable supply chains for cargo and bulk materials, as well as exploring new energy solutions like hydrogen carriers. Bora's previous experience includes serving as the Chief Representative and Trade & Investment Commissioner for the Netherlands Business Support Offices in India, which are managed by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. This appointment is expected to enhance business synergies around critical raw materials between Europe and South Asia, further solidifying the long-standing relationship between the Port of Rotterdam and the region. sources

Published:
Jul 31 2025, 2 pm

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