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In Maharashtra, rabi sowing has reached only 45% completion as of November 24, with 25.99 lakh hectares cultivated out of an average 57.80 lakh hectares, according to official data. The slow start is evident across major crops, with rabi cereals sown on just 13.46 lakh hectares—less than half of the usual area. Pulses have seen 12.35 lakh hectares sown, reflecting only 47% of the average, while foodgrain sowing stands at 25.69 lakh hectares, marking 50% progress. The oilseeds segment is particularly concerning, with only 0.18 lakh hectares sown compared to an average of 0.70 lakh hectares. Agriculture officials attribute the sluggish pace to moisture stress from a delayed monsoon, staggered kharif harvests, and farmer uncertainty regarding soil conditions. However, with 91% water storage in state dams, conditions may improve in the coming weeks, potentially boosting sowing efforts. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 2 pmeznews.inIndia has achieved "major power" status in the Asia Power Index-2025, according to the Lowy Institute, driven by its economic growth and military capabilities, particularly highlighted by its performance in Operation Sindoor. The index, which ranks states based on resources and influence, saw India’s score rise from 38.1 to 40 points, placing it third overall, behind the US and China. Notably, India improved its economic capability ranking to third, surpassing Japan, and became the top destination for inward investment after the US. However, the report notes significant gaps between India's ambitions and its actual influence, especially compared to China, with India's weakest area being defense networks, where it dropped to 11th place. Despite these challenges, India's economic and military advancements have bolstered its geopolitical relevance, although its diplomatic relationships have not improved at the same pace, leading to a widening power gap. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 2 pmeznews.inIn the latest market update, the SENSEX rose slightly by 5.73 points, closing at 85,726.11, while the NIFTY experienced a decline of 14.45 points, settling at 26,201.10. In commodities, crude oil prices increased by 5.00, reaching 5,295.00, while gold saw a notable rise of 285.00, now priced at 125,789.00. Silver also gained significantly, up 1,434.00, bringing its value to 163,901.00. The mixed performance in the stock indices reflects ongoing market volatility, with investors closely monitoring economic indicators and global trends. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 2 pmeznews.inThe Malaysian Rubber Council (MRC) is actively seeking joint ventures with Indian companies to boost local rubber product manufacturing, according to representative Samir Shah. At a recent event hosted by the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shah highlighted the Council's commitment to technology transfer and collaborative research to improve product quality and sustainability, particularly in healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods. He noted that India is a significant market for Malaysia's rubber exports, which exceed MYR 2.2 billion monthly, with thread rubber being a key export. The demand for high-density foam mattresses in India has surged, reflecting a growing consumer preference for quality products. Shah also emphasized Malaysia's dominance in the medical glove sector, crucial for India's healthcare needs, while Rajkumar Gupta, President of the Indian Chamber, underscored the vast potential for trade and investment between the two nations. Ashok Kumar Khurana called for ongoing dialogue to foster growth in the natural rubber industry. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 1 pmeznews.inIndia is actively negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) with various global partners, including the US and the European Union, as part of efforts to strengthen economic ties, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Speaking at the Ficci annual general meeting, Goyal highlighted the importance of collaborating with "trusted" partners amid rising global trade tensions, particularly following the US's recent imposition of a 50% import duty on Indian goods. Currently, India is in discussions with around 50 countries and groups, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which comprises six Gulf nations. India has already established a comprehensive trade agreement with the UAE and is nearing completion of talks with Oman. Additionally, negotiations are ongoing with Canada for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) aimed at boosting bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030, while reviews of existing pacts with ASEAN and Korea are also underway. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 12 pmeznews.inIndia is set to extend the tax holiday for aircraft leasing firms at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) from 10 to 15 years, aiming to capture a larger share of the global leasing market, currently dominated by Ireland. This extension is expected to attract more lessors, as profits typically surge in the later years of an aircraft's leasing cycle, where depreciation costs are minimal. As of January 31, 2023, GIFT City had registered 33 aircraft lessors, facilitating the leasing of over 60 aircraft and engines. The proposed policy change, part of India's upcoming budget proposals, seeks to enhance GIFT City's competitiveness against established financial hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong. The initiative is also expected to benefit local carriers, including IndiGo and Air India, as well as global subsidiaries like Rolls-Royce and Willis Lease Finance. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 12 pmeznews.inMoody's Ratings announced on Friday that India is set to lead economic growth among emerging markets and the Asia Pacific region, projecting a GDP expansion of 7% in 2025 and 6.4% in 2026. The agency highlighted that India's robust domestic growth drivers contribute to its economic resilience amid global uncertainties. Despite a continued weakening of the Indian rupee against the dollar, many rated companies have effective currency risk management strategies and strong financial buffers, allowing investment-grade entities to access international capital markets. Moody's also noted that the average GDP growth in the Asia-Pacific region is expected to remain stable at 3.4% in 2026, slightly up from 3.3% in 2024, while emerging markets will collectively achieve an average growth of 5.6%, significantly outpacing the 1.3% growth anticipated for advanced markets. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 12 pmeznews.inFerocious thunderstorms generated by Cyclone Ditwah are currently affecting Kaveripattinam, Thanjavur, Karaikudi, and Rameswaram along the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'orange message' for north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and parts of south Andhra Pradesh, as the cyclone is located 440 km south-southeast of Puducherry and 540 km south of Chennai. Currently hovering over coastal Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, Ditwah is expected to move north-northwest and may reach the coastal waters off north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry by early Sunday. While the cyclone is forecasted to weaken into a deep depression by Monday, heavy rainfall and high winds are anticipated across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and coastal Andhra Pradesh, with alerts for extremely heavy rain in isolated areas. Rainfall intensity is expected to gradually decrease after the weekend. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 10 ameznews.inDemand for loose tea is expected to surge at Kochi auctions during the ongoing Sabarimala pilgrim season, which has already attracted nearly 1 million devotees since November 16. Traders anticipate a 5-10% increase in tea sales as pilgrims often purchase packet teas on their return journeys. Auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis reported a robust CTC dust market in Sale 48, with 95% of the 590,741 kg offered sold, primarily to blenders. While primary grades of orthodox dust remained steady, secondary grades saw a decline, attributed to reduced purchases from Iraqi buyers. The CTC leaf market also performed well, achieving a 90% sales rate from 35,000 kg offered. Anil George, Chairman of the Tea Trade Association of Cochin, noted that the heightened demand for both loose and packet teas is expected to continue through mid-January, despite cautious buyer sentiment. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 11 ameznews.inThe Supreme Court of India has raised concerns regarding the disparity in accident insurance coverage for railway passengers, questioning why only those who purchase tickets online are provided with such protection. During a hearing on November 25, Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and K Vinod Chandran directed Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee to clarify the rationale behind this distinction. The court emphasized the need for the Indian Railways to prioritize safety at tracks and crossings, as highlighted in a report submitted by the national transporter. The justices underscored the importance of a comprehensive improvement plan for the railway system. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on January 13, 2026, with the railways required to respond regarding the insurance issue. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 10 am
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