eznews.inIndia's aviation safety regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has instructed Tata Group-led Air India to reinspect the emergency power source system, known as the Ram Air Turbine (RAT), in all aircraft that recently had their power conditioning module (PCM) replaced. The RAT is a critical emergency power source that activates automatically during significant system failures, providing essential hydraulic and electrical power. This advisory follows an incident on October 4, 2025, when Air India's Flight AI-117 from Amritsar to Birmingham experienced an unexpected RAT deployment during its final approach, although all onboard systems were reported normal. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated that the DGCA is actively investigating the matter. Additionally, the DGCA has requested Boeing to submit a comprehensive report on preventive measures regarding the incident and to provide information on similar RAT deployments in Boeing 787 aircraft globally. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 8 pmeznews.inNoida International Airport (NIA) is on track for a December opening, with advanced terminal trials and technical equipment testing underway as part of its final preparations. Phase 1 of the infrastructure development is set for completion by the end of October, allowing for the issuance of an aerodrome license and the commencement of commercial operations. CEO Christoph Schnellmann expressed optimism about delivering a world-class aviation experience, while Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed that regulatory testing will follow construction. Significant progress has been made, including the completion of roofing and key systems installation at the passenger terminal. The airport aims to handle six million passengers in its first year, with a capacity of 12 million annually during the initial phase. IndiGo is expected to be the first airline to operate from NIA, with international services anticipated in later phases. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 5 pmeznews.inAs Diwali approaches, many shoppers are unaware that a significant portion of the dry fruits they purchase, such as almonds and walnuts, are imported, with nearly 75-80% of the ₹60,000-crore market dominated by foreign products. Agritech startup KisaanSay is promoting Indian-grown dry fruits as a premium alternative, claiming a recent survey showed 100% of young consumers in New Delhi preferred domestic varieties for their taste and quality. Despite this, perceptions favor imports, prompting KisaanSay to export Indian nuts to markets like the US and UAE to enhance their domestic appeal. Industry experts note that many imported nuts are processed in India, contributing to the local economy. With dry fruit consumption rising annually, calls for a "Grow in India" initiative aim to boost domestic production, particularly in regions suitable for walnut and pecan cultivation. As the debate over "swadeshi" versus imported products intensifies, the definition of what constitutes Indian dry fruits may evolve. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 5 pmeznews.inAir India is focusing on product enhancements and operational stability to regain market share following a challenging period, including a June incident involving a Boeing 787 aircraft. The airline faces additional hurdles due to the closure of Pakistan's airspace, which has led to longer flight routes and increased fuel costs for its North America services. Despite these challenges, Air India reports improved on-time performance and a record Net Performance Score. Over 80% of its narrow-body fleet has been upgraded, with retrofitting of legacy Boeing 787s set for completion by early 2026. In the upcoming October-December quarter, Air India plans to operate approximately 688 flights daily, while its subsidiary, Air India Express, will run 495 flights, a decrease from previous quarters. The airline is also preparing for the launch of Navi Mumbai airport, aiming to shift 20% of its capacity there to alleviate congestion at the current Mumbai airport. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 6 pmeznews.inThe Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is exploring strategies to bolster Indian firms' financial capabilities, enabling them to compete with global giants in the audit and advisory sectors. ICAI President Charanjot Singh Nanda emphasized the need for increased branches, workforce, and financial resources for domestic firms to thrive. The Prime Minister's Office is also engaged in developing Indian Multi-Disciplinary Partnership (MDP) firms, addressing key issues such as marketing restrictions and fragmented licensing. Nanda outlined ICAI's vision for 2047, which includes training 3 million skilled chartered accountants, fostering a digitally empowered economy, and supporting startups. The institute aims to integrate advanced technologies into its curriculum while enhancing research and collaboration with global accounting bodies. As the global consulting industry, valued at $240 billion, remains dominated by international firms, ICAI is committed to overcoming structural barriers to elevate Indian firms on the world stage. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 5 pmeznews.inAndhra Pradesh is set to surpass 240 million kilograms in Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco production this year, significantly exceeding the Tobacco Board's authorized crop size of 167 million kg. In contrast, Karnataka's output is projected to remain under 100 million kg, with auctions commencing on all 10 platforms from October 8. Tobacco Board Chairman Yashwanth Chidipothu noted that approximately 200 million kg has already been auctioned in Andhra Pradesh, with an additional 40 million kg expected before the end of October. Current prices are around ₹261 per kg, lower than last year's average of ₹292. The Tobacco Board, operating under the Union Ministry of Commerce, regulates crop sizes but often sees actual production exceed these limits, leading to additional cess charges for excess tobacco. Farmers growing non-FCV varieties are now advocating for similar regulatory protections as those enjoyed by FCV producers. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 4 pmeznews.inChina has initiated construction on a strategic railway line connecting Tibet to Lhasa, raising alarms over its military and security implications for India, as the route runs near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Experts warn that this project could enhance China's military logistics and influence in the region, facilitating troop mobilization along the border. The railway is part of a broader plan to establish a 5,000-km plateau rail network around Lhasa within a decade, coinciding with India's own border rail initiatives. Tibetan activist Tenzin Tsundue described the railway as one of China's most ambitious projects, potentially coming within 20-30 km of the Demchok border in Ladakh. The railway not only aims to bolster military capabilities but also to exploit Tibet's rich natural resources, including lithium and uranium, reflecting China's expansionist policies and intent to assert control over the Indian Himalayan region. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 4 pmeznews.inIndia's sugar marketing season, which runs from October to September, saw an estimated export of 7.75 lakh tonnes for the 2024-25 season, according to the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA). The government had permitted a total export quota of 10 lakh tonnes, with shipments primarily comprising 6.13 lakh tonnes of white sugar, 1.04 lakh tonnes of refined sugar, and 33,338 tonnes of raw sugar. The largest export destinations included Djibouti, Somalia, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. AISTA has projected total exports for the season to reach around 8 lakh tonnes and has urged the government to announce an early export quota for the upcoming 2025-26 season by November 2025. The association also recommended maintaining the same export quota policy for mills as implemented in the current marketing year. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 2 pmeznews.inThe Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is spearheading efforts to establish large homegrown multi-disciplinary partnership firms (MDPs) to enhance India's presence in the global consulting and auditing market, valued at approximately $240 billion. ICAI President Charanjot Singh Nanda announced that a report is being prepared to explore financing options for these firms, which aim to integrate various professional services such as auditing, consulting, and legal under one roof. This initiative aligns with India's goal of becoming a developed economy by 2047 and is supported by discussions at the government level, including the formation of an Inter-ministerial Group by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Nanda emphasized the need for regulatory benefits, technological advancements, and a shift in mindset to overcome existing barriers that have kept domestic firms from competing effectively in high-value sectors. The report will address funding for infrastructure and operational needs of the proposed MDPs. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 1 pmeznews.inNorwegian Ambassador to India, May-Elin Stener, has highlighted Norway's commitment to promoting India as a key investment destination, particularly following the launch of the free trade agreement between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) on October 1. Engaging with states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal, Norway aims to boost investments in sectors such as renewable energy, ocean industries, and the circular economy. Stener noted Norway's interest in exporting seafood, especially frozen salmon, while seeking to import Indian coffee, textiles, and fish-feed. The EFTA pact includes a $100 billion investment commitment over 15 years, with a 'claw-back' provision to ensure investments materialize. Although Norway's bilateral trade with India currently stands at $1.23 billion, it has doubled over the past decade, and the ambassador anticipates further growth driven by the FTA and increasing interest from Norwegian investors. 
Published: Oct 12 2025, 12 pm
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