eznews.inIndia's Advanced Chemistry Cell Production Linked Incentive (ACC PLI) scheme, launched in October 2021 with a budget of ₹18,100 crore ($2.08 billion), is struggling to meet its ambitious targets. As of October 2025, only 2.8% of the planned 50 GWh capacity has been commissioned, all by Ola Electric, while investments stand at just 25.58% of the target. Despite initial strong interest, the scheme has generated a mere 1,118 jobs against an estimated 1.03 million. The first auction in March 2022 allocated 50 GWh, but subsequent rounds saw limited participation, with Reliance New Energy and Rajesh Exports also securing allocations. While Reliance aims to expedite its 10 GWh capacity by February 2027, Rajesh Exports has made no significant progress. The scheme's high investment requirements have restricted participation, raising concerns about India's ability to establish a robust domestic battery manufacturing sector. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 1 pmeznews.inBoeing anticipates increased orders for its Dreamliner aircraft in India, a market expected to experience significant growth, according to Salil Gupte, President of Boeing India and South Asia. Despite ongoing tariff disputes between India and the US, Gupte expressed confidence in overcoming short-term challenges, highlighting the industrialisation goals of both nations. Air India currently operates 33 Dreamliners, with a new custom-made model set to begin service on February 1. Gupte acknowledged the tragic crash of an Air India Dreamliner in June 2022, which killed 260 people, and noted that the investigation is ongoing. He emphasized the robust global demand for the B787 and the potential for expanding routes in India, while also addressing competition from Airbus as a natural aspect of the industry. Boeing has a significant presence in India, with over 265 aircraft in operation and annual sourcing exceeding $1.25 billion. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 1 pmeznews.inSouthern Railway has reported a significant operational boost, handling 31 million tonnes of freight between April and December 2025, up from 29 million tonnes in the same period last year, marking an 8% increase in gross earnings to ₹9,846 crore. In the passenger sector, the railway carried 579 million passengers during 2025-26, a 6% rise, while maintaining a punctuality rate of 92%. To meet seasonal demand, Southern Railway operated 3,570 special train trips and introduced six new trains with LHB coaches, alongside augmenting 111 coaches and speeding up 100 Mail/Express/Passenger trains. Infrastructure improvements included the commissioning of key projects such as new lines and the electrification of 253 track kilometres, bringing the total electrified network to 4,943 route kilometres. Additionally, the railway successfully traced and returned passenger belongings worth ₹16 crore and rescued around 2,000 runaway children and 75 trafficking victims. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 12 pmeznews.inAs India prepares for its Union Budget 2026, representatives from the agri-business sector are advocating for policies that empower farmers and enhance market efficiency while promoting climate-resilient agricultural growth. Arun Raste, MD & CEO of NCDEX, emphasized the need for increased funding in agricultural R&D, particularly for high-yield seeds, and highlighted the importance of rural entrepreneurship to curb migration and create jobs. Simon Wiebusch from Bayer called for stronger income support and investment in agri-logistics to bolster India's agricultural competitiveness. Other industry leaders, including Haresh Karamchandani and Rohit Mehrotra, stressed the necessity of support for organic farmers and improvements in supply chains. Additionally, Amit Maheshwari urged recognition of climate-smart agriculture, while Laxit Awla pointed to the potential of agri waste-to-energy projects in advancing India's clean energy goals. Collectively, these insights underscore the critical role of the upcoming budget in shaping the future of Indian agriculture. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 12 pmeznews.inDublin-based Brazilian planemaker Embraer is targeting a return to pre-pandemic delivery levels of around 100 commercial jets annually within the next two years, following a surge in orders for its regional jets. CEO Arjan Meijer announced plans to increase deliveries by nearly 30% compared to last year’s total of 78 jets, which met the company's forecast. Despite facing competition from Airbus, Embraer significantly boosted sales of its E2 series, securing 131 net orders in 2022. Meijer acknowledged geopolitical uncertainties but expressed confidence in sustained demand as airlines replace fleets deferred during the COVID-19 pandemic. While supply chains have improved, he noted the need for stability by 2026. Meijer also hinted at a potential partnership with India's Adani Group for aircraft assembly but refrained from confirming details. He emphasized a cautious approach to developing new aircraft platforms, focusing instead on existing technology. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 12 pmeznews.inThe Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Cooperative (Campco) has urged the Indian government to resist recommendations from international bodies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) regarding arecanut until domestic scientific research is completed. This plea follows the WHO's classification of arecanut as carcinogenic, which Campco President SR Satishchandra argues is based on studies of arecanut in combination with other substances, rather than its natural form. He highlighted inconsistencies in the classification, noting that while arecanut is deemed Group 1 carcinogenic, its main component, arecoline, is classified as Group 2B. Satishchandra emphasized the socio-economic risks of premature policy decisions, as arecanut supports the livelihoods of nearly 20 million people in India. He called for the government to engage with WHO to reconsider arecanut's classification and to await the results of a comprehensive national research program led by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, expected to conclude in 18 months. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 12 pmeznews.inUnion Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2025 on February 1 in the Lok Sabha, marking her ninth consecutive budget. Anticipations include a significant overhaul of the Customs duty regime, mirroring the GST structure, alongside reforms aimed at bolstering the economy amid rising geopolitical tensions. The budget is expected to address the debt-to-GDP ratio, shifting fiscal management focus from deficit control to debt reduction. Individuals are hopeful for an increase in the standard deduction, while the new Income Tax Act, effective April 1, 2025, may include transition provisions to facilitate understanding. Other expectations encompass a rationalisation of TDS rates, a customs regime overhaul to unlock ₹1.53 lakh crore in disputes, increased defence spending, and provisions for the 8th Pay Commission. Additionally, there will be incentives for MSMEs and funding for critical mineral exploration, reflecting a comprehensive approach to economic growth. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 11 ameznews.inIndiGo has announced the cancellation of flights to and from Tbilisi, Almaty, Tashkent, and Baku on January 26, 27, and 28, due to escalating tensions in Iran. The airline stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and prioritizing passenger safety, as these routes typically traverse Iranian airspace. IndiGo operates A320neo aircraft on these routes, which lack the range to divert to longer alternative paths. The cancellations come amid rising concerns of a potential military conflict between Iran and the United States, prompting the airline to reassess its flight operations. Passengers scheduled to travel on these dates are advised to check for updates and alternative arrangements. The situation remains fluid, and IndiGo is committed to ensuring the safety of its operations. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 8 ameznews.inFrench shipping giant CMA CGM celebrated a significant milestone with the naming of its 400th fully owned vessel, the CMA CGM Monte Cristo, a new-generation, dual-fuel methanol ship designed to enhance sustainable shipping practices. This event underscores the company's commitment to expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. In related developments, Golden Island Pte Ltd successfully completed Singapore's inaugural methanol bunkering operation, following the Maritime and Port Authority's licensing initiative set to take effect in 2026. The Singapore-flagged dry bulk carrier, Brave Pioneer, received 300 tonnes of methanol during this operation, showcasing its dual-fuel capabilities. Meanwhile, the Colombo East Container Terminal in Sri Lanka marked the commissioning of its third berth, with plans to enhance operational capacity and achieve a throughput target of 1.5 million TEUs this year, contributing to the region's economic growth and trade connectivity. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 6 ameznews.inThe Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) is set to embark on a significant shipbuilding initiative with a ₹4,500-crore shipyard project at Kandla, Gujarat, opting for a more feasible approach than its previously proposed ₹27,000-crore mega facility. The DPA is nearing a joint venture agreement with Kolkata's Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) to create a smart, automated shipyard capable of constructing very large crude carriers (VLCCs) and other merchant vessels. The project will utilize 120 acres of reclaimed waterfront land and aims to produce at least two VLCCs or VLGCs annually. While the Kandla yard will initially focus on shipbuilding, it is expected to transition to repair and maintenance as a larger shipbuilding cluster at Veera village develops. The DPA's efforts come amid challenges in India's shipbuilding sector, which holds a mere 0.06% global market share, hindered by high capital costs and a lack of integrated maritime infrastructure. 
Published: Jan 26 2026, 6 am
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