News
Urea Imports zoom 137% as output dips 4% in april-october !
India exported rice worth $392 million to the USA in FY25, just 3% of its global rice exports !
Agriculture / Pesticides & Agrochemicals
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
BODY: Import of diammonium phosphate(DAP), the second most used fertilizer in the country, increased 69.1% though production dropped 7.4% in April-October 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 !
However, the production of Nitrate Phosphorus(NP) and Nitrate Phosphorus Potassium(NPK) fertilizers increased 12.6% in April-October in 2025 compared to 2024, and its import climbed 80.6% in the period !
Import of Muriate of Potash(MoP) also dropped 22.1% in April-October !
India is world's top rice producer & exporter and produced about 150 million tonne rice in 2024-25 !
FACT: India's domestic urea production has significantly increased reaching a record 31.4% million tonnes in FY24, driven by the commissioning of six new plants by companies such as Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd(HURL), Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals, Matix Fertilisers & Chemicals and Ramagundam Fertlisers & Chemicals Limited(RFCL) !
India had 28% share in global rice output, 30% share in global rice trade !
However, the production of Nitrate Phosphorus(NP) and Nitrate Phosphorus Potassium(NPK) fertilizers increased 12.6% in April-October in 2025 compared to 2024, and its import climbed 80.6% in the period !
Import of Muriate of Potash(MoP) also dropped 22.1% in April-October !
India is world's top rice producer & exporter and produced about 150 million tonne rice in 2024-25 !
FACT: India's domestic urea production has significantly increased reaching a record 31.4% million tonnes in FY24, driven by the commissioning of six new plants by companies such as Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd(HURL), Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals, Matix Fertilisers & Chemicals and Ramagundam Fertlisers & Chemicals Limited(RFCL) !
India had 28% share in global rice output, 30% share in global rice trade !
Electronics Inc Ask govt to let chinese jVs with 26% stake cap
Electronics / Household Appliances
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
BODY: Industry representations have increased after Dixon Tech received nod to form a JV with Chinese peer LongCheer Intelligence !
Dixon will have a 74% stake in the new JV, while LongCheer will own 26% !
Hisense is also planning to acquire up to 26% in Epack Durable's subsidiary !
FACT: Current Department For Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade(DPIIT) guidelines mandate Foreign Direct Investment from neighbouring countries from 2020 need prior security clearance from both the Ministries of Home Affairs and External Affairs !
Dixon will have a 74% stake in the new JV, while LongCheer will own 26% !
Hisense is also planning to acquire up to 26% in Epack Durable's subsidiary !
FACT: Current Department For Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade(DPIIT) guidelines mandate Foreign Direct Investment from neighbouring countries from 2020 need prior security clearance from both the Ministries of Home Affairs and External Affairs !
Tata steel set to buy thriveni pellets; secure raw materials supply
metal / mine / ore
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
BODY: Tata Steel is set to acquire a 50.01% stake in Odisha based Thriveni Pellets !
Thriveni Pellets, through wholly owned arm Brahmani River Pellets operates a 4-million tonne pellet plant in Jajpur, Odisha, close to Tata Steel's Kalinganagar Facility and Neelachal Ispat Nigam, which Tata acquired a few years ago !
FACT: Iron Ore pellets are used in blast furnaces along with coking coal to produce steel !
Brahmani River Pellets among the country's largest merchant pellet producers also operates a 4-7 million tonne iron ore beneficiation plant in Barbil, Odisha !
Brahmani River Pellets posted a profit of Rs 38.67 crore in FY24 on revenue of Rs 2,473.91 crore !
Thriveni Pellets, through wholly owned arm Brahmani River Pellets operates a 4-million tonne pellet plant in Jajpur, Odisha, close to Tata Steel's Kalinganagar Facility and Neelachal Ispat Nigam, which Tata acquired a few years ago !
FACT: Iron Ore pellets are used in blast furnaces along with coking coal to produce steel !
Brahmani River Pellets among the country's largest merchant pellet producers also operates a 4-7 million tonne iron ore beneficiation plant in Barbil, Odisha !
Brahmani River Pellets posted a profit of Rs 38.67 crore in FY24 on revenue of Rs 2,473.91 crore !
After IndiGo crisis, railways loco pilots seek work-hour caps
logistics / railway
Tuesday, December 09, 2025
BODY: Criticising the Centre's stand on the IndiGo issue, the All India Loco Running Staff Association(AILRSA) in a statement emphasized how soft it is as opposed to the strategy adopted for government employees !
The civil aviation regulator's concerns stem from IndiGo's inability to implement the Fatigue Risk Management System(FRMS) and the notified revised Flight Duty Time Limitations(FDTL) which came into effect from November !
FACT: The association, AILRSA, called for immediate adoption of an FRMS -based working hour system for loco pilots with a six-hour daily limits !
The civil aviation regulator's concerns stem from IndiGo's inability to implement the Fatigue Risk Management System(FRMS) and the notified revised Flight Duty Time Limitations(FDTL) which came into effect from November !
FACT: The association, AILRSA, called for immediate adoption of an FRMS -based working hour system for loco pilots with a six-hour daily limits !
Copper Industry seeks curb on cheap imports
metal / mine / ore
monday, December 08, 2025
BODY: The Indian Primary Copper Producers Association(IPCPA) is seeking an additional 3% duty on copper cathodes, rods, wires and tubes, along with quantitative curbs on such imports !
While India became a net importer of copper after the closure of Vedanta's Tamil Nadu plant a few years ago, subsequent investments in capacity have made the sector self-sufficient !
FACT: Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement(CEPA) with the UAE, the import duty on copper wire rods is being cut by 1% each year from 2022, and will reach zero in FY27 !
For Japan, which has surplus copper output, the IPCPA has recommended introducing a tariff rate quota for cathode imports !
While India became a net importer of copper after the closure of Vedanta's Tamil Nadu plant a few years ago, subsequent investments in capacity have made the sector self-sufficient !
FACT: Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement(CEPA) with the UAE, the import duty on copper wire rods is being cut by 1% each year from 2022, and will reach zero in FY27 !
For Japan, which has surplus copper output, the IPCPA has recommended introducing a tariff rate quota for cathode imports !
Call of duty infuses fresh energy into local gear makers
defence / Defence Equipment
monday, December 08, 2025
BODY: JCB India, BEML & ACE among companies see new demand as India beefs up its border amid geopolitical tensions; DRDO tech transfers, import checks also help !
JCB(Joseph Cyril Bamford) India recently secured orders for 747 telehandlers from the Ministry of Defence(MOD) !
Action Construction Equipment(ACE) will supply 1,121 Rough-Terrain Fork Lift Trucks(RTFLT) !
Bharat Earth Movers(BEML), meanwhile, has won contracts worth Rs 576 crore to supply High-Mobility Vehicles(HMV) for difficult terrains !
FACT: JCB India has technology for making 3-tonne and 4-tonne telehandlers and is specifically developing 2-tonne telehandlers for defence forces !
The company is working with DRDO on certain projects and developing new railway technologies !
JCB(Joseph Cyril Bamford) India recently secured orders for 747 telehandlers from the Ministry of Defence(MOD) !
Action Construction Equipment(ACE) will supply 1,121 Rough-Terrain Fork Lift Trucks(RTFLT) !
Bharat Earth Movers(BEML), meanwhile, has won contracts worth Rs 576 crore to supply High-Mobility Vehicles(HMV) for difficult terrains !
FACT: JCB India has technology for making 3-tonne and 4-tonne telehandlers and is specifically developing 2-tonne telehandlers for defence forces !
The company is working with DRDO on certain projects and developing new railway technologies !
India Bucks global trend as digital & traditional media segments expand
media / entertainment
friday, December 05, 2025
BODY: According to PwC's Global Entertainment & Media outlook 2025-29: India perspective the sector grew 11.75% in 2024 to $32.25 Biillion and is projected to reach $47.20 Billion by 2029 at a 7.8% CAGR, powered by the country's 910-million millennial and Gen-Z base !
FACT: Television remains India's largest traditional medium, with revenues rising from $13.97 Billion to $18.12 Billion !
Print continues to be an outlier compared with global declines, growing from $3.5 Billion to $4.2 Billion !
Cinema revenues, which slipped 1.9% in 2024 to $1.5 Billion, are expected to recover to $1.7 Billion by 2029 !
FACT: Television remains India's largest traditional medium, with revenues rising from $13.97 Billion to $18.12 Billion !
Print continues to be an outlier compared with global declines, growing from $3.5 Billion to $4.2 Billion !
Cinema revenues, which slipped 1.9% in 2024 to $1.5 Billion, are expected to recover to $1.7 Billion by 2029 !
Old silver turns source of new riches
metal / mine / ore
friday, December 05, 2025
BODY: Indians sold an estimated 100 tonnes of old silver in one week, the Indian Bullion & Jewellers Association(IBJA) !
Silver hit a record high of Rs 1,78,684 a Kg in the retail market Wednesday, according to IBJA data !
FACT: Silver with its price more than doubling from Rs 86,005 / Kg in 2024, has outpaced nearly every major asset class this year !
Silver hit a record high of Rs 1,78,684 a Kg in the retail market Wednesday, according to IBJA data !
FACT: Silver with its price more than doubling from Rs 86,005 / Kg in 2024, has outpaced nearly every major asset class this year !
higher pharma, chemicals exports to russia bloc on agenda to trim deficit
economy / import-export
Thursday, December 04, 2025
BODY: In a move to reduce its $59 Billion trade deficit with Moscow, New-Delhi has flagged more than 65 non-tariff barriers faced by its marine exports to Russia, the largest country in the EAEU(Eurasian Economic Union), and identified four categories of barriers faced by its pharma exports -registration process, clinical trials, restricted market access, and price registration !
$68.7 Billion Indian-Russia bilateral trade in FY 2024-25 !
Of this, India's exports were only $4.88 Billion !
FACT: The EAEU comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia !
Key Indian Exports:- Agri-Products like Fish, Shrimp, Rice & Tobacco; Chemical products; Pharma; Iron & Steel !
Major Imports from Russia:- Oil & Petroleum products; Fertilisers; Bituminous substances; Mineral fuels !
$68.7 Billion Indian-Russia bilateral trade in FY 2024-25 !
Of this, India's exports were only $4.88 Billion !
FACT: The EAEU comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia !
Key Indian Exports:- Agri-Products like Fish, Shrimp, Rice & Tobacco; Chemical products; Pharma; Iron & Steel !
Major Imports from Russia:- Oil & Petroleum products; Fertilisers; Bituminous substances; Mineral fuels !
Private companies may get to service non-railway entities' wagons
Logistics / Railway
Monday, December 01, 2025
BODY: The Indian Railways is weighing a plan to let private players maintain freight wagons, a move that can open a new service market and ease capacity constraints in its overhaul depots !
According to industry estimates, roughly 20% of all wagons are always in maintenance depots !
An industry representative said the private sector can bring down the number of wagons undergoing maintenance to less than 10% !
FACT: There are around 750 container rakes(trains) of 45 wagons each operating on the railway network !
The railways charges around 5% of the total freight tariff value for maintaining container wagons !
According to industry estimates, roughly 20% of all wagons are always in maintenance depots !
An industry representative said the private sector can bring down the number of wagons undergoing maintenance to less than 10% !
FACT: There are around 750 container rakes(trains) of 45 wagons each operating on the railway network !
The railways charges around 5% of the total freight tariff value for maintaining container wagons !
India taps morocco ties for fertiliser needs
agriculture / fertiliser
Friday, November 28, 2025
BODY: India's quest for uninterrupted fertiliser supplies could be met by phosphate-rich Morocco amid weaponisation of the commodity by exporters such as China !
The over 100-year-old Morocco-based company, OCP Group, owns a 28% stake in India's leading fertiliser company, Paradeep Phosphates, while its joint venture with Chambal Fertilisers, Indo Maroc Phosphore SA, helps secure the essential raw materials needed for fertiliser production in India !
FACT: OCP supplies one-fifth of India's rock phosphate imports, one-third of phosphoric acid imports, a significant share of di-ammonium phosphate(DAP) imports and 100% of triple super phosphate(TSP) requirements !
In 2025, the company signed agreements for the supply of 1.5 million tonnes of DAP and 1 MT of TSP !
The over 100-year-old Morocco-based company, OCP Group, owns a 28% stake in India's leading fertiliser company, Paradeep Phosphates, while its joint venture with Chambal Fertilisers, Indo Maroc Phosphore SA, helps secure the essential raw materials needed for fertiliser production in India !
FACT: OCP supplies one-fifth of India's rock phosphate imports, one-third of phosphoric acid imports, a significant share of di-ammonium phosphate(DAP) imports and 100% of triple super phosphate(TSP) requirements !
In 2025, the company signed agreements for the supply of 1.5 million tonnes of DAP and 1 MT of TSP !
Now, bangladesh brings onion exporters to tears
agriculture
Friday, November 28, 2025
BODY: Experts said that Bangladesh, once accounting for nearly a third of India's Onion shipments, has bought negligible quantities in the past eight months even though Dhaka prices are three times more !
FACT: In 2023-24, India had exported 7.24 lakh tonnes of Onions to Bangladesh, which was 42% of India's total export of 17.17 lakh tonnes in that year !
FACT: In 2023-24, India had exported 7.24 lakh tonnes of Onions to Bangladesh, which was 42% of India's total export of 17.17 lakh tonnes in that year !
Dalal Street scales new peaks after 14 months
Stock market
Friday, November 28, 2025
BODY: India's equity indices hit an all-time high on Thursday after a gap of 14 months, with the Sensex crossing 86,000 and Nifty breaking above 26,300 for the first time ever !
India's merchandise exports fell 11.8% year-on-year in October while imports grew 16.6% due to a surge in gold and silver shipments !
In contrast, service exports hit its highest level of $38.5 billion !
FACT: Retail inflation fell to a record low of 0.25% in October from 1.44% in September, aided by the GST cuts, a favourable base effects, and lower food prices !
India's unemployment rate in October remained unchanged from the previous month at 5.2%, while labour force participation rate rose to a six month high of 55.4% !
India's merchandise exports fell 11.8% year-on-year in October while imports grew 16.6% due to a surge in gold and silver shipments !
In contrast, service exports hit its highest level of $38.5 billion !
FACT: Retail inflation fell to a record low of 0.25% in October from 1.44% in September, aided by the GST cuts, a favourable base effects, and lower food prices !
India's unemployment rate in October remained unchanged from the previous month at 5.2%, while labour force participation rate rose to a six month high of 55.4% !
Tata Power in talks with odisha to set up 10 GW ingots, wafers plant
semiconductor
Thursday, November 27, 2025
BODY: Tata Power Company Ltd is in discussions with the Odisha government to set up a 10 GW Ingots-and-Wafers manufacturing facility in the state !
In Gopalpur, Tata Steel Special Economic Zone is developing the Gopalpur Industrial Park on the eastern coast !
Tata Power, which currently has 4.55 GW of cell and module manufacturing capacity, aims to backward integrate Ingots and Wafers into its solar cell and panel production for both domestic use and export markets !
FACT: Ingots and Wafers are key raw materials used in the production of solar cells and modules, as well as semiconductor chips !
Solar developers still rely heavily on imported modules, with China accounting for nearly 80% of India's module imports, followed by HongKong and Malaysia !
In Gopalpur, Tata Steel Special Economic Zone is developing the Gopalpur Industrial Park on the eastern coast !
Tata Power, which currently has 4.55 GW of cell and module manufacturing capacity, aims to backward integrate Ingots and Wafers into its solar cell and panel production for both domestic use and export markets !
FACT: Ingots and Wafers are key raw materials used in the production of solar cells and modules, as well as semiconductor chips !
Solar developers still rely heavily on imported modules, with China accounting for nearly 80% of India's module imports, followed by HongKong and Malaysia !
Avoiding Russian Crude proves no great pain for india
oil & Gas
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
BODY: USA sanctions on Rosneft & Lukoil, Russia's two largest oil exporters, are having a milder-than-expected financial impact so far on Indian Refiners !
Executives expect January-loading Russian supplies to shrink to 1/3rd of usual intake !
FACT: Discounts on the Russian flagship grade Urals have widened two-and-a-half times to $5 /barrel to Brent for January-loading, compared with $1.8-2 /barrel before the sanctions !
Brent, after briefly rising above $65 /barrel, has now slipped back to the pre-sanctions level of $62.5 !
1 Oil Barrel(volume) equals to 158.98 Litres !
Executives expect January-loading Russian supplies to shrink to 1/3rd of usual intake !
FACT: Discounts on the Russian flagship grade Urals have widened two-and-a-half times to $5 /barrel to Brent for January-loading, compared with $1.8-2 /barrel before the sanctions !
Brent, after briefly rising above $65 /barrel, has now slipped back to the pre-sanctions level of $62.5 !
1 Oil Barrel(volume) equals to 158.98 Litres !
Centre set to hike Sugar MSP after 7 years
Agriculture
Monday, November 24, 2025
BODY: The Centre is expected to raise the Minimum Selling Price(MSP) of sugar -after a nearly seven -year pause - by nearly 23% to Rs 38/Kg !
Ethanol revenues contribute more than 20% of the total cane price payable to farmers !
FACT: After maintaining a buffer stock of 5 Metric Tonnes, similar to last year, there will be a net surplus of about 2.5 Metric Tonnes, according to industry estimates !
Prices for ethanol produced from B-heavy molasses and sugarcane juice or syrup have remained unchanged since ESY / add full form / 2022-23 !
Ethanol revenues contribute more than 20% of the total cane price payable to farmers !
FACT: After maintaining a buffer stock of 5 Metric Tonnes, similar to last year, there will be a net surplus of about 2.5 Metric Tonnes, according to industry estimates !
Prices for ethanol produced from B-heavy molasses and sugarcane juice or syrup have remained unchanged since ESY / add full form / 2022-23 !
TotalEnergies to offload up to 6% in Adani green
Power / Energy
Monday, November 24, 2025
BODY: The French Energy major currently holds 19% in Adani Group's Green Energy arm through two subsidiaries - 15.58% via TotalEnergies Renewables Indian Ocean Ltd and 3.41% through TotalEnergies Solar Wind Indian Ocean Ltd !
Total Energies had bought its stake in AGEL in 2021 for around $ 2.5 Billion, and it is now valued at nearly $ 8 Billion !
FACT: 2019:- TotalEnergies acquires - 37.4% of Adani Gas & 50% of Dhamra LNG Project !
2020:- Duo forms a 50:50 JV for 2.3 GW of solar assets !
2021:- Total picks up 20% in Adani Green Energy !
2024:- Total forms a JV with AGEL to manage 1150 MW solar projects !
Total Energies had bought its stake in AGEL in 2021 for around $ 2.5 Billion, and it is now valued at nearly $ 8 Billion !
FACT: 2019:- TotalEnergies acquires - 37.4% of Adani Gas & 50% of Dhamra LNG Project !
2020:- Duo forms a 50:50 JV for 2.3 GW of solar assets !
2021:- Total picks up 20% in Adani Green Energy !
2024:- Total forms a JV with AGEL to manage 1150 MW solar projects !
TCS joins AI, Data Centre rush with $2 billion TPG alliance
IT
Friday, November 21, 2025
BODY: India's largest software exporter Tata Consultancy Services(TCS) is joining forces with private equity group TPG in a multi-billion dollar joint venture to create gigawatt-scale, AI-ready data centres !
It will be the third equity partnership between TPG and Tata group after the Tata Motors EV arm and Tata Technologies !
FACT: TCS will own a controlling 51% of HyperVault, TPG will deploy Rs 8,820 crore ($1.1 Billion) for a stake of up to 49% !
It will be the third equity partnership between TPG and Tata group after the Tata Motors EV arm and Tata Technologies !
FACT: TCS will own a controlling 51% of HyperVault, TPG will deploy Rs 8,820 crore ($1.1 Billion) for a stake of up to 49% !
Economists Back a December rate cut, rBI has much to ponder
bank
Thursday, November 20, 2025
BODY: For FY27, estimates show the GDP would expand 6.5% to 7% while inflation is likely at 3.5-4% !
FACT: Economists expect Asia's No.2 Economy to expand 6.8% to 7%, while consumer inflation is expected to be in the range of 1.8% to 2% this fiscal year !
FACT: Economists expect Asia's No.2 Economy to expand 6.8% to 7%, while consumer inflation is expected to be in the range of 1.8% to 2% this fiscal year !
Tomato prices soar 50% in 15 days due to excess october rains
agriculture
Thursday, November 20, 2025
BODY: The Data about retail prices from the Ministry of Consumer affairs shows that all India average retail prices have increased by 27% as on November-19 when compared to prices a month ago on October-19 from Rs 36/Kg to Rs 46/Kg !
FACT: The crash in the prices of onions, tomatoes and potatoes had a key role in bringing retail inflation to 0.25% in October, it's lowest level since 2013 !
FACT: The crash in the prices of onions, tomatoes and potatoes had a key role in bringing retail inflation to 0.25% in October, it's lowest level since 2013 !
India's High street rentals on a tear
Real estate / retail Rental
Thursday, November 20, 2025
BODY: Khan Market, India's priciest retail address, saw the least rental growth at 3% last year, even as Gurugram's Galleria Market surged 25%, the fastest growth across Asia-pacific, as per Cushman & Wakefield !
Khan Market -Delhi(Rank 24, $223/Sqft/year), Connaught Place -Delhi(Rank 26, $169/Sqft/year), Galleria Market -Gurugram(Rank 26, $169/Sqft/year), Linking Road -Mumbai(Rank 34, $124/Sqft/year), Park Street -Kolkata(Rank 36, $88/Sqft/year) !
FACT: Globally, London's New Bond Street topped as the world's most expensive retail strip, outpacing Milan's Via Monte Napoleone and New York's Upper Fifth Avenue !
Rents grew 4.2% on an average with 58% of worldwide market experiencing rental growth !
Across 16 tracked Indian locations, rental growth averaged 6% on year !
Khan Market -Delhi(Rank 24, $223/Sqft/year), Connaught Place -Delhi(Rank 26, $169/Sqft/year), Galleria Market -Gurugram(Rank 26, $169/Sqft/year), Linking Road -Mumbai(Rank 34, $124/Sqft/year), Park Street -Kolkata(Rank 36, $88/Sqft/year) !
FACT: Globally, London's New Bond Street topped as the world's most expensive retail strip, outpacing Milan's Via Monte Napoleone and New York's Upper Fifth Avenue !
Rents grew 4.2% on an average with 58% of worldwide market experiencing rental growth !
Across 16 tracked Indian locations, rental growth averaged 6% on year !
With no finger on the pulse, crop & prices in disarray
Agriculture
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
BODY: India saw double-digit inflation in pulses for much of 2023 and 2024 after the Centre did not receive early warning to either boost procurement or adjust import duties !
FACT: For crop year 2023-24, the ministry issued four different kharif pulses estimates between October & September - from 7.87 million tonnes(MT) initially to 7.11 MT in February, down again to 6.86 MT by June, to eventually settle at about 6.98 MT, around 900,000 tonnes below the initial projection !
FACT: For crop year 2023-24, the ministry issued four different kharif pulses estimates between October & September - from 7.87 million tonnes(MT) initially to 7.11 MT in February, down again to 6.86 MT by June, to eventually settle at about 6.98 MT, around 900,000 tonnes below the initial projection !
Government Advertisement rates up 26% for print media
media
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
BODY: The Centre has given a major boost to the print media industry by raising advertisement rates for the medium by 26% !
FACT: Media rates for print advertisement per Sq.cm for One lakh copies of black-and-white dailies have been increased from Rs 47.40 to Rs 59.68, a 26% hike !
FACT: Media rates for print advertisement per Sq.cm for One lakh copies of black-and-white dailies have been increased from Rs 47.40 to Rs 59.68, a 26% hike !
Oil PSUs ink deal to buy USA LPG
Oil & Gas
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
BODY: Indian PSU Oil companies have successfully concluded a one-year deal for imports of around 2.2 million tonnes per annum(MTPA) LPG, close to 10% of our annual imports - for the contract year 2026 !
FACT: India imports two-third's of the LPG it consumes, relying on Gulf suppliers, mainly Saudi Arabia, the UAE & Qatar, For more than 90% of those imports !
20.7 million tonnes India's LPG imports in 2024-2025 !
FACT: India imports two-third's of the LPG it consumes, relying on Gulf suppliers, mainly Saudi Arabia, the UAE & Qatar, For more than 90% of those imports !
20.7 million tonnes India's LPG imports in 2024-2025 !
Inox Air Products starts building specially gas hub for semicons in dholera
industrial Gases
Friday, October 03, 2025
BODY: The upcoming hub in Dholera - where a semiconductor ecosystem is coming together - will manufacture and supply Ultra High Purity(UHP) bulk and specialty gases, including Nitrogen, Oxygen, Argon, Hydrogen, essential for advanced semiconductor fabrication !
FACT: Tata Electronics is building India's First Fab in Dholera !
The Rs 91,000 crore project is a joint venture with Taiwan's Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp(PSMC) !
FACT: Tata Electronics is building India's First Fab in Dholera !
The Rs 91,000 crore project is a joint venture with Taiwan's Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp(PSMC) !
First in India's Private Sector - Megha to build Rs 5,700 crore Oil reserve in Padur, karnataka
oil & Gas
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
BODY: Megha has 5 years to build and 60 years to operate a 2.5 million metric tonnes(MMT) Strategic Petroleum Reserve(SPR) at Padur in Karnataka !
FACT: India's existing 5.33 MMT Strategic Reserve can meet 8-9 days of crude demand !
FACT: India's existing 5.33 MMT Strategic Reserve can meet 8-9 days of crude demand !
India may become second-largest economy by 2038 in purchasing power parity(pPP) terms: EY(Ernest & Young)
Economy, GDP
Thursday, august 28, 2025
BODY: India's Economy could reach $20.7 trillion in terms of purchasing power parity(PPP) by 2030 and may emerge as the second-largest economy by 2038 with $34.2 trillion GDP, an EY report said !
India is emerging as one of the most dynamic among the world's five-largest economies, with strong economic fundamentals including high savings and investments rates, favourable demographics and a sustainable fiscal positions !
FACT: A meaningful comparison of economic size may be based on purchasing power parity(PPP, constant 2021 international dollars), rather than market ex-change rates(USA dollars), it said !
On this basis, India's GDP in FY25 is estimated by the IMF at PPP $14.2 trillion-around 3.6 times larger than when measured in market exchange rates terms !
India is emerging as one of the most dynamic among the world's five-largest economies, with strong economic fundamentals including high savings and investments rates, favourable demographics and a sustainable fiscal positions !
FACT: A meaningful comparison of economic size may be based on purchasing power parity(PPP, constant 2021 international dollars), rather than market ex-change rates(USA dollars), it said !
On this basis, India's GDP in FY25 is estimated by the IMF at PPP $14.2 trillion-around 3.6 times larger than when measured in market exchange rates terms !
2 slabs to rule'EM all group of ministers(gom)
Economy, GST
Friday, august 22, 2025
BODY: Unanimous Call:- 5%, 18% rates to be retained; luxury items at 40% !
Slabs of 12% and 28% to be abolished !
FACT: All states want ultra-luxury cars and high-end products in the highest slab of 40% !
Slabs of 12% and 28% to be abolished !
FACT: All states want ultra-luxury cars and high-end products in the highest slab of 40% !
'ethanol costlier than petrol': ministry rejects call to cut fuel prices
oil & gas
Wednesday , august 13, 2025
BODY: The current average procurement cost of ethanol, including transportation and GST, is Rs 71.32/ litre, the ministry said !
A little of petrol currently costs Rs 94.77 in Delhi, which includes base price of Rs 52.83 plus taxes and dealer commission !
FACT: Ethanol's energy content is about 33% lower than pure petrol, according to the USA Energy Information Administration(EIA) !
In general, vehicle fuel economy may decrease by about 3% when using E10 relative to petrol that does not contain fuel ethanol !
In the USA, pumps mostly sell 10% blended petrol(E10), while in India the supply is predominantly 20% blended petrol(E20). By this yardstick, fuel economy may decrease by about 6% when using E20 fuel !
A little of petrol currently costs Rs 94.77 in Delhi, which includes base price of Rs 52.83 plus taxes and dealer commission !
FACT: Ethanol's energy content is about 33% lower than pure petrol, according to the USA Energy Information Administration(EIA) !
In general, vehicle fuel economy may decrease by about 3% when using E10 relative to petrol that does not contain fuel ethanol !
In the USA, pumps mostly sell 10% blended petrol(E10), while in India the supply is predominantly 20% blended petrol(E20). By this yardstick, fuel economy may decrease by about 6% when using E20 fuel !
adani defence joins prime aero to buy indamer technics
logistics / airlines
tuesday, august 12, 2025
BODY: Adani Defence & Aerospace in partnership with Prime Aero, has agreed to acquire a 100% stake in Indamer Technics Private Limited(ITPL), a privately owned aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul(MRO) firm !
FACT: ITPL, established in 2018, operates a state-of-the-art greenfield facility in the MIHAN special economic zone in Nagpur !
FACT: ITPL, established in 2018, operates a state-of-the-art greenfield facility in the MIHAN special economic zone in Nagpur !
Global Trade research initiative(GTRI) classifies India's exports into 3 impact zones: very high(50-70% drop), high(30-50%), and low/no impact
economy
Friday, august 08, 2025
BODY: USA President Donald Trump on Wednesday slapped an additional 25% tariff, raising the total duties to 50% on goods coming from India !
The imposition of a 50% USA tariff on Indian goods will impact exports of nine product categories: - shrimp, organic chemicals, carpets, knitted and woven apparel, made -up diamonds, gold & jewellery, machinery and mechanical appliances, and furniture and bedding !
FACT: This decision makes India one of the most heavily taxed USA trading partners, worse off than China(30%) or Vietnam(20%) and on par with Brazil !
The imposition of a 50% USA tariff on Indian goods will impact exports of nine product categories: - shrimp, organic chemicals, carpets, knitted and woven apparel, made -up diamonds, gold & jewellery, machinery and mechanical appliances, and furniture and bedding !
FACT: This decision makes India one of the most heavily taxed USA trading partners, worse off than China(30%) or Vietnam(20%) and on par with Brazil !
Modern office shine, Legacy buildings fade
real estate
tuesday, august 05, 2025
BODY: Bengaluru and Delhi-Ncr together house 45% of India's decade old stock !
Nearly 50% of India's office stock is over 10 years old !
Only 28% of the stock is under 5 years !
FACT: As Indian office occupies increasingly demand sustainable, tech-enabled, and wellness-focused workspaces, older buildings are rapidly falling out of favour ! About 72% office inventory falls short of current occupier expectations !
Nearly 50% of India's office stock is over 10 years old !
Only 28% of the stock is under 5 years !
FACT: As Indian office occupies increasingly demand sustainable, tech-enabled, and wellness-focused workspaces, older buildings are rapidly falling out of favour ! About 72% office inventory falls short of current occupier expectations !
USA effective Tariff on Indian Goods jumped to 20.7% from 2.4% last year
economy
tuesday, august 05, 2025
BODY: On July 30 -2025, USA President Donald Trump announced 25% tariff on Indian goods !
Overall, The USA effective tariff rate is now 17%, around 8% points lower than April 3 estimate, when higher reciprocal tariffs were originally announced !
The USA tariff rate of 17% reflects a 15% tariff rate on EU goods, including auto and autoparts, and higher tariffs for major trading partners Brazil, Taiwan, India and Switzerland !
FACT: Goldman Sachs, in a note released Monday, cut India's economic growth forecast to 6.5% for 2025 and 6.4% for 2026, due to tariffs imposed by the USA !
Overall, The USA effective tariff rate is now 17%, around 8% points lower than April 3 estimate, when higher reciprocal tariffs were originally announced !
The USA tariff rate of 17% reflects a 15% tariff rate on EU goods, including auto and autoparts, and higher tariffs for major trading partners Brazil, Taiwan, India and Switzerland !
FACT: Goldman Sachs, in a note released Monday, cut India's economic growth forecast to 6.5% for 2025 and 6.4% for 2026, due to tariffs imposed by the USA !
Nepal , China steel may face duty evasion probe
metal / mine / ore
monday, august 04, 2025
BODY: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence could initiate a probe into steel imports from Nepal and China, a move aimed at protecting the domestic industry from cheap, substandard imports !
FACT: Nepal has unilateral duty-free access to India, while direct exports from China attract at least 12% safeguard duty !
Nepal emerged as one of top three exporters to India despite lack of major manufacturing facilities !
FACT: Nepal has unilateral duty-free access to India, while direct exports from China attract at least 12% safeguard duty !
Nepal emerged as one of top three exporters to India despite lack of major manufacturing facilities !
Consumer Price Index(CPI) dropped to 2.1% & the Wholesale Price Index(WPI) slipped into the deflation zone, hitting a 20 month low of - 0.1%
Economy
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
BODY: Retail inflation in June based on the CPI dropped to 2.1%, the lowest in more than six years !
The WPI slipped into the deflation zone, hitting a 20-month low of -0.1% in June compared to 0.4% in May !
FACT: The RBI is mandated to target 4% retail inflation within the range. Retail inflation is at its lowest since January 2019, when it was 1.97%
The WPI slipped into the deflation zone, hitting a 20-month low of -0.1% in June compared to 0.4% in May !
FACT: The RBI is mandated to target 4% retail inflation within the range. Retail inflation is at its lowest since January 2019, when it was 1.97%
Gold still King, Gives Royal Returns
Metal / Mine / Ore
Thursday, July 17, 2025
BODY: Returns on gold in the Indian currency between January and June this year -2025 were 26% . That was bettered only, by gold purchases in the Turkish Lira -at 41% -World Gold Council !
Demand likely to stay well above the pre -2022 average of 500-600 tonnes, the WGC report said !
FACT: China is one of the largest consumer of gold !
As of June 30,2025. Based on the LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) Gold price PM in USD, expressed in local currencies, except for India and China where the MCX Gold Price PM and Shanghai Gold benchmark are used !
Demand likely to stay well above the pre -2022 average of 500-600 tonnes, the WGC report said !
FACT: China is one of the largest consumer of gold !
As of June 30,2025. Based on the LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) Gold price PM in USD, expressed in local currencies, except for India and China where the MCX Gold Price PM and Shanghai Gold benchmark are used !
China's Exports of Rare Earth Magnets to USA surge in June -2025
Metal / Mine / Ore
Monday, July 21, 2025
BODY: China, which provides more than 90% of the global supply of rare earth magnets, decided in early April to add several rare earth items to its export restriction list in retaliation for USA tariffs !
During the first half of 2025, exports of rare earth magnets fell 18.9% on the year to, 22319 tons !
FACT: Rear Earth Minerals - Cerium Oxide / Bastnasite / Neodymium oxide / Lanthanum Carbonate !
During the first half of 2025, exports of rare earth magnets fell 18.9% on the year to, 22319 tons !
FACT: Rear Earth Minerals - Cerium Oxide / Bastnasite / Neodymium oxide / Lanthanum Carbonate !
June Core Output at 3-month high on steady government capex / three out of eight sectors recorded a positive growth
Economy
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
BODY: India's core sector output grew to a 3-month high of 1.7% in June !
Steel output surged to a seven - month high of 9.3% in June, while cement production increased by 9.2% !
FACT: 8 core sectors - Cement / Steel / Coal / Natural gas / Electricity / Crude oil / Fertilizer / Refinery products !
8 core industries sector account for 40.27% weight in the Index of Industrial Production(IIP) !
Steel output surged to a seven - month high of 9.3% in June, while cement production increased by 9.2% !
FACT: 8 core sectors - Cement / Steel / Coal / Natural gas / Electricity / Crude oil / Fertilizer / Refinery products !
8 core industries sector account for 40.27% weight in the Index of Industrial Production(IIP) !
India, UK start a new chapter with CETA(Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement)
Economy
Friday, July 25, 2025
BODY: India's Gains - Nill duty on 99% of Indian goods; Single window clearence !
Give away to UK - India to cut levies on around 90% of UK goods / India's average tariff on UK products drops from 15% to 3% !
FACT: Marine, Agriculture, Engineering, Medical devices, Pharma and toys to go duty - free / Goa's Feni - Nashik's wines to benefit !
Give away to UK - India to cut levies on around 90% of UK goods / India's average tariff on UK products drops from 15% to 3% !
FACT: Marine, Agriculture, Engineering, Medical devices, Pharma and toys to go duty - free / Goa's Feni - Nashik's wines to benefit !
AI Shocker: TCS to Pink-slip 12k at Senior, Mid Levels
IT
Monday, July 28, 2025
BODY: Tata Consultancy Services(TCS) plans to fire 2% of its workforce this year, in what will be the first mass lay off in India's $280 -billion IT industry !
FACT: The $30 -billion company, which has over 6,00,000 employees will see the departure of about 12,000 at mostly "senior and mid management level" !
FACT: The $30 -billion company, which has over 6,00,000 employees will see the departure of about 12,000 at mostly "senior and mid management level" !
Delhi Airport Retail spend can save user fees
logistics / airport
tuesday, July 29, 2025
BODY: Passengers flying in and out of Delhi Airport may be paying no user fees in next 10 years if travelers continue to eat and shop as frequently as they are doing !
In march -2025, passengers charges for the airport had seen an increase ! While the User Development Fee (UDF) for domestic passengers remains unchanged at the existing rate of Rs.129 !
For departing passengers on international flights, it has risen from Rs.129 to Rs.650 for economy class(a 403%) rise and Rs. 810 for business class(a 527%) rise !
FACT: Airport charges are determined in India through a process where 30% of the non -aeronautical revenue like retail shops, lounges and food courts are used to cross -subsidize aero revenue like that of landing, parking and user fees !
In march -2025, passengers charges for the airport had seen an increase ! While the User Development Fee (UDF) for domestic passengers remains unchanged at the existing rate of Rs.129 !
For departing passengers on international flights, it has risen from Rs.129 to Rs.650 for economy class(a 403%) rise and Rs. 810 for business class(a 527%) rise !
FACT: Airport charges are determined in India through a process where 30% of the non -aeronautical revenue like retail shops, lounges and food courts are used to cross -subsidize aero revenue like that of landing, parking and user fees !
Price of Premium bengal rice doubles
agriculture
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
BODY: The average price of a kilo of Gobindbhog rice in July was Rs.180 compared with Rs.90 in January !
Gobindbhog grown only in West Bengal -is also popular in southern India, where it is called Jeerakasala rice, for the preparation of Biryani !
FACT: Gobindbhog rice, an aromatic variety from West Bengal with a geographical indication tag !
In Fy-2024, Bengal had produced 4.34 lakh tonnes of this variety !
Gobindbhog grown only in West Bengal -is also popular in southern India, where it is called Jeerakasala rice, for the preparation of Biryani !
FACT: Gobindbhog rice, an aromatic variety from West Bengal with a geographical indication tag !
In Fy-2024, Bengal had produced 4.34 lakh tonnes of this variety !
FARRE