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Category: India

  • Nifty, Sensex open lower amid rising India-Pakistan tensions

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian benchmark indices opened lower on Friday in line with expectations, as geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan escalated.

    At 9:23 am, the Sensex was down 529 points or 0.66% at 79,805, while the Nifty declined 207 points or 0.85% to 24,066.

    Weakness was also observed in the broader markets. The Nifty Midcap 100 index dropped 509 points or 0.96% to 52,719, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 index fell 232 points or 1.44% to 15,951.

    “After a negative opening, Nifty can find support at 24,000, followed by 23,800 and 23,700. On the upside, 24,300 is an immediate resistance level, followed by 24,400 and 24,500,” said Hardik Matalia of Choice Broking.

    Across sectoral indices, auto, IT, financial services, pharma, FMCG, realty, and energy were among the top laggards.

    In the Sensex pack, Titan, L&T, Tata Motors, and Asian Paints emerged as top gainers. On the other hand, Power Grid, UltraTech Cement, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, HCL Tech, Tata Steel, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Sun Pharma, HUL, and Bharti Airtel were the major losers.

    The ongoing uncertainty continues to keep traders on edge, casting a shadow over market sentiment amid continued geopolitical stress.

    “Until the volatility—reflected in the elevated India VIX—eases, we recommend a hedged strategy to navigate the current environment, with a focus on selective stock picking,” said Ajit Mishra, SVP – Research, Religare Broking.

    Asian markets were trading mixed. Tokyo, Bangkok, and Jakarta were in the green, while Shanghai and Hong Kong were in the red.

    US markets closed higher, buoyed by positive developments related to trade tariffs.

    Meanwhile, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) remained net buyers for the 16th straight session on May 8, purchasing equities worth ₹2,007 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold equities worth ₹596 crore on the same day.

    -IANS

  • Sensex, Nifty end lower amid escalating geopolitical tensions

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian stock markets ended in the red on Tuesday as rising geopolitical tensions dampened investor sentiment, triggering broad-based selling across sectors.

    The Sensex slipped by 155.77 points, or 0.19 per cent, to settle at 80,641.07, while the Nifty declined more sharply by 81.55 points, or 0.33 per cent, closing at 24,379.60.

    Several major stocks dragged the indices lower. Eternal (formerly Zomato), State Bank of India (SBI), Tata Motors, and NTPC were among the top losers on the Sensex, falling between 1.94 per cent and 3.15 per cent.

    However, some stocks managed to buck the trend. Bharti Airtel, Tata Steel, Mahindra & Mahindra, Hindustan Unilever, and Nestlé India were among the ten Sensex gainers, with Bharti Airtel rising by 1.66 per cent.

    Selling pressure was more pronounced in the broader market. The Nifty Midcap 100 index fell by 2.27 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 declined by 2.50 per cent, indicating deeper losses beyond frontline stocks.

    Barring Nifty Auto, all sectoral indices on the NSE ended in negative territory, with Nifty PSU Bank emerging as the worst performer.

    Out of 12 stocks in the PSU Bank index, 11 closed in the red, pulling the index down by 1.18 per cent to end the session at 54,271.40.

    Among major drags, Bank of Baroda plunged 10.91 per cent, followed by Union Bank of India and Bank of India, which fell 6.19 per cent and 6.33 per cent, respectively.

    The real estate sector also witnessed heavy losses. The Nifty Realty index declined by 3.58 per cent, led by a 6.36 per cent drop in Godrej Properties and a 4.96 per cent fall in Sobha Limited.

    Adding to market jitters, the India VIX, often referred to as the fear index, rose by 3.58 per cent to 19 points, signalling heightened volatility.

    The decline across indices reflects rising investor caution, with profit booking and weak global cues contributing to the negative sentiment, market experts noted.

    — IANS

     

  • India set to overtake Japan as fourth-largest economy in 2025: IMF

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India is on track to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025, overtaking Japan, according to the latest World Economic Outlook released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The report estimates India’s nominal GDP will reach 4,187.02 billion dollars next year, marginally ahead of Japan’s 4,186.43 billion dollars.

    The IMF forecasts that India will continue to be the fastest-growing major economy, maintaining a growth rate above 6 per cent over the next two years. In contrast, Japan is expected to see muted growth of just 0.6 per cent in both 2025 and 2026, as the global trade slowdown weighs on its export-driven economy.

    India’s strong economic momentum is likely to propel it further up the global rankings. By 2028, the country’s GDP is projected to rise to 5,584.48 billion dollars, placing it ahead of Germany and making it the third-largest economy globally.

    Germany, currently the fourth-largest, is expected to be among the worst affected European economies due to ongoing trade tensions. The IMF projects zero growth for Germany in 2025, followed by a modest recovery of 0.9 per cent in 2026. Its GDP is estimated to reach 5,251.93 billion dollars by 2028.

    The United States will retain its position as the world’s largest economy, with a projected GDP of 30,507.22 billion dollars in 2025. China, the second-largest, is expected to record a GDP of 19,231.71 billion dollars.

    The IMF notes that the US economy, having initiated a wave of global tariffs, is showing signs of a slowdown. Growth is forecast to dip to 1.8 per cent this year and 1.7 per cent in 2026.

    The Euro Area is also likely to witness sluggish growth, with an expected expansion of just 0.8 per cent in 2025, picking up slightly to 1.2 per cent in 2026. France is projected to grow at 0.6 per cent and 1 per cent in the next two years, respectively.

    Spain is expected to outperform its peers with a 2.5 per cent growth rate in 2025, although this is likely to ease to 1.8 per cent in 2026. The United Kingdom is forecast to grow at 1.1 per cent and 1.4 per cent during the same period.

    —IANS

  • Rupee likely to remain in Rs 85-87 range against USD in 2025, US Fed may hold rates steady in next two policy cycles: SBI Report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian rupee is expected to remain stable in the range of Rs 85-87 against the US dollar through 2025, according to a recent report released by the State Bank of India (SBI).

    The report highlighted several global and domestic factors that are likely to support the rupee and maintain stability in the USD/INR currency pair over the coming months.

    “We expect the USD/INR pair to stabilize in the range Rs 85-87 for 2025, The domestic impact of tariffs on dollar will be visible in 2025 which will support rupee” the report noted.

    SBI further pointed out that the DXY index, which tracks the strength of the US dollar against a basket of major currencies, is expected to decline as the US domestic economy adjusts to the impact of tariffs. A softer dollar would support emerging market currencies like the Indian rupee.

    The report also referred to the Non-Deliverable Forward (NDF) market for USD/INR. The May 2026 USD/INR NDF is currently factoring in a rate of around Rs 85.87 to Rs 86 per dollar over a 12-month horizon, reflecting expectations of limited volatility in the currency pair going forward.
    On the macroeconomic front, the report highlighted recent data from the United States. Annual inflation in the US eased to 2.4 per cent in March 2025. At the same time, the nonfarm payroll employment rose by 177,000 in April, while the unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2 percent.

    However, the report cautioned that the full impact of tariffs on US inflation is yet to be reflected in the data. Successive inflation readings could come in higher, especially if short-term inflation expectations rise sharply.

    Given the dual mandate of the US Federal Reserve — focusing on inflation and employment — the report suggests that the Fed may choose to hold interest rates steady in its next two policy cycles.
    “A pause signal is unequivocal based on recent statements,” SBI added.

    The interplay of these factors — a steady Fed, easing US inflation, and tariff effects — is likely to create a supportive environment for the Indian rupee in 2025, SBI concluded.

    (ANI)

  • More than 100 dead after flooding in eastern Congo, official says

    Source: Government of India (4)

    More than 100 people have died after flooding in a village near the shores of Lake Tanganyika in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a local official said.

    The flooding, which affected the village of Kasaba, comes at a vulnerable moment for the Central African nation. Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have intensified an offensive in the eastern region since the start of the year, with thousands killed in fighting in the first two months of the year.

    Samy Kalodji, administrator of Fizi territory in South Kivu province where the village is located, said late on Saturday that reports from the area “indicated more than 100 deaths.”

    The affected area is still under the administration of Kinshasa and is not among the zones taken by M23.

    Didier Luganywa, spokesperson for the South Kivu government, said in a statement the flooding incident occurred between Thursday night and Friday when torrential rains and strong winds caused the Kasaba river to overflow its banks.

    The statement gave a toll of 62 confirmed deaths with 30 injured.

    Local officials said the Kasaba area was only accessible via Lake Tanganyika and was not covered by the mobile phone network, which could delay humanitarian relief efforts.

    (Reuters)

  • India’s monsoon rains to arrive early, brightening outlook for crops

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Monsoon rains are expected to hit India’s southern coast on May 27, five days earlier than usual, marking the earliest arrival in at least five years, the weather office said, raising hopes for bumper harvests of crops such as rice, corn, and soybean.
     
    The monsoon, the lifeblood of the country’s $4 trillion economy, delivers nearly 70% of the rain that India needs to water farms and recharge aquifers and reservoirs. Nearly half of India’s farmland, without any irrigation cover, depends on the annual June-September rains to grow a number of crops.
     
    Forecasts of early and abundant monsoon rains are expected to alleviate concerns about potential risks to food supplies amid the current military conflict between India, the world’s most populous nation, and its neighbour Pakistan.
     
    Summer rains usually begin to lash the southernmost coasts of Kerala state around June 1 and spread across the whole country by mid-July, triggering the planting of crops such as rice, corn, cotton, soybeans, and sugarcane.
     
    The monsoon onset over Kerala is likely to be on May 27, with a model error of plus/minus four days, the India Meteorological Department said on Saturday.
     
    Last year, the monsoon reached the coast of Kerala on May 30, and overall summer rains were the highest since 2020, helping the country recover from a drought of 2023.
     
    The India Meteorological Department last month forecast above-average monsoon rains for the second straight year in 2025.
     
    The department defines average or normal rainfall as ranging between 96% and 104% of a 50-year average of 87 cm (35 inches) for the four-month season.
     
    Early monsoon rains will encourage farmers in India, the world’s largest rice exporter, to start planting earlier.
     
    (Reuters)

  • COP30 Brazilian presidency calls for new global climate governance

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Brazilian presidency of COP30, this year’s climate summit, called for new global climate governance mechanisms to help nations implement their commitments to curb global warming, according to a letter it released on Thursday.

    The summit, to be hosted in the Amazonian city of Belem in November, marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Accord, when signatories agreed to limit warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels.

    Though nations have so far committed to plans that would limit warming to around 2.6 degrees Celsius, many are struggling to get their proposals off the drawing board and to lower carbon emissions enough to stop the planet from heating to catastrophic levels.

    According to the letter by the COP30 presidency, “the international community should investigate how climate cooperation could become better equipped to accelerate” implementation.

    The proposal was first introduced by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva last November, during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. At the time, Lula proposed creating a “United Nations climate change council” to help countries implement commitments they made to address climate change as part of the 2015 Paris Agreement.

    “There’s no point in negotiating new commitments if we don’t have an effective mechanism to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement,” Lula said. “We need stronger climate governance.”

    The proposal has now been adopted by Brazilian ambassador Andre Correa do Lago, who will preside over COP30. Correa do Lago argued that, after decades of debates, the Climate Convention, known as the UNFCCC, has completed necessary negotiations but lacks implementation capacity.

    “The UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement don’t have the strength or mandate to take this forward, so we’re proposing to reconsider how we can institutionally strengthen implementation,” Lago told journalists on Wednesday.

    The COP Presidency letter suggests that the United Nations General Assembly, not COP30 itself, should be the forum for this discussion.

    “Debates at the U.N. General Assembly could explore innovative governance approaches to endow international cooperation with capabilities for rapid sharing of data, knowledge and intelligence, as well as for leveraging networks, aggregating efforts and articulating resources, processes, mechanisms and actors within and outside the U.N.,” the letter states.

    Sources in the Brazilian government told Reuters that while the creation of a U.N. Climate Council features in Lula’s diplomatic discussions with world leaders, immediate results are not anticipated in the short term.

    “It’s still an initial convincing effort,” one source said.

    (Reuters)

  • Unseasonal showers lash Gujarat; Kapadvanj records highest rainfall at 1.57 inches

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Widespread unseasonal showers lashed Gujarat over the past 24 hours, bringing cloudy skies and intermittent rain to several parts of the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that this spell of unseasonal rainfall and thunderstorms will persist across the state until May 9.

    According to data from the State Emergency Centre in Gandhinagar, Kapadvanj in Kheda district recorded the highest rainfall at 40 mm (1.57 inches). Close behind were Mansa (Gandhinagar) and Sihor (Bhavnagar), each registering 37 mm (1.46 inches), followed by Jotana (Mehsana) at 31 mm (1.22 inches).

    Vadodara city received 30 mm (1.18 inches), while Mehsana and Kadi talukas recorded 28 mm and 27 mm, respectively, matching the total recorded in Bhavnagar city.

    Other talukas reporting notable rainfall included Dolvan (26 mm), Nadiad and Khanpur (25 mm each), and Dasada (24 mm). All these areas received around or over an inch of rain, an unusual occurrence for May, typically one of the hottest and driest months in Gujarat.

    The showers followed dust storms that swept across parts of the state around 6 p.m. on Monday, ushering in cooler temperatures after a prolonged heatwave, where mercury levels had crossed 42°C. Many described the sudden weather change as reminiscent of the early monsoon.

    While Ahmedabad did not feature among the top rain-hit regions, it experienced its first widespread thunderstorm and rain event of the year on Monday.

    However, the unseasonal rain has severely impacted agriculture, particularly the mango crop, with Kesar and Alphonso varieties at their crucial fruiting stage. The downpour and accompanying hail have caused fruit drop, skin blemishes, and increased the risk of fungal infections, jeopardizing both the quality and market value of the produce.

    Other summer crops like sorghum (jowar) and millet (bajra), sensitive to excess moisture during flowering and grain formation, are also at risk of yield loss and disease.

    Sesame (til), another key summer crop, is particularly vulnerable to hail damage and waterlogging, which can result in discoloration, fungal infections, and in severe cases, total crop failure.

    (With IANS inputs)

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  • Democratic-led states sue to block Trump’s halting of wind projects

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of Democratic state attorneys general sued on Monday in a bid to block President Donald Trump’s move to suspend leasing and permitting of new wind projects, saying it threatens to cripple the wind industry and a key source of clean energy.

    Seventeen states and the District of Columbia in a lawsuit filed in federal court in Boston argued that the decision by the Republican president’s administration to indefinitely pause all federal wind-energy approvals is unlawful and must be blocked.

    The lawsuit, led by New York state, accused Trump of exceeding his authority and said his administration violated federal administrative law by not offering any detailed justification for the suspension.

    “This administration is devastating one of our nation’s fastest-growing sources of clean, reliable and affordable energy,” New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, said in a statement.

    The lawsuit seeks a court order declaring the indefinite pause unlawful and barring the agencies including the U.S. Departments of Commerce and Interior and the Environmental Protection Agency from implementing Trump’s directive.

    White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers accused the Democratic attorneys general of “using lawfare to stop the president’s popular energy agenda.”

    “The American people voted for the president to restore America’s energy dominance, and Americans in blue states should not have to pay the price of the Democrats’ radical climate agenda,” Rogers said in a statement.

    Trump announced the pause on his first day back in office on January 20 when he directed his administration in a presidential memorandum to halt offshore wind lease sales and stop the issuance of permits, leases and loans for both onshore and offshore wind projects.

    He did so while also moving to ramp up the federal government’s support for the fossil fuel industry and maximize output in the United States, the world’s top oil and gas producer, after campaigning for the presidency on the refrain of “drill, baby, drill.”

    Trump as a candidate last year promised to end the offshore wind industry, arguing it is too expensive and hurts whales and birds. In announcing the pause, Trump again cited the expense of wind projects and said they “ruin your beautiful landscapes.”

    After Trump’s memorandum, U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum in April directed the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s acting director to order a unit of Norwegian energy firm EquinorEQNR.OL to halt construction on its Empire Wind offshore wind project off New York.

    The states in their lawsuit argue that Trump’s directive harmed their efforts to secure reliable, diversified sources of energy and jeopardized billions of dollars they have already invested in the industry as part of their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change.

    In their lawsuit, the states said the agencies implementing Trump’s order never said why they were abruptly changing longstanding policy supporting wind energy development and were departing from government findings that wind projects can proceed with minimal adverse effects on the environment.

    The lawsuit also said Congress never authorized the president to categorically halt wind-energy projects and that the agencies implementing the pause exceeded their authority under numerous laws including the Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act and the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act.

    (Reuters)

  • Satellites continuously working to ensure India’s security: ISRO Chairman

    Source: Government of India (4)

    ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan on Sunday said that 10 satellites are continuously working round-the-clock for strategic purposes to ensure the safety and security of the country’s citizens.

    Addressing the 5th Convocation Ceremony of the Central Agricultural University (CAU), the ISRO Chairman said, “If we want to ensure the safety of our country, we have to serve through our satellites. We have to monitor our 7,000 km-long seashore. Without satellite and drone technology, we can’t achieve many things.”

    He added that through many satellites, ISRO has been serving the common people in agriculture, tele-education, telemedicine, television broadcasting, weather forecasting, environmental monitoring, food security, and strategic sectors.

    Noting that satellites are playing a critical role in disaster management and mitigation, Narayanan said, “Earlier, during disasters, thousands of people lost their lives, but today this is not the case.”

    He further said that India holds the number one position globally in nine areas within the space sector.

    “The Chandrayaan-1 mission discovered evidence of water molecules on the Moon’s surface. India was the first country to achieve this. At least 433 satellites for 34 countries have been launched from India and placed into orbit,” he said.

    Significantly, he said India has built satellites for G-20 countries to monitor climate change and other critical sectors. Narayanan added that India and the US would jointly build the world’s most expensive and advanced earth-imaging satellite, which will be launched from India.

    Narayanan pointed out that until 1975, India had no satellite technology and was nearly 70 years behind advanced nations in space development.

    Emphasizing the need for advanced satellite technology for the betterment of citizens, Narayanan—who also serves as Secretary of the Department of Space—predicted that before India celebrates 100 years of independence, it will become a leader in every field and a major contributor to global progress.

    He recalled that during the 1950s and 1960s, India produced only 54 million tons of food and relied on imports.

    “Now, India produces over 250 million tons of food and exports to many countries. The country has a vast consumer market and a strong manufacturing sector. In electricity generation and milk production, we are among the world leaders,” he said.

    He added that India ranks in the top five globally for the production of several key commodities such as rice, wheat, maize, horticultural crops, pulses, oilseeds, and cash crops.

    “With developments across sectors, average life expectancy has increased from 32 years to 72 years in recent decades. Child and maternal mortality rates have also declined sharply,” he pointed out.

    Narayanan announced that around 100 science students from each of the eight northeastern states would get an opportunity to visit the ISRO Centre in Bengaluru to foster curiosity and awareness about space science and technology.

    He said ISRO and its satellites are playing a vital role in the development of the northeastern states and are supporting the implementation of various regional projects.

    The ISRO chairman urged students to contribute to society after earning their degrees.

    “There is no substitute for hard work and smart work. Total commitment and strong personal values are essential. Self-confidence and self-motivation are crucial. With noble leadership qualities, students must strive to be good human beings,” Narayanan stated.

    The Central Agricultural University (CAU), based in Imphal, Manipur, has campuses in eight northeastern states.

    Sunday’s convocation ceremony was held at the College of Fisheries in Lembucherra, 12 km north of Agartala in Tripura’s West district. The event was presided over by CAU Chancellor, Prof. Pradeep Kumar Joshi.

    IANS

  • India’s “New Resolve”: “Operation Sindoor” and New BrahMos Facility signal strategic strength

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed Operation Sindoor as a powerful symbol of the nation’s political, social, and strategic resolve during the virtual inauguration of the BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility Centre in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The operation, aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), underscored India’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, with the minister asserting that “even the land across the border is not safe for terrorists and their masters.”

    Speaking on National Technology Day, Shri Rajnath Singh described Operation Sindoor as a testament to the Indian Armed Forces’ capability and determination to deliver justice to families affected by anti-India terrorist activities. He referenced previous actions, including surgical strikes post-Uri, air strikes after the Pulwama attack, and multiple strikes following the recent Pahalgam attack, to highlight India’s proactive stance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “This New India will take effective action against terrorism on both sides of the border,” he emphasized.

    The minister detailed how the operation targeted terrorist infrastructure while sparing innocent civilians, in contrast to Pakistan’s attacks on civilian areas, including temples, gurudwaras, and churches in India. The Indian Armed Forces, displaying both valor and restraint, struck multiple Pakistani military bases, with actions reaching as far as Rawalpindi, the location of Pakistan’s military headquarters.

    The newly inaugurated BrahMos facility, a 200-acre complex costing approximately Rs 300 crore, marks a significant step toward India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Shri Rajnath Singh described the centre as a cornerstone of the Aatmanirbharta initiative, expected to generate around 500 direct and 1,000 indirect jobs while fostering skill development and industrialization in the region. The facility, part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC), will handle the integration of booster subassemblies, avionics, propellant, and ramjet engines for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, widely regarded as one of the world’s fastest.

    “BrahMos is not just a missile; it is a message of deterrence to adversaries and a commitment to safeguarding India’s borders,” the minister said, noting its role as a confluence of Indian and Russian defence technologies. He also invoked former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s words: “In this world, fear has no place, only strength respects strength,” underscoring India’s growing global stature.

    The facility’s launch aligns with the Modi government’s Make-in-India, Make-for-the-World vision, aiming to position India as a key player in the global defence market, which saw expenditures of $2,718 billion in 2024, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. The UPDIC has already attracted Rs 4,000 crore in investments, with 180 MoUs signed for a proposed Rs 34,000 crore, covering sectors like aircraft manufacturing, drones, ammunition, and small arms.

    Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, speaking at the event, praised the facility as a boost to the Make-in-India initiative and a step toward making Lucknow a defence manufacturing hub. He echoed the minister’s sentiments on Operation Sindoor, calling it a clear message that India will not tolerate terrorism. The Chief Minister highlighted ongoing projects across the UPDIC’s six nodes, involving both public and private sectors.

    The BrahMos Aerospace initiative also includes training programs, with 36 trainees selected to operate the facility, five of whom were felicitated during the inauguration. The event was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brijesh Pathak, DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat, and other senior officials.

  • Magnitude 5.5 earthquake strikes Tibet

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An earthquake of magnitude 5.5 struck Tibet early on Monday, the China Earthquake Administration (CEA) said.

    The quake hit the city of Shigatse at 5:11 a.m. (2111 GMT), at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles).

    Authorities have dispatched emergency response services and no casualties have been reported so far, CEA said.

    In January, more than 120 died in a 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Tibet’s Tingri county, around 240 km (149 miles) away from Shigatse.

    (Reuters)

  • India’s Gaganyaan mission enters final phase, first human spaceflight set for 2027

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s first human space mission, ‘Gaganyaan,’ has entered its final phase, with the first human spaceflight now scheduled for the first quarter of 2027, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said on Tuesday.

    Singh said that the successful completion of the TV-D1 mission and the first uncrewed Test Vehicle Abort Mission earlier this year have laid a strong foundation for the upcoming test schedule.

    The second Test Vehicle mission (TV-D2) is slated for later in 2025, followed by the uncrewed orbital flights of Gaganyaan. These milestones will culminate in India’s maiden human spaceflight in 2027, launching Indian astronauts into orbit aboard an Indian rocket from Indian soil.

    Calling it a “historic mission,” the minister emphasized that the Gaganyaan programme represents India’s rise as a global space power built on indigenous technology, fiscal prudence, and visionary political leadership.

    He also recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had clearly laid out India’s long-term ambitions in space, including setting up the ‘Bharatiya Antariksha Station’ by 2035 and sending the first Indian to the Moon by 2040.

    The Human-rated LVM3 vehicle, the Crew Escape System, and the Crew Module and Service Module are all undergoing final stages of testing and integration.

    The minister confirmed that the uncrewed orbital ‘Gaganyaan’ mission is on track for launch later this year, with recovery trials already conducted with the Indian Navy and more sea recovery simulations planned.

    Training for astronauts is also progressing steadily. The minister informed that four Indian Air Force pilots, selected as astronaut-designates, have completed training in Russia and are undergoing further mission-specific training in India. Their health, psychological fitness, and simulation-based operational readiness are being continuously assessed at India’s astronaut training facility.

    “The expenditure being incurred on the ‘Gaganyaan’ project is minimal compared to similar human spaceflight missions conducted by other countries,” the minister said. He added that the mission’s returns, both in terms of technological innovation and economic stimulus, far exceed the costs involved.

    ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan echoed the view that ‘Gaganyaan’ is catalyzing India’s emergence as a self-reliant space power, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs.

    With the crewed mission expected in 2026, India is poised to join an elite group of nations that have independently developed the capability for human spaceflight.

    IANS

  • PM Modi unveils vision for India’s space future at GLEX 2025, astronaut to ISS soon, Moon landing by 2040

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX) 2025 via video conferencing on Wednesday, highlighting India’s evolving leadership in space technology and its commitment to global cooperation in advancing the frontiers of space exploration.

    Welcoming delegates, astronauts, and scientists from around the world, the Prime Minister described space as “not merely a destination but a declaration of curiosity, courage, and collective progress.” He spoke of India’s extraordinary journey, from launching a small rocket in 1963 to becoming the first nation to land near the Moon’s South Pole with Chandrayaan-3.

    “Indian rockets carry more than payloads—they carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians,” PM Modi said. He recounted key milestones in India’s space program, including the 2014 Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), which reached Mars on its first attempt and breakthroughs made by Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2 in discovering lunar water and capturing high-resolution imagery of the Moon’s surface.

    The Prime Minister highlighted that India has successfully launched over 400 satellites for 34 countries, developed cryogenic engines in record time, and deployed 100 satellites in a single mission. He celebrated India’s latest achievement—docking two satellites in space this year, calling it a major stride toward future interstellar endeavors.

    Reaffirming India’s approach to space as a collaborative, rather than competitive, effort, Modi emphasized the need to explore space “for the benefit of humanity.” He recalled India’s regional cooperation in launching a satellite for South Asian nations and announced that the G20 Satellite Mission, initiated during India’s G20 presidency, would become a key contribution to the Global South.

    Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined India’s ambitious roadmap in space exploration. He announced that an Indian astronaut would travel to the International Space Station in the coming weeks as part of a joint ISRO-NASA mission. He also confirmed the progress of India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, and unveiled the vision to establish the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by 2035. By 2040, PM Modi said, an Indian astronaut would set foot on the Moon, with future missions to Mars and Venus also in sight.

    Beyond exploration, the Prime Minister emphasized how space technology empowers governance and everyday life in India. He cited the use of satellites in issuing fishermen alerts, enhancing railway safety, advancing weather forecasting, and supporting the GatiShakti infrastructure platform. He noted that many of these space programs are led by women scientists, underscoring India’s inclusive approach to scientific advancement.

    Encouraging innovation, PM Modi spotlighted the role of India’s burgeoning private space sector, which now includes over 250 startups engaged in areas such as satellite technology, propulsion systems, and remote imaging.

  • Union Health Minister Nadda reviews national medical preparedness amid India-Pakistan tensions

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Health Minister JP Nadda conducted a review meeting on the health centres and facilities across the country on Friday amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

    Senior officials of the Ministry of Health attended the meeting and provided a thorough review of the health facilities.
    Nadda was also briefed on the operational status of all hospitals and health facilities during the meeting, with particular emphasis on monitoring mechanisms in place.

    The meeting came in the wake of Pakistan’s attempted retaliation following Operation Sindoor, where the Indian Armed Forces targeted nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Wednesday. The operation was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

    Earlier today, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also conducted a review of the country’s current security situation at South Block, which houses the Ministry of Defence, in the national capital, in the aftermath of the foiled large-scale drone strike by Pakistan.

    The Defence Minister was accompanied by the military top brass and senior officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, and Defence Secretary RK Singh.

    (ANI)

  • India and UAE deepen cybersecurity collaboration at GISEC Global 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Data Security Council of India (DSCI) hosted the second edition of the Indo-UAE Cybersecurity Exchange in Dubai, reinforcing bilateral cooperation in the digital security domain. Organized in partnership with CIO Klub, the event took place alongside GISEC Global 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre and brought together key figures from the cybersecurity and technology sectors of both countries.

    The India Pavilion at GISEC, established by DSCI, featured over 15 Indian companies presenting advanced solutions in threat intelligence, data privacy, application security, Security Operations Centers, and quantum technologies. The initiative aimed to foster linkages and partnerships among solution providers, user organizations, and innovators from the Indian cybersecurity ecosystem and their counterparts in the UAE.

    B.G. Krishnan, Consul (Economic, Trade, Commerce & Education) at the Consulate General of India in Dubai, underlined the urgency of global cybersecurity challenges. “The world is at a critical juncture from cybersecurity, privacy, and critical technology perspectives,” he noted. “Rapidly evolving threats, technological advancements, and geopolitical tensions are reshaping the global and national landscapes, impacting businesses, society, and critical sectors.”

    Atul Kumar, Director of DSCI, highlighted the strategic importance of Indo-UAE cooperation in the digital space. “As India and the United Arab Emirates strengthen their strategic partnership, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical area for collaboration,” he said. “With both nations digitizing rapidly and depending heavily on secure digital infrastructure, there is significant scope to jointly nurture resilient cybersecurity ecosystems.”

    The exchange served as a platform for discussions on cyber resilience, leadership development, and technology innovation. DSCI reaffirmed its commitment to continued engagement with UAE stakeholders, aiming to advance cybersecurity cooperation in the face of increasingly complex digital threats.India’s dynamic presence and its growing engagement with regional cybersecurity ecosystems at GISEC Global 2025 reaffirm its role as a key contributor in shaping the future of global cyber resilience. The three day GISEC 2025 will conclude on may 8th.

  • Healthy childhood diet linked to later onset of menstruation in girls: Study

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A new study suggests that a diet rich in vegetables, legumes, and whole grains during childhood may delay the onset of menstruation in girls. The findings, published in the journal Human Reproduction, remained consistent regardless of body mass index (BMI) or height, factors previously associated with early puberty.

    The timing of menstruation has long-term health implications. Early onset has been linked to a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, and cardiovascular diseases in adulthood.

    “Our findings underscore the importance of ensuring that all children and adolescents have access to nutritious food,” said Holly Harris, Associate Professor at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle. “This also highlights the critical role of school-based meals being guided by evidence-based nutritional standards.”

    The study analysed data from more than 7,500 children aged 9 to 14, examining their diets through two well-established frameworks: the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) and the Empirical Dietary Inflammatory Pattern (EDIP).

    The AHEI rewards higher scores for healthier food choices such as vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, while penalizing the consumption of red and processed meats, trans-fats, and excess salt. The EDIP evaluates a diet’s inflammatory potential, identifying foods like refined grains, processed meats, and sugary beverages as contributors to systemic inflammation.

    “We found that both dietary patterns were associated with the age of menarche,” Harris explained. “A healthier diet was linked to a later onset of menstruation, independent of BMI and height. This reinforces the importance of diet quality over body size alone.”

    The researchers concluded that the type of food consumed during childhood and adolescence, and its potential to cause or reduce inflammation, may play a more significant role in determining the timing of menstruation than physical growth indicators.

    (With IANS inputs)

  • Health inequities shortening lives by more than 30 years in poor countries: WHO

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Poor social determinants of health are cutting life expectancy in low-income countries by more than 30 years, according to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO).

    The WHO defines social determinants of health as conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age.

    The report noted that beyond the health sector, factors such as lack of quality housing, education, and job opportunities can dramatically reduce life expectancy.

    It said that people in the country with the lowest life expectancy will, on average, live 33 years shorter than those born in the country with the highest life expectancy.

    “Children born in poorer countries are 13 times more likely to die before the age of 5 than in wealthier countries,” the report said.

    Women from disadvantaged groups are also more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes.

    “Our world is an unequal one. Where we are born, grow, live, work, and age significantly influence our health and well-being,” WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

    “Addressing the interlinked social determinants” can help, he added.

    Further, the report showed that 3.8 billion people worldwide are deprived of adequate social protection coverage, such as child/paid sick leave benefits, with a direct and lasting impact on their health outcomes.

    High debt burdens have been crippling the capacity of governments to invest in these services. As a result, the total value of interest payments made by the world’s 75 poorest countries has increased four-fold in the last decade.

    Worryingly, the report also cited “sufficient evidence to show that health inequities within countries are often widening”.

    Closing the gap and enhancing equity between the poorest and wealthiest sectors of the population within low- and middle-income countries can help save the lives of 1.8 million children annually, revealed modelling studies.

    The report also provides evidence-based strategies and policy recommendations to help countries improve health outcomes for all.

    WHO emphasises that measures to address income inequality, structural discrimination, conflict, and climate disruptions are key to overcoming deep-seated health inequities.

    –IANS

  • Drink black tea, eat berries and apples to age healthy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Want to age healthily? A higher intake of black tea, berries, citrus fruits, and apples may help, according to global research.

    Researchers from Edith Cowan University (Australia), Queen’s University Belfast (UK), and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (US) found that foods rich in flavonoids could help lower the risk of key components associated with unhealthy ageing, including frailty, impaired physical function, and poor mental health.

    “The goal of medical research is not just to help people live longer but to ensure they stay healthy for as long as possible,” said Dr Nicola Bondonno, Adjunct Lecturer at Edith Cowan University.

    Previous studies have shown that individuals with higher flavonoid intake tend to live longer and are less likely to develop major chronic diseases such as dementia, diabetes, or heart disease.

    “Our research shows that people who consume more flavonoids tend to age better,” Bondonno added.

    The study, which analysed data from 62,743 women and 23,687 men over a span of 24 years, found that women with the highest flavonoid intake had a 15 per cent lower risk of frailty, a 12 per cent lower risk of impaired physical function, and a 12 per cent lower risk of poor mental health, compared to those with the lowest intake.

    While fewer associations were observed in men, higher flavonoid intake was still linked to a lower risk of poor mental health.

    “Flavonoids are well known for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting blood vessel health, and even helping to maintain skeletal muscle mass — all of which are important for preventing frailty and maintaining physical function and mental health as we age,” said Professor Aedin Cassidy from Queen’s University Belfast.

    The study also showed that participants who increased their intake of flavonoid-rich foods by three servings a day had a 6 to 11 per cent lower risk across all three ageing-related outcomes in women, and a 15 per cent lower risk of poor mental health in men.

    “Overall, these findings underscore the potential for simple dietary modifications to improve quality of life and support healthy ageing,” added Professor Eric Rimm from Harvard.

    — IANS

  • UAE university team develops improved non-surgical blood flow monitoring device

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Researchers from United Arab Emirates University have created an enhanced technology for monitoring blood flow without surgery, using piezoelectric pressure sensors. The innovation measures crucial physiological parameters including blood flow velocity and viscosity by utilizing materials that generate electric fields when subjected to mechanical stress.

    The improved version delivers greater accuracy in data interpretation while being more cost-effective than existing alternatives, making it suitable for deployment in both clinical and home environments. The technology provides real-time monitoring capabilities that can help detect potentially dangerous conditions such as blood clots.

    “Our goal is to improve an existing technology to make it more accurate and user-friendly, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers,” said Professor Mahmoud Al Ahmad, who supervised the research team. “It is worth mentioning that this project provided a training opportunity for four undergraduate students in scientific research.”

    The team plans to incorporate artificial intelligence in future iterations to further enhance the system’s capabilities and expand its applications. This development aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to advance medical technology and reduce dependence on imported healthcare solutions.

    The innovation strengthens the local medical device manufacturing sector and supports the UAE’s ongoing transition toward a knowledge-based economy. By creating more accessible diagnostic tools, the research contributes to promoting health equity and providing accurate, affordable medical diagnostics globally.

  • Cabinet approves Rs.60,000 crore national scheme to upgrade ITIs, establish five national skilling centres

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a significant step towards revamping vocational education and addressing the rising demand for skilled workforce, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the National Scheme for Upgradation of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and the establishment of five National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) for Skilling, according to an official statement released on Wednesday.

    The initiative will be implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with a total outlay of Rs.60,000 crore over five years. The funding will include Rs. 30,000 crore from the Centre, Rs. 20,000 crore from State Governments, and Rs. 10,000 crore from industry partners. Additionally, 50% of the central share will be co-financed equally by the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank.

    Revamping India’s Skilling Landscape

    The scheme envisions the upgradation of 1,000 Government ITIs in a hub-and-spoke model aligned with industry needs and the capacity augmentation of five National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) located in Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana. These NSTIs will also house the new National Centres of Excellence.

    The goal is to reposition ITIs as aspirational, government-owned, and industry-managed institutions, offering revamped courses that reflect the evolving skill requirements of modern industries. Over five years, the scheme aims to skill 20 lakh youth through industry-aligned training programs.

    Bridging Skill Gaps in High-Growth Sectors

    The Cabinet statement highlighted that previous financial assistance for ITI infrastructure development was insufficient to address the growing needs of new-age trades and capital-intensive training. The new scheme introduces a need-based investment model, offering flexibility to institutions to enhance infrastructure and introduce relevant trades.

    To ensure effectiveness, the scheme will adopt an industry-led Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model, marking a major shift from earlier government-only approaches. This will enable close collaboration between ITIs and industry in curriculum planning, infrastructure upgrades, and ongoing management.

    Focus on Trainers and Employability

    The initiative also aims to strengthen Training of Trainers (ToT) by upgrading infrastructure in the five NSTIs and offering pre-service and in-service training to 50,000 trainers. This is expected to enhance the quality and consistency of vocational education across the country.

    The scheme will address long-standing issues related to infrastructure gaps, outdated course content, low employability, and the perception of vocational training as a less desirable education route. It aims to make vocational training a central pillar of India’s industrial and economic growth, especially in emerging sectors such as electronics, automotive, and renewable energy.

    A Vision for ‘Viksit Bharat’

    The newly approved scheme aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047, with skilling as a key enabler of inclusive growth and global competitiveness. With a significantly expanded ITI network—currently over 14,600 institutes with 14.4 lakh enrolled students—this scheme is seen as a timely intervention to create a future-ready workforce.

  • Cabinet approves ₹11,828.79 crore expansion plan for five new IITs

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a major expansion plan to strengthen academic and infrastructure capacities of five Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) located in Andhra Pradesh (IIT Tirupati), Kerala (IIT Palakkad), Chhattisgarh (IIT Bhilai), Jammu & Kashmir (IIT Jammu), and Karnataka (IIT Dharwad). The plan, known as Phase-B construction, entails an investment of ₹11,828.79 crore over a period of four years from 2025-26 to 2028-29.

    Along with infrastructure development, the Cabinet has sanctioned the creation of 130 new faculty posts at the level of Professor (Level 14 and above). The initiative also includes the establishment of five state-of-the-art research parks aimed at strengthening collaboration between industry and academia.

    The approved expansion will significantly boost student intake across undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs. Student strength in these institutions is set to increase by over 6,500 in the next four years, with a phased enhancement of 1,364 students in the first year, 1,738 in the second, 1,767 in the third, and 1,707 in the fourth year. Upon completion of the expansion, the five IITs will accommodate a total of 13,687 students, up from the current strength of 7,111—an increase of 6,576 students.

    This move is expected to benefit thousands of aspiring students across the country, as admissions to IITs are conducted on a pan-India basis. It will contribute to nation-building by developing a highly skilled workforce, promoting innovation, reducing educational inequality, and improving India’s global standing in higher education and research.

    The expansion is also anticipated to generate substantial employment. Apart from the hiring of faculty and administrative personnel, the larger campuses will create demand for local services, thereby stimulating regional economies. The increased number of IIT graduates and postgraduates will bolster innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation across various sectors.

    These five IITs were established after 2014, with IIT Palakkad and IIT Tirupati beginning their academic sessions in 2015-16, followed by IIT Bhilai, IIT Jammu, and IIT Dharwad in 2016-17. Initially functioning from temporary campuses, all five IITs are now operational from their permanent locations.

  • Bulls Take Charge: Sensex, Nifty Rally Sharply After Successful ‘Operation Sindoor’

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic indices surged on Monday with Sensex jumping over 1,900 points in the morning trade, as India-Pakistan tensions eased with ‘Operation Sindoor’ marking a significant demonstration of India’s military and strategic prowess.

    Buying was seen in the PSU bank, IT and auto sectors in the early trade.

    At around 9.34 am, Sensex was trading 1,943 points or 2.45 per cent up at 81,398.42 while the Nifty climbed 598.8 point or 2.49 per cent at 24,606.85.

    Nifty Bank was up 1,395.95 points or 2.60 per cent at 54,991.20. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was trading at 54,679.55 after rising 1,456.20 points or 2.74 per cent. Nifty Smallcap 100 index was at 16,584.60 after climbing 498.95 points or 3.10 per cent.

    According to analysts, India’s markets and economy have demonstrated remarkable resilience, consistently transcending external perturbations and geo-political tensions. This strength comes from a steady, domestically-oriented economy, which helps protect against global troubles, showing that every crisis eventually ends.

    “India’s efforts to negotiate trade deals will strengthen global business links and help it sell more worldwide, bringing in steady foreign money and making it more competitive. Along with balanced global relationships and strong partnerships, this creates a relatively stable investment place,” said Devarsh Vakil, Head of Prime Research at HDFC Securities.

    Major indexes finished the last week narrowly mixed. The trade deal announcement between US and UK and reports that U.S. and Chinese officials meeting in Switzerland on the weekend for trade discussions, paved the way for broader negotiations and tariff de-escalation, supported investor sentiment, said experts.

    Meanwhile, in the Sensex pack, Adani Ports, Bajaj Finance, Axis Bank, Eternal, Power Grid, NTPC, Bajaj Finserv, Tata Steel, L&T, SBI were the top gainers. Whereas, only Sun Pharma was the top loser.

    In the Asian markets, China, Hong Kong and Seoul were trading in green, whereas, Japan was trading in red.

    In the last trading session on Friday, Dow Jones in the US declined 0.29 per cent to close at 41,249.38. The S&P 500 declined 0.07 per cent to 5,659.91and the Nasdaq closed at 17,928.92 .

    On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs), after being net buyers for 16 consecutive sessions, turned net sellers on May 9, offloading equities worth Rs 3,798.71 crore. In contrast, domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) remained net buyers, investing Rs 7,277.74 crore on the same day.

    (IANS)

  • India-Pakistan tensions trigger selloff in stock markets, Sensex falls 880 points

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity markets witnessed a sharp decline on Friday as rising tensions between India and Pakistan spooked investors.

    At the closing bell, the Sensex dropped 880.34 points, or 1.10 per cent, to close at 79,454.47, while the Nifty fell 265.80 points, or 1.10 per cent, to settle at 24,008.

    “Nifty traders appeared to embrace risk-off trades amid India-Pakistan tensions, as the index fell from its recent consolidation zone,” said Rupak De of LKP Securities.

    He added that the Nifty managed to stay above the 24,000 mark as it found support around the 21-day exponential moving average (EMA).

    Among the Sensex’s 30 stocks, ICICI Bank led the losses, falling 3.09 per cent during the intra-day session, followed by PowerGrid (down 2.61 per cent), Bajaj Finance (down 1.84 per cent), and Reliance Industries (down 1.84 per cent).

    However, some stocks managed to post gains. Titan led the pack with a 4.25 per cent rise, followed by Larsen & Toubro at 4.02 per cent, Tata Motors with 3.86 per cent, State Bank of India at 1.39 per cent, and Asian Paints, which edged up 0.2 per cent.

    Investor sentiment weakened across the board. The Nifty Bank, financial services, and realty indices each dropped more than 1 per cent, with the realty sector emerging as the worst performer, plunging nearly 2 per cent.

    Other key sectors—auto, IT, energy, pharma, FMCG, healthcare, and oil & gas—also ended the day in the red.

    Despite the overall weakness, a few sectors bucked the trend. Nifty PSU Bank, consumer durables, media, and metal stocks managed to close with gains, providing some support to the market.

    In the broader market, the Nifty Midcap 100 index ended flat, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 slipped 0.61 per cent.

    Additionally, the rupee traded in a volatile range of 85.90 to 85.35 amid the ongoing border tensions, with signs of escalation keeping market participants cautious.

    “Any fresh developments on the geopolitical front are likely to have a significant impact on the rupee’s direction,” said Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities.

    –IANS

  • India-Pak conflict affects 11 pc of daily domestic air traffic: Industry data

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As tensions flare up between India and Pakistan, at least 11 per cent of the daily domestic air traffic has been affected following the shutdown of 24 airports in the country, data showed on Friday.

    According to industry data, average daily domestic flights dropped from 3,265 in April to 2,907 (as of May 8).

    Nearly 670 airline routes will be affected over May 9-10. This includes 334 incoming and 336 outgoing flights across the 24 airports that have been shut, according to FlightRadar24 data.

    Airports in Srinagar, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jammu and Leh account for the most affected routes. Other impacted airports include Patiala, Bhuntar, Pathankot, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Mundra, Keshod and Rajkot.

    As per industry data, arrivals are also delayed across cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai. Departures from these airports face higher disruption, according to FlightRadar24 data.

    Meanwhile, the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi remained open and operational on Friday.

    “Delhi Airport operations remain normal. Some flights are impacted due to changing airspace conditions and heightened security. Please check with your airlines for the latest updates,” said the Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) in a post on X.

    “We are working closely with all stakeholders to minimise any inconvenience,” DIAL added.

    Low-cost carrier IndiGo, which is facing up to 500 flight cancellations, said in an X post “Your safety is paramount and we are here to help you travel with ease”.

    The grounding of civil flights is impacting connectivity in northern and western India, and travellers have been urged to check with airlines before heading to the airport.

    The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has advised all airlines and airports in the country to strengthen security measures.

    “Due to an order from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security regarding enhanced security measures at airports, passengers across the country are encouraged to allow extra time for check-in and boarding. Check-in will close 75 minutes before departure,” said Air India said.

    On the other hand, international traffic remains largely stable, with daily flights dipping marginally from 616 to 604, according to FlightRadar24 data.

    (IANS)

  • Centre expands credit guarantee scheme for startups

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Centre on Friday notified an expansion of the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS). The revised scheme significantly enhances guarantee coverage and reduces associated fees, in a bid to ease access to debt funding for early-stage and innovation-driven enterprises.

    The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, announced that the ceiling on guarantee cover per borrower under the CGSS has been raised from ₹10 crore to ₹20 crore. Simultaneously, the extent of guarantee coverage has been revised to 85% of the amount in default for loan amounts up to ₹10 crore and 75% for amounts exceeding that limit.

    The scheme also offers a reduced Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) for startups operating within 27 identified Champion Sectors. The AGF for these sectors has been halved from 2% per annum to 1%, in a move designed to encourage innovation in areas critical to India’s manufacturing and services ambitions under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. These Champion Sectors were earlier recognised by the Government to help accelerate industrial self-reliance and technological advancement.

    “The expanded scheme will further reduce the perceived risks associated with lending to startups in established financial institutions, enabling greater financial flow and runway for startups to undertake research and development, experimentation, and create cutting-edge innovation and technologies,” the DPIIT said in a statement.

    The CGSS expansion is in line with the broader vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to transform India into a self-reliant, innovation-led economy. The Government anticipates that the increased guarantee cover and enhanced risk-sharing mechanism will incentivise more financial institutions to extend debt support to startups. This, in turn, is expected to increase the overall volume of startup financing in the country.

    The CGSS was first notified on October 6, 2022, following the launch of the Startup India initiative by the Prime Minister on January 16, 2016. The scheme provides guarantee coverage against credit instruments offered to eligible startups by Scheduled Commercial Banks, All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). The primary aim is to make collateral-free debt funding more accessible through instruments such as working capital, term loans, and venture debt.

    The DPIIT noted that several operational reforms and enabling measures, developed in consultation with stakeholders from the startup ecosystem, have also been incorporated in the updated CGSS framework. These additions are intended to make the scheme more appealing both to lenders and to startups seeking financial support.

    The announcement follows proposals made in the Union Budget 2025–26, which called for enhanced credit availability with a broader guarantee cover as part of the Government’s efforts to deepen the startup ecosystem. With the latest revisions, the Government hopes to position CGSS as a key pillar in building a “Viksit Bharat” — a developed India rooted in innovation and economic inclusion.

  • Traders vow to keep goods flowing amid tensions with Pakistan

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), representing over 90 million traders across the country, on Friday expressed unwavering support for the Indian government and armed forces amid the ongoing tensions with Pakistan.

    Praveen Khandelwal, CAIT Secretary General and Member of Parliament from Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, stated, “Just as our brave soldiers are guarding the borders, the traders of the nation are committed to acting as soldiers on the economic front, ensuring an uninterrupted supply chain under all circumstances.”

    He lauded the Indian armed forces for responding to Pakistan’s “nefarious actions” with “exemplary courage and strength,” calling it a matter of national pride. Describing the current scenario as akin to a state of war, Khandelwal said every citizen is standing in full solidarity with the government to ensure that Pakistan receives a “strong and lasting lesson.”

    Khandelwal also clarified that there is no shortage of foodgrains or essential commodities in the country. “All goods are abundantly available in the markets, and the government has sufficient reserves. Citizens should not resort to hoarding or panic buying,” he said. He assured that traders would, as they did during the COVID-19 pandemic, maintain the supply chain and, if necessary, ensure doorstep delivery of essential items.

    He further pledged that CAIT traders would strictly follow all government advisories and would not allow panic, misinformation, or unrest to spread under any circumstances.

    Appealing to the trader community, Khandelwal said patriotism is not just an emotion but also a practice rooted in discipline, patience, and faith in the nation’s leadership. “Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary steps. At such a time, the trading community must act in an organised and responsible manner in the national interest,” he said.

    CAIT also urged traders to refrain from making any independent market-related decisions and to wait for official guidance. “This is the time to demonstrate unity, prudence, and patriotic commitment,” Khandelwal said.

    “Devotion to the motherland is not just an emotion—it is a responsibility. And this responsibility will be fulfilled with full discipline and dedication by over 90 million traders across the country,” he added.

    ––IANS

  • India’s first mortgage-backed PTCs listed on NSE

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    M. Nagaraju, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, on Tuesday rang the ceremonial bell to mark the listing of the country’s first mortgage-backed Pass Through Certificates (PTCs) on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). The certificates were structured by RMBS Development Company Limited.

    The listing ceremony, held in Mumbai, was attended by senior officials from banks, housing finance companies, and key financial institutions. The PTCs, fully subscribed at ₹1,000 crore, are backed by a pool of housing loans originated by LIC Housing Finance Limited. A total of 1,00,000 certificates with a face value of ₹1,00,000 each were issued.

    This marks the first time a PTC issue in India has had its coupon rate discovered through the NSE’s Electronic Book Provider (EBP) platform. The certificates carry a 7.26% annual coupon and have a final maturity of approximately 20 years. Rated AAA(SO) by CRISIL and CARE Ratings, the PTCs are issued in dematerialized form, making them fully transferable and eligible for secondary market trading.

    Addressing the gathering, Nagaraju emphasized the crucial role of the housing and housing finance sectors in India’s economic development. “Housing finance has extensive forward and backward linkages with several other sectors, including infrastructure,” he said. “Meeting the housing needs of our vast population is essential to ensuring inclusive and sustained economic growth.”

    He further underscored the potential of securitization in integrating the housing finance and debt markets, calling the introduction of RMBS (Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities) a possible catalyst for the sector’s future growth.

  • Sensex, Nifty open flat amid mixed global cues

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity indices opened on a flat note on Tuesday amid mixed global cues and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

    At 9:18 am, the Sensex was down 11 points at 80,785, while the Nifty declined 8 points to trade at 24,452.

    Selling pressure was witnessed in the broader markets. The Nifty Midcap 100 index dropped 126 points or 0.23 per cent to 54,548, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 index fell 61 points or 0.37 per cent to 16,547.

    From a technical standpoint, the Nifty 50 continues to trade within a narrow consolidation range, forming a neutral candlestick pattern on the daily chart, experts noted.

    “A decisive move above 24,500 could pave the way for an up move towards 24,700 and 24,800. On the downside, support is seen at 24,200 and 24,000, where traders may find buying opportunities on dips,” said Mandar Bhojane of Choice Broking.

    On the sectoral front, auto, FMCG, and private banks were among the top gainers. Pharma, realty, and media stocks underperformed.

    In the Sensex pack, M&M, Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finserv, HUL, Nestle, Tata Steel, Axis Bank, L&T, IndusInd Bank, and ITC were the major gainers. On the other hand, Sun Pharma, Tata Motors, Titan, Eicher Motors, SBI, TCS, Bajaj Finance, and UltraTech Cement were among the top losers.

    Most Asian stock markets were trading in the green. Shanghai and Hong Kong registered gains as optimism around potential US-China trade talks lifted investor sentiment.

    Markets in Japan and South Korea remained closed for public holidays. Meanwhile, US markets ended in the red in the previous session.

    On the institutional side, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their buying streak on May 5, with net equity purchases worth ₹497 crore. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) also remained strong buyers, investing ₹2,788 crore.

    This sustained inflow from both domestic and foreign investors indicates underlying market confidence despite global uncertainties, experts said.

    — IANS

  • Indian stocks extend rally; Sensex gains nearly 300 points

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian stock indices continued their upward momentum from the previous week, opening the new trading week on a positive note.

    The Sensex closed at 80,796.84, rising 294.85 points or 0.37 per cent, while the Nifty ended the day at 24,461.15, up 114.45 points or 0.47 per cent. Most sectoral indices were in the green, with Nifty Auto and Oil & Gas leading the gains on Monday.

    As the week progresses, market participants are expected to closely track the flow of foreign portfolio investments (FPIs)—which have recently turned net positive—along with developments surrounding the India-US trade deal and Q4 earnings reports from major listed companies for further cues.

    On the global front, investors are also awaiting the outcome of the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy meeting, which could influence market sentiment.

    Last week, the Sensex and Nifty posted their longest weekly winning streak of 2025. The Sensex surged over 1,100 points—or about 1.5 per cent—during the holiday-truncated week, with markets closed on May 1 for Maharashtra Day.

    Adding to the positive sentiment, FPIs turned net buyers after three months, although the pace of inflows is still building.

    “The market has sustained its positive momentum, though optimism has moderated. Continued foreign inflows and record GST collections in April reflect resilience in economic activity and support mild optimism,” said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.

    “A weak dollar and falling oil prices have further boosted FII sentiment. However, the momentum is shifting from broad-based rallies to stock- and sector-specific moves driven by earnings. Over the past month, the broader market has recovered over 50 per cent of the losses incurred during the consolidation phase from September 2024 to March 2025,” he added.

    Sundar Kewat, Technical and Derivatives Analyst at Ashika Institutional Equity, noted that gains were limited as investor sentiment turned cautious amid escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. This led to a more defensive market stance despite support from select sectors.

    Markets had also found support after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs on several countries, including India. The initial announcement of the tariffs had triggered a global equity sell-off, with India also being affected.

    Geopolitical tensions, particularly the India-Pakistan standoff following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, have weighed on investor sentiment recently. Market participants are expected to closely monitor further developments in this regard.

    -ANI