A parliamentary panel has suggested the gradual implementation of RBI's central bank digital currency to enhance the distribution of food subsidies. The panel proposes utilizing its features like quick transfers, traceability, and limited usage to expand the ongoing pilot program in Gujarat and Puducherry.
Waaree Renewable Technologies (WRTL), part of the Waaree Energies group, is targeting 11 GW of solar EPC orders in West Asia, while also pursuing 25-26 GW in India. They are also looking into battery energy storage systems, transmission and distribution, and data centres.
Sebi has introduced a new mutual fund-only portfolio management service for high-net-worth investors, with a minimum investment of Rs 25 lakh. This will allow portfolio managers to invest solely in mutual fund products, with simplified compliance and fee structures. Mutual fund distributors will also have to maintain a separate relationship with clients.
GIFT City, a financial hub in India, is gaining popularity among companies for raising funds and establishing operations. It serves as a gateway for accessing global capital at a lower cost, with 70% of external commercial borrowings being routed through it.
Reliance Broadcast Network Ltd's BIG FM has launched One Big World, an AI-powered media and entertainment ecosystem, to engage with consumers through various platforms. The model aims to attract younger audiences and provide measurable outcomes for partners, amidst disruption in the FM radio industry. RBNL plans to leverage its brand and local talent to build a connected content ecosystem.
AI is increasingly involved in cyber attacks, aiding in malware creation and intrusion operations. This has sped up the vulnerability discovery process, resulting in more prompts per user. Data leakage risk has doubled, particularly in Europe and Latin America. Anthropic's Project Glasswing has effectively addressed thousands of high-risk vulnerabilities using its unreleased model.
The government has allowed Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in e-commerce for exports, with a focus on boosting India's e-commerce exports to $200-300 billion by 2030. This change in policy will allow e-commerce companies to hold their own inventory for export purposes, aligning the FDI framework with India's broader export promotion agenda.
The Bharat Renewable Energy Summit & Expo 2026, inaugurated by PM Modi, will focus on hybrid projects, battery storage, floating solar, agrivoltaics, and green hydrogen. With non-fossil capacity at 297 GW and solar tariffs at ₹2.15 per unit, the summit aims to attract investments and strengthen international cooperation in renewable energy.
Mercedes-Benz India stays positive amidst challenges, plans to increase prices by 2% due to weak rupee. Strong first quarter with double-digit growth and focus on multi-powertrain strategy, including plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. No policy support needed, keeping an eye on currency fluctuations before making decisions.
Indian exchanges have launched two new indices, the BSE Saatvik 100 and NSE 500 Ahimsa, based on values such as non-violence, compassion, and avoidance of harmful products. These indices aim to attract investors looking for ethical investment options, and have shown promising returns so far.
Adani Power is looking to build its first nuclear power project in Bina and Nigrie, Madhya Pradesh, with a goal of 10 GW capacity by 2035. Investment decisions hinge on government regulations and the company is considering both domestic and international reactor technologies. This foray into the nuclear sector could position Adani Power as India's third-largest nuclear operator.
Brent crude prices reaching $100 a barrel have resulted in supply route disruptions and increased costs for India's crude, freight, tanker, and insurance. This could bring back fiscal pressures for the country, with a 36.6% increase in crude costs in just 19 days. Longer voyages, higher shipping costs, and increased insurance premiums could add up to $8 a barrel.
InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, reported a net loss of ₹238 crore for the quarter due to high fuel prices, rupee depreciation, and West Asia disruptions. However, the loss has narrowed from the previous quarter, indicating improved profitability. Revenue exceeded expectations, but EBITDAR declined and fuel expenses surged.
1989-batch IAS officer Anurag Jain, known for his competitiveness and preparation, has been appointed as the CEO of NITI Aayog for two years. With a background in engineering and public administration, and experience in key positions, he is well-suited for the role. His track record includes pioneering legislation, implementing flagship programs, and attracting major investments.
India's export-import trade has been severely affected by the war in West Asia, with shipping rates doubling and container availability decreasing. Equipment shortages and avoidance of Indian ports by some shipping lines have worsened the situation. As the conflict continues to escalate, India must focus on developing its own shipping line and container building capabilities.
India has approved its first dengue vaccine, Qdenga, which is designed to protect against all four dengue virus serotypes. The vaccine has shown an efficacy of 80.2% against confirmed dengue cases and 90.4% against dengue-related hospitalizations. It is expected to be available in India in the first half of 2027 and will be imported from Takeda's unit in Germany.
India plans to convert exhausted coal and lignite mines into clean-energy, industrial, and community assets through a ₹36,398.1-crore mine-closure program. 42 mines have already been closed, with 147 more identified for time-bound closure. 25% of annual closure costs will go towards community development and livelihood activities, with an additional 10% for just-transition measures.
Bollywood celebrities including Imran Khan, Huma Qureshi, Alia Bhatt, R Madhavan, and Shabana Azmi have joined the student protests against the NEET paper leak row, while others like Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Ranbir Kapoor, and Sidharth Malhotra have chosen to stay silent. Celebrities like Hema Malini and Kangana Ranaut have criticized
Indian airlines are projected to face financial losses in FY27 despite an increase in domestic passenger traffic. The industry is expected to incur a net loss of ₹36,000-38,000 crore due to high fuel prices, aircraft lease rentals, and disruptions from the West Asia conflict. International operations have been significantly impacted, with a 31.6% decrease in passenger traffic.
Kia India has launched the Syros EV, its second locally manufactured electric vehicle, at an introductory price of ₹13.49 lakh. Bookings are open and deliveries will begin from July 30. With a range of 443-526 km, it will compete with Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, and MG Windsor EV.
North Central Railway (NCR) is implementing a pilot project to introduce body-worn cameras for ticket-checking staff on two trains. The cameras will record both video and audio during ticket inspections, improving transparency and accountability. If successful, the project will be expanded to more trains.
Pune Metro Line 3 offers multiple ticketing options for commuters, including WhatsApp QR, NCMC, and the official Pune Metro app. The line will also have an AFC system and support the "One Nation, One Card" initiative. Ticket vending machines and manual counters will also be available. The line will cover 23 stations and support the NCMC from the first day of operations.
Air India has taken out its Airbus A319 planes from regular service, but they will still be used as backup until they are sold. The airline has six A319s, which will be sold by Skytech AIC without engines. This is part of Air India's plan to upgrade its fleet, making the A319 the second major aircraft type to leave. The planes have been in use for domestic flights since 2006.
Spicejet has acquired three Airbus A320 aircraft from Sky Angkor Air, which will begin operating this week with 180 all-economy seats. This move is part of the airline's strategy to regain market share and grow its domestic network. More aircraft are expected to be added in the near future as the company aims to recover from a decline caused by the departure of its wet-leased fleet.
Force Motors has launched an upgraded version of their Urbania van, priced at Rs 28.7 lakh. The new model has feature upgrades, a powerful engine, and is popular in the premium shared mobility segment. It comes in three wheelbases and eight seating layouts, with safety features, a TFT instrument cluster, and a 9-inch HD touchscreen.
The Adani Group is looking to enter the airline industry and has requested the AAI to relax rules. The government may ease restrictions on airport operators owning more than 10% of an airline, encouraging other business groups to enter the market. This could increase competition, but regulatory supervision is necessary to prevent conflicts of interest.
Bernstein believes Donald Trump's proposed tariffs of up to 200% on Indian generic medicines are more likely to be a negotiating tactic than a lasting policy shift. The brokerage says large Indian pharmaceutical companies remain well positioned due to their existing US manufacturing footprint, operational flexibility and the high cost of producing generic medicines in the US.
India is set to become a key player in the growing global military drone market, as it is projected to spend $25-30 billion on drones and $4-5 billion on counter-drone systems in the next 10 years. Drones are changing the dynamics of warfare, with affordability being a crucial factor and both offensive and defensive capabilities being vital.
Domestic equity market trades lower by midday on July 23 due to caution around global developments and weakness in heavyweight sectors. Nifty hovers above 23,850 level and Sensex trades over 76,350. HEG attracts strong buying, Waaree Renewable Technologies slips despite reporting strong growth.
Bernstein says ICICI Bank has extended its lead over HDFC Bank after the June quarter, outperforming in loan growth, deposits, margins and profitability. While HDFC Bank continues to face pressure from weak retail lending and lower loan yields, the brokerage retained 'Outperform' ratings on both banks.
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary received a warning from the NTSB after a passenger was almost sucked out of a Boeing 737 NG operated by the carrier's subsidiary. The NTSB reminded O'Leary of his obligations as a technical advisor and the traumatized passenger has spoken out about the incident. A draft report is expected soon.
As Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey continues its theatrical run, reports about its cast salaries have surfaced online. From Matt Damon's reported USD 15 million payday to the supporting cast's fees, here's the full breakdown of what the ensemble reportedly earned.
A major metro expansion is on the horizon for West Bengal, with the state government planning to take metro rail services beyond Kolkata for the first time. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to develop metro rail projects in Asansol, Durgapur, Siliguri and Jalpaiguri. Adhikari said the state will ask the Chief Secretary to prepare detailed proposals for these metro projects.
Thalapathy Vijay's last film before his full-time shift into politics as Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister, Jana Nayagan, has received a tremendous response at the advance booking counters. Despite facing delays and controversies, the film has managed to collect over Rs 22 crore in India and Rs 33 crore worldwide.
The Uttar Pradesh government has given the green light for the purchase of 250 electric buses for UPSRTC, costing Rs 425.50 crore. These buses will be used on key routes to enhance public transportation and decrease reliance on diesel buses. The Cabinet has also approved four expressway projects worth over Rs 47,000 crore to enhance road connectivity.
Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey is a box office hit, earning over $303 million in just six days. It has performed well in both domestic and international markets, breaking records in India and maintaining a strong pace in North America. With more markets yet to open, the film is set to become one of Nolan's top releases and may even surpass his previous franchise successes.
Motilal Oswal's latest report rates Eternal, Sunteck Realty, and Arvind Fashions as 'Buy' with expected upside of 31% to 69%. The report highlights their improving business performance, healthy growth visibility, expanding margins, and long-term earnings potential. While each company operates in a different sector, the market has become favorable for all three.
Three IPOs have opened for subscription simultaneously, looking to raise over Rs 5,000 crore. Indo-MIM is the biggest issue, attracting the most attention with a GMP of around Rs 185 and an estimated listing price of nearly Rs 670. Lohia Corp has opened a Rs 1,101.28 crore public issue, while Xtranet Technologies has a GMP of around Rs 13 per share.
DRDO has signed important agreements with AIESL and ADSTL for the development and production of the AEW&C Mk-II programme. AIESL will convert six Airbus A321 aircraft into base platforms, while ADSTL will develop and integrate mission systems. This programme aims to strengthen India's defence ecosystem and reduce reliance on foreign platforms.
Bernstein says pumped storage has become commercially attractive again as rising battery costs, evening power shortages and supportive government policies improve project economics. The brokerage believes Tata Power's latest pumped storage project could generate over 20% equity IRR with a five-year payback, while maintaining an 'Outperform' rating and a target price of Rs 430.
Daniel Siad, a French model recruiter with ties to Jeffrey Epstein, was found dead in his Paris home. He was accused of rape and human trafficking by multiple women and appeared in the US Justice Department's Epstein files over 2,000 times. Siad allegedly helped Epstein find young girls and despite his death, the investigation into Epstein's associates will continue.
Macquarie says Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel now offer different investment opportunities. While Jio is entering a cash flow-driven growth phase after completing most of its network rollout, Airtel continues to lead in returns, capital efficiency and monetisation. The brokerage expects both operators to benefit from tariff hikes, rising data usage and India's expanding digital infrastructure.
Indian Railways has announced a special train service between Agra and Kolkata for a limited period from July 23 to September 25, 2026. The train will operate 10 trips in each direction, stopping at important stations in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. It will offer both reserved and unreserved accommodation.
Delhi Metro has temporarily closed 16 metro stations from 7:30 AM due to security reasons, affecting commuters travelling to busy parts of the city. Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat will continue to offer interchange facilities, but entry and exit from these stations are suspended.
Opposition leaders are meeting to strategize on the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, with the INDIA bloc demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Salman Khan and Sonam Wangchuk support the students' peaceful protests, while the government is ready to discuss without preconditions.
Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan is urging senior officers to trust their teams and delegate important work to them. In a candid letter accompanying a "Guide on the Art of Delegating Work," Somanathan addresses the common hesitations of officers and provides practical advice for effective delegation. He sees delegation as an investment in leadership.
AI success in enterprises is determined by the context it is fed. Unique context and harnessing sets companies apart, not just buying the same models. To unlock AI's full potential, shift from systems of record to systems of context is crucial. Harness, context, and specification engineering are key disciplines.
India has top quantum scientists but lacks a quantum industry. The National Quantum Mission aims to change this by supporting startups, establishing hubs, and boosting hardware development. However, slow technology transfer and lack of support for researchers to become entrepreneurs hinder commercialization. Collaboration among all stakeholders is key for India to succeed in the quantum world.
RBI staff report states that although the southwest monsoon's uneven progress has delayed kharif sowing, its impact on food inflation is likely to be limited due to high public foodgrain stocks. The Indian economy has remained robust in June, supported by improving rural and urban demand.
India and Germany have joined forces to create a scientific mine-closure model, with a budget of $5 billion allocated by the government. The focus is on environmental protection, technology, community involvement, and economic opportunities. India has already closed 42 coal mines and plans to shut down 147 more, with a focus on utilizing the reclaimed land for renewable energy & eco-tourism.