28, Apr 2026
Industrial Production Rises 4.1pc on Manufacturing Push
New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): India’s industrial production grew by 4.1% in March compared to the same month last year, supported mainly by strong performance in manufacturing and mining, according to official data released by the Ministry of Statistics.
The manufacturing sector, which forms the largest share of industrial output, expanded by 4.3%, with key contributions from basic metals, motor vehicles, and machinery and equipment. Mining activity also recorded a 5.5% growth, supporting overall industrial performance.
However, electricity generation saw only marginal growth of 0.5%, slightly moderating the overall index.
On the use-based side, capital goods output surged 14.6%, indicating higher investment activity in industrial capacity. Consumer durables rose 5.3%, while infrastructure and construction goods increased by 6.7%, driven by steady demand and ongoing public infrastructure projects.
Overall, the data indicates continued resilience in India’s core industrial sectors, supported by manufacturing strength and rising investment-led activity.
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- By Neel Achary
28, Apr 2026
Odisha CM Lays Foundation for INR 1,647 Crore Power Grid Project in Keonjhar
Keonjhar, Apr 28 (BNP): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for a ₹1,647 crore power grid project at Uchchabali in Keonjhar district, aimed at strengthening the state’s electricity transmission network and supporting future industrial growth.
The project includes the establishment of a 420/220 KV grid substation in the mineral-rich Badbail area, which is expected to significantly enhance power stability and distribution capacity in the region.
According to officials, the project will benefit around 7 lakh people, improving electricity supply for households, industries, and upcoming infrastructure developments.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister highlighted that improved infrastructure and rising industrial activity will transform Keonjhar into a major growth centre of eastern India. He added that the region has the potential to develop as a key industrial hub with strong power availability and mineral-based development.
The project is seen as a major step toward strengthening Odisha’s power infrastructure and supporting long-term economic and industrial expansion in the region.
28, Apr 2026
SRM Easwari Engineering College Launches India’s First ABB Global Excellence Center for Robotics
Chennai, Apr 28: SRM Group’s Easwari Engineering College inaugurated the Global Excellence Center for Robotics, established on its campus by Switzerland-based ABB Robotics, a global leader in robotics and machine automation. The new facility is the first of its kind in India and only the third such robotics centre in the world to be established by ABB Robotics.
The ABB Robotics–SRM Easwari Global Excellence Center features advanced AI-enabled robotic systems and intelligent automation labs, including 3D pin picking, palletising, spot and arc welding cells, service & maintenance units, and VR/digital simulation cells. The setup integrates cutting-edge domains such as autonomous mobile robots, generative AI, vision systems, IoT, PLC automation, digital twin technologies, and smart manufacturing solutions.
The center was launched by Mr. Subrata Karmakar, President, ABB Robotics, along with Mr. Adityaram, Founder Chairman & MD, Adityaram Group; Mr. Anbu Jayabalan, Chief Operating Officer, Adani Realty; Mr. Vishwanath Kamath, Managing Director, Fronius India; Mr. Bhaskar Kanchi, Head of Engineering, embedUR Systems; Mr. Ram Bhadouria, GM – Engg. & Prj. (South Asia), Unilever; Mr. Meenakshi Sundaram, Chief Technology Officer, Amalgamations Group; Mr. Vinod Krishnan, Chief Executive Officer & MD, TVS Next; Mr. Srivats Ram, Managing Director, Wheels India; and Ms. Sujatha Chakravarthy, Chief Executive Officer & MD, Dhvani Group of Companies, in the presence of Dr. R. Shivakumar, Chairman, and Smt. Geetha Shivakumar, Vice Chairperson, SRM Group of Institutions.
Envisioned as a hub for research, innovation, and interdisciplinary excellence, the ABB Robotics–SRM Easwari Global Excellence Center, will provide opportunities for the college’s students from diversified engineering streams – from mechanical to computer science, to gain hands-on experience in AI and robotics, innovate automation solutions for industries, and launch tech startups.
The establishment of this center is expected to attract increased consultancy and industry collaborations, strengthening ties between academia and industry while opening new avenues for research, innovation, and professional engagement. It will drive advancements in areas such as predictive maintenance, supply chain automation, embedded systems, and advanced robotics.
In his comments, Dr. Shivakumar said, “We are delighted to open the Global Excellence Center for students and industry partners, and we thank ABB Robotics for choosing our college to establish this centre. The ABB Robotics–Easwari collaboration represents a pioneering model for high-impact partnerships in technical education in India. The centre brings advanced infrastructure and technological capabilities to the country that were previously accessible largely in Western countries. It will also promote multidisciplinary research at the undergraduate level, encouraging students to engage in research early in their academic journey rather than limiting such opportunities to doctoral studies. This approach is expected to nurture analytical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, while building a strong ecosystem for innovation-led entrepreneurship.”
Mr. Subrata Karmakar said, “Robotics and automation are revolutionising the manufacturing sector, with industries across sectors and of all sizes rapidly embracing these technologies, especially in countries like India where manufacturing is being strongly prioritised. As a leader in this industry, we believe it is our responsibility to equip engineering students with skills in this emerging domain, enabling them to secure high-value careers, while also encouraging interdisciplinary research and innovation to develop solutions for industry needs. In this context, we are delighted to inaugurate our Global Excellence Center which will provide students and industry access to world-class technology.”
Easwari Engineering College has over 1,000 students and more than 400 faculty members. The institution offers a wide range of undergraduate engineering and technology programmes spanning core disciplines and emerging fields such as Computer Science, Electronics, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical and Electronics, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Robotics, and allied specialisations, creating strong academic and career pathways for students. Leveraging its strengths in AI-driven innovation, the college has been providing automation consultancy services to manufacturing companies across India, delivering innovative solutions backed by proof of concept.
28, Apr 2026
India’s Engineering Exports to New Zealand Expected to Double After New FTA
Kolkata, Apr 28 (BNP): India’s engineering exports to New Zealand are projected to nearly double over the next five years, rising from about USD 140 million to nearly USD 280–300 million, supported by the recently signed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), officials said.
The agreement provides zero-duty access for Indian goods, significantly improving market competitiveness and easing trade barriers for exporters.
Industry representatives noted that the pact is expected to deliver strong benefits, especially for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), by expanding stable and predictable market access in a smaller but high-growth export destination.
Engineering exports to New Zealand have already shown steady growth, increasing to around USD 140.5 million in 2025–26, compared to USD 129.8 million in the previous year, indicating rising demand even before the full impact of the FTA takes effect.
Officials believe the agreement will further strengthen India’s engineering export footprint and support long-term trade diversification.
28, Apr 2026
Indian Markets Slip on Crude Oil Spike and Geopolitical Tension
Mumbai, Apr 27 (BNP): Indian benchmark indices closed lower on Tuesday, pressured by a sharp rise in global crude oil prices and renewed geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Investor sentiment remained cautious throughout the session amid uncertainty over developments involving the United States and Iran, which kept global energy markets volatile.
At the close, the Sensex declined 416.72 points (0.54%) to 76,886.91, while the Nifty fell 97 points (0.40%) to 23,995.70.
Broader Markets Show Relative Strength
Despite weakness in frontline indices, broader markets outperformed. The MidCap index rose 0.28%, while the SmallCap index gained 0.42%, indicating selective buying interest.
Sector Performance Mixed
Market action was uneven across sectors:
- Oil & Gas and Metal stocks gained on higher crude prices
- Banking stocks remained under pressure, with PSU Bank and Nifty Bank among top losers
On the Sensex, stocks like Adani Ports, ITC, Bharti Airtel, and Tech Mahindra ended in the green, while HCL Tech, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and Infosys were among the major laggards.
Oil Prices Drive Global Concern
Global crude oil prices surged nearly 3% to around $111 per barrel, driven by concerns over supply disruption and geopolitical uncertainty in West Asia, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
The rise in oil prices is seen as inflationary for import-dependent economies like India, adding pressure on equities and currency markets.
Rupee Weakens Against Dollar
The Indian rupee also came under pressure, trading near 94.54 per US dollar, impacted by rising crude prices and sustained foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows.
Outlook
Market experts expect volatility to persist in the near term, with global oil price movements and geopolitical developments likely to remain key drivers of investor sentiment.
28, Apr 2026
Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Unveils IIGJ Udupi as a New Centre of Excellence for Gems & Jewellery Skills
Karnataka, Apr 28: Marking a significant milestone in India’s gem and jewellery skill development landscape, the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ), Udupi was unveiled today as a new centre of excellence by Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, reaffirming the government’s continued focus on skilling, innovation and employment generation for the sector.
The ceremony was attended by Shri Kota Shrinivas Poojari, Member of Parliament; Shri Yashpal A. Suvarna, MLA, Udupi; Shri Gurme Suresh Shetty, MLA, Kaup (Kapu) Assembly Constituency, Karnataka; Shri Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Mahender Tayal, Regional Chairman, Southern Region, GJEPC; and Shri Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, alongside industry members, students and stakeholders.
The new IIGJ Udupi centre is envisioned as a hub for nurturing talent, supporting artisanal excellence and equipping students with industry-relevant skills across jewellery design, manufacturing and emerging technologies. The inauguration further strengthens IIGJ’s growing national footprint and underscores the sector’s commitment to building a future-ready workforce.
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman said,
“IIGJ Udupi stands as a strong example of how industry-led skilling can transform lives and create opportunities for youth across southern India. The institute is empowering students from Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and beyond with employable skills, entrepreneurial opportunities and pathways to prosperity. Through the support of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), the institute has aligned its training with global market needs and evolving industry standards. As demand for skilled talent grows and India strengthens its position in global jewellery exports, institutions like IIGJ Udupi will be instrumental in nurturing talent, expanding opportunities for our youth, and driving inclusive economic growth.”
Shri Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), said,
“The unveiling of IIGJ Udupi reflects our continued commitment to strengthening India’s skill ecosystem for the gem and jewellery sector. In the last four years alone, IIGJ centres across the country have trained over 7,000 students, building a strong talent pool for the industry. Today, the Indian gem and jewellery sector contributes nearly USD 28 billion in exports and supports over 5 million livelihoods. As the sector evolves into a more design-led, technology-driven and value-added ecosystem, the demand for skilled professionals will only grow. Institutions like IIGJ are central to sustaining India’s leadership and maintaining its position as the supplier of choice for the world. This effort also advances the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and supports our ambition of taking gem and jewellery exports to USD 100 billion.”
A key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) and IIT Madras (InCent-LGD). The partnership aims to launch a specialised certification programme in lab-grown diamond technologies, creating skilled and industry-ready professionals for this fast-growing sector. It will support value-added manufacturing and further strengthen India’s position in the global lab-grown diamond value chain, aligned with the vision of Make in India and Skill India.
Highlighting the sector’s transformation and emerging opportunities, Shri Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, said
“With expanding global opportunities, strong domestic demand and growing focus on innovation, the industry is entering a new phase of growth. Investments in skilling and education through institutions like IIGJ will be critical to sustaining India’s leadership in the global gem and jewellery sector.”
Aligned with the government’s Skill India vision and initiatives such as the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, IIGJ has been expanding access to structured training for grassroots artisans and aspiring professionals. The IIGJ institute currently offers over 40 specialised programmes, including degree courses, diplomas and postgraduate programmes, with strong industry linkages and placement outcomes.
The new centre is expected to play a key role in supporting the next phase of growth while empowering youth, artisans and entrepreneurs from the region to participate in India’s expanding gem and jewellery opportunity.
28, Apr 2026
Aamir Khan Confirms 3 Idiots 2, Set to Return as Phunsukh Wangdu After 10 Years!
Mumbai, Apr 28 (BNP): Actor Aamir Khan has confirmed that work on the much-awaited sequel to 3 Idiots is underway, raising excitement among fans eager to revisit one of Bollywood’s most iconic stories.
Speaking in a recent interview, Aamir revealed that the script for 3 Idiots 2 is progressing well and retains the same humour and emotional appeal that made the original film a blockbuster success. He said the new story is unusual and compelling, while being set 10 years after the events of the first film.
The actor also indicated his intention to reprise his much-loved role as Phunsukh Wangdu, saying it is one of the projects he plans to begin soon. He praised the writing team for crafting a beautiful and engaging storyline.
Industry reports suggest that the sequel may reunite the original star cast, including R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, and Kareena Kapoor Khan alongside Aamir Khan, though an official announcement is awaited.
Released in 2009, 3 Idiots became a landmark film in Indian cinema, celebrated for its humour, emotional depth, and sharp take on the education system. The sequel is expected to blend nostalgia with a fresh narrative for audiences across generations.
28, Apr 2026
India Manufacturing Sector Strengthens with Jobs, Tech Adoption and Investment Growth
New Delhi, April 2026: India’s Manufacturing, Engineering, and Infrastructure (MEI) sector is witnessing steady expansion, driven by rising investments, stronger hiring activity, and rapid adoption of advanced industrial technologies.
The sector is entering a structured growth phase, supported by policy measures and growing confidence among industry players.
Hiring Momentum Builds Across Industries
Employment demand in the MEI sector is rising, with companies actively planning workforce expansion. Skilled talent is increasingly required in areas such as automation, engineering operations, project execution, and sustainable manufacturing, reflecting the sector’s transition toward modern production systems.
Semiconductors and Industrial Hubs Gain Strength
Investments in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing clusters are accelerating across states including Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. These developments are expected to generate significant employment and strengthen India’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Industrial centres such as Chennai, Pune, and Bengaluru continue to attract strong investor interest due to infrastructure and talent availability.
Industrial Corridors Improve Efficiency
Large infrastructure networks such as the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor and Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor are enhancing logistics efficiency, reducing costs, and improving connectivity between manufacturing hubs.
Technology and Sustainability Driving Change
Manufacturing units are increasingly adopting Industry 4.0 practices, including automation, digital systems, and smart production technologies. Alongside this, there is a growing focus on energy-efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes.
Outlook
With strong investment flows, expanding industrial clusters, and rising demand for skilled talent, India’s MEI sector is positioned to remain a key contributor to long-term economic growth and industrial transformation.
28, Apr 2026
“Shwet Shyam” by Project Tantavyaa Celebrates India’s Skilled Artisans and Heritage Crafts
A Celebration of Textile Heritage, Devotion & Artisan Empowerment
New Delhi, Apr 28: RSB Foundation, the CSR arm of the RSB Group, today unveiled Project Tantavyaa: Shwet Shyam at the National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy. The gathering brought together India’s textile legacy, cultural leadership, and artisan communities, with a clear focus on reviving and supporting traditional textiles through sustainable, community-led initiatives.
Rooted in the textile traditions of Odisha, Bengal, and Assam, Shwet Shyam is a craft-led cultural experience inspired by the values of Swabhiman (dignity), Shaktikaran (empowerment), and Sankirtan (devotion). The initiative places strong emphasis on bringing handloom traditions back into focus while creating sustainable livelihoods for artisan communities, particularly women. The showcase will continue until 2nd May 2026, offering an immersive journey into India’s textile heritage and cultural legacy.
The evening opened with a traditional Mangalacharan performance. The inauguration was graced by the Chief Guest, Union Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, who spoke about the importance of preserving India’s craft heritage in line with the vision of Swadeshi 2.0 and the Five-F value chain.
Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education, Government of India said: “As we move towards a more self-reliant India, it is initiatives like these that reinforce the value of Swadeshi, ensuring our traditional crafts continue to thrive in a modern, global context.” This was followed by addresses by Ms. Priyanka Behera, Director – CSR, RSB Group, and Pankaj S. Chadha, outlining how sustainable, community-led approaches can help bring rare textile traditions back into practice.
A key highlight of the evening was the book launch and address by His Holiness Indradyumna Swami Ji, adding a spiritual dimension to the showcase. The event also witnessed the presence of eminent royals, including HH Maharani Radhika Raje Gaekwad of Baroda, Shriji Huzur Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Ji of Udaipur, Maharani Nivriti Kumari of Udaipur, Yuvrani Meenal Kumari Singh Deo of Dhenkanal, Kunwarani Ritu Ajatshatru Singh and Celebrity Astrologer & Vastu Expert Dr. Jai Madaan , reinforcing the cultural significance of the initiative.
Speaking on the occasion, Priyanka Behera, Director – CSR, RSB Group, said: “Tantavyaa is about restoring pride to our artisans and ensuring that craft becomes a sustainable source of livelihood, especially for women. Shwet Shyam reflects our commitment to reviving traditional textiles through community-led efforts that create long-term impact.”
Curated under Project Tantavyaa, the showcase brings together over 100 handcrafted textile pieces, presenting India’s heritage crafts as living traditions supported by sustainable ecosystems. The evening concluded with a presentation of Dhenkanal’s culinary heritage from Odisha, extending the celebration beyond textiles.
28, Apr 2026
India’s Fintech Funding Grows Modestly, Late-Stage Firms Lead
New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): India’s fintech sector raised $513 million in the first quarter of 2026, registering a slight increase compared to last year, even as the number of funding deals declined.
A recent report indicates a clear shift in investor preference toward larger, established companies, with late-stage funding witnessing strong growth. In contrast, early-stage and seed funding saw a decline, reflecting a more cautious investment approach.
The digital lending segment attracted the majority of investments, accounting for nearly 60% of total funding, highlighting a focus on business models with proven performance.
Mumbai emerged as the leading funding hub during the quarter, followed by Bengaluru, driven by the growth of lending and financial services firms.
Overall, the trend suggests that India’s fintech sector is moving toward a more stable and mature investment phase, with emphasis on scale, sustainability, and profitability.
