Author: Neel Achary

MSP Procurement, Insurance Schemes Strengthen Farmers’ Income: Govt

New Delhi, Mar 25 (BNP): Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday said farmers’ incomes have doubled under the current government, citing higher minimum support prices (MSP), record procurement, and expanded welfare schemes.

Replying to questions in the Lok Sabha, Chouhan said the government is committed to ensuring farmers receive fair prices for their produce in all situations and has built a “strong security shield” through initiatives such as MSP procurement, PM-AASHA, and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.

He said MSP is being fixed at cost plus 50 per cent, providing better returns to farmers, and stressed that procurement at MSP has been expanded beyond foodgrains to include pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and vegetables.

The minister said agricultural production has increased by nearly 44 per cent in recent years, alongside efforts to improve both productivity and farm incomes.

Highlighting income protection measures, Chouhan said the PM-AASHA scheme ensures support when market prices fall below MSP through direct procurement, price deficiency payments, and other interventions.

He added that under the crop insurance scheme, farmers have received claims worth about ₹1.92 lakh crore against premium payments of around ₹36,055 crore, indicating substantial benefits.

Referring to recent natural calamities in Maharashtra, the minister said ₹14,000 crore was transferred directly to farmers within five days using digital farmer identification systems.

Chouhan said the government is also supporting farmers through the Market Intervention Scheme, including covering transportation costs in some cases to help farmers access better prices in distant markets.

He emphasised increased use of technology, including satellite-based assessment, to improve transparency in crop insurance claims and ensure accurate yield estimation.

The minister reiterated that the government remains committed to protecting farmers’ interests and ensuring they receive the full value of their produce.

Govt Launches Focused Plan for 100 Districts Under Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

New Delhi, Mar 25 (BNP): The Centre has identified 100 districts across the country under the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (DDKY) to drive the next phase of agricultural growth, focusing on regions with low productivity and limited credit access.

The districts have been selected based on three key indicators — low crop productivity, low cropping intensity, and inadequate agricultural credit disbursement.

The scheme aims to enhance agricultural productivity, promote crop diversification and sustainable practices, improve irrigation infrastructure, and expand post-harvest storage facilities at the panchayat and block levels. It also seeks to improve access to both short-term and long-term credit for farmers.

Under the initiative, District Action Plans (DAPs) are being prepared and implemented by district-level Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana committees headed by district collectors.

Officials said the plans will be developed through convergence of 36 central schemes across 11 departments, along with state schemes and private sector participation. The DAPs are designed to address local bottlenecks and integrate interventions such as climate-resilient technologies, micro-irrigation, protected cultivation, and post-harvest infrastructure.

To ensure coordination and monitoring, committees have been set up at the district, state, and national levels. Central Nodal Officers have also been assigned to each district for field visits and performance review.

The information was provided by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

Govt Highlights Impact of PM-Kisan on Farm Income, Rural Economy

New Delhi, Mar 25 (BNP): The Centre has disbursed over ₹4.27 lakh crore to farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme through 22 instalments since its launch in February 2019, the government informed Parliament on Tuesday.

The scheme provides ₹6,000 annually to eligible landholding farmers in three equal instalments through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.

During the release of the 21st instalment on November 19, 2025, more than 9.35 crore farmers received financial assistance under the scheme.

According to government data and independent assessments, the scheme has had a positive impact on farmers’ income and the rural economy.

A 2019 study by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) found that PM-KISAN support helped ease credit constraints, boost rural economic growth, and encourage higher investment in agricultural inputs. It also enhanced farmers’ ability to take productive risks.

Feedback collected through Kisan Call Centres indicates that over 93 per cent of beneficiaries used the funds for agricultural activities.

An impact evaluation by NITI Aayog’s Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO) found that over 92 per cent of beneficiary farmers spent the assistance on essential inputs such as seeds, fertilisers and pesticides. Around 85 per cent reported an increase in agricultural income and reduced dependence on informal credit, particularly during crop failures or medical emergencies.

The government said the scheme contributes to broader goals including poverty reduction, food security, and improved transparency.

To improve accessibility, a dedicated ‘Farmers Corner’ on the PM-KISAN portal allows beneficiaries to check payment status and eligibility. Farmers can also access these services through Common Service Centres.

A voice-based AI chatbot, ‘Kisan e-Mitra’, has also been deployed to address queries in 11 languages. The chatbot has handled over 95 lakh queries from more than 53 lakh farmers so far.

The government said Aadhaar authentication is mandatory under the scheme, with payments made directly through Aadhaar-based systems. Regular drives are conducted in coordination with states and agencies to ensure Aadhaar seeding of bank accounts.

The information was provided by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

Green Xentro Expands Fleet to 2,500 Fully Electric Taxis Powered by Green GSM Platform in the Philippines

 
With its scale and structured implementation, the deployment is expected to serve as a model for expanding electric mobility through local partnerships across Southeast Asia.

The deployment builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in October 2025 between Xentro Group and Green GSM. Initially planned at 2,000 vehicles, the fleet has since been expanded to 2,500, reflecting growing operational confidence and long-term commitment from both parties. The Rizal rollout marks the first phase of implementation, with further expansion expected across Metro Manila and adjacent areas.

At the center of this initiative is a partner-led operating model that combines local market leadership with a standardized global platform. Green Xentro leads on-the-ground execution, overseeing operations, driver management, and local market adaptation, while Green GSM provides a fully integrated electric mobility platform encompassing full electric vehicles, technology infrastructure, and standardized service protocols.

The platform is designed to ensure operational consistency at scale, offering real-time fleet monitoring, centralized safety management, and consistent service delivery standards. Each vehicle is equipped with GPS tracking, CCTV, and dashcams, as well as emergency features such as panic buttons, all connected to a 24/7 monitoring center. The entire fleet is also covered by comprehensive insurance policies, reinforcing safety and reliability.

Passengers can expect a more reliable and predictable travel experience, with standardized service quality and fully electric, air-conditioned vehicles. Services are offered with transparent, value-driven pricing and support multiple payment options, including cash and digital platforms. Rides can be accessed via street hailing or the Green GSM mobile app.

On the supply side, the model introduces a salaried driver system to enhance income stability and professional standards in the transport sector. Drivers earn a fixed monthly salary, performance-based incentives, and full statutory benefits, along with structured training programs focused on safety, service quality, and electric vehicle operations.

Beyond mobility, this rollout is expected to boost local economic activity through job creation and ecosystem development, supported by an expanding EV charging network across commercial hubs within the Xentro system. As a fully electric fleet, the deployment also helps national efforts to cut emissions and improve urban air quality, aligning with broader policy goals for energy transition and sustainable urban growth.

Mr. Noel M. Ignacio, CEO of Green Xentro, shared: “We see this as a long-term investment in building a transport system that is more reliable, more structured, and better aligned with the needs of Filipino communities. By combining electric vehicles with a professional driver model, we are creating a service ecosystem that elevates everyday journeys while also improving the quality of livelihoods for drivers. Over time, we believe this approach can help set a new standard for public transport one that balances efficiency, sustainability, and human-centered service.”

Mr. Dao Quy Phi, Managing Director of Green GSM Southeast Asia, said: “This is not just a fleet deployment. It represents the early stage of a scalable model where strong local partners lead market execution, while Green GSM enables growth through a unified electric mobility platform. We believe this approach can unlock a more practical pathway to green mobility—one that is not only scalable, but also adaptable to the realities of emerging markets. By combining global standards with local expertise, we aim to accelerate adoption in a way that is both commercially viable and operationally sustainable over the long term.”

Green Xentro is among the first international partners to adopt the Green GSM operating model. Developed and refined in Vietnam through extensive collaboration with multiple stakeholders, the model has played a key role in shaping a highly integrated and scalable electric mobility ecosystem. Its rollout in the Philippines marks a significant milestone in the model’s global expansion, thoughtfully localized to suit market conditions while upholding consistent standards of safety, service excellence, and user experience.

XED Extends IPO Closing Date to 30 March 2026 Amid Geopolitical Developments

Mumbai, Mar 24: XED announced the extension of the closing date of its Initial Public Offering from 24 March 2026 to 30 March 2026. The IPO, which opened on 16 March 2026, is the first public offering to be listed from GIFT City, India’s International Financial Services Centre.

The extension has been sought in light of the evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East, which has created practical challenges for non-resident Indian and foreign investors in completing KYC formalities and processing subscription applications within the originally scheduled timeline. The Company believes the extension will facilitate broader investor participation and ensure seamless regulatory compliance for all applicants.

The revised closing date of 30 March 2026 represents the tenth working day from the date of opening, in accordance with Regulation 19 of the IFSCA (Listing) Regulations, 2024, which permits an IPO to remain open for a maximum of ten working days. All other terms and conditions of the Issue remain unchanged.

All other terms and conditions of the Issue remain unchanged. The price band, issue size, and listing exchanges — NSEIX and India INX — are unaffected by this extension. Investors who have already submitted applications are not required to take any further action

The Book Running Lead Manager to the Issue is Global Horizons Capital Advisors IFSC Private Limited. Investors with queries regarding the Issue are encouraged to contact the BRLM directly or visit the Company’s investor relations page.

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. The extension of the IPO closing date is subject to receipt of applicable regulatory approvals. Investors are advised to read the official prospectus and all offer-related documents carefully before making any investment decision. Investments in securities are subject to market risk. GIFT City IFSC regulations apply.

PUMA turns up the heat, launches RCB 2026 Palermo Leather Sneakers

From Stadium to Street: PUMA turns up the heat- launches RCB 2026 Palermo Leather Sneakers

 March 24: Ahead of the Indian Premier League, as fan anticipation hits a fever pitch, PUMA and RCB bring their worlds together with the PUMA x RCB Palermo – a limited-edition sneaker that celebrates more than just the game. Blending the sports brand’s legacy with RCB’s unmistakable energy, this is not just a drop, but a statement- a piece of fandom that fans can wear, own and carry beyond the stadium.

Arriving ahead of the most sought-after cricket season, the PUMA x RCB Palermo moves beyond merchandise into culture territory. In sport, jerseys have long been markers of identity – symbols that bring fans into a shared collective. The RCB Palermo translates that same idea into footwear. Designed for a new generation of fans who express loyalty through style as much as sport, the sneaker is an extension of fandom seamlessly moving from stadium stands to city streets, carrying the energy of RCB wherever it goes.

Rooted in PUMA’s iconic Palermo silhouette, this edition is reimagined through the lens of cricket culture. Available in two colourways: Flame Scarlet–Metallic Gold–Gum and Navy–Metallic Gold–Gum- the PUMA x RCB sneaker is crafted in premium leather with a rich suede base, offering a tactile, elevated finish while staying true to its terrace-inspired roots.

Drenched in RCB’s signature palette, the design captures the intensity of match nights, the loyalty of its sweeping fanbase, and the unmistakable swagger that defines the team.

Thoughtful detailing brings this narrative to life- an RCB tongue patch anchors the identity, a winning star in gold emboss sits subtly under the Palermo flap, while gold accent stitching over the PUMA Formstrip is layered with an RCB graffiti artwork. Bold foil and screen-printed PUMA branding lend a statement edge, while the flat sole construction and soft inner lining ensure all-day comfort. Clean lines meet colour blocking, creating a silhouette that feels both timeless and distinctly of the moment.

Steeped in terrace culture, the Palermo remains one of PUMA’s most iconic silhouettes. With its signature T-toe construction and gum sole, the sneaker traces its origins to 1980s UK terrace style, where football fandom and fashion first collided. Named after the Italian city, Palermo carries a legacy of effortless sophistication, this time reinterpreted for a new generation – blending global heritage with India’s love for cricket and distinct expression of street style.

Shop the PUMA x RCB sneaker at select PUMA stores and online at in.puma.com.

Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal Calls for Entrepreneur-Led Transformation to Reduce Imports and Power Atmanirbhar Bharat

Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal has urged the government to entrust Indian entrepreneurs with greater responsibility in the natural resources sector, highlighting their proven track record in building world-class industries such as telecom, aviation, ports, steel, cement, and power EPC.

Drawing on his assessment of 24 public sector enterprises across hydrocarbons, minerals, metals, and fertilizers, Agarwal noted that these companies possess robust human capital and untapped potential. He emphasized that with entrepreneurial leadership and investment, these PSUs can significantly enhance domestic production and reduce import dependency.

Agarwal said India has already achieved remarkable success in agriculture—“above the ground”—and must now replicate that momentum in “below-the-ground” sectors like mining and hydrocarbons, where the country holds strong geological advantages.

Citing the transformation of Hindustan Zinc and BALCO, he pointed out that strategic investments and advanced technologies led to a fivefold increase in employment and a 10–15 times surge in production, while also catalyzing the growth of downstream industries.

Agarwal underscored that such a model could be replicated across PSUs without job losses, despite funding challenges, ultimately contributing to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.