23, Mar 2026
Odisha Strengthens Maternal Care with INR 500 Crore Investment Under Mamata and PM Matru Vandana Yojana
The Government of Odisha has announced a focused investment aimed at improving maternal health and nutrition across the state, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring comprehensive care for pregnant and lactating mothers.
A total allocation of approximately ₹320 crore under Mamata Yojana and ₹180 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) has been directed toward strengthening maternal welfare programs and enhancing health security at every stage of motherhood.
The initiative is designed to improve nutrition support, promote better healthcare access, and ensure timely assistance for expectant and new mothers. Officials stated that these schemes play a crucial role in supporting safe motherhood and improving overall maternal and child health outcomes.
Under these programs, financial assistance and nutritional support are provided to eligible women, helping reduce health risks during pregnancy and the postnatal period. The focus is also on encouraging regular health check-ups and improving awareness about maternal care practices.
The government emphasized that maternal health remains a key priority in its broader public health strategy. By investing in these welfare schemes, Odisha aims to reduce maternal and infant health risks while ensuring better nutrition and care for mothers across rural and urban areas.
Officials further highlighted that strengthening maternal healthcare systems is essential for building a healthier future generation and improving overall community well-being.
With this investment, the state continues to reinforce its commitment to inclusive healthcare and social security, ensuring that every mother receives the care and support she needs during one of the most important stages of life.
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- By Neel Achary
23, Mar 2026
Odisha Launches INR 2,612 Crore Water Resources Projects on World Water Day
On the occasion of World Water Day, the Government of Odisha has launched a series of major water resources initiatives worth approximately ₹2,612 crore, aimed at strengthening irrigation infrastructure and improving water management across the state.
The initiative includes the foundation laying of 17 new projects valued at ₹2,292 crore, along with the inauguration of 124 completed projects worth ₹320 crore. These developments mark a significant step toward enhancing the state’s water resource capacity and supporting long-term agricultural growth.
According to officials, the projects are designed to expand irrigation coverage, improve water availability, and ensure more reliable access to water for farmers across different regions of Odisha. The focus is on creating a more efficient and sustainable irrigation system that can support agricultural productivity throughout the year.
The government emphasized that strengthening irrigation infrastructure is a key priority in its development strategy. Improved water management is expected to benefit rural livelihoods, increase farm output, and contribute to overall economic stability in the agricultural sector.
These initiatives also aim to reduce dependency on rainfall by building more resilient water systems capable of adapting to changing climate conditions. Enhanced irrigation facilities are expected to play an important role in supporting food security and rural development.
Officials stated that this large-scale investment reflects the state’s commitment to building a more prosperous and self-sustaining agricultural economy, where water resources are managed efficiently and equitably.
With the launch of these projects, Odisha is taking a significant step toward ensuring long-term water security and strengthening the foundation for sustainable rural development across the state.
23, Mar 2026
Mid and small‑cap mutual funds witnesses AUM growth; ongoing market volatility may impact near term outlook: ICRA Analytics
Mumbai, Mar 23: Total assets under management (AUM) of mid-cap and small-cap mutual funds continued their robust growth, reflecting sustained investor interest. Mid-cap funds recorded a five-year CAGR of 32.41%, increasing from Rs. 1.13 lakh crore in February 2021 to Rs. 4.62 lakh crore in February 2026. Small-cap funds posted a five-year CAGR of 39.93%, growing from Rs. 67,764 crore in February 2021 to Rs. 3.64 lakh crore in February 2026.
Net inflows into mid-cap funds stood at Rs. 4,003 crore, while small-cap funds recorded inflows of Rs. 3,881 crore in February 2026, a strong recovery from net outflows observed in February 2021.
Top Performing Funds (5-Year CAGR):
- Mid-Cap: HDFC Mid Cap Fund – Growth, Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund – Reg, Edelweiss Mid Cap Fund – Growth
- Small-Cap: Quant Small Cap Fund – Growth, Nippon India Small Cap Fund – Reg, Bandhan Small Cap Fund – Reg
ICRA Analytics noted that ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent foreign fund outflows may influence the near-term performance of mid and small-cap funds. Investors are expected to adopt a cautious stance, navigating market volatility.
Retail Participation through SIPs:
Disciplined investing via Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) continues to gain momentum. February 2026 witnessed SIP contributions of Rs. 29,845 crore, marking a growth of nearly 14.79% compared to February 2025 (Rs. 25,999 crore), highlighting increasing retail participation in mutual funds.
ICRA Analytics emphasizes that long-term investment horizons and disciplined SIP investing can help investors leverage the power of compounding, particularly in mid and small-cap funds.
23, Mar 2026
Rapid Growth in PMS Assets Signals Structural Shift in Wealth Management: Dhanvesttor
Kolkata, Mar 23: The sharp expansion of India’s Portfolio Management Services (PMS) industry reflects a structural shift in how high-net-worth investors are approaching wealth creation, according to Dhanvesttor, a women-focused PMS platform.
Recent data from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) shows that assets managed under PMS have expanded significantly over the past few years, rising to over ₹10.5 lakh crore, nearly doubling from the levels seen in 2022. The number of PMS investors has also increased steadily, reflecting growing interest in customised investment strategies among affluent investors and family offices.
Market participants believe the growth is being driven by a combination of factors, including rising financialisation of savings, greater participation in equity markets, and increasing demand for differentiated portfolio strategies that go beyond traditional pooled investment products.
Commenting on the development, Anooshka Soham Bathwal, Founder & CEO of Dhanvesttor, said the pace of growth reflects the evolution of India’s wealth management landscape.
“The rapid expansion of the PMS industry is a clear signal that investor behaviour is evolving. Sophisticated investors today are seeking deeper portfolio engagement, customised allocation strategies, and a more direct connection with the underlying investments. PMS structures allow that flexibility, which is why we are seeing stronger adoption across the high-net-worth segment.”
She added that the expansion of the asset base indicates growing investor confidence in actively managed equity portfolios designed around long-term wealth creation.
“As India’s capital markets deepen and wealth creation accelerates, investors are increasingly looking for strategies that are aligned with their individual financial goals and risk profiles. The growth in PMS assets reflects that shift towards more personalised portfolio management.”
Bathwal noted that the momentum could strengthen further in the coming years as India’s wealth base expands and capital markets mature.
“Looking ahead, the PMS industry is likely to benefit from the continued rise in high-net-worth investors, increasing financialisation of household savings, and deeper participation in equity markets. As governance standards, transparency, and portfolio discipline continue to strengthen across the ecosystem, the industry has the potential to scale meaningfully while delivering more aligned and long-term investment outcomes for investors.”
The PMS industry has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments within India’s broader asset management ecosystem, as affluent investors increasingly seek differentiated investment strategies aligned with long-term wealth creation.
23, Mar 2026
India and EU Strengthen Engagement to Accelerate Trade and Technology Talks
India and the European Union have intensified their engagement to fast-track ongoing discussions on trade and technology cooperation, signaling renewed momentum in one of the world’s most significant economic partnerships.
The latest round of talks reflects a shared interest in deepening collaboration across key sectors, including trade facilitation, digital technologies, green energy, and supply chain resilience. Both sides are working toward building a more structured and forward-looking economic framework that supports long-term growth.
Officials noted that the discussions are focused on reducing barriers to trade, improving regulatory alignment, and creating smoother market access for businesses on both sides. The aim is to strengthen economic integration while ensuring that trade practices remain fair, transparent, and sustainable.
Technology cooperation has emerged as a central pillar of the engagement. India and the EU are exploring opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, clean energy technologies, and digital infrastructure. These discussions are expected to support innovation-led growth and enhance competitiveness in both regions.
The renewed push also comes at a time when global supply chains are undergoing major restructuring. Both India and the EU are looking to diversify sourcing networks and improve supply chain resilience, making bilateral cooperation increasingly important in the current geopolitical environment.
Trade experts believe that stronger India-EU ties could unlock significant opportunities for businesses, particularly in manufacturing, technology services, and renewable energy sectors. Improved collaboration may also support investment flows and encourage joint ventures between companies from both regions.
As discussions progress, both sides are expected to continue working toward a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement, while expanding cooperation in emerging technologies and sustainable development initiatives.
With growing economic interdependence and shared strategic interests, India and the EU are positioning their partnership as a key driver of global trade and innovation in the coming years.
23, Mar 2026
Odisha Boosts Science & Innovation with New Biotechnology Research Centre to Drive Growth and Jobs
Odisha is strengthening its position in India’s emerging innovation landscape with the establishment of a Biotechnology Research Centre, a move aimed at accelerating scientific research, industrial development, and technology-driven growth in the state.
The initiative is expected to play a key role in advancing cutting-edge biotechnology research while also supporting the generation of patents and the commercialization of new technologies. Officials believe the centre will act as a bridge between scientific innovation and real-world industrial applications.
By focusing on research and development, the Biotechnology Research Centre is set to create new opportunities for collaboration between academia, industry, and government institutions. This ecosystem is expected to encourage innovation-led entrepreneurship and support the development of new biotech solutions across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science.
The project is also anticipated to contribute significantly to employment generation, particularly for skilled professionals in science, research, and technology domains. With increased investment in knowledge-driven industries, Odisha aims to build a strong foundation for a future-ready workforce.
State authorities have highlighted that the initiative will help position Odisha as a leading biotechnology hub in India. By promoting innovation, research commercialization, and industrial integration, the state is looking to attract both domestic and global investments in the biotech sector.
Experts believe that such initiatives are crucial for building long-term economic resilience, as biotechnology continues to play a growing role in solving global challenges related to health, food security, and sustainability.
With this development, Odisha is taking a significant step toward transforming itself into a knowledge-driven economy, powered by science, innovation, and technology-led growth.
23, Mar 2026
Two Wheeler Sales Set to Surpass Pre COVID Levels, Expected to Hit New High in FY2026
India’s two-wheeler industry is expected to surpass its pre-COVID sales levels and reach a new peak in FY2026, driven by improving rural demand, stable economic conditions, and rising affordability among consumers.
Industry observers note that the segment, which forms a key part of India’s automobile market, has been gradually recovering after the slowdown caused by the pandemic. With demand conditions strengthening, the sector is now poised for a full-scale revival.
A major growth driver is the recovery in rural and semi-urban markets, where two-wheelers remain a primary mode of transport. Improved monsoon conditions, higher agricultural income, and better credit availability are supporting purchasing power in these regions.
At the same time, urban demand is also showing steady improvement, supported by increased mobility needs, last-mile connectivity services, and growing preference for personal transport. Entry-level and commuter motorcycles are expected to play a crucial role in driving volumes in FY2026.
Industry experts also highlight that easing inflationary pressures and improved financing options are making two-wheelers more accessible to first-time buyers. This is expected to further support demand across both urban and rural segments.
The sector is also benefiting from gradual stabilization in input costs, which is helping manufacturers maintain competitive pricing. In addition, companies are focusing on product upgrades, fuel efficiency, and the gradual introduction of electric two-wheelers to attract a wider consumer base.
Analysts believe that if current demand trends continue, the industry could not only surpass pre-pandemic levels but also establish a new record in FY2026, marking a strong phase of recovery and growth for the automotive sector.
With sustained economic momentum and improving consumer sentiment, the two-wheeler market is expected to remain a key contributor to India’s overall automobile growth story in the coming fiscal year.
23, Mar 2026
WIKA Group in India Hosted F&B and Pharma Seminar in Pune
Pune, Maharashtra Mar 23: WIKA Group recently hosted a Food & Beverage and Pharmaceutical Industry Seminar in Pune, bringing together customers for a focused program on measurement technology, applications, and sector specific requirements. The event highlighted how WIKA’s portfolio supports process reliability, compliance, and operational consistency across these regulated sectors.
The seminar began at WIKA’s Pune facility, where participants viewed selected production areas and interacted with instruments representing pressure, diaphragm seal, electrical temperature measurement, level, and force solutions. The visit offered an overview of WIKA’s local manufacturing strengths and quality practices.
Following the factory program, WIKA experts introduced the company’s global approach and ongoing developments.
At the event Dr.-Ing. Simone Mack, Vice President, Global Business Unit Food & Pharma, WIKA Group said “The food and pharmaceutical industries are continuously evolving to meet higher standards of safety, quality, and traceability. At WIKA, we believe that reliable measurement technology plays a crucial role in ensuring hygienic and efficient production processes. Through this seminar, we aim to bring together industry experts to discuss emerging challenges and demonstrate how advanced hygienic and precise instrumentation can help manufacturers enhance process reliability, maintain compliance, and safeguard product quality.”
Technical sessions covered key product areas including pressure and temperature measurement, diaphragm seal systems, level and force solutions, and calibration technology. WIKA experts outlined how these instruments are applied in processes such as pasteurization, sterile filtration, batching, filling, and CIP/SIP operations.
Participants were also introduced to WIKA’s IIoT capabilities, including smart sensors, connectivity options, and tools for condition and status monitoring.
Attendees engaged in application discussions and solution mapping with product specialists. The seminar concluded with a Q&A session and closing remarks, reinforcing WIKA India’s ongoing focus on providing measurement, and calibration solutions for F&B and Pharma customers.
23, Mar 2026
India a Long-Term Investment Market with Strong E-Commerce Growth Potential: Amazon VP
India continues to stand out as a strong long-term investment destination with significant potential in the e-commerce sector, according to a senior executive from Amazon.
Highlighting the country’s digital expansion and rapidly evolving consumer base, the Amazon Vice President noted that India’s online retail ecosystem is still in its growth phase, offering substantial opportunities for long-term investors and businesses looking to scale in emerging markets.
The executive emphasized that rising internet penetration, increased smartphone usage, and improved digital payment systems are driving the next wave of e-commerce growth in the country. These factors, combined with a young population and growing middle class, are creating a strong foundation for sustained online retail expansion.
India’s e-commerce sector has witnessed consistent growth over the past few years, supported by expanding logistics networks and increasing adoption of online shopping across urban and semi-urban regions. Industry experts believe that this trend is likely to accelerate further as digital infrastructure continues to improve.
The Amazon VP also pointed out that India’s market dynamics are unique, with a diverse consumer base and rapidly changing shopping behavior. This makes the country one of the most promising markets for innovation in online retail, supply chain efficiency, and digital services.
As global companies continue to diversify their investment strategies, India is increasingly being viewed as a key growth market in Asia. The combination of strong domestic demand and digital transformation is expected to further strengthen its position in the global e-commerce landscape.
With continued investments in technology, logistics, and digital platforms, India is expected to remain a major focus area for global e-commerce players in the coming years.
23, Mar 2026
New Changes in MSME Credit Guarantee Scheme Announced
The Government of India has introduced important changes to the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME) to further support manufacturers and exporters. The revised framework is aimed at improving credit access, reducing financial burden, and encouraging investment in machinery and equipment, in line with Budget 2025–26 priorities.
The scheme, launched in January 2025, provides credit guarantee coverage of up to 60% through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC). It supports loans of up to ₹100 crore for eligible MSMEs, primarily for the purchase of plant and machinery. Following feedback from stakeholders, the government has now refined several provisions to make the scheme more practical and inclusive.
One of the key changes includes making the upfront contribution partially refundable, which is expected to improve liquidity for businesses. The scheme has also been expanded to include service sector MSMEs, widening its overall reach. In addition, the minimum requirement for machinery and equipment investment has been reduced from 75% to 60% of the total project cost, making it easier for enterprises to qualify.
The guarantee tenure has also been extended to up to 10 years, offering longer-term support for businesses investing in expansion and modernization. These revisions are intended to reduce compliance pressure and improve the ease of doing business for MSMEs across sectors.
For exporters, the government has introduced targeted incentives under the revised scheme. Eligible export-oriented MSMEs—those with at least 25% export turnover over the past three years—can now access guaranteed loans of up to ₹20 crore. The guarantee coverage for default has been increased to 75%, along with fee relaxations in the initial year of the loan.
The government has emphasized that MSMEs play a vital role in India’s economic structure, contributing around 30% to GDP and over 45% to exports while generating large-scale employment. Strengthening this sector is seen as essential for achieving the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
With these modifications, the scheme is expected to encourage greater investment in technology, enhance export competitiveness, and support sustainable growth of MSMEs across manufacturing and service sectors.
