Author: Neel Achary

Raffles Udaipur to Host Exclusive Book Reading & Culinary Experience with Celebrity Chef Shipra Khanna

Udaipur, Mar 20: Raffles Udaipur, the iconic private island retreat set amidst the tranquil waters of Udai Sagar Lake, is set to host an exclusive book reading and culinary collaboration with celebrated chef Shipra Khanna on March 22, 2026 at The Writers Bar.

 Bringing together storytelling, mindful gastronomy, and refined hospitality, the intimate evening promises a multi-sensory experience that reflects the brand’s signature elegance and cultural depth.

As part of the event, Chef Shipra Khanna will host a special reading session from her book Sinfully Yours: Just Desserts, offering guests an opportunity to explore her personal journey, culinary philosophy, and perspective on conscious living. Known for her innovative “Health Unlimited” philosophy, the chef has carved a niche in the culinary world by blending indulgence with wellness.

In addition to the literary experience, Chef Shipra will curate a bespoke menu that will be featured across select dining venues at Raffles Udaipur. Thoughtfully designed, the menu will showcase a harmonious balance of flavour, nutrition, and elevated presentation, extending the experience beyond the evening for in-house guests.

The evening will begin with the book reading session, followed by an interactive engagement with the chef, allowing guests to gain deeper insights into her inspirations and culinary journey. The event will conclude with a personal interaction session, creating an intimate and memorable experience.

Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager of Raffles Udaipur, said:

“At Raffles Udaipur, our focus is on creating experiences that are both immersive and meaningful. This collaboration with Chef Shipra Khanna brings together literature, wellness, and gastronomy in a way that reflects the evolving preferences of our guests. By hosting her at our island retreat and introducing her thoughtfully curated menu within our restaurants, we aim to offer a multi-dimensional experience that is both enriching and memorable.”

Set against the serene backdrop of Udai Sagar Lake and framed by the Aravalli hills, Raffles Udaipur continues to position itself as a destination where culture, cuisine, and conversation converge. This exclusive evening further reinforces the property’s ethos of curating refined, immersive experiences for discerning guests.

Big Launch From Samsung: ‘Galaxy Forever’ brings a new way to own flagship smartphones in India

Mar 20: Samsung announced the launch of Galaxy Forever in India, introducing a new ownership model designed to make its flagship smartphones more accessible. The programme addresses growing demand in the premium smartphone segment by offering a 50% upfront discount with assured buyback after one year and a no-questions-asked-return policy powered by Samsung Care+.

Under Galaxy Forever, customers can own a Galaxy S26 Ultra or Galaxy S26 Plus for a year by paying only half the device cost through 12 no-cost EMIs via Credit Card or Samsung Finance+. Samsung Finance+ promotes financial inclusion by providing easy credit with minimal documentation and quick loan approvals.

After one year, customers using the Credit Card payment mode can return the device for a 50% assured buyback or retain it by paying the remaining 50% in 12 additional no-cost EMIs. Customers using Samsung Finance+ can simply return and upgrade to the next Galaxy flagship, or retain the device by paying the balance in the 13th month.

Galaxy Forever also includes Samsung Care+, offering Accidental and Liquid Damage Protection with zero deductibles for 13 months, ensuring peace of mind from day one.

Key Features of Galaxy Forever

• Eligible Devices: Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Plus

• Programme Fee: Monthly fee for one year

• Assured Buyback: 50% upfront discount with no-questions-asked return

• Flexible Payment Options: Pay remaining 50% in 12 no-cost EMIs with Credit Card

• Peace of Mind: Samsung Care+ Accidental & Liquid Damage cover for 13 months

• Flexibility: Return, retain, or upgrade after 12 months

• Availability: Samsung.com and 1,500+ Samsung Experience Stores across India

• Payment Methods: Samsung Finance+ (online and in-store), Credit Card No-cost EMI (online only)

Sumit Walia, Vice President, Head of D2C Business & Corporate Marketing, Samsung India, said:

“With Galaxy Forever, we are introducing a customer-first ownership model that makes our flagship Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Plus more accessible to Indian consumers. The programme has been designed based on the insight that consumers want to own the latest technology while enjoying a hassle-free option to upgrade year after year. Galaxy Forever reflects our commitment to innovation—not only in technology but also in how users own and upgrade to the latest Galaxy devices.”

Samsung has partnered with Servify and DMI Finance to ensure seamless upgrades, returns, and automated settlements. Galaxy Forever is also extended to select corporate employees and students through the Samsung Corporate+ and Student+ online stores, enabling India’s workforce and youth to stay at the cutting edge of the Galaxy ecosystem.

BYD India expands national network to 48; PPS Motors inaugurates India’s largest BYD showroom in Delhi

Delhi NCR, Mar 20: BYD India, a subsidiary of BYD and the world’s leading NEV (New Energy Vehicle) manufacturer, announced the inauguration of its 48th showroom in India and sixth showroom in Delhi NCR, located in Moti Nagar. The new facility, the largest BYD showroom in India, has been launched in partnership with PPS Motors Pvt. Ltd., marking the sixth BYD showroom operated by PPS Motors, in addition to four service workshops across three states, further strengthening the brand’s retail presence in the region.

 The newly inaugurated outlet reinforces BYD India’s expanding footprint in Delhi NCR, one of the country’s fastest-growing and most dynamic electric vehicle markets. Spanning 9,000 sq. ft., the Moti Nagar facility is designed to provide customers with an immersive retail experience, showcasing BYD’s advanced electric passenger vehicles and allowing customers to explore the brand’s technology, design philosophy, and sustainable mobility innovations.

Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business, BYD India, said,

“The inauguration of our 48th showroom in India and sixth showroom in Delhi NCR with PPS BYD in Moti Nagar represents another important milestone in strengthening BYD India’s retail footprint. Delhi NCR continues to be one of the most dynamic EV markets in the country, supported by increasing consumer awareness and adoption of sustainable mobility solutions. Together with our valued partner PPS Motors, we look forward to bringing BYD’s advanced electric vehicles closer to customers in the region and contributing to India’s transition towards cleaner transportation.”

Rajiv Sanghvi, Managing Director, PPS Motors Pvt. Ltd., added,

“We are proud to further strengthen our partnership with BYD through the inauguration of India’s largest showroom, marking an important milestone in our strategic expansion in Northern India. Being the largest sales and after-sales partner of BYD with 10 touchpoints in India, this reflects our shared commitment to accelerating the adoption of sustainable electric mobility solutions. Backed by BYD’s technologically advanced products and customer-centric approach, coupled with our deep understanding of customer needs, we endeavor to provide a premium and seamless ownership experience for our customers in the Delhi region.”

With this new addition, BYD India’s national electric passenger vehicle dealership network now spans 48 showrooms across 40 cities with 18 dealer partners, reflecting the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen accessibility and support growing EV adoption in India.

BYD India’s current EV portfolio includes the BYD SEALION 7 premium sedan, BYD SEAL, BYD ATTO 3 eSUV, and BYD eMAX 7 eMPV, offering customers a diverse range of advanced electric mobility solutions. Globally, BYD has sold over 15 million NEVs, contributing to the reduction of more than 129.2 billion kilograms of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to the absorption capacity of nearly 2.14 billion trees.

Consistently ranked among the Top 10 Most Valuable Global Automotive Brands by Kantar BrandZ and positioned #91 in the 2025 Fortune Global 500 with a brand value of USD 14.4 billion, BYD continues to solidify its leadership in the global EV market while accelerating India’s transition toward sustainable mobility.

India’s Bioeconomy Grows to $195 Billion, Targets $300 Billion by 2030: Jitendra Singh

NEW DELHI, March 20: Jitendra Singh on Thursday said India’s bioeconomy has expanded from about $10 billion in 2014 to over $195 billion in 2025, registering an annual growth of 17–18 per cent and emerging as a major global biotechnology hub.

Addressing the 14th Foundation Day of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) in New Delhi, the minister said the country is on track to achieve a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030.

He highlighted that biotechnology is becoming central to India’s growth, driving innovation in healthcare, agriculture, climate solutions and sustainable manufacturing. He credited BIRAC for playing a key role in bridging research and industry, enabling the translation of scientific ideas into market-ready solutions.

Referring to policy initiatives, Singh said the BioE3 Policy will promote sustainable biomanufacturing and innovation in areas such as precision biotherapeutics, smart proteins, climate-resilient agriculture, bio-based chemicals and carbon capture technologies.

He also pointed to the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund as a major step to support biotechnology ventures and strengthen India’s deep-tech ecosystem.

The minister noted that India’s bioeconomy now contributes nearly 5 per cent to GDP, citing findings from the India Bioeconomy Report (IBER) 2026 released at the event. The sector, supported by over 11,800 startups, has more than doubled in size since 2020.

Officials said BIRAC’s initiatives in funding, incubation and mentorship have facilitated industry-academia collaboration, leading to the development of affordable healthcare solutions, sustainable technologies and job creation.

Singh emphasised the need to nurture young scientific talent, particularly from smaller cities, and called for continued collaboration among researchers, industry and policymakers to drive innovation-led growth and support the vision of a self-reliant India.

India Records Highest-Ever 200 Mineral Block Auctions in FY 2025–26

NEW DELHI, March 20: India has achieved a record milestone in its mineral sector with the successful auction of 200 mineral blocks during the financial year 2025–26, marking the highest number of auctions conducted in a single year.

According to the Ministry of Mines, the achievement reflects strong coordination between the Centre and states, as well as the growing maturity of the country’s auction-based mineral allocation system.

Of the total blocks auctioned, 123 are Mining Lease (ML) blocks and 77 are Composite Licence (CL) blocks, indicating a balanced approach between operational mining and exploration activities. In addition, tenders for 70 more blocks—38 ML and 32 CL—are currently underway.

Among states, Gujarat led with 32 blocks, followed by Rajasthan with 30 and Tamil Nadu with 22 blocks. Tamil Nadu conducted its first-ever mineral block auctions, while Uttarakhand entered the framework with the successful auction of its first magnesite block.

Limestone accounted for the largest share with 76 blocks, followed by iron ore (40 blocks) and bauxite (30 blocks), highlighting their importance for core industries.

The year also saw the auction of 22 critical mineral blocks, underlining a strategic push towards securing key resources. States including Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka and Maharashtra played a significant role in offering these blocks.

The Ministry said the milestone underscores India’s commitment to building a transparent, efficient and future-ready mineral allocation framework to support long-term economic growth.

NICDC to Lead ‘BHAVYA’ Scheme for 100 Plug-and-Play Industrial Parks

NEW DELHI, March 20: The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) will anchor the implementation of the ‘BHAVYA’ scheme aimed at developing 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across the country to boost manufacturing and investment.

The initiative, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, will be executed as part of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP).

Under the scheme, industrial parks will be developed with pre-approved land, ready infrastructure and integrated services to facilitate ease of doing business. The parks will also feature streamlined approval systems, including single-window clearances, enabling faster establishment of industries.

Aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, the parks will emphasise multimodal connectivity and efficient last-mile access. Infrastructure planning will include underground utilities and integrated systems to support reliable industrial operations.

Officials said the BHAVYA scheme builds on NICDC’s experience in developing industrial corridors and smart cities, with a focus on expanding industrial infrastructure and promoting balanced regional growth.

NICDC is currently implementing 20 projects across 13 states, including greenfield industrial smart cities designed to enhance manufacturing competitiveness, attract investments and generate employment. It is also serving as the project management agency for seven PM MITRA Parks under the Ministry of Textiles.

Existing industrial nodes developed by NICDC, such as Dholera, Shendra-Bidkin, Vikram Udyogpuri and Greater Noida, have demonstrated progress in integrated infrastructure development and investor-ready ecosystems.

These industrial smart cities incorporate plug-and-play facilities, multimodal logistics connectivity, digital monitoring systems and sustainable infrastructure, including green energy and water reuse mechanisms.

The government said the initiative is expected to further strengthen India’s manufacturing ecosystem, attract investments from MSMEs and large industries, and support long-term economic growth.

Coal Stocks Rise, Supply Measures Strengthen India’s Energy Security

NEW DELHI, March 20: Coal continues to play a critical role in ensuring India’s energy security, even as the country expands its renewable energy capacity, with production and stock levels remaining aligned with rising demand.

According to the Ministry of Coal, coal remains essential for providing reliable baseload power and supporting key industries such as steel and cement, which are central to economic growth.

Coal production is being maintained to match consumer demand, with adequate stocks being built up at mine sites. Officials said this has been supported by efficient transportation, particularly through the rail network.

At Coal India Limited, pithead coal stock has increased from 106.78 million tonnes (MT) as on April 1, 2025, to about 125.54 MT as of March 18, 2026. Additional stocks include around 5.75 MT at Singareni Collieries Company Limited mines, 15.75 MT at captive and commercial mines, about 12 MT in transit, and 5.49 MT at ports and sidings.

This is in addition to approximately 53.41 MT of coal available at thermal power plants, sufficient for nearly 23 days at current consumption levels.

To ensure steady supply to all consumer segments, including small and medium industries, Coal India Limited has scheduled 29 e-auctions in March 2026, offering about 23.56 MT of coal. Of these, five auctions conducted since March 12 have seen 31.96 lakh tonnes booked against 73.1 lakh tonnes offered.

The company is also facilitating coal supply through State Nominated Agencies (SNAs) and coordinating with state governments to meet additional requirements and prevent shortages.

Officials said the government remains committed to ensuring reliable coal availability through policy support, monitoring, and stakeholder coordination, with the aim of meeting growing energy needs and supporting the vision of a developed India by 2047.