23, Jul 2026
PM Modi Monitors Gujarat Floods, Additional NDRF Teams Airlifted
New Delhi, July 23: The Central Government has intensified its response to the flood situation in Gujarat after Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the impact of heavy rainfall and directed authorities to expedite rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts in the affected regions.
To strengthen ongoing operations, two additional teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been airlifted from New Delhi to Gujarat, reinforcing the emergency response on the ground.
During the review meeting, the Prime Minister assessed the flood situation, the progress of rescue operations, and the preparedness of both Central and State agencies. He stressed the importance of coordinated action to ensure the safety of residents and the timely delivery of relief to affected communities.
The deployment of additional NDRF personnel is expected to enhance search-and-rescue operations, support evacuations, and assist local authorities in providing essential services in flood-hit areas.
The Centre has assured the Gujarat Government of all necessary assistance, with disaster response agencies remaining on high alert as heavy rainfall continues to affect several parts of the state.
Officials said continuous monitoring of the weather and flood situation is underway to ensure prompt action wherever required and to minimise the impact on lives and property.
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- By Neel Achary
23, Jul 2026
Markets Extend Four-Day Slide as Rising Oil Prices Weigh on Investor Sentiment
Mumbai, July 23: Indian benchmark equity indices Sensex and Nifty extended their losing streak to a fourth consecutive session on Thursday as escalating US-Iran tensions pushed global crude oil prices higher, dampening investor sentiment.
Market participants remained cautious amid concerns that sustained increases in crude prices could raise inflationary pressures, widen India’s import bill, and impact corporate earnings, particularly in sectors heavily dependent on fuel.
Selling pressure was witnessed across several sectors as investors reacted to geopolitical developments in West Asia and their potential impact on the global economy. Analysts said heightened uncertainty prompted a risk-off approach in the markets.
India, which imports a significant share of its crude oil requirements, remains sensitive to fluctuations in global energy prices. A prolonged rise in oil prices could increase input costs for businesses and pose challenges for the country’s macroeconomic outlook.
Despite the near-term volatility, market experts noted that domestic economic fundamentals remain resilient, with investors expected to closely track geopolitical developments, crude price movements, and global market cues in the coming days.
23, Jul 2026
The Oval to Host ICC World Test Championship Final 2027 from June 9
London, July 23: The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2027 will be held at The Oval in London from June 9, reaffirming the iconic venue’s status as one of the premier destinations for Test cricket.
The announcement marks another major international event for The Oval, which has a rich history of hosting high-profile cricket matches. The venue is expected to welcome the top two Test-playing nations that qualify for the championship decider after the completion of the WTC cycle.
The World Test Championship, introduced to add greater context and competitiveness to the longest format of the game, has become one of the most prestigious events in international cricket. The final serves as the culmination of a multi-year competition involving leading Test-playing nations.
Cricket enthusiasts around the world are expected to closely follow the qualification race as teams compete over the coming months to secure a place in the championship match.
The 2027 final is expected to showcase the highest standards of Test cricket while celebrating the enduring appeal of the traditional format.
23, Jul 2026
Lovlina Assured of India’s First Commonwealth Games 2026 Medal
Glasgow, July 23: India has opened its medal account at the 2026 Commonwealth Games after Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain secured a place in the women’s 75kg boxing semifinals, guaranteeing at least a bronze medal.
Lovlina advanced directly to the last four after receiving a bye, ensuring India’s first podium finish of the Games even before stepping into the ring in her weight category.
The achievement marks a strong start for India’s boxing campaign and reinforces Lovlina’s status as one of the country’s leading medal contenders on the international stage.
With her semifinal berth confirmed, Lovlina will now aim to progress to the final and challenge for a gold medal, boosting India’s prospects in the boxing competition.
Indian boxing has consistently delivered strong performances at major multi-sport events, and Lovlina’s assured medal is expected to provide momentum to the rest of the contingent competing in Glasgow.
23, Jul 2026
MSME Sector Crosses 8 Crore Employment Mark Under UDYAM Registration Framework
New Delhi, July 23: India’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector has reported more than 8 crore employment opportunities through enterprises registered under the UDYAM registration system, highlighting the sector’s growing contribution to economic development and job creation.
According to the government, MSMEs across the country continue to play a crucial role in generating employment, supporting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local economies. Among the states, Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a leading contributor in terms of employment reported under the UDYAM framework.
The government said the UDYAM registration initiative has helped improve formalisation of MSMEs by providing businesses with easier access to recognition, support schemes, financial assistance, and other benefits.
Officials noted that the MSME sector remains a key pillar of India’s economic growth, contributing significantly to manufacturing, services, exports, and employment generation.
With continued policy support, digital integration, and access to government programmes, MSMEs are expected to further expand their role in creating sustainable livelihoods and promoting inclusive growth.
The government continues to focus on strengthening the MSME ecosystem through improved access to credit, technology, markets, and skill development opportunities.
23, Jul 2026
Rising Fuel Costs Accelerate EV Push as Automakers Expand Electric Vehicle Line-Up
New Delhi, July 23: Automakers in India are accelerating their electric vehicle (EV) strategies as rising crude oil prices and growing demand for cleaner mobility solutions drive increased focus on electric transportation.
The shift towards electric mobility has encouraged manufacturers to introduce new EV models across different price segments, offering consumers more choices while supporting the country’s transition towards sustainable transportation.
Among the latest developments, Kia has launched the Syros EV with prices starting from Rs 13.49 lakh, expanding its presence in India’s growing electric vehicle market.
Industry experts said higher fuel costs, environmental concerns, and advancements in battery technology are key factors encouraging consumers and companies to move towards electric vehicles.
Automakers are increasing investments in EV platforms, charging infrastructure, and new technologies to meet changing customer preferences and strengthen their position in the evolving automotive market.
The growth of the EV ecosystem is also expected to support India’s goals of reducing dependence on fossil fuels, improving energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable mobility.
With more manufacturers entering the electric vehicle segment, competition is expected to increase, providing consumers with wider options and accelerating innovation in the sector.
23, Jul 2026
India Accelerates Highway Expansion as 10,389 Km of High-Speed Corridors Awarded
New Delhi, July 23: The Government of India has announced that 10,389 km of National High-Speed Corridors have been awarded across the country, marking a major milestone in the expansion and modernisation of the nation’s road infrastructure.
The development is part of the government’s efforts to build a faster, safer, and more efficient highway network aimed at improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and strengthening logistics across key economic regions.
The high-speed corridor projects are expected to enhance freight movement, support industrial growth, and improve connectivity between major cities, ports, and economic hubs.
Officials said the expansion of these corridors will play an important role in boosting infrastructure development, creating employment opportunities, and supporting India’s long-term economic growth objectives.
The projects are being developed with a focus on modern highway standards, improved road safety, advanced transportation systems, and better connectivity for passengers and businesses.
The government continues to prioritise infrastructure development as a key driver of economic progress, with high-speed road networks forming an important part of India’s future mobility framework.
23, Jul 2026
Emaar leads the way as developers show Dubai real estate strength in depth
fäm Properties report reveals Azizi dominating the affordable market in 2026 and topping overall sales transactions
Dubai, UAE, July 23: Emaar’s position as Dubai’s leading developer is underlined today by a new market analysis revealing the depth of residential real estate activity across the luxury and affordable sectors so far this year.
The report from fäm Properties today shows that Emaar has recorded the highest value in sales transactions to date this year at AED30.6 billion – 83.2% higher than DAMAC in second place at AED16.7 billion.
Emaar also sold the highest volume of properties in the AED 15 million and above luxury sector, with 387 transactions worth AED8.4 billion, ahead of Omniyat with 212 deals amounting to AED 6.5 billion.
In addition, the developer behind some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks has so far this year delivered the most projects (9) and units (3,819), and currently has the biggest number of active projects under construction (150).
Data from DXBinteract shows that Azizi, which dominates the market for affordable properties below AED2 million, has also been the most prolific developer in terms of overall residential sales transactions so far this year.
To date, the top ten developers in overall sales volume have recorded a combined 36,808 transactions valued at AED 86.8 billion.
“The fact that Dubai’s leading developers have been driving sales across both the luxury and affordable segments throughout the year is clear sign of market strength,” said Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties.
“This shows that demand is not concentrated in one area, and points to a healthy, diversified market with steady demand from both investors and end-users.”
In overall sales, Azizi led with 8,411 transactions ahead of DAMAC (6,387) and Emaar (5,550). The vast majority of Azizi’s sales – 8,053 worth AED6.6 billion – were in the affordable sector, ahead of Binghatti (4,268 – AED4.5 billion) and DAMAC (2,243 – AED2.5 billion).
DAMAC’s continued high level of activity this year places the company second in terms of projects (7) and units (2,591) delivered, and in the number of active projects under construction (113). Meanwhile, Reportage has launched 16 projects, the most to date in 2026, and is also among the top ten developers in sales of properties below AED2 million (1,322) and overall sales (1,544).
TOP DEVELOPERS – TOTAL SALES VOLUME & VALUE IN 2026 (As of 22nd July)
Volume Value (AED)
Azizi 8,411 7.5B
DAMAC 6,387 16.7B
Emaar 5,550 30.6B
Binghatti 5,188 7.9B
Ellington 2,768 8.0B
Samana 1,839 2.1B
Sobha 1,731 5.5B
Danube 1,695 3.6B
Imtiaz 1,695 3.0B
Reportage 1,544 1.9B
Totals 36,808 86.8B
PROPERTIES ABOVE 15M
Volume Value (AED)
Emaar 387 8.4B
Omniyat 212 6.5B
H&H 178 6.9B
Meraas 135 3.4B
Nakheel 80 2.4B
Wasl 66 1.4B
AHS Properties 64 1.8B
Shamal Holding 47 1.4B
Zaya 43 2.1B
Jumeirah Golf Est’ 36 956.9M
Totals 1,248 35.16B
PROPERTIES BELOW 2M
Volume Value (AED)
Azizi 8,095 6.6B
Binghatti 4,268 4.5B
DAMAC 2,247 2.5B
Samana 1,716 1.7B
Emaar 1,437 2.3B
Reportage 1,322 1.3B
Imtiaz 1,153 1.3B
Ellington 1,039 1.6B
Danube 1,004 1.3B
Vision Dev’ 649 717.4M
Totals 22,930 23.82B
Top developers by delivered projects – 2026: Emaar 9; DAMAC 7; Nakheel 4; Deyaar 3; Dubai Properties 3; Azizi 3; Continental Investments 2; Esnaad 2; Ellington 2; Segrex 2.
Top developers by delivered units – 2026: Emaar 3,819; DAMAC 2,591; Select Group 1,502; Deyaar 1,435; Continental Invest’ 1,294; The Cayan Group 1,164; Sobha 985; Nakheel 898; MAG 654; Dubai Properties 558.
Top developers by launched projects – 2026: Reportage 16; Emaar 11; Binghatti 9; DAMAC 6; Azizi 5; Ellington 5; Imtiaz 5; GFS 5; Sobha 3; Dubai South 3.
Top developers by projects under construction – 2026: Emaar 150; DAMAC 113; Azizi 55; Samana; 44; Binghatti 37; Nakheel 36; Meraas 35; Imtiaz 33; Ellington 33; Nshama 25.
23, Jul 2026
India Emerges as a Preferred Investment Destination for European Companies: Report
New Delhi, July 23: India is increasingly being viewed as a favourable investment destination by European companies, supported by its strong economic growth, expanding market opportunities, and improving business environment, according to a recent report.
The report highlighted that India’s large consumer base, skilled workforce, growing digital ecosystem, and ongoing infrastructure development are among the key factors attracting European businesses to invest in the country.
European companies are showing greater interest in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, automobiles, and financial services, driven by India’s growth potential and policy initiatives aimed at encouraging foreign investment.
The report noted that India’s focus on strengthening supply chains, promoting innovation, and enhancing ease of doing business has further improved its appeal among global investors.
Industry experts said that deeper economic cooperation between India and Europe could create new opportunities for trade, investment, and technology partnerships.
With its expanding economy and strategic position in global markets, India continues to strengthen its role as a major destination for international businesses seeking long-term growth opportunities.
23, Jul 2026
72 percent in South India Prioritise Balanced Diet, Bengaluru, Hyderabad Touch 75 percent, Finds ManipalCigna India Health Quotient 2026
Bangalore, July 23: ManipalCigna Health Insurance, one of India’s leading health insurers, has released insights specific to South India from India Health Quotient (IHQ) 2026. The IHQ is a proprietary multi-dimensional index measuring self-assessed health across five dimensions: Physical, Mental, Financial, Occupational, and Social. The study covered urban Indians across 16 cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi and Coimbatore from the southern region.
India‘s overall health score stands at 65 out of 100, while South India recorded an overall score of 63 out of 100. Across urban Indians, physical health is leading at 68, while financial health trails at 62, the lowest score across all dimensions and a critical aspect requiring greater attention.
Interestingly, 72% of respondents from South India prioritize eating a healthy, balanced diet in their top 5 aspects of physical health vs 65% in rest of India. This is most notable in the new age tech metros of Bengaluru, Hyderabad (75%). It reflects a larger shift across urban India, where people are consciously moving towards healthier lifestyles and making food choices a part of how they manage their overall wellbeing. On the other hand, the findings also highlight opportunities to strengthen mental well-being, with only 49% reporting strong focus and clarity of mind and 47% feeling confident in their ability to adapt to sudden change.
The study also reveals that health insurance ownership is one of the most promising predictors of overall wellbeing in India. Indians with health insurance score 68/100 on the India Health Quotient, compared to 62/100 for uninsured urban Indians, a 6-point gap that remains consistent across every cohort, region, age group, gender, and stress level. Across the cohorts and stress level tested in the study, insured Indians reported higher wellbeing scores than their uninsured counterparts on physical, mental and financial dimensions alike.
This “Wellbeing Premium” is notably larger than the gender gap (men and women both score 65/100) and exceeds regional differences between major metros like Mumbai (62/100) and Bengaluru (63/100) and surpasses the gap between India‘s youngest and oldest age groups (63/100 vs 65/100). The gap does not diminish even when controlling for stress levels, suggesting that health insurance ownership is associated with meaningfully better wellbeing outcomes across all population segments.
Sapna Desai, Chief Marketing Officer, ManipalCigna Health Insurance, said, “The India Health Quotient asks a simple question: how does India actually feel? It shows that health is multi-dimensional, with people balancing physical, mental, financial, and work and social wellbeing, and gaps in one area often affecting the others. South India stands out for its focus on healthy eating, with 72% prioritizing a balanced diet, rising to 75% in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. However, this physical discipline does not fully offset everyday pressures. Across regions, we also see that health insurance ownership helps narrow wellbeing gaps, reinforcing that protection is an important part of overall wellbeing.”
As Karnataka continues its growth journey, the need for greater awareness around healthcare financing and financial protection remains important. With changing healthcare needs and rising medical costs, health insurance can play a critical role in helping individuals and families manage healthcare expenses while ensuring access to quality care when needed.
The ManipalCigna India Health Quotient 2026 underscores the company’s commitment to going beyond traditional health insurance by developing a deeper, evidence-based understanding of how Indians experience wellbeing. With this, the company reaffirms its focus on building more responsive, holistic health solutions for a rapidly evolving India
