Author: Neel Achary

India Introduces New Services Index to Improve Economic Data Accuracy

July 15: India is set to strengthen its statistical framework with the introduction of a new Services Index aimed at bringing the country’s data systems in line with global standards. The initiative marks a significant step towards improving the measurement of the services sector, which has become a key driver of India’s economic growth.

The proposed index is designed to provide a more comprehensive and timely assessment of services sector performance by capturing trends across a wider range of industries. By adopting internationally accepted methodologies and best practices, the index will improve the reliability, consistency, and comparability of official statistics.

The enhanced statistical framework is expected to support evidence-based policymaking, facilitate more accurate economic analysis, and provide businesses, investors, and researchers with deeper insights into the performance of the services economy. It will also strengthen India’s ability to benchmark its economic data against global peers, improving transparency and reinforcing confidence in the country’s official statistics.

As the services sector continues to contribute a significant share of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the introduction of the new index is expected to play an important role in monitoring economic activity, identifying emerging trends, and supporting long-term development planning. The move reflects the government’s continued efforts to modernize the national statistical system and ensure that India’s economic data remains robust, credible, and aligned with evolving international standards.

Indian Equity Markets Begin the Day on a Strong Note Amid Positive Global Sentiment

July 15: Indian equity markets opened higher on Wednesday, tracking gains in global equities and reflecting improved investor confidence. The benchmark indices witnessed a positive start as favorable international market cues, easing concerns over global economic uncertainties, and continued buying in heavyweight stocks boosted overall market sentiment.

Early trading saw broad-based participation across sectors, with financial services, information technology, automobiles, capital goods, and select consumer stocks contributing to the gains. Investors remained optimistic amid resilient domestic economic fundamentals and expectations of steady corporate earnings, while foreign market performance also provided support to the domestic indices.

Market participants are closely monitoring upcoming macroeconomic data, corporate earnings announcements, crude oil price movements, and global central bank commentary for further direction. Analysts believe that while global developments continue to influence near-term market trends, India’s strong economic outlook, healthy domestic demand, and ongoing investment activity remain supportive of the broader equity market.

Going forward, investors are expected to maintain a stock-specific approach while keeping a close watch on global market developments and domestic policy updates that could shape market sentiment in the coming sessions.

Joyalukkas launches Old Gold Exchange Campaign with INR 150 extra per gram offer

Speaking on the campaign, Dr. Joy Alukkas, Chairman and Managing Director, Joyalukkas Group, said: “Gold has always been an integral part of every family’s legacy, and many customers hold jewellery that is no longer worn or suited to their current preferences. Through our Old Gold Exchange Campaign, we want to help customers maximise the value of their old gold by offering an additional ₹150 per gram over the prevailing exchange value. It is our way of ensuring they receive the best possible value while giving them the opportunity to choose from our latest collections.”

Kia Carens Family Crosses 3 Lakh Cumulative Sales; Redefining the Recreational Vehicle Segment in India

Mumbai, India, July 15: Kia India, one of the country’s leading mass-premium automakers, today announced that the Kia Carens Family has surpassed the milestone of 3 lakh cumulative sales in India. 

The Kia Carens has established itself as one of the defining products in Kia India‘s portfolio by consistently evolving in line with the changing aspirations of Indian families. Kia has remained deeply connected to customer feedback, leveraging real-world insights to continuously enhance the ownership experience through meaningful advancements in safety, technology, comfort, convenience and design. This customer-first philosophy has enabled Carens to remain relevant across every stage of its journey, setting new benchmarks in the family mobility segment. 

The success of the Carens laid the foundation for the expansion of the Carens lineup with the introduction of the Carens Clavis and Carens Clavis EV—two products developed in response to evolving customer expectations for more premium experiences and future ready mobility solutions. While the Carens Clavis redefined premium family mobility with elevated design, advanced technology, enhanced safety and greater comfort, the Carens Clavis EV marked Kia‘s vision of bringing practical, accessible electric mobility to Indian families without compromising on space, versatility or everyday usability. 

This continuous evolution has not only earned the trust of more than 3 lakh customers but has also received widespread recognition from the automotive industry. 

Today, the Carens lineup offers customers the flexibility to choose from petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, ensuring every family can select a mobility solution best suited to its lifestyle and evolving needs. This unique multi-powertrain strategy, complemented by regular feature enhancements and the democratization of premium technologies across safety and connectivity and more, has enabled the Carens family to stay ahead of its competition. 

Commenting on the milestone Mr. Sunhack Park, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India said, “The 300,000-unit milestone for the Carens underscores its position as a segment leader and a true gamechanger in the MPV space. This achievement is a direct result of our product-led strategy, our sharp understanding of customer needs, and our unwavering focus on quality. It strengthens our conviction that the Carens is the benchmark for its class, and we are energized to build on this momentum as we accelerate our growth journey.“ 

Responding to the evolving aspirations of Indian families, Kia introduced Carens Clavis EV.

The Carens Clavis EV combines spacious design, versatile seating with options of both 6- & 7-seater and electric innovation, making it a compelling choice for customers exploring practical EV options. Powered by 99kW & 126kW motor delivering 255 Nm torque, it offers smooth performance across commutes and road trips, with dual battery options—51.4 kWh (490 km range) and 42 kWh (404 km range)—and fast charging from 10% to 80% in just 39 minutes. 

The Carens sales mix reflects changing customer preferences. Petrol variants account for 60%, followed by diesel with 30% and EV with 10% of cumulative sales. While Clavis EV offers best in the segment range, there is strong acceptance of Kia‘s refined and efficient gasoline powertrains even in the family movers. 

Equipped with both 6-and 7-seater with unique blend of space & comfort, Carens can accommodate large families and varied travel requirements. Meanwhile, 18% contribution from top trims reflects growing customer willingness to invest in advanced safety features, connected technologies, and premium comfort amenities. 

Kia India is rapidly increasing it footholds in the country operating in 407 cities with 892 touchpoints ensuring its products are more accessible to the customers and have hassle free experience Kia’s next-gen mobility solutions.

Airengy And European Salt And Chemicals Producernobian Will Jointly explore The Development Of A 2.5 Gwh Compressed Air Energy Power Plant (Capp) In Denmark

14th July 2026: Airengy (TASE: ARNG) announced today the signing of an additional partnership agreement to explore and assess the potential and feasibility of long-duration compressed air energy storage in Nobian-operated salt cavern in Denmark with a capacity of 2.5 GWh (2,500 megawatt-hours) and an output of in the range of 3–10 megawatts.

The power plant is planned to be connected to an existing salt cavern in Denmark operated by Nobian, a European leader in high-purity salt, low-carbon essential chemicals and underground energy storage caverns. The collaboration will focus on evaluating Airengy’sAirBatterytechnology.

This is the fourth power-plant partnership across Europe announced by Airengy, following the plant in England (in partnership with KISTOS), Romania (in partnership with Hagag Europe), and Germany (in partnership with SEFE). The new agreement completes the company’s strategy of establishing operations throughout its key target markets.

Under the agreement, Nobian will be responsible for performing the works relating to the salt cavern,including regulatory, and permitting processes,local communication, stakeholder management, and the related infrastructure, and it will remain the license holder and the operator of the cavern. Airengywill be responsible for the AirBatterysystem design, air compression, and electricity generation using the proprietary technology it developed. The project is aimed at developing aenergy generation capacity potential of approximately 2.5 gigawatt-hours using Airengy’s compressed-air technologyconnected to an existing cavern.

The project is part of the implementation of the two-phase strategy published by Airengyin December: in the first phase, the company will form partnerships for the construction and designof power plants with an output of 1–1.5 megawatts in Romania and England, while in parallel advancing the establishment of large-scale power plants in Romania and now Denmark as well.

Louwrens op de Beek,Director Energy Storage at Nobian: “At Nobian, we see large-scale energy storage as a critical building block of a reliable and affordable renewable energy system. By exploring the combination of our salt cavern expertise with Airengy’s innovative technology, we aim to unlock new ways to store and release energy over longer periods, helping to reduce grid congestion. This collaboration fits perfectly with our Grow Greener Together strategy and our ambition to be a balancing partner in the energy system in Denmark.”

Maj. Gen. (res.) Yiftah Ron-Tal, Chairman of Airengy: “The agreement with Nobian continues and advances our deployment into our European target markets and proves the company’s implementation capabilities. The collaboration connects Airengy’s energy-storage technology with existing geological infrastructure and industry know-how and demonstrates our ability to create partnerships with leading companies in strategic markets. We intend to continue forming additional partnerships that will accelerate the company’s growth and strengthen its standing in the global storage market.”

Tal Raz, CEO of Airengy: “The agreement with Nobian marks another significant milestone in Airengy’s development. Nobian is a European leader in salt mining and production, low-carbon essential chemicals and underground energy storage caverns development, with decades of experience, strategic assets, and first-rate engineering capabilities. Nobian’s decision to collaborate with Airengyconstitutes a strongexpression of confidence in the technology we have developed and, in our ability to lead large-scale commercial projects.This partnership strengthens Airengy’s ability to advance additional commercial projects and to become a leading player in long-duration energy-storage infrastructure in Europe.

In parallel with the continued development of compressed-air-based energy-storage systems for the electricity grid, Airengy is exploring an expansion of its operations into the data-centers field, which is expected to be one of the most significant growth engines in demand for energy infrastructure over the coming decade. We believe that the CAPP technology we have developed, combined with strategic partnerships such as Nobian, can serve as a basis for advanced energy solutions for this market too.

We believe the coming decade will be defined by the construction of new energy infrastructure for electricity grids, industry, and data centers. Our goal is to position Airengy as one of Europe’s leading companies in long-duration energy solutions for these markets.”

From Heritage Textiles to AR Storytelling: Kausalyam 2026 Has It All

Hyderabad, July 14, 2026: The Crafts Council of Telangana (CCT), a voluntary non-profit organization established in 1987 inaugurated today—Kausalyam 2026 —-aimed at celebrating India’s rich craft traditions, promotion artisan livelihoods, and supporting craft communities facing adversity. It was inaugurated by the committee members of Crafts Council of Telangana.

Being held at Anvaya Convention, Financial District, Hyderabad, it formally kicked off today evening for the select visitors. Entry to the public is open from tomorrow 10am to 7pm and the entry is free.

Among the wellknown personalities who visited today include Mrs. Geetha Reddy, Wife of Chief Minister Shri Revanth Reddy; Mrs Nara Bhuvaneshwari, Wife of Chief Minister of Nara Chandrababu Naidu, CM of AP and Mr. Surekha, wife of Megastar Chiranjeevi among others.

Adding a cultural dimension to the experience are unique presentations such as Sita Anveshana, a Telugu-English leather puppetry performance, and Virata Parvam, an innovative Cheriyal Scroll storytelling experience enhanced through Augmented Reality. With participation from leading textile revivalists, artisan collectives, craft enterprises, and renowned handmade brands from across India, Kausalyam 2026 will serve as a unique platform celebrating craftsmanship, creativity, sustainability, and cultural exchange.

For nearly four decades, CCT has been dedicated to preserving, promoting, and revitalizing traditional crafts and handmade practices while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisans through exhibitions, cultural programs, artisan development initiatives, and public engagement activities.

Organized once every five years in collaboration with renowned textile revivalist Gaurang Shah, Kausalyam 2026 is a special fundraising initiative that brings together India’s finest textile traditions, handcrafted products, and artisan enterprises under one roof.

The event seeks to strengthen awareness and appreciation for handmade traditions while supporting artisan livelihoods and preserving India’s rich craft heritage for future generations.

The proceeds from Kausalyam 2026 will support the revival and upliftment of the Bharoon Embroidery Cluster and other initiatives

Kausalyam 2026 serves as a vibrant platform for artisans, textile studios, craft entrepreneurs, designers, collectors, and cultural enthusiasts, showcasing the diversity, creativity, and sustainability inherent in handmade traditions.

Kausalyam 2026 promises to be a vibrant celebration of India’s rich textile and craft heritage, bringing together more than 75 textile studios and craft exhibitors and over 120 stalls showcasing exceptional handcrafted products and artisan collections from across the country. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore 40+ curated handcrafted collections, alongside the Museum of Textiles, a specially curated showcase highlighting the artistry, history, and evolution of textile traditions. The event also features Conversations with Craftpreneurs, offering engaging interactions with artisans, designers, and creative entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of handmade crafts.

The Bharoon Embroidery Cluster represents a rare and intricate embroidery tradition rooted in the Sindhi craft heritage. Known for its dense hand embroidery, vibrant motifs, and exceptional craftsmanship, the art form is sustained largely by women artisans. The revival initiative seeks to preserve this endangered craft tradition while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisan families

Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles Inaugurates Bharat Tex 2026; India’s Largest Global Textile Event Opens with Record International Participation

FPT and ITALYURE: Power and Design at the Service of Nautical Excellence

July 14: FPT, Iveco Group’s brand dedicated to the design, production and sale of propulsion systems and solutions for on-road and off-road, marine, and power generation applications, is bolstering its collaboration with Italyure Yachts, the young, dynamic, and highly successful shipyard based in Torre Annunziata (Campania, Italy) to which the Brand supplies the engines for its yachts through AS Labruna, one of the main brand marine engine distributors for Southern Italy. Since 2021, 26 FPT-powered Italyure Yachts boats have been produced so far, corresponding to 52 engines.

 In the recreational segment, FPT is experiencing exponential growth in interest and customers, thanks to the particular characteristics of its marine engines: reliability, efficiency, torque density, and high power-to-weight ratio.

The Brand has been operating in the marine propulsion market since 1965, offering a full range of class-leading engines with displacements from 3 to 15.9 liters, and power outputs ranging from 85 to 1000 hp, while the specific yacht lineup ranges from 230 to 1000 hp. Every day in Italy, two new boats powered by FPT marine engines are launched. The presence of over 200 service points in the Mediterranean area is a strong guarantee of prompt response in the event of issues, ensuring continuous support.

Founded in 2020, Italyure Yachts has established itself in the luxury walk-around yacht manufacturing and sales sector in just a few years. Its modern production facility, located within the “Condominio Marina di Torre Annunziata” shipbuilding complex, spans 126,000 square meters, 30,000 of which are covered, and features an internal private technical dock of 10,000 square meters, equipped for hauling and launching operations of boats up to 200 tons. Here, Italyure Yachts manages all production phases in-house, from design to final outfitting.

 

These Italian-made yachts, born from the perfect combination of artisanal know-how, engineering vision, technical innovation, and contemporary design, have become the preferred choice of charter companies taking tourists to admire the Gulf of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. For this specific mission that includes long journeys, requiring smooth and safe navigation, even in the most demanding conditions, and up to 1,500 hours of use between April and October, Italyure Yachts opted for two FPT N60 engines representing the most competitive, durable, reliable, and suitable solutions for charter yachts, and the ideal configurations for this type of vessel.

On June the 8th, FPT and AS Labruna were among the selected guest of “Italyure day”, an event that took place at Praiano a Mare (Italy) and involved charter companies, as well as customers and potential customers of Italyure. Representatives of Italyure, FPT and AS Labruna gave speeches, emphasizing the importance of their partnership in the recreational and charter sectors.

India and Maldives Advance Talks on Free Trade Agreement to Strengthen Trade Ties

New Delhi, July 14: India and the Maldives have made progress towards establishing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed at expanding bilateral trade and strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.

The proposed agreement is expected to create new opportunities for businesses, improve market access, and encourage greater exchange of goods and services between India and the Maldives.

Officials from both sides are working towards addressing key areas of trade cooperation, with the focus on building a stronger and more balanced economic partnership.

The FTA is likely to benefit industries, exporters, and consumers by promoting smoother trade flows and enhancing business opportunities.

The development reflects the growing importance of India-Maldives economic relations and the shared commitment of both nations to deepen cooperation across various sectors.