10, Apr 2026
RITES-led consortium delivers its 1st Retrofit Metro Trainset to DMRC, equipped with ‘Next-Gen’ PAPIS
Gurugram, April 10: RITES Ltd., the leading Transport Infrastructure Consultancy and Engineering firm, along with its consortium partners r2p Asia-Pacific Pty Ltd., Australia and ACT Fibreglass Ltd., today delivered the first refurbished metro trainset equipped with an advanced IP-based Passenger Announcement and Passenger Information System . The upgraded trainset was flagged-off by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Managing Director Dr. Vikas Kumar at the Najafgarh Depot, New Delhi.
The system is designed to enhance operational efficiency, passenger convenience & safety and provide onboard communication systems for metro networks. It features an advanced integrated IP-based architecture with a centralized Human Machine Interface, enabling seamless control of passenger information, public address, CCTV and communication systems.
Built on Power over Ethernet (PoE), the PAPIS reduces wiring complexity and lifecycle costs while improving reliability and maintenance efficiency. It also integrates safety features such as CCTV, emergency communication and alarm systems, along with real-time diagnostics for efficient operations. The solution is compliant with BIS, EN and MeitY/STQC standards.
Apart from PAPIS, re-painting of saloon interiors, provision of IV couplers, fire detection system and mobile charging socket, refurbishment of EDB and relay panels have also been completed.
With its expertise in transport infrastructure and system integration, RITES continues to deliver benchmarked, future-ready solutions to the urban mobility ecosystem.
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- By Neel Achary
10, Apr 2026
Retail Investors Drive Strong Equity MF Inflows in March
New Delhi, Apr 10 (BNP): Equity mutual funds in India recorded a sharp rise in inflows in March, showing strong investor participation despite ongoing market volatility. Data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) showed that net inflows into equity schemes surged 56% month-on-month to ₹40,450 crore, compared with ₹25,978 crore in February.
The figure marks an eight-month high, reflecting continued confidence in equity-linked investments among retail investors.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) contributions also remained strong, rising 7.5% to a record ₹32,087 crore, indicating steady and disciplined long-term investing behaviour.
Across categories, large-cap funds saw healthy growth in inflows, while mid-cap funds recorded strong gains. Small-cap funds also attracted higher investments, reflecting broad-based interest across market segments.
However, the overall mutual fund industry saw volatility, with net outflows of ₹2.39 lakh crore in March, driven largely by movements in non-equity segments.
Market experts said the trend highlights sustained retail participation and growing preference for equities through SIPs, even in uncertain market conditions.
10, Apr 2026
‘Womaniya’ Initiative Drives Strong Growth for Women Entrepreneurs on GeM in FY26
New Delhi, Apr 10 (BNP): The government’s ‘Womaniya’ initiative has recorded significant expansion, with over 2.1 lakh women-led micro and small enterprises (MSEs) registering on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) in FY26.
According to official data, these enterprises secured around 13.7 lakh orders, with total contracts worth more than ₹28,000 crore awarded during the year. This represents a 27.6% year-on-year growth, reflecting rising participation of women entrepreneurs in government procurement.
The initiative enables women entrepreneurs and self-help groups (SHGs) to directly supply goods and services to government buyers through the GeM platform, improving market access and reducing dependence on intermediaries.
Women-led enterprises accounted for 5.6% of total GeM orders, comfortably exceeding the government’s 3% procurement target for women entrepreneurs.
The scheme supports sectors such as handicrafts, handloom, jute, coir, home décor, and office furnishings, where women-led businesses have a strong presence. At the ground level, district administrations and training institutions are conducting onboarding drives, workshops, and capacity-building programmes to improve seller participation.
Officials said the digital system—from registration to payments—ensures transparency, efficiency, and ease of doing business for women entrepreneurs, helping them scale operations and gain wider market visibility.
They added that ‘Womaniya’ is not just a procurement platform but a step towards enhancing economic independence and strengthening women’s participation in formal markets.
10, Apr 2026
Young Designers Shine at IndiaSkills 2025–26: AMHSSC Celebrates Excellence in Fashion Technology Skill
New Delhi, Apr 10: Apparel Made-Ups and Home Furnishing Sector Skill Council proudly celebrates the outstanding performance of young designers at the IndiaSkills National Competition 2025–26, where the Fashion Technology skill competition emerged as a vibrant showcase of creativity, craftsmanship, and industry-ready talent.
India’s premier platform for skills excellence, the competition was held from March 29 to April 2 at the India Expo Mart. Organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and supported by the National Skill Development Corporation, the event marked a significant milestone in India’s journey towards building a globally competitive and future-ready workforce.
The competition brought together some of the most promising young designers from across the country, who demonstrated exceptional design innovation, garment construction expertise, precision, and adherence to international standards.
Diksha Prajapati from Jammu & Kashmir clinched the gold medal, followed by Vidhi Suthar from Gujarat with silver and Aerla Manikantha from Telangana securing bronze.
Expressing her excitement, gold medallist Diksha Prajapati said, “This platform has been life-changing. Competing with the best in the country has pushed me to refine my skills and think globally. I now aspire to represent India at international platforms WorldSkills and make the nation proud.”
Congratulating the winners, Dr A Sakthivel, Chairman, AMHSSC said the competition serves as a crucial platform to nurture talent and align skills with global industry needs. “The performance of these participants reflects the growing strength of India’s skilled workforce in the apparel sector,” he said.
Ashish Srivastava, CEO, AMHSSC added that the competition underscores the importance of skill-based education. “These young professionals have showcased a blend of creativity and technical proficiency, making them industry-ready,” he said.
AMHSSC continues to play a key role in strengthening India’s apparel ecosystem through industry-aligned training and skill development initiatives, enabling youth to compete at both national and international levels.
10, Apr 2026
Commerce Ministry Reviews Export Disruptions Amid West Asia Crisis
New Delhi, Apr 10 (BNP): The Commerce Ministry has held a series of high-level meetings with exporters and key stakeholders to address rising challenges in packaging, shipping, and port operations amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
The meetings were chaired by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal and attended by Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar, along with representatives from shipping lines, ports, Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), and commodity boards.
Officials said the discussions focused on disruptions in maritime trade following escalating tensions in the West Asia region, which have impacted vessel movement and shipping routes, especially on key international corridors.
Exporters flagged several concerns, including delays in shipments, logistical bottlenecks, and rising operational costs affecting overall export performance. Export Promotion Councils have been directed to submit detailed feedback on port-wise issues to enable targeted policy responses.
In a separate review, industry representatives highlighted a sharp rise in packaging material costs, driven by increased petrochemical prices. This has led to an estimated 50% surge in packaging costs over recent weeks, further squeezing export margins.
The ministry said it is actively monitoring the situation and engaging with stakeholders to ensure continuity in trade operations and minimise supply chain disruptions.
10, Apr 2026
Emerging Startups Bring New Opportunities to Odisha’s Business Landscape
Odisha, located on India’s eastern coastline, has historically depended on agriculture, handloom weaving, and mineral-based industries for its economic stability. With fertile land and rich natural resources, agriculture especially rice and pulse cultivation has long supported a large share of the population.
In recent years, however, the state has been steadily shifting toward a more diversified and modern economy. Improved infrastructure, supportive policies, and growing entrepreneurial activity are reshaping Odisha into an emerging center for business innovation and industrial development.
Industrial Growth and Rising Entrepreneurship in Odisha
The state has made significant progress in expanding its industrial base. Government efforts to improve connectivity, simplify business regulations, and attract investment have played a major role in this transformation. Sports news Odisha is also gaining attention as improved infrastructure and growing media coverage highlight local talent and sporting achievements across the state.
New industrial clusters and development zones have encouraged the growth of manufacturing, information technology, tourism, and renewable energy sectors. This shift is gradually reducing reliance on traditional industries and creating new employment opportunities for the youth.
Alongside these changes, entrepreneurship and startups are becoming an important part of Odisha’s economic identity.
Growth of the Startup Culture
Over the past decade, Odisha has seen a noticeable rise in entrepreneurial activity. A key factor behind this growth is the structured support system created to encourage new businesses.
The startup environment is supported through:
- Incubation and innovation centers
- Early-stage financial assistance
- Training and mentorship programs
- Policy-driven incentives for new entrepreneurs
These initiatives have encouraged young professionals and graduates to explore entrepreneurship as a viable career option. As a result, cities like Bhubaneswar are emerging as growing hubs for innovation and new-age businesses.
Transforming Business Landscape of Odisha
Sectors Experiencing Startup-Driven Change
Technology and Digital Services
Startups in the technology sector are introducing digital solutions that help businesses operate more efficiently. From mobile applications to software platforms, these innovations are modernizing traditional systems and improving service delivery.
Agriculture and Rural Innovation
Agriculture-focused startups are bringing scientific methods into farming practices. Tools such as smart irrigation systems, drone monitoring, and data-based crop management are helping farmers increase productivity while reducing costs and environmental impact.
Healthcare Services
In the healthcare sector, startups are developing telemedicine platforms, online consultation systems, and affordable diagnostic tools. These innovations are improving access to healthcare, especially in rural and remote areas.
Tourism and Culture
Tourism-focused startups are promoting local heritage sites, cultural experiences, and eco-tourism. Digital marketing, virtual experiences, and personalized travel planning are helping attract more visitors and boosting local economies.
Government Role in Supporting Startups
The government has played a crucial role in shaping the startup ecosystem in Odisha. Through targeted policies and institutional support, it has created a favorable environment for innovation and business growth.
Key forms of support include:
- Dedicated startup policies and frameworks
- Financial assistance programs for new ventures
- Business incubation and accelerator support
- Networking opportunities with investors
- Participation in entrepreneurship events and competitions
These efforts have helped reduce barriers for new entrepreneurs and improved access to resources and funding.
Challenges in the Startup Ecosystem
Despite rapid progress, startups in Odisha continue to face certain challenges:
Limited access to funding: Early-stage startups often struggle to attract sufficient investment.
Infrastructure gaps: In some areas, connectivity and business facilities still need improvement.
Skill shortages: Many startups face difficulties in finding locally trained professionals with industry-specific skills.
Addressing these challenges will require collaboration between educational institutions, policymakers, and private investors.
Inspiring Startup Successes
Several startups from Odisha have demonstrated how innovation can create meaningful impact:
- A food-based venture promoting organic farming and supporting local farmers through sustainable practices
- A digital platform connecting traditional artisans with broader markets, helping preserve cultural heritage
- An education-focused startup offering skill development programs to improve employability among youth
These examples highlight how entrepreneurship in Odisha is not only generating income but also contributing to social development.
Role of Technology and Innovation
Technology has become a key driver of startup growth in Odisha. Many new businesses are using advanced tools such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and data analytics to build efficient and scalable solutions.
Digital platforms are also enabling local entrepreneurs to reach wider markets, breaking geographical limitations and increasing competitiveness. This increasing reliance on technology is helping startups grow faster and operate more effectively.
Future Outlook
The future of startups in Odisha appears promising, with strong potential for expansion in areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, agriculture technology, and digital commerce.
Growing collaboration between educational institutions, government bodies, and private investors is expected to strengthen the ecosystem further. Improved skill development programs and innovation-driven policies will also support the next generation of entrepreneurs.
With continued progress, Odisha has the potential to become a significant startup hub in India.
Conclusion
Odisha is undergoing a major economic transformation, moving from a resource-dependent economy toward a more innovation-driven and diversified system. The rise of startups is playing a central role in this change by creating jobs, encouraging creativity, and introducing modern solutions across industries.
Although challenges remain, the combined efforts of government support, technological advancement, and entrepreneurial enthusiasm are steadily shaping a strong and sustainable startup ecosystem in the state.
10, Apr 2026
Shipping Sector Boost: India’s Fleet Surpasses 14.2 Million GT
New Delhi: India’s national shipping fleet has crossed a major milestone, surpassing 14.2 million Gross Tonnage (GT) for the first time, supported by the addition of 92 new vessels during FY 2025–26.
Officials said the sharp expansion reflects a significant boost in the country’s maritime strength, with vessel additions recording a threefold increase in tonnage growth compared to previous periods.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The development is seen as a key step towards enhancing India’s presence in global shipping and reducing dependence on foreign fleets. It also aligns with the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, aimed at strengthening self-reliance in critical strategic sectors.
Experts note that the rising fleet capacity will improve cargo handling capability, support trade efficiency, and enhance India’s competitiveness in international maritime logistics.
With sustained investments and policy support, the shipping sector is expected to play an increasingly important role in driving trade growth and strengthening India’s blue economy ambitions.
10, Apr 2026
Priyanka Singh Promoted to EVP, Operations & CFO at Litera, Taking on Expanded Strategic Role as Litera Sees Ongoing Strong Growth
HOLMDEL, N.J. and CHICAGO – Apr. 10 – Litera, a leading legal AI platform provider that unifies the practice and business of law, announced the promotion of Priyanka Singh to Executive Vice President, Operations & Chief Financial Officer. Since joining Litera one year ago as CFO, Priyanka has expanded her impact beyond financial leadership, overseeing support and services, legal, and HR, and playing a central role in the company’s operational transformation. Her elevated title reflects the scope she has taken on, and the transformation she has led, helping reshape the company into a customer‑first organization and redefining how Litera partners with customers.
“From day one, Priyanka has shown a relentless drive to do right by our customers, and that commitment is showing up where it matters most,” said Avaneesh Marwaha, CEO of Litera. “What sets Priyanka apart is that she never stops at the balance sheet. She brings a CFO’s discipline to every corner of the business, and it’s her genuine care for our customers that has truly set the tone. Sentiment in the market is up, and Priyanka’s promotion reflects the direct impact her leadership has had on delivering the operational foundation behind our mission to pave the path for the future of law.”
Priyanka brings more than 20 years of experience in financial strategy, operations, and organizational transformation to her expanded role. Her background spans public and private companies focused on SaaS, mergers, and acquisitions at Togetherwork, Global Payments Inc., Heartland Payment Systems, and several verticals at General Electric. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Accountant (CA).
During her first year at Litera, Priyanka has also been instrumental in the company’s return-to-office initiative, overseeing the opening of seven offices and building a culture of in-person collaboration that employees are choosing to embrace. That cultural shift reflects her broader leadership philosophy that strategy only works when it translates into concrete priorities at every level of the organization.
“Litera is at an exciting point in its growth,” said Priyanka Singh. “The opportunity in front of us to help law firms unify the practice and business of law through AI requires operational excellence and a dedication to customers that matches our technology ambition. I’m energized by what we’ve built in the past year, and even more so by what we’re positioned to build for the next decade on a foundation of 30 years of unmatched legal expertise along with our rapid pace of innovation.”
Litera’s pedigree of 30 years of legal expertise, combined with the AI capabilities embedded across its platform through Lito, its award-winning legal AI agent, positions the company as the only legal AI platform built to unify the practice and business of law. Priyanka’s expanded role strengthens the operational foundation to execute that vision.
10, Apr 2026
TCS Slips 3 pc as March Quarter Results Fail to Impress Investors
New Delhi,Apr 10 (BNP): Shares of India’s largest IT services company, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) came under pressure on Friday, falling over 3% in early trade after its March quarter results failed to meet investor expectations.
The stock declined by about 3.25% to ₹2,503.45 on the BSE, while on the NSE it slipped nearly 3.24% to ₹2,505, reflecting broad-based selling pressure following the earnings announcement.
Investor sentiment turned cautious as the results did not provide strong triggers for fresh buying, leading to profit booking in the heavyweight IT stock.
Market participants said the reaction indicates muted near-term expectations from the IT sector, which continues to face global demand uncertainties and margin pressures.
Despite the decline, analysts note that TCS remains a key benchmark stock for the Indian IT industry, and its performance is closely tracked for broader sector cues.
10, Apr 2026
Gold, Silver Edge Lower on MCX as Investors Book Profits
New Delhi, Apr 10 (BNP): Gold and silver prices edged lower on Friday in the domestic futures market, as investors booked profits and demand for safe-haven assets eased.
On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold futures fell by around 0.5–1%, touching an intraday low of ₹1,52,561 per 10 grams. The yellow metal later recovered slightly but continued to trade weaker during the session.
Silver futures also came under pressure, declining about 0.7% to an intraday low of ₹2,42,067 per kilogram, compared to the previous close.
During the trading session, gold hit a high of ₹1,52,990 per 10 grams before slipping again, while silver also saw intraday volatility.
Market analysts said the decline was mainly driven by profit-taking at higher levels, along with a temporary reduction in safe-haven buying interest.
Despite the dip, traders continue to watch global cues and currency movements closely, which are likely to influence precious metal prices in the coming sessions.
