Category Archives: News

US Retains Position as India’s Largest LPG Supplier in June: Report

July 3: The United States continued to hold its position as India’s largest supplier of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in June, according to industry data, underscoring strong energy trade ties between the two countries.

The report highlights that LPG imports from the US remained robust during the month, supported by competitive global pricing and steady supply availability. India continues to rely on diversified import sources to meet its growing domestic LPG demand, driven by rising household consumption and government-backed clean cooking initiatives.

Energy analysts note that the sustained supply from the US reflects India’s broader strategy of ensuring energy security through a balanced import portfolio across key international suppliers. Alongside the US, other major exporters also contribute to India’s LPG requirements, helping maintain stable supply conditions in the domestic market.

The continued dominance of the US in June reinforces its role as a key energy partner for India, particularly in the liquefied petroleum gas segment, where demand is expected to remain strong in the coming months due to seasonal and structural consumption trends.

State-Level Reforms Set to Triple India’s Commercial & Industrial Renewable Energy Capacity by 2032: Report

July 3: India’s commercial and industrial (C&I) renewable energy capacity is expected to nearly triple by 2032, rising from about 32 GW in 2025 to nearly 100 GW, driven by sustained policy reforms at the state level, according to a new industry report by the India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) and Customized Energy Solutions (CES).

The report highlights that progressive state initiatives—particularly Green Energy Open Access (GEOA) frameworks, streamlined regulatory approvals, and incentives for renewable procurement—are enabling faster adoption of clean energy among industrial and commercial consumers.

According to the findings, state governments are emerging as key enablers of India’s decentralized energy transition by improving market access and allowing large consumers to directly procure renewable power. This shift is expected to reduce energy costs for industries while helping them meet renewable purchase obligations (RPOs) and long-term sustainability targets.

The study also projects strong growth in energy storage within the C&I segment, which is expected to reach 28–31 GWh by 2032. This expansion will be driven by the increasing integration of variable renewable sources such as solar and wind, necessitating reliable storage solutions to ensure round-the-clock power availability and grid stability.

Industry experts cited in the report note that improving cost competitiveness of renewable energy, combined with corporate net-zero commitments, is accelerating demand across manufacturing, IT, and large commercial sectors. However, the report also flags uneven policy implementation across states and grid infrastructure limitations as potential challenges that could affect the pace of growth.

India’s broader clean energy transition goals, including achieving over 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, are expected to be significantly supported by the rapid scaling of the C&I renewable energy segment.

Entrepreneur Loans Grow Faster Than Lending to Commercial Entities: Report

New Delhi, July 3: A recent report shows that business loans to individual entrepreneurs and small business owners are growing at a faster pace than credit extended to larger commercial entities, indicating a shift in lending patterns.

The report highlights rising credit flow toward micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and self-employed entrepreneurs, supported by improved access to formal banking channels and digital lending platforms.

Government-backed credit schemes and financial inclusion initiatives have also contributed to easier loan availability for small businesses, encouraging wider participation in formal credit systems.

While lending to established corporate entities continues to expand steadily, the stronger growth in entrepreneur-focused loans reflects increasing emphasis on supporting grassroots business activity and job creation.

Experts note that this trend signals growing confidence in the small business segment, while also stressing the need for prudent lending practices to maintain credit quality.

India, France to Deepen Innovation and Investment Ties: Sitharaman

New Delhi, July 3: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the India–France strategic partnership will play an important role in driving the next phase of innovation-led growth, with both countries expanding cooperation in key areas such as technology, investment, and sustainable development.

Pic Credit: https://x.com/FinMinIndia 

She highlighted that the bilateral relationship between India and France is built on long-standing trust and is steadily deepening across sectors including defence, space, digital technologies, clean energy, and infrastructure.

According to officials, the partnership is expected to open new avenues for research, innovation, and economic collaboration, while also supporting long-term development priorities for both nations.

The Finance Minister’s remarks reflect India’s growing emphasis on strengthening global partnerships to support innovation-driven economic expansion and enhance competitiveness in the global economy.

Centre Flags E-Rickshaw Battery Safety, Orders Removal of BAT-BMS Apps

New Delhi, July 3: The government has directed app stores to remove BAT-BMS applications following concerns related to the security and safety of e-rickshaw battery management systems.

Officials said the move is aimed at strengthening oversight of battery management software used in electric three-wheelers, particularly e-rickshaws, which rely heavily on digital battery monitoring systems for safe operation.

The action comes amid concerns that vulnerabilities in such applications could potentially impact battery performance, safety standards, and operational reliability. Authorities are reviewing compliance requirements to ensure that battery management systems meet necessary safety protocols.

The directive is part of broader efforts to regulate digital tools linked to electric mobility and ensure safer adoption of EV technologies across the transport sector.

Further assessments are expected to be carried out to evaluate other similar applications in the ecosystem, with an emphasis on improving cybersecurity and operational safety standards.

Officials have advised stakeholders to comply with regulatory guidelines and ensure that only approved and secure systems are used in electric vehicle operations.

Le Méridien Kochi Appoints Krutin Sheth as Director of Sales and Marketing

Kochi, July 3: Le Méridien Kochi announced the appointment of Krutin Sheth as Director of Sales and Marketing. In his new role, Krutin will lead the property’s sales, marketing, and revenue management functions, with a focus on strengthening market share across the corporate, MICE, and leisure segments.

Sheth brings over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with a career spanning some of the most recognised global hotel brands. He joins Le Méridien Kochi from Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Nashik, where he served as Director of Sales and Marketing, spearheading strategic initiatives across corporate, MICE, and leisure business while implementing data-driven pricing and revenue management practices. 

Prior to that, Sheth spent over a decade with Marriott International in a series of progressively senior sales leadership roles across the company’s India portfolio, including stints in Navi Mumbai, Pune , Belagavi, and Pune , as well as a tenure with Marriott’s National Sales Office. During this period, he held positions including Director of Sales and Marketing, Director of Sales, Associate Director of Sales, and Senior Sales Manager, building a track record in revenue generation, key account management, and team leadership — including steering teams through the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. 

Earlier in his career, Krutin held sales roles with The Lalit Group of Hotels and GRT Hotels & Resorts in Mumbai, where he built his foundation in client relationship management, market research, and corporate rate contracting. 

A postgraduate of the Kohinoor IMI School of Hospitality Management, Lonavla, with a Higher Diploma in International Hospitality, Sheth also holds a B.Sc. in Hotel & Tourism Management from YCMOU University, Nashik. He is certified in Sales & Service Foundation, Sales Negotiation, Dynamic Selling, and Foundation of Leadership. 

With this appointment, Le Méridien Kochi reinforces its commitment to strong sales leadership as it continues to expand its presence in the corporate, MICE, and leisure travel markets in Kerala.

Puri Braces for 25 Lakh Devotees as Preparations Intensify for Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra

Puri, July 3 (UDN): With the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath just days away, the holy city of Puri is witnessing hectic preparations as the Odisha Government and district administration gear up to welcome an estimated 25 lakh devotees from across India and abroad.

 File photo

Construction of the three majestic wooden chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra is in its final phase, with teams of skilled carpenters and artisans working round the clock to complete the centuries-old tradition in time for the festival.

To ensure the smooth conduct of the world-famous event, authorities have put in place an extensive crowd management and security plan. Puri has been divided into multiple policing sectors, with additional security personnel, rapid response teams and traffic police to regulate pilgrim movement and maintain law and order throughout the festival.

A comprehensive traffic management plan has also been prepared to minimise congestion. Hundreds of electric vehicles will shuttle devotees between designated parking areas and the Grand Road (Bada Danda), improving last-mile connectivity while reducing traffic pressure in the temple town.

The Health Department has strengthened medical preparedness by establishing dedicated emergency wards at hospitals and deploying hundreds of doctors, nurses and paramedics across the city. Temporary health camps, ambulances and first-aid centres will remain operational to provide immediate medical assistance to pilgrims.

Technology will play a key role in monitoring the festival. The entire Grand Road will be kept under round-the-clock surveillance through an extensive network of CCTV cameras linked to an integrated control room. Large LED display screens will provide live updates on crowd movement, traffic advisories and other important announcements to help ensure a safe and orderly Rath Yatra.

Officials have appealed to devotees to follow traffic regulations, cooperate with security personnel and adhere to official advisories for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the festival.

With elaborate arrangements in place, the administration is confident of ensuring a safe, seamless and memorable Rath Yatra experience for millions of devotees visiting the abode of Lord Jagannath.

Xandari Resorts launches Earthbound Wellness for the Monsoon

Kochi, July 2: As Kerala welcomes the rejuvenating Karkkidakam season, Xandari Resorts launches Earthbound Wellness, a collection of specially curated monsoon wellness packages that blend authentic Ayurveda with restorative leisure experiences. The programmes will be offered through Ayura Wellness, Xandari Resorts’ Ayurveda offering, where qualified Ayurveda physicians and therapists provide personalised wellness experiences inspired by the healing power of nature. Available from July 1 to September 30, 2026, the seasonal offering can be experienced at Cardamom County by Xandari, Thekkady, and Xandari Pearl Beach Resort, Mararikulam, inviting travellers to experience Kerala’s age-old healing traditions during the monsoon.

Recognised in Ayurveda as one of the most beneficial times of the year for rejuvenation, the monsoon season is believed to make the body more receptive to treatments. Inspired by this tradition, Earthbound Wellness has been thoughtfully designed around the philosophy of Pause. Breathe. Restore, offering travellers an opportunity to unwind amidst nature while embracing holistic wellbeing.

Each wellness journey begins with a consultation and Prakriti assessment, followed by a personalised programme that includes Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, meditation, herbal wellness rituals, and nature-based experiences. Complementing the treatments is a specially curated Ayurvedic meal plan featuring seasonal preparations such as Karkkidaka kanji, Ayurvedic thali, and herbal drinks, all designed to support the body’s natural healing process.

Travellers can choose from four wellness programmes, such as 3-Day Reset, 5-Day Restore, 7-Day Rebalance, and 14-Day Transformation, each tailored to different wellness goals while combining relaxation with authentic Ayurvedic care in serene natural surroundings.

Speaking about the launch, Arvind Gangadharan, Chief Xperience Officer, Xandari Resorts, said,

“Today’s travellers are seeking experiences that leave them feeling restored, not just rested. Earthbound Wellness reflects our belief that wellbeing is most meaningful when it is rooted in authenticity, personalised care, and a deep connection with nature. These programmes have been thoughtfully designed to offer travellers an opportunity to slow down and experience Ayurveda in its true essence.”

‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ Vision Gains Momentum with Rs 1.10 Lakh Crore Aluminium Project: CM Mohan Majhi

Bhubaneswar, July 2 (UDN): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday said Odisha’s long-term development roadmap, ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’, has received a major boost with the launch of a Rs 1.10 lakh crore aluminium project, describing it as a landmark investment that will accelerate the state’s industrial transformation and economic growth.

The Chief Minister said the mega project reflects growing investor confidence in Odisha and aligns with the state’s vision of becoming a leading industrial and manufacturing hub by 2036. He noted that the investment is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, strengthen downstream industries, and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.

Majhi said the project would not only enhance Odisha’s position in the aluminium sector but also promote infrastructure development, technological advancement, and inclusive growth in the region. He emphasised that the state government remains committed to providing a business-friendly ecosystem and ensuring the timely implementation of major industrial projects.

Highlighting the objectives of the ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ vision, the Chief Minister said the roadmap focuses on sustainable industrialisation, employment generation, infrastructure expansion, and balanced regional development. He added that the government’s proactive policies and investor-friendly initiatives are helping attract large-scale investments across key sectors.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the aluminium project would serve as a catalyst for Odisha’s aspiration of becoming a prosperous, self-reliant, and globally competitive economy by 2036.

ISRO Bengaluru Facility Evacuated After Hoax Bomb Threat Email

Bengaluru, July 2: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) received a hoax email claiming the presence of a bomb at its new BEL Road facility in Bengaluru, prompting immediate precautionary action.

Following the threat alert, the premises were evacuated as a safety measure while security agencies conducted preliminary checks. Officials later indicated that the email appeared to be part of a broader hoax campaign targeting multiple institutions.

Police sources stated that similar threat emails have recently been sent to the Karnataka High Court and several schools in Bengaluru, suggesting a coordinated attempt to create panic.

Authorities are investigating the origin of the emails, while security has been tightened across sensitive locations as a precautionary step. Further details are awaited.