18, Jun 2026
India’s CAD Seen Rising to 2.2 pc of GDP in FY27 Amid Elevated Crude Oil Prices
New Delhi, June 18: India’s current account deficit (CAD) is projected to widen to around 2.2% of GDP in FY27, driven primarily by sustained high global crude oil prices and increased import-related pressures, according to recent macroeconomic assessments.
Analysts say the outlook reflects continued vulnerability to global energy price fluctuations, as India remains a major importer of crude oil to meet domestic consumption needs. Higher oil prices are expected to keep the import bill elevated, thereby widening the trade gap in the external sector.
While the CAD is likely to increase, strong performance in services exports—especially IT and business services—along with steady remittance inflows are expected to partially offset the pressure on the external account.
Experts also point out that global geopolitical uncertainties and commodity price volatility remain key risks that could further influence India’s external balance in FY27.
Despite the projected widening, India’s healthy foreign exchange reserves and stable capital inflows are expected to provide a cushion against external shocks, supporting overall macroeconomic stability.
Economists emphasize the importance of energy diversification and prudent external sector management to contain risks arising from volatile global oil markets.
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- By Neel Achary
18, Jun 2026
Madagascar and Zanzibar Announce New National Shark and Ray Protections at Our Ocean Conference
MOMBASA, KENYA, June 18: At a side event this evening at the Our Ocean Conference, the governments of Madagascar and Zanzibar announced sweeping new national protections for sharks and rays, marking the latest milestone in a decade of conservation progress across East Africa.
Sharks and rays are experiencing one of the fastest extinction crises of any vertebrate group on Earth—more than 37 percent of species are now threatened with extinction, driven largely by overfishing and an international trade that, for decades, went largely unregulated. Over the last decade major gains in international management of these species have begun to change the trajectory for these species, and we’re now seeing countries implement these protections at a national and local level.
“Sharks are an essential part of healthy ocean ecosystems,” said Luke Warwick, Senior Director of WCS’s Threatened Marine Species program. “This rapidly accelerating global framework of laws, coupled to enforcement and local level conservation action gives us hope we can end the declines of the last half century, and start these ancient predators on the long road to recovery.”
Madagascar announced it will offer full national protection for 14 species of sharks and rays under the country’s Wild Fauna Decree, including the Critically Endangered oceanic whitetip shark, as well as whale sharks and iconic manta rays. Zanzibar also announced full protection for 34 species in its coastal waters, including hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks, and the endemic Zanzibar guitarfish.
“The actions taken by the Madagascar government to protect these species, among other positive actions, comes at a time when sharks and rays need conservation efforts more than ever,” said Ravaka Ranaivoson, Partnership and Program Development Director for WCS Madagascar. “This highlights Madagascar’s commitment to the conservation and sustainable management of its marine resources.”
As recently as a decade ago, the global trade in sharks and rays was largely unregulated, and these species were fast running out of time. Today, that trade has rules, those rules are being enforced, and governments around the world are writing them into national law via species protections and the inclusion of shark specific conservation measures in fisheries and protected area laws and designations. The announcements from Madagascar and Zanzibar are the latest proof that momentum, once built, continues to grow.
Today’s announcements build on past successes and three years of historic global progress. At CITES CoP20 in November 2025, countries adopted every shark and ray proposal on the table, listing more than 70 species and bringing 96 percent of the global shark fin trade and 70 percent of shark and ray meat trade under international regulation for the first time. In total, 180 species are now listed under CITES, with 33 carrying a full commercial trade ban.
“From global decisions to local action on the water, the scale and pace of progress in shark conservation is truly remarkable,” said John Mandelman, Executive Director, Shark Conservation Fund. “Yet threatened sharks and rays, and the habitats they depend on, still require the strongest protections. Together, these efforts are creating an essential pathway toward recovery.”
The announcements were made at a private reception entitled “Celebrating a Decade of Shark Conservation in East Africa: Profiles of Shark Champions,” hosted by Shark Conservation Fund in partnership with the governments of Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar, and supported by WCS.
18, Jun 2026
Monsoon Rains Ease India’s Peak Power Demand as Cooling Load Drops
New Delhi, June 18: India’s peak electricity demand has eased in recent days as the onset of monsoon rains across several regions has reduced the use of cooling appliances, particularly air conditioners, officials and industry data indicated.
The moderation in demand comes after a period of high summer consumption, when elevated temperatures had pushed electricity usage to record levels in multiple parts of the country. With rainfall improving weather conditions, residential and commercial cooling loads have declined, leading to a temporary easing of pressure on the power grid.
Officials said the seasonal transition has helped stabilise supply conditions, with lower demand during monsoon months typically allowing for better grid management and reduced peak load stress.
Power sector experts noted that while monsoon-related demand softening provides short-term relief, electricity consumption is expected to gradually stabilise again as industrial activity and agricultural power usage continue during the season.
They added that grid operators remain alert to regional fluctuations in demand, especially during periods of uneven rainfall distribution and humidity-driven consumption spikes.
The power system continues to be monitored closely to ensure uninterrupted supply, with authorities maintaining readiness to manage any sudden changes in demand patterns.
18, Jun 2026
FIA President Ben Sulayem says Macau conference can help shape future of motorsport, mobility
Three-day event will welcome over 450 senior FIA delegates from 149 countries
Dubai, UAE, June 18: H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, says the Federation’s Extraordinary General Assembly and Annual Conference in Macau next week has an important part to play in guiding the future of motorsport and mobility.
Hosted in partnership with the Automobile General Association Macao-China (AAMC) and Galaxy Entertainment Group, and held at the Galaxy International Convention Centre, the three-day event starting on Tuesday will welcome over 450 senior FIA delegates across mobility and motorsport from 149 countries.
It offers opportunities for the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, to address key initiatives in regional sporting growth, road safety, sustainable mobility, and innovation in transport.
Macau is an iconic location for motorsport fans, playing host to the Macau Grand Prix at the Guia Circuit since 1954. Now, the event welcomes competitors across four FIA categories and is notorious for its demanding course, combining fast straights and tight corners.
Speaking ahead of his return to Macau, H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “This conference provides a valuable opportunity to bring together our community and help shape the future of global motorsport and mobility. As we continue to grow participation, advance innovation and improve road safety worldwide, these discussions are more important than ever.
“I am delighted to be returning to Macau, a truly iconic location for motorsport fans and a fitting location for the FIA to host one of the most important weeks of our calendar. My thanks to our hosts, the AAMC, Chairman Chong Coc Veng, and President Roberto Carlos Osorio.”
Chong Coc Veng, Chairman of the AAMC, said: “We are honoured to welcome the FIA and our fellow Members from across the world back to Macau. The Annual Conference provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made together over the past year and shape the priorities that will drive our Federation forward. We look forward to welcoming delegates for what promises to be a productive few days.”
The conference will be attended by representatives from the 245 FIA Member Clubs who represent motorsport and mobility at a global scale. This structure forms the backbone of the federation’s governance and operations, with each full Member Club holding voting rights across the FIA’s elections and regulatory decisions.
Clubs are grouped into two primary categories, with some serving in both roles. Mobility Clubs provide mobility services and represent the interest of road users, with a focus on road safety, travel and tourism, consumer rights, and sustainable mobility.
National Sporting Authorities (ASNs) govern and develop motorsport at a national level, are responsible for sporting events, issuing licenses, and engagement across regulations.
18, Jun 2026
Fed Keeps Rates Unchanged, but Split Projections Highlight Uncertainty Over Policy Path
By:- Ajitabh Bharti, Executive Director and Co-founder of CapitalXB
The Federal Reserve held rates steady, but the latest dot plot reveals a more complex internal outlook. With nine members projecting a 25 bps hike and six expecting a 50 bps increase by end-2026, the committee appears notably divided on the policy path ahead. Attention, however, centered on the new Fed Governor. While his decision to refrain from offering personal projections was anticipated, it also represented a key opportunity to reinforce credibility by clearly reaffirming the Fed’s commitment to price stability.Markets were looking for stronger conviction. The immediate reaction in short-term U.S. yields underscores lingering skepticism toward the new leadership.
18, Jun 2026
Government Allocates INR 18,907 Crore for 26,474 km Rural Road Network in FY27
New Delhi, June 18: The Government of India has earmarked ₹18,907 crore for the construction of 26,474 kilometres of rural roads during the financial year 2026–27, aimed at improving connectivity and strengthening rural infrastructure across the country.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The allocation is expected to support continued expansion of all-weather road networks in rural and remote areas, facilitating better access to markets, healthcare, education, and essential public services for rural populations.
Officials said the initiative will play a key role in enhancing last-mile connectivity and supporting inclusive development by linking villages with nearby towns and economic centres. The programme is also expected to generate employment opportunities in construction and allied sectors.
The rural road development programme has been a key focus area of the government’s infrastructure push, with emphasis on improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and boosting economic activity in rural regions.
Experts note that improved rural road infrastructure is likely to have a multiplier effect on agricultural supply chains, rural trade, and overall socio-economic development.
The construction targets for FY27 continue the government’s broader effort to expand and upgrade rural connectivity across states and union territories.
18, Jun 2026
Kharif Sowing in India Crosses 84 Lakh Hectares, Early Monsoon Progress Supports Agriculture
New Delhi, June 18: The total area sown under India’s ongoing kharif season has crossed 84 lakh hectares so far, indicating steady progress in early sowing operations across key agricultural regions of the country.
Pic Credit: Pexel
According to preliminary agricultural data, sowing activity has picked up momentum with the onset of the monsoon season, supporting timely cultivation of major kharif crops. Farmers across several states have begun planting operations, aided by improving rainfall conditions in many regions.
Officials said the early progress in sowing is an important indicator of the overall agricultural outlook for the season, as kharif crops depend heavily on monsoon rainfall patterns and distribution.
The kharif season typically includes major crops such as rice, maize, cotton, pulses, and oilseeds, which form a significant part of India’s agricultural output and rural economy.
Agricultural experts note that consistent rainfall distribution in the coming weeks will be crucial for sustaining sowing momentum and ensuring healthy crop development across different states.
The data reflects initial progress in the current season, with further updates expected as sowing activity continues across the country.
17, Jun 2026
India’s Digital Fraud Rate Nearly Double the Global Average: TransUnion
New Delhi, June 17 (UDN): India is witnessing an alarming rise in digital fraud, with the rate of suspected online fraud attempts reported to be nearly twice the global average, according to a recent report by TransUnion. The findings have raised concerns over the growing sophistication of cybercriminals and the increasing vulnerability of digital transactions.
Representational image
The report highlights that as digital adoption continues to expand rapidly across sectors such as banking, e-commerce, financial services, and telecommunications, fraudsters are also leveraging advanced technologies and social engineering techniques to target consumers and businesses.
Experts attribute the surge in digital fraud to the widespread use of online platforms, increased digital payments, and the growing volume of personal data shared through internet-based services. Common forms of fraud include phishing attacks, identity theft, account takeovers, fake investment schemes, and financial scams conducted through social media and messaging applications.
The report underscores the need for stronger cybersecurity measures, robust identity verification systems, and greater public awareness to counter emerging digital threats. Industry experts have advised users to exercise caution while sharing personal information online, verify suspicious communications, and adopt multi-factor authentication to safeguard their accounts.
The findings come at a time when India is experiencing unprecedented growth in digital transactions and internet usage, making cybersecurity a critical component of the country’s digital transformation journey. Stakeholders have called for closer collaboration between government agencies, financial institutions, technology companies, and consumers to strengthen fraud prevention mechanisms and enhance digital trust.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, the report serves as a reminder of the importance of digital vigilance and the need for continuous efforts to protect users in an increasingly connected world.
17, Jun 2026
Swaranjali Delhi to Present “Colours of India 2026” in Sri Vijaya Puram, Celebrating the Nation’s Rich Cultural Heritage
June 17: Swaranjali Delhi is proud to announce “Colours of India 2026”, a grand cultural extravaganza showcasing the vibrant diversity of Indian classical music, dance, and folk traditions. The event will be held on 13 August 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, opposite the LIC Office.
The festival aims to bring together artists from different parts of India, creating a platform that celebrates the country’s rich artistic legacy while fostering cultural unity and harmony.
The evening will commence with an energetic group dance presentation by Vikash Dance Akademi, Port Blair, followed by a distinguished Classical Vocal Recital by Pt. Bhutnath De of Jharkhand, accompanied on tabla by Pt. Susamoy Mishra. Audiences will also witness a captivating Solo Sitar Recital by Vidwan Subrata De, accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra.
The program will further feature performances by Daksh Akademi, Port Blair, an elegant Bharatanatyam recital by Ms. Rajasi Wagh from Pune, and a vocal presentation by Mrs. Vineet Talukdar of Muktadhara, Port Blair.
A major highlight of the evening will be the concluding performances by Hakimpara Nritya Malancha, Siliguri, under the guidance of Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki. The group will present a series of classical and devotional performances including Ganapati Shlokam, Saraswati Shlokam, Durga Kirtanam, Shiva Kirtanam, and Kathak recitals by talented young artistes.
The grand finale, themed “Colours of India,” will take the audience on a cultural journey across the nation through vibrant folk dance traditions representing Bengal, Assam (Bihu), Nepal, Odisha (Sambalpuri), Tripura, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kashmir, Gujarat, and Punjab. The evening will culminate with a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram by the Hakimpara Nritya Malancha ensemble.
“Colours of India 2026” seeks to celebrate India’s cultural plurality and strengthen bonds of peace, unity, and mutual appreciation through the universal language of art and music.
The organizers extend a warm invitation to art enthusiasts, cultural patrons, tourists, students, and residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to be a part of this memorable celebration.
Program Schedule
- Opening Group Dance – Vikash Dance Akademi, Port Blair
- Classical Vocal Recital – Pt. Bhutnath De (Jharkhand), accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra on Tabla
- Solo Sitar Recital – Vidwan Subrata De (Delhi), accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra on Tabla
- Group Dance Presentation – Daksh Akademi, Port Blair
- Bharatanatyam Recital – Ms. Rajasi Wagh, Pune
- Vocal Recital – Mrs. Vineet Talukdar, Muktadhara, Port Blair
Concluding Segment by Hakimpara NrityaMalancha, Siliguri
The troupe will present a series of classical and devotional performances:
- Ganapati Shlokam – Hrishita Das, Doli Mahanta, Kasturi Das Barman, Prakriti Thapa & Shrestha Sarkar
- Kathak Solo – Avipsha Adhikari
- Saraswati Shlokam – Doli Mahanta
- Durga Kirtanam – Shrestha Sarkar
- Shiva Kirtanam – Kasturi Das Barman
- Avata Shyam – Prakriti Thapa
- Shiva Kirtanam – Hrishita Das
- Kathak Presentation – Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki
Grand Finale: Colours of India
A vibrant celebration of India’s diverse folk traditions featuring:
- Bangla Folk Dance – Doli Mahanta, Shrestha Sarkar & Avipsha Adhikari
- Bihu (Assam) – Sharmistha Das, Moupia Adhikari & Priti Karmakar
- Nepali Folk Dance – Prakriti Thapa
- Sambalpuri Folk Dance (Odisha) – Hrishita Das & Kasturi Das Barman
- Tripura Folk Dance – Avipsha Adhikari
- Rajasthani Folk Dance – Shrestha Sarkar & Prakriti Thapa
- Marathi Folk Dance – Kasturi Das Barman, Hrishita Das & Doli Mahanta
- Kashmiri Folk Dance – Avipsha Adhikari
- Gujarati Folk Dance – Sharmistha Das, Moupia Adhikari & Priti Karmakar
- Punjabi Folk Dance – Hrishita Das, Kasturi Das Barman, Doli Mahanta & Shrestha Sarkar
- Vande Mataram – Grand Finale Presentation by Hakimpara NrityaMalancha, Siliguri
This concluding segment promises to showcase the rich cultural tapestry of India through music, movement, and tradition.
Event Details
Event: Colours of India 2026
Organizer: Swaranjali Delhi
Date: 13 August 2026
Time: 5:00 PM onwards
Venue: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands – 744103
RSVP
9910300319 | 9933211868 | 9818300319 | 7695021548
Website: www.swaranjali.org
Website: www.nrityamalancha.com
Acknowledgements
The organizers gratefully acknowledge the support of Mr. & Mrs. Ratna Wagh (ABSS Pune), Shri Mridul Nath (RMS Audio Hyderabad), Dhwani Foundation Delhi, Shri Debraj Das (Jamshedpur), Shri Sanjit Debnath (Port Blair), RepairnFix Faridabad, Daksh Dance Akademi, Vikash Akademi, and Muktadhara.
Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions, Bhubaneswar
17, Jun 2026
Tata Power, Engineers India, Minda Corporation, Sagar Defence Engineering & Federal Bank Win 18th BML Munjal Awards for L&D Excellence
New Delhi, June 17 : The 18th edition of the BML Munjal Awards was presented at the Mindmine Summit 2026 in New Delhi, recognising organisations that have demonstrated excellence in learning and development while delivering measurable impact for business, customers and society.
The winners of the 18th BML Munjal Awards were:
- Sustained Excellence: Tata Power
- Public Sector Undertaking (PSU): Engineers India Limited
- Private Sector Manufacturing: Minda Corporation
- Emerging Stars: Sagar Defence Engineering
The Jury’s Special Mention Awards were presented to Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India and Aravind Eye Care System for their outstanding contributions and impact.
Instituted in memory of Dr. Brijmohan Lall Munjal, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of the Hero Group, the Awards honour organisations that view learning as a strategic driver of performance, innovation and long-term growth.
The Awards ceremony was presided over by Shri Mohan Bhagwat, Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh , who presented the honours to the winners before delivering a keynote address on “Bharat ka Nirmaan: Roots, Values, Future.”
In his address, Shri Mohan Bhagwat, Sarsanghchalak of RSS spoke about the importance of teaching future generations about taking pride in their work. He highlighted the importance of values-based leadership, social responsibility and institution-building in shaping India‘s future. He underscored the need for collective efforts towards national development while remaining rooted in India‘s cultural ethos.
Speaking on the occasion, Sunil Kant Munjal, Chairman, Hero Enterprise said,
“The BML Munjal Awards were established to recognise organisations that understand a simple but powerful truth: sustainable success is built on people. As businesses navigate rapid technological, economic and social change, the ability to continuously learn, adapt and develop talent has become a defining competitive advantage. The growing participation in these Awards reflects the increasing commitment of Indian organisations to building cultures of learning, excellence and purpose.”
A special highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the Braille edition of ‘The Making of Hero‘ by Shri Mohan Bhagwat and Sunil Kant Munjal. Authored by Sunil Kant Munjal, the book chronicles the inception, growth and evolution of the Hero Group from a family-led enterprise into a globally recognised conglomerate. The Braille edition reflects a commitment to making inspiring stories of entrepreneurship and nation-building accessible to a wider audience.
Over the years, the BML Munjal Awards have emerged as one of India‘s most respected recognitions for organisational excellence in learning and development. Participation has grown from 35 companies in the inaugural edition to nearly 300 organisations in 2026, reflecting the increasing importance businesses place on talent development, capability building and continuous learning.
The Awards follow a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process, with assessments conducted by Grant Thornton Bharat, the Awards‘ knowledge partner, and final selections made by an eminent jury comprising some of India‘s most distinguished business leaders.
The BML Munjal Awards continue to champion learning and development as a cornerstone of organisational excellence, innovation and nation-building, while recognising institutions that are creating meaningful impact through investments in people and capability building.
