Category Archives: News

Global Wind Capacity Expected to Cross 2 TW by 2030, driving economic growth: GWEC

Switzerland, Davos, Jan  21:  New figures from the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) show 2025’s record new capacity installed was driven by accelerated growth across Asia. India set a new national record of 6.3 GW installed last year, while Europe has delivered another 16.5 GW of new capacity – 5 GW more than was installed in 2024. In the United States more than 7 GW of new capacity is expected, while China is on course to pass 100 GW, with 89 GW installed by the end of November. It is estimated that the world will pass 150 GW of wind energy installations in the year 2025.

By 2030 growing wind capacity will see countries like Vietnam, Australia and the Philippines catching up with Europe’s mature markets. These markets see renewable energy as key to powering their GDP growth targets. Wind energy is at the heart of future economic development. As growth is decoupled from rising emissions, wind energy has become the go-to renewable energy technology to provide a clean and secure future-focused energy system.

Ben Backwell, CEO of the Global Wind Energy Council, said,

“These new figures show that fast-growing economies are driving the growth of wind energy, and wind energy is in turn driving those economies to new heights. In China, we estimate there are more around 225,000 wind turbines generating more than 1.2 GWh of electricity, helping thermal generation fall in the country as energy consumption hit a new high. In India, soaring electricity demand is being met by a record-breaking year for new wind energy capacity and huge solar additions. In the UK, the record-breaking AR7 auction is going to bring £22bn of new private investment into the country^[1]. This momentum can be seen in the next wave of emerging markets of Vietnam, South Korea and the Philippines.”

“It is now clear that economic growth and renewable energy go hand-in-hand. The reality of the modern energy system is becoming increasingly clear, and wind energy is cementing its place as the foundation of the Age of Electricity,” he added.

Girish Tanti, Vice-Chairman, Global Wind Energy Council said:

“The world is entering an energy intensive growth phase, and wind energy is proving to be its backbone. In 2025 alone, global wind installations are set to cross 150 GW, up from 94 GW just four years ago, driven largely by Asia’s fast-growing economies. Countries such as China, India, Vietnam, Australia and the Philippines are scaling wind to meet rising industrial demand, urbanisation and electrification at the lowest cost. By 2030, global wind capacity will exceed 2 terawatts, with Asia-Pacific markets outside China accounting for an increasing share of that growth.”

Global Growth

The growth of wind energy around the world will define the next era of economic development, and economies not embracing the potential of clean energy, secure generation and new industries face leaving future generations in a race to catch up.

China is expected to report GDP growth of around 5% in 2025, while the IMF forecasts around 6% for India, 7% for Vietnam and 6% for the Philippines. These countries are building new economies for the 4.75 billion people in the Asia-Pacific region, who consume around half of all global energy consumption, but are forecast to consume 60% more energy by 2040.^[2] Emerging and developing economies accounted for over 80% of global energy demand growth^[3], and wind energy is stepping up to meet that demand and build a clean, secure and future-focused energy system for the next generation of major economies.

India TV Conclave: Environment Minister and Delhi CM Outline Measures to Cut Pollution

New Delhi, Jan 21: At India TV’s daylong conclave “Pollution Ka Solution”, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta highlighted ongoing and upcoming initiatives to reduce air and water pollution in Delhi NCR.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Air Quality

Minister Yadav noted that the number of days with AQI above 400 in Delhi NCR has fallen from 16 days a year to eight. He projected a 15–20% reduction in air pollution for this year. He emphasized that while the UPA government delayed implementing AQI, the current government introduced it in 2014.

Key initiatives include:

• Phasing out all vehicles below BS-3 in NCR.

• Transitioning commercial and aggregator vehicles to electric mode.

• Adding 3,000 electric buses to the Delhi Transport Corporation fleet.

• Implementation of Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) at 62 high-traffic zones.

• Mandating thermal plants use 5% biomass and piloting 25 projects for paddy straw (parali) management.

• Industrial compliance: 227 of 240 industrial areas have switched to PNG; over 1,200 units installed online monitoring.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Holistic Measures

CM Gupta criticized previous Congress and AAP governments for the city’s pollution issues and highlighted the administration’s efforts to modernize infrastructure:

• Upgrading 35 existing STPs and building 37 new decentralized STPs.

• Removing 22 lakh metric tonnes of silt from city drains to prevent waterlogging.

• Establishing an e-waste plant in Holambi Kalan and adding 9,000 EV charging stations.

• Expanding the EV public bus fleet to 3,600 buses, with a target of 7,700 buses by year-end.

• Strengthening road cleaning with mechanical sweeping machines (MRS).

Both leaders emphasized that strong administrative will, effective policies, and technology-driven solutions are crucial for sustained improvements in air and water quality in the capital.

A Taste of Rajasthan Arrives at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre with Guest Chef Chetan Singh

Step into a confluence of royal traditions as Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre presents Padharo Mhare Desh, a majestic Rajasthani food festival that brings the proud Marwadi culinary legacy to the heart of Hyderabad’s Nawabi grandeur. Headlined by Guest Chef Chetan Singh from Novotel Jaipur, the showcase celebrates the timeless flavours of the desert kingdom, where age-old Rajputana recipes meet the city’s own heritage of regal indulgence.

Guest Chef Chetan Singh, brings with him deep-rooted expertise in traditional Rajasthani cuisine, shaped by regional techniques and age-old royal recipes. Known for his authentic approach and nuanced use of spices, Chef Chetan curates dishes that stay true to Rajasthan’s culinary heritage while appealing to the modern palate.

Hosted at Food Exchange and Permit To Grill, the festival showcases an elaborate Rajasthani dinner buffet with live Dal Baati Churma stations, alongside iconic royal dishes such as Laal Maas, Safed Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Ker Sangri. Guests can also savour beloved Rajasthani street-style favourites including Mirchi Bada, Pyaz Kachori, and Mawa Kachori, followed by traditional desserts like Ghewar and Malpua, offering a true taste of Rajasthan’s rich culinary heritage.

The experience is further elevated with thematic decor, staff in traditional attire, and live folk music, creating an immersive cultural and gastronomic journey, perfect for families, food enthusiasts, and lovers of authentic regional flavours.

Event Details:
Venue: Food Exchange & Permit To Grill, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre
Dates: 27th January – 31st January

PM Modi Praised NGO SayTrees Launches First Soil Testing Facility to Help Andhra Farmers Grow Better

Anantapur, Jan 21: Following a recent mention by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on Mann Ki Baat, recognising SayTrees’ work in environmental restoration and lake rejuvenation, SayTrees Environmental Trust has announced a farmer-focused initiative this Makar Sankranti, the launch of its first soil testing facility in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, aimed at strengthening agroforestry and rural livelihoods.

Makar Sankranti marks a time when farmers across India celebrate their harvest and prepare their land for the next season. In Andhra Pradesh, where soil is hailed as Bhoomi Talli, this initiative is SayTrees’ way of honouring both the land and the farmers who sustain the nation.

The soil testing facility is aimed to provide soil testing services to farmers associated with SayTrees’ agroforestry programmes. With a rapid, technology-enabled testing system, key soil parameters, including pH, organic carbon, NPK nutrients, sulphur, and critical micronutrients, and generate clear soil health reports can be analysed by the facility within an hour.

Anantapur region faces increasing pressure from climate variability, soil degradation, and rising input costs. By enabling farmers to understand what their soil actually needs, the facility helps them reduce unnecessary fertilizer use, save costs, and make informed crop and plantation decisions.

Reinforcing SayTrees’ commitment to inclusive, community-led solutions, the facility is staffed by an all-women team. This initiative has been supported by Infosys, enabling the organisation to scale its farmer outreach and assist over 15,000 farmers in the coming year.

SayTrees’ agroforestry programme works with farmers to integrate fruit and native trees into farmlands, improving soil health, enhancing water retention, and creating long-term income opportunities alongside crops. Till date, SayTrees has partnered with thousands of farmers across India, planting millions of fruit trees and demonstrating that climate action and livelihoods can grow together.

SayTrees is currently in the process of creating an enablement framework to support farmers in transitioning to agroforestry. The initiative aims to facilitate farmer mobilisation, capacity building across partners, and the plantation of approximately 100 million trees on farmlands over the next five years. This mission will be undertaken in collaboration with government bodies, NGOs, and CSR partners to build long-term climate resilience for farming communities.

“Sankranti is a time to thank our farmers and the land they nurture. Many farmers want to grow better crops but are not always aware of what their soil needs. This initiative is SayTrees way of supporting the providers of our food and honouring Bhoomi Talli,” said Mr. Kapil Sharma, Founder & Trustee, SayTrees Environmental Trust.

“Healthy soil is the foundation of a strong harvest and a secure future for our farmers. This Sankranti, we want to give farmers the right knowledge about their land so they can farm with confidence, reduce costs, and look ahead with hope,” said Lt Cdr Deokant Payasi (Retd.), Co-Founder & CEO, SayTrees.

Expanding support for agroforestry and climate-resilient farming across regions, SayTrees plans to introduce similar soil testing facilities in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

New Year, Better Living: Why Quality & Comfort Matter More Than Ever

Mumbai,  Jan 21: As consumers embrace conscious living in 2026, Bombay Dyeing introduces its Essential Range, a thoughtfully curated collection of four distinct bedsheet lines that prove luxury and affordability can coexist. The Florentine, Epigram, Blumen, and Aster collections offer 100% cotton comfort designed for those who refuse to compromise on quality, even in everyday essentials.​

Four Collections, One Promise: 100% Cotton Comfort

The Essential Range addresses a growing consumer desire for authentic materials and timeless design over fast fashion trends. Each collection within the range serves a distinct aesthetic preference while maintaining Bombay Dyeing’s heritage commitment to quality textiles.​

Florentine Collection captures old-world European elegance through classic horizontal stripes, vintage gingham checks, and coordinated mix-and-match styling. The collection’s signature approach pairs bedsheets with complementary pillow covers, creating professionally styled beds without requiring design expertise.​

Epigram Collection brings timeless artistry into modern living spaces with delicate floral prints, contemporary chevron patterns, and paisley-inspired motifs. Available in coordinating colorways from serene blues to elegant greys, Epigram speaks to those who appreciate fine detailing and heritage craftsmanship.​

Cardinal Collection captures the charm of old-world modern artistry, bringing timeless beauty into everyday moments. Featuring sophisticated chevron zigzag patterns and intricate paisley designs, Cardinal balances playful energy with refined elegance. The collection showcases both geometric precision and traditional motifs, offering versatility for contemporary and transitional bedroom aesthetics.

Blumen Collection celebrates botanical beauty, weaving nature’s poetry into fabric through tropical palm prints, delicate floral sprays, and traditional block print florals. The collection transforms bedrooms into sanctuaries of freshness and natural grace.​

Aster Collection delivers exceptional value without compromising on the 100% cotton promise. Featuring contemporary chevrons, bold florals, and classic paisleys, Aster makes Bombay Dyeing quality accessible to every home.​

Why Cotton Matters in 2026
As 2026 begins, comfort at home is no longer an afterthought, it’s a priority. Indian consumers are paying closer attention to the quality of everyday essentials, especially bedding, which plays a vital role in how well we rest and recharge.

The Essential Range brings this focus back to fundamentals with 100% pure cotton bedding that delivers natural breathability, a soft, skin-friendly feel, and comfort that lasts. Designed to perform across seasons, cotton keeps sleep cool when nights are warm and comfortably cozy as temperatures shift.

Because true quality isn’t about trends, it’s about choosing comfort you can rely on, every night.

Steel Scrap Demand to Rise Sharply as India Expands Capacity, Says DayaNidhan Pandey at IMRC 2026

India’s Demand for Steel Scrap To Increase Sharply On Capacity Expansion; Shri. DayaNidhan Pandey, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel at IMRC 2026 in Jaipur

Jaipur, Jan 21:“Scrap currently contributes nearly 21% of India’s crude steel production, compared to a global average of around one-third. While the scrap consumption in the Indian steel sector has been rising, the scrap availability is estimated to rise to nearly 36 million tonnes,which clearly indicates that demand for steel scrap will increase sharply as large-scale capacity expansion continues,” said Shri Daya Nidhan Pandey, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel, addressing the inaugural session of the 13th International Material Recycling Conference and Exposition (IMRC 2026) at Jaipur today.

Referring to policy measures, Pandey said,

“The Government has taken coordinated action through the Steel Scrap Recycling Policy 2019, the Vehicle Scrappage Policy, the rollout of Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities, and the integration of scrap management with national circular economy initiatives. Recently notified Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mandates for end-of-life vehicles and construction and demolition waste are expected to accelerate formal scrap recycling.”

Looking ahead, Pandey said, “India aims to progressively raise the share of scrap in steelmaking towards the global average of 31%. As the country moves towards 300 million tonnes of steel capacity by 2030 and 500 million tonnes by 2047, steel scrap will play a decisive role in conserving raw materials, reducing coal imports, lowering emissions, and supporting India’s commitment to achieve net zero by 2070.”

Shri. Pandey affirmed India’s positioning in scrap – based steel making as a booster to its decarbonisation efforts, as it helps to avoid carbon emission and also substitutes iron ore, coking coal. As India is targeting 300 million tonnes of crude steel capacity by 2030-31, the recycled steel scrap consumption will gain a momentum. “

Highlighting operational challenges, Shri. Sanjay Mehta, President, MRAI, stressed the urgent need for policy rationalisation.

“The recycling industry needs GST on scrap to be reduced to 5%, as current high rates are hurting growth and pushing the sector into non-compliance. Further, the import duty on aluminium scrap needs to be fully removed. Extended Producer Responsibility across e-waste, tyres and plastics must also be implemented more effectively, as weak enforcement is undermining the recycling value chain,” he said.

Emphasising the social dimension of recycling, Shri. Mehta added that nearly one-third of scrap in India originates from ragpickers, households and small workshops.

“Lower GST and routing scrap purchases from the unorganised sector through UPI-based transactions, while discouraging cash at the first level of collection, will help bring these workers into the formal economy with dignity and sustainability,” he said.

Speaking on the evolving industry landscape, Shri. Dhawal Shah, Senior Vice President, MRAI, said that recycling in India has decisively transitioned from a CSR-driven activity to a core business strategy.India today had more than 1400 start-ups operating across waste management and sustainability. At this pace, the recycling industry could surpass mining well before 2050, reflecting the scale, confidence and long-term opportunity emerging across the sector.”

Shri. Zain Nathani, Vice President of MRAIcalled India’s recycling industry to be a game changer and the Government’s duty rationalisation impetus would further help. Shri. Amar Singh, Secretary General of MRAI mentioned that the Indian recycling industry has seen a transition and poised to take further leaps with enhanced contributions in the GDP.

Shri. Rajat Agarwal, Managing Director of Gravita India Limited, while addressing the role of finance and global capital stresses that  capital was no longer a constraint for responsible recyclers. He said, “Global green funds and ESG-focused investors are actively backing scalable recycling platforms that deliver both financial returns and environmental impact. Recycling today sits at this powerful intersection.” He added that with strong governance, supportive policies such as EPR, and India’s circular economy vision, Indian recyclers are now globally competitive climate-solution providers.

Organised by the Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI), the three-day conference is being held from January 20–22, 2026, at the Novotel Jaipur & Convention Centre, Jaipur, and brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and global stakeholders to discuss recycling’s role in sustainable industrial growth.

The conference opened with discussions on sustainability, climate change, energy storage and circular economy transitions, while also addressing long-standing industry concerns around regulatory clarity and market stability.

During the inaugural session, Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Jinesh Shah, Director, Rajhans Impex Pvt. Ltd.; Purshottam Parolia, CMD, Nihon Ispat Pvt. Ltd.; and Hitesh Shah, Chairman, Mono Steel (India) Limited. The Global Recycler of the Year Award was conferred on Anshul Gupta, Chairman, PAN Gulf IInternational.

Subway India reaches Historic Landmark of 1,000 stores

Bangalore, Jan 20 : Subway, one of the world’s largest quick service restaurant brands in freshly made-to-order, customisable sandwiches, announced the opening of its 1,000th store in India at Paras Florett, Gurugram. This historic milestone reflects the brand’s strong growth across the country. With an average of two new stores opening every week over the last three years, it is among the fastest-growing premium quick service restaurant brands in India.

Operated by EverBrands (part of Everstone Group), Subway India has in the last three years, opened 350+ stores in new locations in its network, expanding its footprint into over 165 cities with 3,500+ employees. Since its entry into the Indian market in 2001, Subway India continues to rank among Subway’s top global growth markets, encouraged by rising demand for fresh, customisable, value-driven food offerings.

Subway’s rapid expansion has been supported by a consistent evolution of its menu offerings including the value-oriented Sub Cravers range starting at INR 79, indulgent range Hot & Cheesy Signature Subs, Fresh Salads with 1.5x protein, and an innovative all-day Breakfast range, catering to the fast-paced Indian lifestyle. The Signature Rice Bowls offering a new range of flavours and customisable options designed with the Indian palette in mind, are the most recent addition to the already vibrant Indian menu. These offerings represent Subway’s ethos of adaptation to dynamic consumer preferences.

Tarun Bhasin, CEO, Culinary Brands (Subway India) remarked,

“This is a defining moment in time for Subway India’s growth trajectory and reflects the increasing scale of the brand’s ‘Better for You’ menu positioning across India. We are very grateful to our customers for their trust. I would also like to thank the thousands of Sandwich Artists and the great team working relentlessly across our stores, delighting customers every day. We look forward to the next 1,000!”

Eastern Coalfields Limited Conducts 64th Corporate-Level Tripartite Safety Committee Meeting

Sanctoria, Jan 20: Eastern Coalfields Limited successfully convened its 64th Corporate-Level Tripartite Safety Committee Meeting at the Dishergarh Officers’ Club, Sanctoria, reaffirming the organization’s unwavering commitment to occupational safety, health and welfare in mining operations.

The meeting was attended by ECL’s top management, including Shri Satish Jha, Chairman-cum-Managing Director; Md. Anzar Alam, Director (Finance); Shri Niladri Roy, Director (Technical/Operations); Shri Gunjan Kumar Sinha, Director (HR) and Shri Girish Gopinathan Nair, Director (Technical/Planning & Projects). The deliberations were further enriched by the presence of Shri Supriyo Chakraborty, Deputy Director General, representing the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), Eastern Zone.

The proceedings were presided over by Shri Binod Singh, Corporate Safety Board Member and representative of CMSI (CITU). Corporate Safety Board Members representing major trade unions—CMS (AITUC), WBKMS (UTUC), CMC (HMS), and KSC (BMS)—also participated. Senior officials from ECL HQ, all Area General Managers, Area Safety Officers and officers from DGMS (Eastern and Central Zones) took part, reflecting the strong spirit of tripartite collaboration.

The Committee deliberated on a wide range of critical safety issues, including enhancement of safety awareness through structured safety talks; strengthening of safety monitoring mechanisms; integration of advanced safety features in mining equipment and winding installations; expeditious conversion of steam winders to electrical winders with fail-safe technology; provision of statutory manpower; improvement of mine ventilation systems; identification and fast-tracking of man-riding systems; slope stability monitoring; and stowing lag. Emphasis was laid on developing comprehensive short-term and long-term action plans to ensure effective implementation and continuous improvement in safety performance across ECL’s mining operations.

The meeting concluded with a collective resolve by all stakeholders to work in close coordination towards fostering a safer, healthier, and more secure working environment for both regular and contractual workmen, thereby reinforcing ECL’s steadfast commitment to Zero Harm and sustainable mining practices.

Herbalife India Flags Off All-Women E-Auto Fleet in Mysuru, Powering Green Mobility Revolution

 Herbalife India, a premier health and wellness company, community, and platform, in partnership with Shishu Mandir, today launched the Mysuru chapter of its flagship ECO Wheels Women’s Initiative. The event flagged off 75+ electric autos driven by women, kicking off the “Her Route, Our Future” movement and year-long “Green Mysuru, Clean Mysuru” campaign to promote green mobility and economic independence.

The launch took place in the presence of Uday Prakash, VP of Strategy and Implementation at Herbalife India; T.S. Srivathsa, MLA of Krishnaraja Constituency, Mysuru; Shri Anand C, Director, Shishu Mandir; Smt. Seema Latkar, I.P.S., Commissioner of Mysuru City Police and other distinguished dignitaries. The initiative empowers marginalized women with e-autos, driving training for local terrains, licensing, maintenance, digital tools, financial literacy, self-defense, and market linkages.

Uday Prakash, Vice President – Strategy and Implementation at Herbalife said, 

“At Herbalife, we’re deeply inspired by the ECO Wheels Women’s Initiative, which embodies our commitment to sustainable progress and shared prosperity. Following Bengaluru’s remarkable success, this expansion to Mysuru is transforming lives by equipping these women with vital skills and the confidence to thrive. They’re not just driving electric autos; they’re steering their families and communities towards a brighter, greener future.”

Building on the success of Bengaluru’s ECO-Wheels initiative, which enabled 115 women beneficiaries to increase their monthly incomes from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 and positively impacted over 750 individuals and the wider community through a zero-emission mobility model, Herbalife India in partnership with Shishu Mandir is now scaling the program to Mysuru as Phase 2.

The next phase will focus on high-demand transport routes, accelerating the adoption of clean mobility while creating sustainable livelihoods. The expansion is projected to deliver impact equivalent to planting around 1.4 lac trees over five years, aligning with the Government of India’s FAME-II objectives. Over a five-year period, the Mysuru rollout is expected to generate a cumulative income of ₹50 crore for all women beneficiaries, reinforcing Herbalife India’s commitment to inclusive growth, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship.

Addressing the gathering Shri. Seema Latkar, I.P.S., Commissioner, Mysuru City Police said

“As Commissioner of Mysuru City Police, I have seen firsthand how economic independence transforms the lives of women and makes our communities safer and more resilient. The Eco-Wheels Women’s Initiative is a commendable step toward enabling women to take charge of their futures while contributing to greener, cleaner urban mobility. Mysuru Police extends its full support to such initiatives that champion equality, inclusion, and social progress.”

Shri Anand C, Director, Shishu Mandir, added 

“For over three decades, Shishu Mandir has worked to create dignified, scalable livelihood opportunities for underserved communities. Eco-Wheels has grown from a mobility program into a movement of confidence and self-reliance. With the Mysuru launch, we are enabling more women and transgender individuals to claim their rightful place as independent earners and respected contributors to society.”

Bandhan AMC CEO Highlights FoF Route as Smarter Way to Invest in Gold and Silver