7, Jun 2026
India–Oman FTA: A New Trade Corridor for India’s Livestock and Marine Export Industry

As India accelerates its push to diversify export markets and strengthen economic ties across the Gulf, the proposed India–Oman Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is emerging as a potentially transformative development for the country’s livestock, marine, poultry, and agri-food sectors. Beyond tariff reductions, the agreement could reshape regional supply chains, enhance India’s competitiveness in food exports, and position Oman as a strategic gateway to the broader Gulf market.

At a time when global food security concerns and shifting trade dynamics are driving nations to secure reliable sourcing partnerships, the India–Oman trade pact arrives at a critical juncture. For Indian exporters, it represents more than market access—it signals an opportunity to establish a stronger presence in one of the world’s most import-dependent food regions.

Unlocking Untapped Market Potential

Oman has steadily increased its reliance on imported food products to meet domestic demand. Limited agricultural capacity, water constraints, and population growth have created sustained opportunities for international suppliers, particularly in seafood, poultry, eggs, and processed foods.

Yet India’s participation in several of these categories remains below its potential.

For example, Oman imported marine products worth approximately US$35.3 million in 2025, while Indian exports accounted for only about US$10 million. Given India’s status as one of the world’s leading seafood exporters, the gap highlights a significant opportunity for market expansion.

The proposed FTA is expected to address one of the key barriers to growth: market access. By enabling duty-free trade across a substantial portion of product categories, Indian exporters could gain a pricing advantage and improve their ability to compete against suppliers from Southeast Asia and other international markets.

A Competitive Edge for India’s Seafood Industry

Among all sectors, marine exports are expected to be among the largest beneficiaries of the agreement.

India’s seafood industry has undergone remarkable modernization over the past decade, supported by investments in aquaculture, cold-chain logistics, processing infrastructure, and international quality standards. Products such as shrimp, frozen fish, and value-added seafood already enjoy strong demand across global markets.

Duty-free access to Oman would further enhance competitiveness by reducing landed costs and improving profit margins. More importantly, it would allow Indian exporters to strengthen relationships with Omani distributors, retailers, and hospitality operators who are increasingly seeking reliable long-term suppliers.

With Gulf consumers demonstrating growing demand for high-quality protein products, Indian seafood producers are well positioned to capture a larger share of regional imports.

Poultry and Egg Producers Eye Growth

The agreement could also provide meaningful opportunities for India’s poultry sector.

As food consumption patterns evolve across the Gulf, demand for affordable and reliable protein sources continues to rise. India’s poultry industry benefits from scale, competitive production costs, and a rapidly expanding processing ecosystem. Enhanced market access could encourage greater exports of frozen poultry, processed meat products, and specialty food ingredients.

Egg producers may also benefit. India ranks among the world’s largest egg-producing nations, and demand for both fresh and processed egg products continues to grow across the Gulf’s food service, hospitality, and manufacturing industries.

For producers facing intense domestic competition, access to a stable and growing export market could provide an important avenue for revenue diversification.

Beyond Commodities: The Rise of Value-Added Exports

Perhaps the most significant long-term opportunity lies in processed agricultural products.

Historically, much of India’s agricultural export success has been driven by raw commodities. However, global trade trends increasingly favor value-added food products that deliver higher margins and stronger brand recognition.

The India–Oman FTA could accelerate exports of processed foods, spice blends, ready-to-eat meals, packaged snacks, frozen products, and specialty agricultural goods tailored to Gulf consumer preferences.

For Indian food manufacturers, the agreement presents an opportunity to move further up the value chain, shifting from commodity exports toward branded consumer products.

Such a transition could generate wider economic benefits, including increased investment in food processing infrastructure, packaging innovation, and export-oriented manufacturing.

Why Oman Matters Beyond Its Domestic Market

While Oman itself offers attractive commercial prospects, its strategic significance extends beyond national borders.

Located at the crossroads of major international shipping routes, Oman has increasingly positioned itself as a logistics and distribution hub connecting Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Its ports and free zones provide access to neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets, many of which collectively import billions of dollars worth of food products annually.

For Indian exporters, establishing a stronger foothold in Oman could create opportunities to expand into the wider Gulf region, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

In this sense, the FTA should be viewed not merely as a bilateral trade agreement, but as a platform for broader regional market penetration.

Economic Ripple Effects Across India

The potential benefits of the agreement extend well beyond export companies.

Higher demand for seafood, poultry, eggs, and processed agricultural products could generate positive spillover effects throughout India’s rural economy. Farmers, fishermen, processors, logistics providers, and exporters all stand to gain from increased trade volumes.

Coastal communities involved in aquaculture and fisheries could particularly benefit from stronger international demand. Likewise, growth in food processing exports may stimulate investment, create employment opportunities, and encourage further modernization of agricultural supply chains.

At a time when India is actively pursuing export-led growth strategies, the agreement aligns closely with national objectives to increase value-added exports and strengthen rural incomes.

Challenges Remain

Despite the optimism surrounding the trade pact, businesses must remain mindful of execution risks.

Success will depend on maintaining international quality standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, meeting halal certification requirements, and investing in efficient cold-chain infrastructure. Competition from established global suppliers will remain intense, particularly in seafood and processed food categories.

Furthermore, exporters seeking long-term success in the Gulf must move beyond price competitiveness and focus on brand building, reliability, and customer relationships.

The companies that combine market access with strong operational capabilities are likely to capture the greatest share of future growth.

The Road Ahead

The proposed India–Oman FTA represents a strategic opportunity at a time when global trade patterns are evolving and food security is becoming an increasingly important economic priority.

For India’s livestock, marine, poultry, and agri-food sectors, the agreement could unlock new revenue streams, expand market access, and strengthen the country’s position within one of the world’s most dynamic import markets.

If effectively implemented, the partnership may not only boost bilateral trade but also establish Oman as a launchpad for India’s next phase of export expansion across the Gulf region.

For business leaders, investors, and exporters, the message is clear: the India–Oman trade corridor is becoming one of the most promising growth stories in regional commerce.

6, Jun 2026
Sber is ready to share cyber analytics for free with companies in the CIS and BRICS+ countries

The bank has opened free access for international partners to its Threat Intelligence cyber threat management platform

June 6, 2026, Saint Petersburg

Sber has opened access for businesses and government agencies in the Republic of Belarus and other friendly countries to the Threat Threat Intelligence cyber threat management platform. Furthermore, the bank is considering connecting partners from the CIS and BRICS+ countries to the platform. This was announced by Stanislav Kuznetsov, deputy chairman of the Executive Board, Sberbank, on the sidelines of SPIEF 2026.

Stanislav Kuznetsov, deputy chairman of the Executive Board, Sberbank:

“Cybercrime knows no borders — it’s an international challenge that must be tackled collectively. Only through joint efforts can countries effectively counter modern cyber threats and ensure the security of their digital spaces and key economic sectors. Joining forces is also critical because attacks are often crossborder in nature. That’s why Sber is ready to share information about current cyber threats and effective countermeasures with both Russian organizations and international partners. Around 650 Russian companies and several Belarusian organizations have already joined the Threat Intelligence cyber intelligence platform — we see strong interest. Given the deep financial and economic integration between Russia and a number of friendly international partners, strengthening our shared cyber defense perimeter is a key priority.”

Companies that join the Threat Intelligence platform receive timely analytics on cyber threats, as well as tools for effective vulnerability management and external attack surface control. Partnering with Sber’s Threat Intelligence helps businesses and the public sector not only identify vulnerabilities in their infrastructure’s defense perimeter, but also understand which threats pose real risks and are actively used by hackers.

Powered by artificial intelligence, the platform processes information daily from more than 1,500 sources, including the dark web. Enriched with analytics, information about any new threat becomes available to connected organizations within two hours of its emergence. In total, Threat Intelligence provides access to more than 1,000 analytical reports and data on over 580,000 vulnerabilities.

6, Jun 2026
SberIndia creates Russian Business Centre in Delhi

An office centre is being built in Delhi that will become a hub for Russian business in India

The opening of the Russian Business Centre in Delhi was announced by Anatoly Popov, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of Sberbank, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. Sber has been operating in India for over 15 years; the bank already has offices in New Delhi and Mumbai, as well as its own IT hub in Bangalore. SberIndia operates as a full-fledged local bank, providing a comprehensive range of services for corporate clients and developing infrastructure for cooperation between Russian and Indian companies.

Anatoly Popov, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of Sberbank:

“The development of relations between Russia and India, particularly in industrial cooperation, financial interaction, logistics, and technological partnership, is increasing the need for Russian companies to have a physical presence in India. The Russian Business Centre is not just an office building, but a key location for the Russian business community in India. Its residents will include both companies already operating in India and those just preparing to enter this market.”

The National Capital Territory of Delhi remains one of the key commercial real estate markets in India. The Centre is being built in one of Delhi’s most convenient business clusters in terms of infrastructure and logistics. Against the backdrop of an acute shortage of modern Class A office complexes in central Delhi, interest from tenants is very high.

In the first quarter of 2026, the total volume of office space lease transactions in India’s eight largest cities reached a record 2.8 million sq. m, of which 400,000 sq. m were in the National Capital Territory of Delhi — a 95% increase compared to the first quarter of 2025, according to a report by consultants. Investment interest today is focused on residential complexes, office space, warehouses, logistics centres, and data centres.

The project will become a flagship platform showcasing advanced technologies, digital services, and innovative solutions from the Sber ecosystem. Sber will offer residents of the new business centre a range of financial instruments for operating in India and business support services, including legal, tax, and audit support, as well as credit products.

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) is a unique event in the world of economics and business. SPIEF has been held since 1997, and since 2006 has been held under the patronage and with the participation of the President of Russia. Over the years, the Forum has become a leading global platform for business representatives to communicate and discuss key economic issues facing Russia, emerging markets, and the world as a whole. The XXIX St. Petersburg International Economic Forum is taking place from June 3 to 6, 2026. In its 185th anniversary year, Sber is the GigaPartner of SPIEF.

6, Jun 2026
Maharashtra Tops India in Female-to-Male Ratio, Surpasses National Average

Mumbai, June 6 (BNP): Maharashtra has emerged as the state with the highest female-to-male ratio in the country, surpassing the national average and marking a significant achievement in gender demographics, according to recent government data.

Maharashtra Tops India in Female-to-Male Ratio, Surpasses National Average

Representational image

The improved sex ratio is being viewed as a positive indicator of social development and reflects the impact of sustained efforts to promote gender equality, female education, healthcare access, and women’s welfare initiatives. Experts believe the trend demonstrates growing awareness regarding the value of the girl child and the effectiveness of policies aimed at curbing gender discrimination.

Officials have attributed the achievement to various state and central government programmes focused on maternal and child health, women’s empowerment, and awareness campaigns against gender-biased practices. Improved healthcare infrastructure and better access to institutional deliveries have also contributed to the favorable demographic shift.

Demographers note that a balanced sex ratio is a crucial indicator of social progress and inclusive development. A healthier gender balance can positively influence workforce participation, education outcomes, and long-term economic growth.

The latest figures place Maharashtra ahead of the national average, highlighting the state’s progress in addressing gender disparities. Policymakers and social experts have welcomed the development while emphasizing the need for continued efforts to sustain and further improve gender equality across all sections of society.

The achievement is expected to serve as a model for other states seeking to improve demographic indicators and promote a more equitable social structure.

6, Jun 2026
FIFA’s Newest Security Threat: Empty Water Bottles

Brussels, 6 June 2026: The Consumer Choice Center condemns FIFA’s decision to ban fans from bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums during the upcoming World Cup in North America.

The policy is as unnecessary as it is absurd. Many matches will be played during peak summer temperatures and, thanks to global broadcasting schedules, not even late enough in the evening to spare supporters from the heat.

Zoltán Kész, Government Affairs Manager at the Consumer Choice Center, stated:

“Fans are already spending thousands to attend the world’s biggest sporting event, yet FIFA continues to treat them like a security problem rather than paying customers.” 
“There are countless examples showing football can safely accommodate reusable bottles. In countries like Spain, where summer temperatures regularly exceed those expected at many World Cup venues, supporters attend matches in extreme heat without being subjected to pointless restrictions on basic hydration.”

Rather than adopting proven best practices from countries experienced in managing large crowds during hot weather, FIFA has once again opted for maximum inconvenience for the very people who make the tournament possible.

Kész concluded:“If FIFA officials genuinely believe an empty reusable water bottle is a major threat while expecting supporters to sit for hours in the summer heat, they’ve clearly lost sight of who the World Cup is supposed to be for. At this rate, fans may want to check whether shoes and belts are next on the prohibited items list.”

6, Jun 2026
Terahertz Biophotonics: Understanding the Path Towards PracticalApplications

Terahertz Biophotonics: Understanding the Path Towards PracticalApplications

Researchers summarize the recent developments and future research directions toward the broader implementationof terahertz biophotonics

Biophotonicsrefers to the development and application of light-based technologies to study biological systems.The application of terahertz (THz) frequency range in biophotonics is considered a promising avenue for advancing biological research. However, several challenges still limit practical adoption, although recent developments show strong potential. In a new study, researchers present a comprehensive review of recent advancements and emerging applications of THz biophotonics, highlighting promising areas and future research directions that can expand its adoption.

Biophotonics is a multidisciplinary field that involves the development and application of light-based technologies to study, monitor, and treat biological systems. The ability to directly image cells and molecules has led to many fundamental discoveries in the past century. More recently, the terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum has attracted growing interest as a promising frontier for advancing biological research.

 The THz frequency range is associated with several fundamental biological processes. Although THz radiation is strongly absorbed by water, traditionally viewed as a limitation, this property can enable sensitive characterization of hydration states and water content. Compared to visible light, THz waves can also penetrate certain biological tissues more effectively. However, despite steady advancements, the adoption of THz biophotonicsstill lags behind visible light-based techniques in directly observing cellular and molecular dynamics.This is largely due to several challenges, including relatively low spatial resolution (a consequence of the longer THz wavelengths), high sensitivity to water that complicates measurements, slower imaging speeds, and bulky instrumentation. Fortunately, recent developments suggest strong future potential.

 To highlight these advancements, Associate Professor Kazunori Serita from theGraduate School of Information, Production, and Systems, Waseda University, Japan, together withSpecial-Appointment ProfessorMasayoshi Tonouchi from the Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science, Okayama University, Japan, presented a comprehensive review summarizing current efforts to address limitations and improve the adoption of THz biophotonics. The study was published in the Journal of Physics PhotonicsonMay 28, 2026.

 THz biophotonics is a fascinating research area for next-generation biomedical technologies.Currently, THz biomedical applications are restricted to a few niche domains with many technical limitations.Recent developments in emerging THz technologies have greatly increased the potential for overcoming these technical limitations,” says Serita.

In their review, the researchers first outline how THz radiation interacts with biological processes, highlighting key advantages such as sensitivity to molecular fingerprint spectra and the ability to enable non-invasive, non-destructive, and label-free measurements. They also discuss the strong dielectric dispersion and absorption of water. Next, they trace the historical development of key THz technologies, including THztime-domain spectroscopy, the evolution of THzimaging techniques, and the emergence of THz metamaterial biosensors that can be used to probe complex and small biological samples.

A major focus was on fields that show strong potential for early application. For example, THz imaging is gaining attention in skin cancer diagnosis due to its sensitivity to tissue composition and is progressing toward clinical trials. Wound assessment is another field where THz imaging is being increasingly applied. Margin assessment in breast cancer is also a key area where THz technology has high potential for practical clinical application, offering a pathway to simplify current procedures. The review also highlights applications in drug discovery and pharmaceutical analysis.

Beyond these areas, the review identifies emerging directions such as single-cell THz imaging, molecular-scale THz studies, diagnostics for internal organs (including the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems), and THz-based blood analysis. In addition,it highlights future technologies that can enable THz observation of cells and molecules under physiological conditions, including the recently developed “point-terahertzsource” technology by Serita and colleagues.

 “THz measurement technologies can benefit not only medicine, but also a wide range of industries, including drug discovery, food inspection, environmental monitoring, semiconductor evaluation, and biotechnology,” says Serita.

Finally, the researchers presented the main areas for future research, includingidentifying the precise origins of THz contrast in biological samples and improving the understanding of water dynamics to improve reliability.

“Our study provides a roadmap of emerging approaches that could help transform the field of THz biophotonics from proof-of-concept studies to practical biomedical applications,” concludesSerita.

6, Jun 2026
Why World Cup Tickets Cost So Much—and How Pricing Actually Works

Attending a FIFA World Cup match this summer in North America won’t be cheap. Tickets alone can cost hundreds to more than $1,000, and the total price can quickly climb once travel and lodging are factored in.

According to University of Colorado Boulder researcher Övünç Yılmaz, those high prices reflect how markets for major global events work—especially one as large as the World Cup.

“FIFA and many event organizers have traditionally underpriced tickets in the primary market in the name of global reach and fairness,” said Yılmaz, assistant professor of operations at the Leeds School of Business. “That creates excess demand and leaves value on the table, which often gets captured in the resale market.”

Unlike most sporting events, the World Cup operates at a massive scale and across multiple layers of ticket sales. Organizers first sell tickets through a primary market, but those tickets can later be resold, often at much higher prices.

This year, FIFA is also using dynamic pricing for the first time, meaning ticket prices can shift based on demand.

“FIFA already varies prices across games, and this World Cup marks the first time it has introduced dynamic pricing, allowing prices to adjust with demand in real time,” Yılmaz said.

Even with those changes, he noted that the resale market continues to play a major role, especially for the most popular games.

“The resale market is still where much of the real price discovery happens, especially for high-demand games involving teams like the U.S., England or Argentina,” he said.

For many fans, the cost of attending goes far beyond the ticket itself. The tournament spans multiple countries and cities, making travel more complicated and expensive than at past World Cups.

“Arranging flights and hotels with only four to five days between games, without knowing your next destination until the final whistle, is an enormous challenge,” Yılmaz said.

“That is seven cities across two countries in roughly five weeks,” he added, describing the potential travel path for fans following a team deep into the tournament.

As kickoff approaches, ticket prices may continue to shift, especially for later rounds where matchups are still unknown.

His advice for fans: think beyond the ticket price and plan carefully.

“Before anything else, factor in the full picture: Check flights and hotels before even thinking about tickets,” he said.

For group-stage games, waiting to buy tickets may pay off. “Prices have been coming down and may continue to do so, so patience can pay off,” he said.

While prices may be high, the experience itself may still be worth it, he added.

“Even if you do not get the exact matchup you hoped for, it is still the World Cup and will likely be a memorable experience,” Yılmaz said.

 
 
 
 
6, Jun 2026
Understanding Congenital Heart Defect Outcomes: Insights from the Heart Institute at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

Finding out your child has a congenital heart defect (CHD) can come with a lot of emotion, fear, and urgent questions about what the future may hold for your family. But it’s important to know that major advances in heart care have transformed the reality of what it’s like to live with many of these conditions.

Today, the vast majority of babies with a congenital heart defect will reach adulthood. 

“For complex CHDs, survival is no longer the main benchmark for success,” says Luke M. Wiggins, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “Pediatric cardiac specialty centers have the tools to improve quality of life, promote long-term health, and help kids thrive.”

As a major referral center for the Southern California region, CHLA’s nationally ranked Heart Institute team is well-versed in treating fetal, neonatal, and pediatric patients with even the most challenging heart anatomy.

For families just starting out on their care journey, the Heart Institute team shares what parents should know about congenital heart defect outcomes. 

1. No two hearts look the same. 

The heart is an incredibly complex organ—which is why the same diagnosis may look completely different from one child to another.

There are more than 35 distinct types of congenital heart defects, and the potential combination of differences is nearly infinite. This is why heart defects often require a personalized treatment approach.

This was true for a young patient named Samuel, whose exceptionally unique heart anatomy required an innovative treatment plan that provided life-saving interventions while allowing him to grow and heal at home before reconstructive surgery.

2. Early detection—and accurate diagnosis—is essential.

While standard fetal imaging, like a 20-week ultrasound, can help to illuminate major structural issues, it’s essential that doctors understand all details of a patient’s anatomy to make the most informed diagnosis. It’s common for families visiting the Heart Institute to be seeking a second opinion after an initial diagnosis at their local hospital. 

In the Fetal Cardiac Clinic, renowned specialists in fetal cardiology, congenital heart defects, and prenatal heart care use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including 3D/4D ultrasound and fetal echocardiography, to help provide exceptional diagnostic clarity. 

Often before patients are even born, a multidisciplinary care team of fetal cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and interventional cardiologists starts devising a personalized care plan. 

Neonatal or pediatric patients may receive imaging in the Catheterization Lab or the Cardiac Imaging Suite, which includes a first-in-the-nation low-field MRI machine that allows unprecedented diagnostic precision. 

3. When it comes to complex heart defects, volume matters. 

The Heart Institute team conducts an average of more than 14,000 patient visits and 700 cardiothoracic surgeries each year. 

Over 50% of neonatal heart surgeries at the hospital are high-risk cases, making CHLA one of the largest complex surgical programs in the country.

“Volume makes specialty centers more effective at understanding risks and complications and optimizing care amidst challenges,” says Dr. Wiggins.

“We have pediatric specialists in every area of cardiac care who are doing open heart surgeries, catheterization procedures, anesthesia, and critical care day in and day out,” he adds. “This is in contrast to specialists at smaller hospitals who may encounter a pediatric patient with complex care needs much more infrequently.”

Additionally, CHLA’s heart team observes a two-surgeon system in the operating room—a rare practice among similar programs. 

“This approach allows for a much more fluid management of the many layers of complex congenital operations, which typically results in the operation progressing more quickly,” Dr. Wiggins explains. “For the patient, that means substantially less time under general anesthesia with their heart stopped and on a bypass machine.”

4. Research is the backbone of progress for complex heart care outcomes.

Just a few decades ago, many congenital heart defects were universally fatal. Today, innovations like fetal surgery, minimally invasive catheter-based procedures, and new medical devices have made congenital heart surgeries safer and more effective.

These innovations were made possible through research—and many key treatment breakthroughs and technologies have origins here at CHLA.

35 years ago, Head of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Heart Institute Co-Director Vaughn A. Starnes, MD, developed a new surgical technique to treat a valve abnormality called Ebstein anomaly. The Starnes procedure revolutionized management for critically ill babies with this condition, and a version of the operation is still used worldwide.

Today, the Heart Institute has more than 100 research studies and active clinical trials. Voluntary clinical research helps doctors and scientists learn more about current and investigational treatments and technologies—often before they are widely available—with a focus on solutions specially-designed for the smallest patients.

In 2022, Heart Institute physician-researchers spearheaded the clinical trial that led to FDA approval for a first-of-its-kind Minima Stent, and in 2024, Dr. Wiggins and his team launched a trial for a novel, size-adjustable prosthetic pulmonary valve. Both solutions are designed to be expanded as the child grows, without the need for multiple invasive replacement surgeries.

Most recently, CHLA’s interventional cardiologists started using a miniaturized imaging device that enables them to conduct patent ductus arteriosis (PDA) closures, a repair for a common heart defect in preemies, from right within the baby’s isolette.

5. For complex conditions, comprehensive heart care should continue through childhood.

Some heart defects may resolve on their own or need just one surgery to restore functional heart anatomy, and children will go on to live life without complications. For children with more complex anatomy, comprehensive multidisciplinary care is required as they grow up. 

In children with single ventricle disease who have undergone the Fontan procedure—the final stage of a three-part surgical reconstruction—multiple organ systems are affected. Families may receive coordinated care from specialists in Cardiology, Hepatology, Nephrology, Pulmonology, Nutrition, Psychology, nursing, and Social Work.

Home monitoring is also an essential aspect of long-term care for many children—helping them stay safe outside the hospital while ensuring peace of mind for families and providing important data to their care teams.

6. You’re not alone. 

It can feel impossible to wrap your head around a tough diagnosis. But working with a trusted team of specialists means your family will have guidance and support every step of the way.

“Early conversations with families are often focused on complexity and survival,” Dr. Wiggins says. “Later, they go home and return to everyday life, and as their surgeon, I might not see the kids again until months or even years later.

Seeing their progress—growing, developing personalities, building relationships—it’s all incredibly rewarding. It’s a powerful reminder of why this work matters.”

 
 
 
 
6, Jun 2026
Renault Duster Turbo TCe 100 Achieves ARAI- Certified Fuel Efficiency of 19.41 Km/l

 

Renault Duster Turbo TCe 100 Achieves ARAI- Certified Fuel Efficiency of 19.41 Km/l

Chandigarh, June 06: Renault India, the wholly owned subsidiary of the French automaker Renault Group, announced the ARAI-certified fuel efficiency for the new Duster Turbo TCe 100. Duster Turbo TCe 100 achieves an impressive 19.41 km/l, offering an ideal balance of performance and efficiency for everyday driving.

Speaking on the development, Dr. V. Vikraman, Chief of Renault Engineering, Renault Group India, said, “The ARAI-certified fuel efficiency reflects Renault’s focus on practical engineering and customer value. The Turbo TCe 100 engine uses turbocharging and efficient combustion to deliver responsive performance with strong fuel economy. With the 6‑speed manual transmission, the powertrain provides a balanced and efficient driving experience.”

The New Renault Duster TCe 100 is built on all‑new RGMP platform, with its engine and powertrain comprehensively engineered and tuned to perfectly align with this advanced architecture. The unit is exclusive to the Duster, calibrated specifically to complement the platform’s dynamics. The Duster Turbo TCe 100 is equipped with six speed transmission which makes it efficient and responsive. The petrol engine produces 100 PS of power and 160 Nm of torque. The turbocharged powertrain is engineered to ensure responsive performance, smooth drivability and enhanced fuel economy across diverse driving conditions.

6, Jun 2026
World Skill Centre and World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar Sign Strategic MoU to Strengthen Global Skill-Trade Linkages

World Skill Centre and World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar Sign Strategic MoU to Strengthen Global Skill-Trade Linkages

Bhubaneswar, June 6: In a significant step towards aligning skill development with global trade opportunities, the World Skill Centre (WSC), Bhubaneswar and the World Trade Centre (WTC), Bhubaneswar today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the World Skill Centre campus.

The MoU was formalised during a ceremonial event held at the 15th Floor Lecture Hall of the World Skill Centre, in the presence of senior leadership, dignitaries, and industry representatives. The programme included addresses by institutional leaders followed by the formal exchange and signing of the MoU, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two institutions.

The collaboration aims to create a strong convergence between skill development and global trade ecosystems by integrating international industry linkages into training programmes and enhancing global employability of skilled youth. This partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in positioning Odisha as a hub for globally competitive talent.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. A. Rajyalaxmi, Regional Director, World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar, highlighted the importance of skilled human capital in today’s interconnected global economy. She emphasised that the collaboration would facilitate international exposure, industry engagement, and access to global markets for emerging talent.

The World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar, an accredited member of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), is committed to promoting international trade, investment, and business linkages. Through its global network, it enables enterprises and institutions to connect with international markets and opportunities.

The World Skill Centre, established under the Government of Odisha, is recognised as one of India’s leading institutions in advanced skill development. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a strong focus on industry-aligned training, WSC continues to bridge the gap between industry requirements and workforce capabilities.

Under the scope of this MoU, both institutions will collaborate on initiatives such as facilitating international internships and apprenticeships, developing export-oriented skill modules, enabling joint certification programmes, and promoting global placement opportunities. The partnership will also support knowledge-sharing platforms, industry interactions, and exposure to international trade ecosystems.