7, Jul 2026
Adani Foundation Joins Andhra Pradesh’s Mission to Strengthen Rural Livelihoods

July 7: The Adani Foundation has joined hands with the Government of Andhra Pradesh’s P4 (Public-Private-People Partnership) initiative to support livelihood enhancement and promote inclusive development across the state.

The partnership aims to strengthen community-based development by bringing together government support, private sector expertise, and public participation to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for vulnerable communities.

Under the initiative, the Adani Foundation will contribute towards programmes focused on improving income opportunities, enhancing skills, and supporting social and economic empowerment. The collaboration is expected to help communities gain better access to resources, training, and opportunities for sustainable growth.

The P4 initiative is designed to encourage collective participation from different stakeholders to address development challenges and accelerate progress at the grassroots level. By combining government efforts with corporate social responsibility initiatives, the programme seeks to create a stronger support system for communities.

The partnership reflects the growing role of public-private collaborations in driving inclusive development and strengthening livelihood opportunities for people across Andhra Pradesh.

7, Jul 2026
India Has Potential to Become the World’s ‘Connector Economy’: Anand Mahindra

New Delhi, July 7: Industrialist Anand Mahindra has said that India has the potential to emerge as the world’s “connector economy” by leveraging its strategic position, economic strength, and ability to bridge global markets.

Speaking on India’s evolving role in the global economic landscape, Mahindra highlighted the country’s growing importance as a link between major economies, businesses, and supply chains. He emphasised that India’s demographic advantage, expanding manufacturing capabilities, and innovation ecosystem could help it play a larger role in global trade and commerce.

He noted that as global businesses look to diversify supply chains and explore new growth opportunities, India is well-positioned to attract investment and strengthen its position as a trusted economic partner.

Mahindra also underlined the importance of continued focus on infrastructure development, skill enhancement, technological advancement, and policy reforms to support sustainable economic growth.

The comments come amid India’s increasing engagement with global markets and its efforts to establish itself as a key player in international trade. A stronger role as a connector economy could provide new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and industries across sectors.

With its expanding market, growing innovation capabilities, and strategic global position, India is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of the global economy.

7, Jul 2026
India Sets New Strategy to Accelerate Seafood Export Growth Through TEPA

New Delhi, July 7: The Centre has rolled out a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen India’s seafood export sector under the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), aiming to enhance global market access and improve the competitiveness of Indian seafood products.

The new strategy focuses on expanding export opportunities, promoting value-added seafood products, improving supply chain efficiency, and ensuring compliance with international quality and safety standards. The initiative is designed to help exporters tap into emerging markets and strengthen India’s position in the global seafood trade.

The government has highlighted the need for greater adoption of modern technologies, sustainable aquaculture practices, improved processing facilities, and stronger infrastructure to support long-term growth in the sector.

India’s seafood industry plays a crucial role in generating foreign exchange earnings, supporting livelihoods in coastal regions, and contributing to the country’s export economy. The roadmap aims to provide exporters with better support systems and create an enabling environment for sustainable growth.

Through the TEPA framework, the Centre is working towards deeper trade engagement, improved market opportunities, and enhanced competitiveness for Indian seafood exporters in international markets.

The initiative is expected to further strengthen India’s seafood export ecosystem and contribute to the country’s broader goal of expanding its global trade footprint.

7, Jul 2026
Government Sets Focus on Expanding India’s Leather and Footwear Exports to Dollar 15 Billion

New Delhi, July 7: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has urged India’s leather and footwear industry to work towards achieving an ambitious $15 billion export target, highlighting the sector’s crucial role in boosting manufacturing, employment, and India’s global trade presence.

The minister emphasised the need for the industry to adopt advanced technologies, improve product quality, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen its presence in international markets. He said that innovation, sustainable manufacturing practices, and skill development would be key factors in unlocking the sector’s full potential.

The leather and footwear industry has significant scope for expansion, particularly through increased value addition, modern production methods, and stronger integration with global supply chains. The sector can contribute substantially to India’s export growth while creating new employment opportunities.

The government is focused on providing policy support, improving infrastructure, and creating a favourable business environment to help exporters overcome challenges and expand their global reach.

With rising international demand and growing manufacturing capabilities, the leather and footwear sector is expected to remain an important contributor to India’s vision of becoming a leading global manufacturing and export hub.

7, Jul 2026
Strong Market Rally Lifts BSE Market Capitalisation to Record High

Mumbai, July 7: The combined market capitalisation of companies listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has reached an all-time high of ₹482.31 lakh crore, reflecting sustained investor confidence and strong momentum in the Indian equity markets.

The record valuation comes amid positive domestic and global market sentiment, supported by steady economic growth, robust corporate earnings, and continued participation from both domestic and foreign investors. The milestone underscores the resilience of India’s capital markets despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.

Market experts attribute the surge in overall market capitalisation to broad-based gains across key sectors, including banking, financial services, information technology, and manufacturing. Strong inflows from institutional investors and optimism over India’s long-term growth prospects have further boosted market performance.

The achievement highlights the growing strength of India’s equity markets and reinforces the country’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies. Analysts expect market sentiment to remain influenced by corporate earnings, macroeconomic indicators, foreign investment trends, and global developments in the coming weeks.

7, Jul 2026
Sensex, Nifty Open Higher on Positive Global Market Sentiment

Mumbai, July 7: Indian benchmark equity indices opened on a positive note on Tuesday, supported by favourable global market cues and improved investor sentiment. Both the BSE Sensex and the NSE Nifty traded higher in early deals, tracking gains in Asian markets and optimism surrounding international economic developments.

Sensex, Nifty Open Higher on Positive Global Market Sentiment

Market participants remained focused on global trends, foreign investment activity, and domestic economic indicators, which contributed to the positive momentum at the opening bell. Buying interest in key sectors, including banking, information technology, and select heavyweight stocks, helped lift the benchmark indices during early trading.

Analysts said investors are closely monitoring global market movements, corporate earnings, and macroeconomic developments for further direction. The performance of international markets and foreign institutional investor activity is expected to continue influencing domestic equities in the coming sessions.

The early gains reflect cautious optimism among investors, although market volatility may persist amid evolving global and domestic economic conditions.

7, Jul 2026
Monsoon Shortfall Impacts Kharif Sowing and Water Storage Across India

New Delhi, July 7: Kharif crop sowing across India continues to lag behind last year’s pace as a significant monsoon rainfall deficit affects more than half the country, according to a report by Dolat Capital. Despite a gradual improvement in rainfall over recent weeks, prolonged dry conditions during June have delayed agricultural activities and intensified moisture stress in key farming regions.

The report states that around 52 per cent of the country remains rainfall-deficient, with cumulative seasonal rainfall standing 38 per cent below normal. Central India has recorded the highest rainfall deficit at 45 per cent, followed by East and Northeast India at 40 per cent below normal, resulting in weak soil moisture and limited reservoir replenishment.

Total kharif sowing has reached 350.9 lakh hectares, which is 92 lakh hectares lower than the corresponding period last year. While the comparison is influenced by last year’s early monsoon onset, the acreage remains 22.5 lakh hectares below the five-year average. The shortfall is primarily concentrated in rice, oilseeds, and cotton, whereas pulses and coarse cereals have surpassed their normal sowing levels.

Rice cultivation remains below normal due to inadequate rainfall across eastern paddy-growing regions, delaying transplantation. Oilseed and cotton sowing have also recorded substantial deficits, reflecting the impact of insufficient rainfall and poor soil moisture conditions.

Water availability continues to remain a concern, with live reservoir storage across the country at only 26 per cent of total capacity. Eastern India is facing the most severe water stress, with reservoirs operating at just 19.4 per cent capacity, significantly below normal levels.

The report, however, offers cautious optimism, noting that the monsoon trough is expected to shift towards its normal position, supported by the formation of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. If the anticipated rainfall materialises over Central India and Maharashtra, it could improve reservoir inflows, replenish soil moisture, and accelerate kharif sowing during the second half of July.

7, Jul 2026
Eight MEMU Services Suspended in Khurda Road Division for Track Modernisation

Bhubaneswar, July 7 (UDN): To facilitate critical track modernisation and safety enhancement works in the Khurda Road Division, Indian Railways has temporarily cancelled eight MEMU train services operating on July 7, 2026, affecting commuters travelling on key suburban routes in Odisha.

Eight MEMU Services Suspended in Khurda Road Division for Track Modernisation

Representational Image

The cancellations are necessitated by ongoing infrastructure upgradation between Malatipatpur and Puri stations. Railway officials said the engineering work is part of a broader initiative to modernise railway assets, improve operational safety, enhance reliability and enable smoother train operations on the section.

The services cancelled for the day are:

  • Train No. 68403 Khurda Road–Puri MEMU

  • Train No. 68404 Puri–Khurda Road MEMU

  • Train No. 68415 Cuttack–Puri MEMU

  • Train No. 68416 Puri–Cuttack MEMU

  • Train No. 68437 Bhadrak–Cuttack MEMU

  • Train No. 68438 Cuttack–Bhadrak MEMU

  • Train No. 58405 Cuttack–Paradeep MEMU

  • Train No. 58406 Paradeep–Cuttack MEMU

Railway authorities have urged passengers to make alternate travel arrangements and check the latest train status before commencing their journey. Real-time updates are available through the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) and the official Indian Railways online platforms.

Officials emphasised that while the temporary suspension may inconvenience commuters, the modernisation work is essential for strengthening railway infrastructure and ensuring safer, faster and more dependable train services in the future. The upgrade is expected to improve operational efficiency and provide long-term benefits to passengers travelling through the Khurda Road Division.

7, Jul 2026
Korum Mall Hosts 27th Pinnacle Age Group Chess Tournament

Korum Mall Hosts 27th Pinnacle Age Group Chess Tournament

Thane, July 07: Korum Mall successfully hosted 300 participants at the 27th Pinnacle Age Group Chess Tournament on Sunday, July 5, bringing together hundreds of young chess players for a day of competitive action, strategic thinking and sportsmanship. Organised by Pinnacle Chess Events under the aegis of the Thane District Chess Association, the tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from budding players across multiple age categories. 

The tournament featured Under 7, Under 8, Under 9, Under 10, Under 11, Under 12, Under 14 and Under 16 categories, conducted across morning and afternoon sessions. Young participants competed in fast-paced matches under FIDE time-control regulations, showcasing their talent and passion for the game. 

The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where winners across all categories were felicitated with championship trophies and other prizes in recognition of their outstanding performances. 

By hosting the tournamentKorum Mall continues to strengthen its commitment to creating meaningful community experiences that encourage learning, skill development and family participation through engaging sporting events.

 
 
7, Jul 2026
Odisha’s Rail Network Gets Major Fillip as Daily Berhampur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express and New Puri–Koraput Express Begin Operations

Berhampur, July 7 (UDN): Odisha’s railway infrastructure received a significant boost on Monday with the launch of two key passenger services—the Daily Berhampur–Udhna (Surat) Amrit Bharat Express and the new Puri–Koraput Express—aimed at improving connectivity within the State and with western India.

Odisha's Rail Network Gets Major Fillip as Daily Berhampur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express and New Puri–Koraput Express Begin Operations

The two trains were flagged off by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during separate inauguration ceremonies held at Berhampur and Puri railway stations.

A major highlight of the announcement was the conversion of the Berhampur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express from a tri-weekly service into a daily train. The move addresses a long-standing demand from passengers, particularly the large number of migrant workers, traders, students and families travelling regularly between Odisha and Gujarat.

Odisha's Rail Network Gets Major Fillip as Daily Berhampur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express and New Puri–Koraput Express Begin Operations

Connecting Berhampur with Surat, one of India’s leading textile and industrial hubs, the train also serves important destinations across Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Railway officials believe the daily service will provide greater travel flexibility, reduce waiting periods and strengthen economic and social ties between the regions.

The newly introduced Puri–Koraput Express is expected to significantly improve intra-state rail connectivity by linking the coastal belt with western and southern Odisha. The train will pass through several important stations, including Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Angul, Sambalpur, Bargarh Road, Balangir, Titlagarh, Kesinga, Muniguda, Rayagada, Kakiriguma and Damanjodi, before reaching Koraput.

According to railway officials, the new service will enhance accessibility to tribal and interior districts, facilitate tourism to religious and scenic destinations, improve trade and business connectivity, and offer passengers a more convenient travel option across the State.

Odisha's Rail Network Gets Major Fillip as Daily Berhampur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express and New Puri–Koraput Express Begin Operations

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said Odisha is emerging as a key driver of India’s development and highlighted the Centre’s increased investment in the State’s railway sector.

“Odisha will serve as a growth engine for a developed India. The unprecedented investment in railway infrastructure will accelerate the State’s economic transformation and make Odisha more prosperous in the years ahead, he said.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasised the importance of the Berhampur–Surat rail corridor, noting the strong social and economic ties between the two cities due to the large Odia population living and working in Surat.

“The Daily Berhampur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express will greatly benefit passengers travelling between the two regions. Berhampur Railway Station will also be transformed into a world-class station. The design has been finalised, Phase-I preparations are complete, and construction will commence soon after the groundbreaking ceremony,” the Minister said.

The launch of the two services is expected to ease passenger demand, improve regional mobility and strengthen Odisha’s integration with major economic centres, while reinforcing Indian Railways’ efforts to expand modern, accessible and inclusive rail connectivity across the country.