2, Jul 2026
Stock Markets Rise Sharply on Easing Crude Prices
Mumbai, July 2: Indian equity markets ended higher as easing crude oil prices boosted investor sentiment and supported gains across key sectors.
The Sensex surged 579 points, while the Nifty index crossed the 24,175 mark, reflecting strong buying interest in auto, banking, and metal stocks. Market participants attributed the rally to softening global crude prices, which eased concerns over inflation and input costs.
Analysts said that lower oil prices improved overall risk appetite and strengthened expectations of stable macroeconomic conditions. Positive domestic cues, including strong sectoral performance, also contributed to the upward momentum.
Broader markets witnessed healthy participation, with mid-cap and small-cap stocks also trading in positive territory.
Experts noted that sustained trends in global commodity prices and upcoming economic data releases will continue to guide market direction in the coming sessions.
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- By Neel Achary
2, Jul 2026
Govt-Industry Meet Focuses on Global Growth of AYUSH Sector
New Delhi, July 2: The Government of India and key industry stakeholders held discussions to outline a roadmap for strengthening India’s global leadership in the AYUSH sector, focusing on Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy systems of medicine.
The meeting highlighted the need to enhance research, innovation, quality standards, and global outreach to promote AYUSH products and services in international markets. Officials and industry representatives discussed ways to improve regulatory frameworks, boost exports, and encourage investment in traditional medicine systems.
Participants emphasized the growing global acceptance of holistic healthcare practices and the importance of positioning India as a leading hub for traditional medicine and wellness solutions.
The discussions also focused on strengthening collaboration between government bodies, research institutions, and industry players to support scientific validation and international recognition of AYUSH practices.
Officials stated that the roadmap aims to expand global market access while ensuring quality, safety, and credibility of AYUSH products and services.
2, Jul 2026
Odisha Congress In-Charge Lalji Desai to Chair Maiden Organisational Meeting in Bhubaneswar Today
Bhubaneswar, July 2 (UDN): Newly appointed Odisha Congress in-charge Lalji Desai is set to chair his first organisational meeting with party leaders in Bhubaneswar today, marking the beginning of his efforts to strengthen the party’s organisational structure in the state.
The meeting is expected to be attended by senior state Congress leaders, office-bearers, district presidents, legislators, and other key functionaries. Discussions are likely to focus on organisational strengthening, membership expansion, preparations for upcoming political programmes, and strategies to enhance the party’s outreach across Odisha.
Desai is also expected to review the party’s performance, assess district-level organisational activities, and seek feedback from leaders on issues concerning the state’s political landscape. The meeting assumes significance as the Congress seeks to revitalise its base in Odisha and intensify its campaign on public issues.
Party leaders are hopeful that Desai’s maiden visit and interaction with the state leadership will provide fresh momentum to the organisation and help improve coordination among party functionaries.
Further details of the deliberations and decisions taken during the meeting are expected to be shared after the conclusion of the meeting.
2, Jul 2026
MANAS Helpline Records Nearly 1 Million Connection Attempts in India
New Delhi, July 2: India’s MANAS mental health helpline has recorded close to one million connection attempts, reflecting increasing awareness and engagement with mental health support services.
The platform provides counselling and guidance to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. The high usage indicates a growing willingness among people to seek professional help and support.
Officials said the response highlights a positive shift in attitudes toward mental health and the importance of timely intervention. Efforts are underway to further strengthen the system and improve accessibility for users across the country.
The initiative continues to play a key role in expanding mental health awareness and support networks in India.
2, Jul 2026
MPEDA Skill Olympiad Showcases India’s Seafood Processing Expertise
New Delhi, July 2: The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) organized a Seafood Skill Olympiad to showcase India’s growing talent and capabilities in value-added seafood processing.
The event highlighted the skills of participants in modern seafood preparation, processing techniques, quality control, and value addition practices aimed at strengthening India’s position in global seafood markets. It also provided a platform to promote innovation, skill development, and industry best practices in the fisheries and seafood export sector.
Officials noted that such initiatives play a crucial role in enhancing employability, improving processing standards, and supporting the growth of India’s seafood export industry. The programme also reflects ongoing efforts to boost competitiveness and encourage higher value addition within the sector.
Overall, the Olympiad is seen as an important step towards building a skilled workforce and strengthening India’s presence in the international seafood trade.
2, Jul 2026
Policy Changes Expected to Shape Bullion Market Outlook in H2 2026
New Delhi, July 2: The bullion market is expected to remain sensitive in the second half of 2026 as recent tax revisions and customs duty adjustments begin to influence overall trade dynamics.
Market observers indicate that changes in fiscal policies may affect gold and silver demand, pricing trends, and import activity. Retail sentiment and investment demand are also likely to respond to the evolving tax structure and regulatory updates.
Industry experts are closely tracking both domestic policy developments and global economic conditions to assess their impact on bullion prices. Stability in taxation and customs policy is expected to play a key role in supporting market confidence in the coming months.
Overall, the bullion sector is likely to experience fluctuations driven by policy adjustments and international market trends through H2 2026.
2, Jul 2026
AFC Furniture Solutions Maharashtra Push Targets Nagpur’s MIHAN And Pune’s Hinjewadi Industrial Zones.
Mumbai , July 2 : AFC Furniture Solutions, India’s fastest-growing manufacturer of modular and ergonomic office furniture, has announced expansion beyond the established Mumbai market, targeting Pune’s technology corridors and Nagpur’s MIHAN zone.
The company is targeting 25–30% of its revenue from western India, driven by the strong demand from over 900 companies located across the Special Economic Zone and non-SEZ areas of Hinjewadi, as well as Nagpur’s Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport . AFC’s plans correlate to Pune’s Q1 2026 numbers that, according to Cushman & Wakefield, reported GCCs driving 69 percent of the city’s total office leasing demand, concentrated across Hinjewadi, Kharadi, and Baner. AFC is an early mover in Nagpur’s MIHAN zone. With many companies in various stages of operations and operational preparedness, the state plans to develop New Nagpur as a full-scale business and financial district on the lines of Mumbai’s BKC.
“The Maharashtra GCC Policy 2025 was the clearest signal yet of the state’s investment plans and industrial growth. The plan targets 400 new Global Capability Centres, 4,00,000 high-skilled jobs, and Rs 50,600 crore in investments across the state by FY 2029-30. The policy has put institutional momentum behind markets that AFC had already identified as the next wave,” said Maanoj Tomar, Founder, AFC Furniture Solutions.
AFC Furniture Solutions already has a large presence in Mumbai’s commercial real estate market. The company has delivered Trilegal, Emirates, Tata Capital, WNS Mumbai, HDFC Aeroli, Unity Bank, ICICI Bank, IDFC Bank, and NPCI across the state, building on the systems and client relationships developed through its Mumbai operations. The company plans to scale this presence throughout the state through project acquisitions, deeper design consultancy, efficient executions, and stronger partnerships with developers and architects in the region.
AFC’s 4 lakh sq. ft. IGBC gold-rated manufacturing facility at Noida produces over 18,000 workstations and ergonomic seating systems every month. Its landmark fit-out at Noida International Airport, where AFC deployed over 6,000 low-emission furniture systems across nearly 1 lakh sq m with a recyclability rate of 66 per cent, reflects the kind of large-scale, ESG-compliant delivery that GCC operations in Maharashtra are increasingly demanding. As India’s first BIFMA Level 3 certified furniture manufacturer, AFC will bring that capability directly to the state’s growth markets in Pune and Nagpur.
“We have had a strong run in Greater Mumbai, and that gave us a good read on Maharashtra’s market. When we saw the GCC Policy come through, and when the Pune and Nagpur numbers started aligning with what we had anticipated, the decision to push harder was straightforward. We are not reacting to this market. We saw it coming, and we are ready for it,” added Tomar.
2, Jul 2026
India and Japan Deepen Strategic Partnership with New Collaboration and Investment Commitments
New Delhi, July 2: India and Japan have further strengthened their strategic partnership following bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The meeting concluded with several key initiatives aimed at expanding cooperation in technology, manufacturing, trade, and economic development.
One of the key outcomes was the signing of the first bilateral agreement for the joint development of advanced industrial and strategic technologies, reflecting the growing trust and collaboration between the two countries. The initiative is expected to promote innovation, research, technological advancement, and stronger industrial partnerships.
The discussions also highlighted Japan’s continued confidence in India’s growth story, with Japanese companies expected to announce investments of around $12.5 billion across multiple sectors. The proposed investments are anticipated to support manufacturing, infrastructure development, clean energy, and emerging technologies while creating employment opportunities and strengthening industrial growth.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation and building stronger economic and strategic ties. The talks focused on promoting innovation, enhancing business partnerships, improving regional connectivity, and fostering sustainable growth for the mutual benefit of both nations.
The outcomes of the summit reflect the continued progress of the India–Japan partnership and underscore the shared vision of both countries to build a stronger, future-ready relationship founded on mutual trust, collaboration, and shared prosperity.
2, Jul 2026
Assam Targets 10 Lakh Litres of Daily Milk Production
July 2: Assam has set a target of producing 10 lakh litres of milk per day to strengthen its dairy sector and boost rural livelihoods.
The initiative aims to increase milk production by improving dairy infrastructure, expanding milk collection and processing facilities, and promoting modern dairy farming practices. The government also plans to support farmers through better breeding programmes and enhanced animal healthcare services.
Officials believe the initiative will help reduce dependence on milk imports, generate employment, and improve the income of dairy farmers, while contributing to the long-term growth of Assam’s livestock and agricultural sectors.
2, Jul 2026
PM Modi, Japan PM to Inaugurate Maruti Suzuki Plant in Haryana
Haryana, July 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi are set to jointly inaugurate Maruti Suzuki’s fourth manufacturing plant in Kharkhoda, Haryana, marking a key milestone in India–Japan industrial cooperation.
The new facility is expected to strengthen India’s automobile manufacturing capacity under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, featuring advanced production systems, improved efficiency, and large-scale employment opportunities.
The Kharkhoda plant is part of Maruti Suzuki’s broader expansion strategy aimed at increasing production output and meeting growing domestic and global demand for automobiles. The inauguration also highlights the deepening economic and strategic partnership between India and Japan in the manufacturing sector.
