18, Jun 2026
Centre Clears 8.25 pc EPF Interest Rate for FY26, Payout Process to Begin Shortly

New Delhi, June 18: The Government of India has officially ratified an annual interest rate of 8.25% on Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for FY2025-26, paving the way for the interest amount to be credited to the accounts of more than 7 crore EPF subscribers across the country.

The approval follows recommendations by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and ensures continued attractive returns for millions of salaried employees contributing to the retirement savings scheme.

With the ratification now in place, EPFO is expected to initiate the process of crediting the approved interest to members’ accounts in the coming weeks. The move reinforces the government’s commitment to safeguarding the long-term financial security of India’s workforce.

The EPF scheme remains one of the country’s most widely used retirement savings instruments, offering stable and tax-efficient returns to subscribers. The 8.25% rate maintains EPF’s position as a competitive savings avenue amid evolving market conditions.

Industry observers note that the timely crediting of interest will benefit millions of workers by enhancing their retirement corpus and strengthening confidence in India’s social security framework.

18, Jun 2026
Amazon MX Player’s Made in India: A Titan Story Celebrated Nationwide, Earns Historic Recognition from India’s Department of Posts

Amazon MX Player’s Made in India: A Titan Story Celebrated Nationwide, Earns Historic Recognition from India’s Department of Posts

Mumbai, June 18: Within just a few days of its launch on Amazon MX Player, Made in India: A Titan Story has emerged as one of the most talked-about Indian series of the year. This six-episode period drama that played out in 1984 as JRD Tata and Xerxes Desai took on a challenge to create India’s first homegrown watch, has earned widespread acclaim from viewers, critics, journalists, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders alike, for its moving portrayal of an inspiring Indian story of resilience, innovation and the enduring legacy of enterprise that continue to shape modern India. 

Memorable performances by National Award-winning actor Naseeruddin Shah as JRD Tata, and the talented Jim Sarbh as Xerxes Desai, with a stellar ensemble including Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Lakshvir Saran and Namita Dubey, have shaped the core of what has made the story stand out and resonate with audiences across industries and society.

Now, in a rare and first-of-its-kind recognition in the streaming industry, the Department of Posts of India, has recognized the show with an exclusive Made In India: A Titan Story envelope (cover) and a postcard. This follows iconic brand Amul’s poster acknowledged the series’ impact on the country, with a tagline that reads, ‘Made in India: A Bitin’ Story’.

This compelling/relatable narrative, authentic performances, and touching recreation of an era that transformed Indian enterprise, further reinforces Amazon MX Player’s commitment to bringing high-quality premium storytelling that is available for audiences across India to stream for free – be it via mobile devices, Connected TVs, the Amazon shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, JioTV, or Airtel Xstream. 

When Amogh Dusad, Director and Head of Content, Amazon MX Player, who has been the brain behind audience favorites like Ashram, Bhay, and Rise & Fall, felt that this story sat at a rare intersection of bold storytelling and the mood of a nation. “Narratives that reflect India’s ambition of building, proving and making a mark on the world stage make for deeply relatable storytelling. Made in India – a titan story is one special celebration of the ‘Make in India’ spirit of ingenuity and audacity, and seeing millions of viewers connect with it is hugely gratifying.”

Based on the book, ‘TITAN: Inside India‘s Most Successful Consumer Brand’ by Vinay Kamath, directed by Robbie Grewal and written by Karan Vyas, the series has drawn praise from acclaimed filmmakers Aanand L Rai, Hansal Mehta, Nikhil Advani and Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, actor Gajraj Rao, and several prominent voices from the worlds of business, media, and films. Viewers are describing the show as inspiring, engrossing, and one that evokes a sense of deep Indian pride and spirit, ranking it among the finest Indian series of the year — a claim that is also reflected in its IMDb rating of 8.8/10. The show has clocked 4.5 million views within first five days of its launch (as per Ormax reports).

Jim Sarbh expressed his gratitude, stating, “Xerxes’s journey is one of courage, ambition, and persistence, and seeing audiences embrace the series with such enthusiasm has been incredibly gratifying. It’s especially rewarding to see the conversations around Titan’s origins and the people behind its success continue to grow.”

Naseeruddin Shah, reflecting on the overwhelming response, added, “The response to Made in India– A Titan Story has been very heartening. What makes it especially meaningful is seeing audiences connect not just with the story itself, but with the values J.R.D. Tata embodied, his vision, his faith in people, and his ability to nurture ideas that were far ahead of their time.” 

Director Robbie Grewal said, “When we began this journey, we knew we were telling a story that deserved to be remembered. The love coming in from audiences, critics, and industry leaders within days of the launch has been truly overwhelming. It is immensely rewarding to see the story resonate with so many people across generations.”

To mark the overwhelming response for the series, Made in India: A Titan Story recently also lit up Mumbai’s iconic Worli Sea Link with a special OOH activation, transforming the landmark into a powerful tribute to Indian innovation and enterprise.

Amazon MX Player’s Titan follows the success of Prime Video’s local slate — Matka King, Raakh, Subedaar and System in what is proving to be a standout year for Amazon’s entertainment offering. Global originals Off Campus and Boys have pierced the zeitgeist with fandoms deep within India’s pin codes.

18, Jun 2026
Commercial Energy Storage in India Projected to Expand More Than 30 Times by 2032

New Delhi, June 18: India’s commercial energy storage sector is poised for exponential growth, with deployments projected to increase by more than 30 times by 2032, signaling a major shift in the country’s energy infrastructure landscape.

The rapid scale-up is being driven by the accelerating integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which require advanced storage systems to ensure grid stability and reliable power supply. As India continues its transition toward a low-carbon energy ecosystem, commercial and utility-scale battery storage is expected to play a central role.

Industry analysts suggest that falling battery costs, supportive government policies, and increasing investments in clean energy infrastructure are collectively fueling this growth trajectory. The expansion is also closely tied to rising electricity demand, electrification of transport, and the need for peak load management across industrial and commercial sectors.

By 2032, commercial energy storage systems are expected to become a foundational pillar of India’s power sector, enabling greater flexibility, efficiency, and resilience in the national grid.

Experts note that this growth represents not just an infrastructure upgrade but a structural transformation of how energy is generated, stored, and consumed in India.

18, Jun 2026
BRICS Meet on MSME Ecosystem to Focus on Innovation and Global Growth

New Delhi, June 18: India will host a BRICS meeting on Friday aimed at developing a stronger and future-ready ecosystem for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), officials said.

The meeting will bring together representatives from BRICS member countries to exchange views on improving the competitiveness, resilience, and global integration of MSMEs. It will focus on policy cooperation and practical measures to support small businesses in adapting to changing global economic conditions.

Key areas of discussion will include digital transformation of MSMEs, access to affordable credit, skill development, innovation support, and strengthening supply chain participation. Officials said special emphasis will be placed on helping MSMEs adopt advanced technologies and expand their presence in international markets.

The initiative is expected to enhance collaboration among BRICS nations and create a more inclusive and sustainable growth environment for small and medium enterprises, which are considered a key driver of employment and economic development across member countries.

 
18, Jun 2026
Electronics Manufacturing Becomes India’s 3rd-Largest Export Category

New Delhi, June 18: Electronics manufacturing has become India’s third-largest goods export category, highlighting the country’s growing strength in high-value manufacturing and global supply chains, according to the Union Minister.

The Minister noted that rapid expansion in electronics production, supported by government incentives, improved infrastructure, and rising global demand, has significantly boosted export performance in recent years.

He said the sector’s growth reflects India’s progress toward becoming a major global electronics hub, with increasing contributions from mobile phones, components, and other electronic goods.

Officials added that continued policy support and investment inflows are expected to further strengthen India’s position in the global electronics market and drive export-led growth in the coming years.

18, Jun 2026
Indian Medical Association (IMA) declares the longest day of the year, June 21, as ‘Vitamin D Day of India’ in collaboration with Abbott

In a significant step towards improving public health awareness, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), in collaboration with Abbott, a global healthcare company, has declared June 21 – the longest day of the year – as ‘Vitamin D Day of India.’

June 21 offers more sunlight than any other day of the year, making it the perfect opportunity to highlight the importance of Vitamin D – often called the ‘sunshine vitamin.’ With extended daylight hours, it becomes easier to step outdoors and absorb natural sunlight, a simple yet powerful way to support overall health. It’s also a timely reminder that something as effortless as spending a little time in the sun can go a long way in keeping us strong, active, and healthy.

Interestingly, despite India’s abundant sunshine, nearly 77% of the population is Vitamin D deficient.1 Modern lifestyles play a significant role – many people spend long hours indoors, use sun protection when outside, or live in urban environments where pollution limits sun exposure. Additionally, natural skin characteristics can influence how efficiently Vitamin D is produced. Low levels of this essential vitamin often go unnoticed but can have lasting effects, including weak bones, muscle pain, fatigue, and reduced immunity.2

By observing June 21 as Vitamin D Day, the initiative aims to encourage healthy practices, including safe sun exposure, increased awareness, timely screening, and appropriate management where needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional. The day is also intended to serve as a long-term annual anchor for driving sustained behavior change and strengthening doctor – patient conversations.

“Declaring June 21 as Vitamin D Day is an important step in addressing a widespread yet under-recognized public health issue. As doctors, we witness the health impact of Vitamin D deficiency across age groups.3 This initiative will help advance awareness and encourage people to take simple, preventive actions for better health,” said Dr. Anilkumar J. Nayak, National President, IMA.

Adding to this, Dr. Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Affairs Director for Abbott in India, noted, “Vitamin D deficiency is common and often silent, yet over time it can weaken bones and affect immunity. Spending about 15–30 minutes in sunlight between 10 am and 2 pm can help the body naturally produce Vitamin D, depending on individual factors. However, sunlight alone may not always be sufficient. Since symptoms are not always obvious, regular screening is important. If levels are low, a doctor can guide the right steps to restore and maintain healthy levels.4,5

This June 21, take an important step – get some sunlight, check your Vitamin D levels, and move toward a stronger, healthier, and more active life.

18, Jun 2026
AD Ports Group Enhances Al Faya Dry Port’s Integration with the Global Trade and Logistics Ecosystem

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 18 June 2026: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a leading global enabler of integrated trade, logistics, and industry, today announced that Al Faya Dry Port has been assigned UN/LOCODE (AEALF) by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), further strengthening the port’s integration into the global multimodal trade and logistics ecosystem.

The globally recognised UN/LOCODE system is used across the international shipping, logistics, and trade sectors to standardise location identification, facilitate customs processes, and enhance the efficiency of global supply chains. The issuance of UN/LOCODE (AEALF) establishes Al Faya Dry Port as an internationally recognised inland logistics hub, supporting more efficient cargo movement across interconnected ports, inland facilities, and multimodal trade corridors. 

AD Ports Group Enhances Al Faya Dry Port’s Integration with the Global Trade and Logistics Ecosystem

Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer – Ports Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “Securing the UN/LOCODE for Al Faya Dry Port from UNECE marks a significant milestone in further integrating the UAE into the global trade and transport network. This designation strengthens connectivity between our ports, inland logistics hubs, and multimodal trade corridors, while enabling more efficient cargo movement, streamlined customs processes, and enhanced supply chain resilience. As global trade continues to evolve, initiatives such as this highlight the importance of internationally recognised standards and digital trade integration in supporting seamless, future-ready logistics networks and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading global trade and logistics hub.”

The designation enables customs declarations to be processed by Abu Dhabi Customs at a single approved facility while accelerating cargo movement between connected logistics hubs under the same customs framework without requiring additional customs documentation between ports in Abu Dhabi. It also supports seamless bonded cargo movement and the issuance of Through Bills of Lading, enabling Al Faya Dry Port to serve as both an export origination point and a final destination point for imports.

Strategically located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Al Faya Dry Port is digitally integrated with Khalifa Port. The facility provides handling services for customs-controlled goods under Abu Dhabi Customs, advanced container handling capabilities, and integrated logistics solutions designed to support growing cargo volumes and strengthen multimodal trade connectivity across the UAE.

This strategic step underscores AD Ports Group’s commitment to developing future-ready logistics infrastructure and enabling smarter, more resilient trade flows through the seamless integration of ports, inland logistics facilities, and digital trade solutions.

18, Jun 2026
India’s Exports to BRICS Nations Projected to Reach Dollar 200 Billion by 2030: ASSOCHAM

New Delhi, June 18: India’s exports to BRICS countries are projected to reach around $200 billion by 2030, driven by expanding trade linkages, diversification of export markets, and growing demand across key emerging economies, according to industry body ASSOCHAM.

The report highlights that stronger economic cooperation among BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—along with the inclusion of new member countries, is expected to create significant opportunities for Indian exporters in sectors such as engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, textiles, chemicals, and IT-enabled services.

ASSOCHAM noted that India’s competitive manufacturing base, improving logistics infrastructure, and policy support for export promotion are likely to play a crucial role in achieving this growth target over the next decade.

It further stated that rising intra-BRICS trade and efforts to reduce dependency on traditional Western markets could help India diversify its export basket and strengthen its global trade position.

Industry experts believe that strategic trade agreements, supply chain integration, and digital trade facilitation will be key enablers in accelerating export growth to BRICS economies by 2030.

18, Jun 2026
NIT Rourkela Develops Low-Cost Ceramic Adsorbent for Industrial Wastewater Treatment

Rourkela, June 18 (UDN): Researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed an innovative and cost-effective ceramic adsorbent capable of removing harmful dyes from industrial wastewater, offering a sustainable solution to one of the most pressing environmental challenges.

NIT Rourkela Develops Low-Cost Ceramic Adsorbent for Industrial Wastewater Treatment

Representational image

The research team from the Department of Ceramic Engineering, led by Associate Professor Sunipa Bhattacharyya along with scholars Susanta Mohapatra and Sourav Ranjan Satpathy, designed the adsorbent using industrial by-products such as fly ash, ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), and kaolin clay.

Industries such as textiles, dyeing, and printing generate large volumes of coloured wastewater containing toxic chemicals that can contaminate rivers, lakes, and other water bodies, posing serious risks to aquatic ecosystems and public health. Conventional wastewater treatment methods are often expensive, energy-intensive, and generate additional waste.

To address these challenges, the NIT Rourkela team developed a ceramic adsorbent specifically engineered to remove Methylene Blue, a commonly used dye found in industrial effluents. Laboratory tests demonstrated remarkable performance, with the material achieving more than 95 percent dye removal efficiency.

A key innovation of the research lies in the use of raw kaolin clay instead of heat-treated metakaolin, eliminating an energy-intensive production stage. This not only reduces manufacturing costs but also makes the process more environmentally sustainable.

Researchers estimate that the adsorbent can be produced at a cost ranging between ₹25 and ₹50 per kilogram, making it an economically viable option for large-scale industrial wastewater treatment applications.

The findings of the study have been published in the reputed journal ChemistrySelect and support global efforts toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to clean water, sanitation, and responsible production practices.

The breakthrough is expected to contribute significantly to sustainable wastewater management and reinforce NIT Rourkela’s reputation as a leading centre for innovative research addressing real-world environmental challenges.

18, Jun 2026
India’s CAD Seen Rising to 2.2 pc of GDP in FY27 Amid Elevated Crude Oil Prices

New Delhi, June 18: India’s current account deficit (CAD) is projected to widen to around 2.2% of GDP in FY27, driven primarily by sustained high global crude oil prices and increased import-related pressures, according to recent macroeconomic assessments.

Analysts say the outlook reflects continued vulnerability to global energy price fluctuations, as India remains a major importer of crude oil to meet domestic consumption needs. Higher oil prices are expected to keep the import bill elevated, thereby widening the trade gap in the external sector.

While the CAD is likely to increase, strong performance in services exports—especially IT and business services—along with steady remittance inflows are expected to partially offset the pressure on the external account.

Experts also point out that global geopolitical uncertainties and commodity price volatility remain key risks that could further influence India’s external balance in FY27.

Despite the projected widening, India’s healthy foreign exchange reserves and stable capital inflows are expected to provide a cushion against external shocks, supporting overall macroeconomic stability.

Economists emphasize the importance of energy diversification and prudent external sector management to contain risks arising from volatile global oil markets.