20, Apr 2026
India’s JSW Steel, South Korea’s POSCO Tie Up for Odisha Plant
New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): In a significant development for India’s steel sector, JSW Steel and South Korea’s POSCO have announced a 50:50 joint venture to establish a new steel manufacturing facility in Odisha.
The announcement comes during the official visit of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to India, highlighting growing economic and industrial cooperation between the two countries.
The proposed plant in Odisha is expected to strengthen steel production capacity, enhance technology collaboration, and support long-term industrial integration between Indian and South Korean companies. Officials indicated that the project will focus on advanced steel manufacturing processes and sustainable production practices.
The joint venture is also expected to contribute to Odisha’s position as a major steel hub in India, attracting further investment and generating employment opportunities in the region.
Industry observers note that the partnership reflects increasing confidence in India’s manufacturing ecosystem and aligns with broader efforts to deepen bilateral economic ties between India and South Korea.
Further details regarding investment size, capacity, and project timelines are expected to be announced in the coming stages of the partnership.
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- By Neel Achary
20, Apr 2026
‘Z’ to broadcast DP World ILT20 Season 5 beginning Sunday, 22 November 2026
Apr 20: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (‘Z’), India’s leading content and technology powerhouse, announced the live broadcast schedule of DP World International League T20 (ILT20). Season 5 of the biggest cricket league in the Gulf region – the second-most watched T20 league in the world – DP World International League T20 will begin on Sunday, 22 November 2026. The six-team, 34-match tournament, which has featured some of the biggest T20 stars over the years, will climax with the Season 5 finale on Sunday, 20 December, at the Dubai International Stadium.
The league moved to a December window in Season 4; the first three seasons were played in the January-February window. Season 4 was a big success with enhanced broadcast numbers, and spectator attendance. The tournament’s final (4 January 2026) was played in front of a packed Dubai International Stadium as the Desert Vipers collected their maiden trophy with a 46-run win over the MI Emirates.
Sandeep Mehrotra, Chief Operating Officer – Advertisement Revenue, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, “We are excited to strengthen our association with DP World ILT20 as it enters its fifth season, building on the strong momentum of viewership growth and fan engagement witnessed in previous editions. Our focus is on delivering a high-impact and immersive experience for cricket fans through a seamless blend of platforms, and with Season 5, we aim to further expand the league’s reach, deepen audience connect, and reinforce its position as one of the most compelling T20 leagues globally.”
Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts across India can continue to enjoy the LIVE action on ‘Z’s linear TV channels and its OTT platform, Zee 5. As the network strengthens its sports portfolio, ‘Z’ is also exploring the opportunity to showcase the tournament on its dedicated sports channels, which are slated for launch soon.
CEO DP World ILT20 David White: “We are pleased to confirm the DP World International League T20 Season 5 window. The biggest cricketing spectacle in the Gulf region will be played from Sunday, 22 November to Sunday, 20 December 2026. We are delighted with Season 4’s success. Season 4 was a major success, accumulating 397 million unique viewers across TV and OTT, a 7.49% increase over Season 3, driven by strong broadcast numbers, high spectator interest and the participation of top T20 stars, which further elevated the league’s quality.
“The DP World ILT20 continues to make massive strides and our strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation and Kuwait Cricket are already making a big impact. This year, these partnerships will be consolidated further through our development tournaments which will be played in both countries prior to Season 5.
“The DP World ILT20 Season 4 Player Auction was a great success as well and we are already gearing up for this year’s auction. There are a number of exciting announcements and initiatives that will be revealed in the coming days.”
DP World ILT20’s Season 4 featured some of the biggest T20 stars including: Sam Curran (Desert Vipers) – Player of the Tournament and winner of the Best Batter award (Red and Green Belts); Waqar
Salamkheil (MI Emirates) – Best Bowler and White Belt winner; and Muhammad Waseem – Best UAE Player and Blue Belt winner. The star-studded squads also featured the likes of Andre Russell, Azmatullah Omarzai, Dinesh Karthik, Pathum Nissanka, Fakhar Zaman, Jason Holder, Jason Roy, Kieron Pollard, Moeen Ali, Mohammad Nabi, Naseem Shah, Nicholas Pooran, Phil Salt, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Romario Shepherd, Shakib Al Hasan, Sikandar Raza, Sunil Narine, Tim David, and Tim Southee.
20, Apr 2026
MSME Manufacturing Sees Steady Growth, But Global Tensions Weigh on Momentum
New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): India’s MSME manufacturing sector recorded expansion during the January–March period, although the pace of growth showed signs of moderation amid geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia, according to a recent survey by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The survey indicates that while overall business activity in the MSME segment remained positive, external pressures—particularly disruptions linked to the West Asia crisis—have slightly dampened growth momentum.
Rising input costs, supply chain concerns, and global market volatility were identified as key challenges affecting sentiment in the sector. Despite these headwinds, manufacturers continued to report expansion in production and order activity, reflecting underlying resilience in domestic demand.
Industry stakeholders noted that MSMEs are adapting to external shocks by focusing on efficiency, diversification of supply sources, and greater reliance on domestic markets.
The report further highlights that sustained government support, credit availability, and policy interventions have helped cushion the impact of global uncertainties on small and medium enterprises.
Overall, the survey suggests that while growth in the MSME manufacturing sector continues, external geopolitical tensions have introduced caution into business outlooks for the near term.
20, Apr 2026
PM Modi to Inaugurate Mega Refinery Petrochemical Project in Rajasthan
New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Rajasthan on Tuesday to inaugurate India’s first greenfield integrated refinery and petrochemical complex at Pachpadra in Balotra.
The project, built with an investment of over ₹79,450 crore, is among the largest energy infrastructure developments in the country. Officials said it marks an important step in expanding India’s refining capacity while strengthening its petrochemical manufacturing base.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The integrated facility is expected to enhance domestic production of key petrochemical products, reduce import dependence, and support industries such as plastics, textiles, fertilisers, and packaging.
Authorities noted that the project will also contribute to regional development by creating employment opportunities and encouraging industrial growth in Rajasthan.
During the visit, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to address a public gathering, where he is expected to highlight the project’s significance in advancing India’s energy security and industrial self-reliance.
The refinery-petrochemical complex is seen as a key addition to India’s energy infrastructure, aligning with the country’s long-term goals of boosting manufacturing capacity and meeting rising energy and industrial demand.
20, Apr 2026
Dubai’s leading developers have sold vast majority of homes scheduled for delivery this year
fäm Properties analysis shows city’s 4-year pipeline 71.45% committed, as absorption rate leaves major global markets far behind
Dubai, UAE, 20th April, 2026: Dubai’s leading developers have already sold the vast majority of homes scheduled for delivery in 2026, while buyers have also snapped up 71.45% of the city’s total off-plan pipeline due for completion between 2026 and 2029.
A market analysis issued by fäm Properties today reveals a sustained alignment between supply and demand across one of the most active launch periods in the emirate’s history, maintaining an historic absorption rate that leaves other major global cities far behind.
Data from DXBinteract shows that in 2026 alone, ten of Dubai’s major developers are scheduled to deliver 43,217 units, of which 41,015 are already sold, resulting in a blended absorption rate of 94.91%.
Across the four-year pipeline from 2026 to 2029, all Dubai developers combined have 426,182 units scheduled for delivery, with 304,493 already sold, a level of buyer conviction few residential markets anywhere in the world have come close to matching.
“Dubai continues to demonstrate a level of forward demand that is structurally different from most international property markets,” said Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties.
“When nearly all of next year’s deliveries and more than 70% of the next four years are already sold, it fundamentally changes how supply risk and market stability should be assessed.
“This reflects the confidence that buyers, both regional and international, have placed in a market built on transparency, strong regulatory foundations and a long-term vision that continues to attract commitment well ahead of delivery.”
Within the 2026 pipeline, absorption is consistently high across all of the market’s leading developers. Emaar has sold 99.1% of its 9,085 scheduled units, Meraas 99.77% of 2,615, with Dubai Holding and Meydan both fully sold out.
DAMAC stands at 99.17% and Danube at 99.55%, while Binghatti, carrying the largest single volume with 20,906 units due this year, has sold 87.31% of them.
Spanning the full market, encompassing tens of thousands of homes launched across one of the most active periods of project activity the emirate has seen, the data tells a consistent story.
Of the 111,408 units scheduled for delivery in Dubai in 2026, 87,514 have already been sold, an absorption rate of 78.55%. In 2027, 87,840 of 133,618 units are sold at 65.74%.
In 2028 the figure stands at 71.97% with 89,879 of 124,889 units already placed, and in 2029, 39,260 of 56,267 units are sold at 69.77%. Across all four years, 304,493 of 426,182 tracked units have a buyer behind them, a blended rate of 71.45%.
For context, since records began, the entire Dubai market inventory stands at 548,106 units launched, 400,038 sold, and an aggregate absorption rate of 72.99%. The four-year forward pipeline is performing in precise alignment with Dubai’s long-run market average.
In London, one of the world’s most established residential markets, just 8,436 new private homes were sold across the whole of 2025, according to data from Molior and research from Knight Frank published in early 2026.
This shows how rarely even the most mature markets sustain the level of forward absorption that Dubai has recorded across its entire active pipeline.
PROJECTS TO BE HANDED OVER IN 2026 BY MAJOR DEVELOPERS
|
|
Developer |
Total Units |
Sold Units |
Absorption Rate |
|
1 |
Emaar |
9,085 |
9,003 |
99.1% |
|
2 |
Meraas |
2,615 |
2.609 |
99.77% |
|
3 |
Dubai Holding |
326 |
326 |
100% |
|
4 |
Meydan |
435 |
435 |
100% |
|
5 |
DAMAC |
1,324 |
1,313 |
99.17% |
|
6 |
Danube |
3,348 |
3,333 |
99.55% |
|
7 |
Nakheel |
2,799 |
2,617 |
93.5% |
|
8 |
Ellington |
1,170 |
1,101 |
94.1% |
|
9 |
Imtiaz |
2,209 |
2,024 |
91.63% |
|
10 |
Binghatti |
20,906 |
18,254 |
87.31% |
|
|
Totals |
43,217 |
41,015 |
94.91% |
FOUR-YEAR DELIVERY PIPELINE FOR ALL DEVELOPERS
|
Delivery |
Units |
Sold Units |
Absorption Rate |
|
2026 |
111,408 |
87,514 |
78.55% |
|
2027 |
133,618 |
87,840 |
65.74% |
|
2028 |
124,889 |
89,879 |
71.97% |
|
2029 |
56,267 |
39,260 |
69.77% |
|
Totals |
426,182 |
304,493 |
71.45% |
20, Apr 2026
India’s Power Transmission Sector to Attract INR 9 Trillion Investment by 2032: Report
New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): India’s power transmission sector is set for a significant expansion, with projected investments of around ₹9 trillion by 2032, according to a recent industry report. The surge in capital expenditure is expected to be driven by rising electricity demand, rapid infrastructure growth, and the country’s ongoing clean energy transition.
The report states that the planned investments will focus on strengthening the national transmission backbone, expanding interstate power corridors, and enhancing the system’s ability to integrate large-scale renewable energy.
A major priority will be improving transmission capacity from renewable energy hubs to consumption centres, ensuring smoother evacuation of solar and wind power. Upgradation of grid infrastructure and adoption of advanced technologies for better load management are also expected to be key focus areas.
Experts note that India’s evolving energy landscape requires a more flexible and resilient transmission network capable of handling fluctuating renewable output alongside growing industrial and urban demand.
The report further highlights that policy support, regulatory reforms, and increasing private sector participation are likely to sustain long-term investment momentum in the sector.
Overall, the projected capex underscores the critical role of transmission infrastructure in strengthening energy security, supporting economic expansion, and enabling India’s transition toward a cleaner and more efficient power system.
20, Apr 2026
Study Flags Impact of Excess Screen Use on Children’s Behaviour and Sleep
Jaipur, Apr 20 (BNP): A recent clinical assessment conducted at a leading government hospital in Rajasthan has brought renewed attention to the growing impact of prolonged screen exposure on children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. The findings indicate a clear association between higher daily screen use and disturbances in attention, sleep patterns, and behavioural balance among school-going children.
The study evaluated 150 children in the age group of 10 to 16 years using behavioural observations, structured interactions, and parental feedback. It reflects an emerging lifestyle trend where digital devices are increasingly central to both learning and leisure, often without structured limits.
According to the study
According to the study, nearly 72% of children reported spending between three and six hours daily on mobile phones. Researchers observed that this level of screen engagement is frequently accompanied by reduced concentration, irregular sleep cycles, and diminished participation in offline activities.
Children with higher screen exposure were more likely to show difficulty in sustaining attention during academic tasks, increased irritability, and a tendency to withdraw from face-to-face social interaction. A preference for digital engagement over physical or outdoor activities was also commonly noted.
Cognitive and behavioural impact
The findings suggest that prolonged and unregulated screen use may overstimulate developing cognitive systems, affecting a child’s ability to focus for extended periods. Exposure to fast-paced and constantly changing digital content can gradually reduce patience levels and weaken attention control, particularly in academic environments.
Behavioural observations also indicated subtle emotional changes, including increased reliance on digital devices for comfort and reduced engagement with family members and peers. Over time, this pattern may influence social development and emotional responsiveness.
Sleep disruption emerging as a key concern
One of the most consistent observations in the study relates to sleep disturbance. Excessive screen use, especially during evening hours, was linked to delayed sleep onset and reduced overall sleep quality. This disruption in sleep patterns can have wider implications on memory consolidation, mood stability, and daytime alertness.
A shifting childhood environment
The study highlights a broader transformation in childhood experiences, where digital interaction is replacing traditional forms of play and communication. While technology continues to offer educational benefits, the findings underline the need to understand its behavioural and developmental impact when used without boundaries.
The importance of balanced digital habits
Experts associated with the assessment emphasise that complete avoidance of digital devices is neither practical nor necessary. Instead, the focus should be on structured and age-appropriate screen-time management.
Recommended measures include limiting recreational screen use, encouraging outdoor physical activity, promoting family interaction, and maintaining device-free time before sleep. These steps are seen as essential in restoring balance between digital engagement and real-world experiences.
A growing developmental concern
The findings point toward an emerging public health and developmental concern, as screen dependency becomes increasingly common among children. While digital tools remain integral to modern life, the study underscores the importance of moderation to ensure healthy cognitive growth, emotional stability, and social development.
In an increasingly digital world, the challenge lies not in removing screens from childhood—but in ensuring they do not define it.
20, Apr 2026
KKR Bounce Back with Thrilling First Victory Led by Rinku Singh, While PBKS Stay Unstoppable with Record-Breaking Performance Against LSG
Kolkata, Apr 20: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) registered their first victory of the Indian Premier League 2026 season with a thrilling four-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Eden Gardens on April 19.
Chasing 156, KKR overcame early setbacks, slipping to 5/2 and later 70/5, before a match-winning 76-run partnership between Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy turned the game. Rinku remained unbeaten on 53 off 34 balls, guiding the team home with two balls to spare and ending KKR’s six-match winless streak.
Earlier, RR got off to a strong start with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (46) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (39) powering them to 81/0. However, KKR’s spin duo of Varun Chakaravarthy (3/14) and Sunil Narine (2/26) triggered a middle-order collapse, restricting RR to 155/9.
PBKS Crush LSG with Batting Firepower
In another high-scoring clash, Punjab Kings (PBKS), led by Shreyas Iyer, continued their dominant run with a commanding 54-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Mullanpur.
PBKS posted a massive 254/7 in 20 overs, the highest total of the season, powered by Priyansh Arya (93 off 37) and Cooper Connolly (87 off 46). The duo stitched together a remarkable 182-run partnership for the second wicket, setting the tone for the innings.
In response, LSG managed 200/5 despite a solid 61-run opening stand by Ayush Badoni (35) and Mitchell Marsh (40), along with a late 43 from Rishabh Pant. However, the target proved too steep as PBKS bowlers, led by Marco Jansen (2/37), maintained control.
With this victory, PBKS remain at the top of the points table with five wins in six matches, continuing their unbeaten streak and reinforcing their status as strong title contenders.
The contrasting results highlight the evolving dynamics of IPL 2026, with KKR gaining momentum after a slow start, while PBKS continue to set the pace with consistent, high-impact performances.
20, Apr 2026
Gujarat Titans Take on Mumbai Indians in Crucial IPL 2026 Clash
Ahmedabad, Apr 20: Gujarat Titans (GT) will host Mumbai Indians (MI) in Match 30 of the Indian Premier League 2026 today at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium.
The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST, with the toss at 7:00 PM IST. It will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and streamed live on JioHotstar.
Team Form & Standings
Gujarat Titans enter the contest in strong form, currently placed sixth on the table with three consecutive wins. Led by in-form skipper Shubman Gill, who has scored 251 runs this season, GT will look to continue their winning momentum at home. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Rashid Khan, remains a key strength.
Mumbai Indians, on the other hand, are struggling at the lower end of the table with four consecutive losses. The team will be hoping for a turnaround, with all eyes on Rohit Sharma, whose fitness remains under observation, and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.
Head-to-Head & Venue Record
Gujarat Titans hold the advantage in head-to-head encounters, leading 5–3 overall. Notably, GT boast a perfect 4–0 record against MI at Ahmedabad, making them formidable at home. However, Mumbai Indians had the upper hand in their last meeting, winning the IPL 2025 Eliminator by 20 runs.
Pitch & Weather Conditions
The Ahmedabad pitch is expected to favour pace bowlers early on, while the large boundaries could bring spinners into play during the middle overs. Weather conditions are set to be extremely warm, with temperatures around 41°C during the day, cooling to approximately 34°C in the evening. No rain interruptions are expected.
Key Match-Ups to Watch
- Shubman Gill vs MI Bowlers: Gill is in strong form and closing in on a significant milestone against Mumbai.
- Rashid Khan vs MI Middle Order: Rashid’s spin could prove decisive in restricting MI’s scoring.
- Rohit Sharma’s Fitness: His availability could significantly influence Mumbai’s batting strength.
With both teams at contrasting points in the standings, the match promises high intensity. Gujarat Titans will aim to extend their winning streak, while Mumbai Indians will look to bounce back and revive their campaign.
20, Apr 2026
Cottonseed Oil Cake Prices Inch Up in Futures Trade on Fresh Bets
New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): Cottonseed oil cake prices recorded a marginal uptick in futures trade on Monday, supported by fresh buying interest and improved demand in the market.
On the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange, cottonseed oil cake futures for May delivery rose slightly to ₹3,424 per quintal, reflecting a steady tone in trading activity.
Market participants said the increase was driven by the creation of fresh positions by traders, amid expectations of stronger demand from the cattle feed segment.
Analysts noted that the expansion of open interest indicated renewed participation in the segment, contributing to the marginal price gains during the session.
Overall, the market trend remained mildly positive, with demand-side support helping prices maintain an upward bias in futures trading.
