14, Apr 2026
India Extends Health Support to Afghanistan with BCG Vaccine Shipment
Apr 14 (BNP): India has sent a large consignment of BCG vaccines to Afghanistan, reinforcing its support for public health and child immunisation programmes in the neighbouring country.
The shipment, weighing around 13 tonnes, is aimed at strengthening vaccination coverage for children and supporting efforts to prevent tuberculosis-related health risks in early childhood.
The initiative reflects India’s continued humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, particularly in the healthcare sector, where vaccine access and child immunisation remain critical challenges.
BCG vaccines are widely used as part of national immunisation programmes to protect infants and young children against tuberculosis, a disease that continues to pose public health concerns in several regions.
The latest supply is expected to help Afghan health authorities expand immunisation outreach and improve vaccine availability in vulnerable communities.
The move further underscores India’s role in providing medical support and essential supplies to countries in need, especially in the broader South Asian region.
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- By Neel Achary
14, Apr 2026
hubergroup launches LED ink for food packaging at METPACK
hubergroup Print Solutions will showcase its extensive portfolio for metal decoration at METPACK.
At this year’s METPACK, hubergroup Print Solutions presents its comprehensive portfolio for metal decoration at hall 1, booth 1B11, underlining its position as a one-stop partner for metal packaging printers worldwide. With a strong focus on innovation, compliance, and performance, the company showcases solutions tailored to the evolving demands of the industry. Highlights include two series for food packaging: the conventional offset series TINKREDIBLE MGA, which was recently launched globally, and the NewV tin LED MGA series, which will make its official debut at the exhibition.
At the core of hubergroup’s METPACK showcase is its broad offering for metal decoration – including its conventional series TINKREDIBLE and its UV series NewV with LED and mercury-vapour curing systems. The portfolio covers a wide range of applications such as food cans, aerosols, closures, crown caps, and chemical‑technical packaging, and is known for high colour brilliance, strong scratch resistance, and environmentally conscious formulation.
Driving the shift to LED-UV in food packaging
A key highlight at METPACK 2026 is the introduction of NewV tin LED MGA, a LED-curing ink series for food packaging designed for three-piece can applications. This innovation responds directly to the growing industry shift toward LED-UV curing technologies, particularly in sensitive food applications where safety, efficiency, and sustainability are critical. The series complies with the requirements of the German Ink Ordinance (GIO), the Swiss Ordinance, and the guidelines of renowned brand manufacturers.
“With NewV tin LED MGA, we are giving metal decorators a reliable, future‑proof LED solution that meets the stringent safety requirements of food packaging while delivering excellent printing performance,” says Jan Museler, Product Manager Metal Decoration at hubergroup. “It’s an important step in supporting the industry’s transition to LED‑UV technologies.”
A fully integrated system for metal decoration
Complementing the TINKREDIBLE and NewV ink systems, hubergroup provides a full suite of varnishes and fountain solution additives, all engineered to work seamlessly together. This integrated approach ensures consistent performance, high efficiency in the pressroom, and reliable end-product quality – delivering a complete system from a single source.
Equally important is the company’s strong focus on service. hubergroup provides local technical support and expert consultation, ensuring customers receive tailored guidance for their specific pressroom requirements. This hands-on approach helps metal decorators optimise processes, improve efficiency, and achieve consistent results.
“METPACK is the ideal platform to demonstrate how our fully integrated pressroom solutions support metal decorators in meeting evolving market demands”, says Patrick Hübel, Director Product Management and Technical Marketing Offset at hubergroup. “By combining high-performance products with strong technical service, we enable our customers to achieve consistent quality, greater efficiency, and a smoother transition to future-ready technologies.”
Visitors to METPACK are invited to explore hubergroup’s full metal decoration portfolio and discover how integrated solutions can unlock new potential in metal packaging production.
14, Apr 2026
Strong March for Auto Sector as PV and Two Wheeler Sales Rise
New Delhi, Apr 14 (BNP): Domestic automobile dispatches posted strong growth in March, reflecting sustained demand momentum across both passenger vehicles and two-wheelers, according to industry data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).
Passenger vehicle dispatches from companies to dealers rose 16 per cent year-on-year to 4,42,460 units in March, compared to 3,81,358 units in the same month last year.
The two-wheeler segment also recorded robust growth, increasing 19.3 per cent to 19,76,128 units in March, up from 16,56,939 units a year earlier.
The strong performance across segments indicates improving consumer sentiment and steady demand in the domestic automobile market, which is a key driver of industrial activity and employment.
Industry experts note that higher vehicle sales typically boost manufacturing output, supply chain activity, and dealership revenues, while also contributing significantly to government tax collections through GST, road tax, and registration fees.
The automobile sector, one of India’s largest employment generators, also supports a wide ecosystem of component makers, logistics providers, and financial services linked to vehicle financing.
14, Apr 2026
Iranian Crude Returns to India After 7 Years; Tanker Docks at Paradip
Paradip/New Delhi, Apr 14 (BNP): In a significant development for India’s energy sector, Iranian crude oil has resumed flows to the country after a gap of nearly seven years, amid temporary easing of US sanctions and tightening global supply conditions.
A very large crude carrier (VLCC), MT JAYA, carrying around 2 million barrels of crude from Kharg Island, docked at Paradip Port on April 9, marking the first such delivery since 2019 when sanctions halted trade.
According to port authorities, the vessel delivered approximately 277,321 metric tonnes of crude oil to the Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) refinery at Paradip. Officials described the arrival as a step that further strengthens the port’s role as a key gateway for India’s energy imports.
Adding to the development, another VLCC, Felicity, also carrying nearly 2 million barrels of Iranian crude, is currently anchored near Sikka, taking the total recent inflow to about 4 million barrels.
While it remains unclear which refiners have procured the cargoes, industry sources note that IOCL operates the Paradip refinery, while Reliance Industries Limited and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited receive crude at Sikka.
The resumption of Iranian oil supplies comes at a time of heightened global energy volatility and reflects shifting trade dynamics, as countries seek to secure stable crude sources amid geopolitical uncertainties.
14, Apr 2026
Keonjhar Gets INR 1,900 Crore Infrastructure Boost from CM Majhi
Keonjhar, Apr 14 (BNP): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday laid the foundation stone for infrastructure projects worth around ₹1,900 crore in Keonjhar district, including the long-awaited Barbil Bypass-cum-Ring Road project aimed at easing heavy traffic congestion in the mining belt.
The ₹1,581.21 crore bypass project is expected to significantly improve connectivity in the mineral-rich Barbil region, one of Odisha’s busiest freight corridors.
During his visit, the Chief Minister also inaugurated 24 completed projects worth ₹29.41 crore and laid the foundation for 51 new projects valued at ₹326.43 crore.
The proposed 18.3-km bypass-cum-ring road will have the capacity to handle around 40,000 passenger car units (PCUs) daily, compared to the current traffic volume of nearly 15,375 vehicles per day.
Officials said the project is designed to reduce congestion caused by heavy mining vehicles, cut travel time, lower transportation costs, and improve overall logistics efficiency in the region.
Majhi said the upgraded road network would help resolve long-standing traffic bottlenecks and support economic growth in Keonjhar and surrounding areas.
14, Apr 2026
Blue Ridge by Motiaz Group Emerges as Zirakpur’s Fastest-Evolving Premium Residential Community with Over 70 Percent Delivered,
New Delhi, April 14: Motiaz Group proudly announces a significant construction and occupancy milestone at its premium residential development,Blue Ridge. With more than 70% of the project already delivered, the development is rapidly evolving into a vibrant, thriving community, with over 300 families already calling it home.
Spread across approximately 8 acres, Blue Ridge has been thoughtfully designed to offer a harmonious blend of modern living and open, green surroundings. Over 40% of the project area is dedicated to landscaped greens and open spaces, ensuring residents enjoy a serene and healthy lifestyle.
The project features 12 high-rise towers ranging from 9 to 11 floors, comprising around 472 premium residential units. Offering spacious 3 BHK and 3+1 BHK apartments, Blue Ridge caters to modern families seeking comfort, convenience, and elevated living standards. Homes are attractively priced starting from approximately ₹1.05 crore onwards.
Construction and possession progress across the development continues at a steady pace, with Towers 7 to 12 already handed over, Towers 5 and 6 witnessing active move-ins by families, and Towers 1 to 4 in the final stages and nearing possession.
Residents at Blue Ridge enjoy a host of premium amenities, including a fully equipped clubhouse, swimming pool, yoga center, and modern gymnasium. The development also prioritizes safety and security, featuring boom barrier entry points along with a robust three-tier security system.
Commenting on the milestone, Mukul Bansal, Director at Motiaz Group, said:
“Blue Ridge reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality homes on time while creating a complete lifestyle ecosystem. With a majority of the project already delivered and families actively living here, we are proud to see a strong community taking shape. Our focus remains on ensuring timely possession of the remaining towers while maintaining the highest standards of construction and amenities.”
With strong progress and growing occupancy, Blue Ridge continues to set new benchmarks for premium residential living in Zirakpur.
14, Apr 2026
Adani Green Secures 87.3 ESG Score, Best in India
New Delhi, Apr 14 (BNP): Adani Green Energy Limited has secured the highest ESG score of 87.3 among Indian companies assessed by CareEdge-ESG, earning an “ESG 1+” rating and strengthening its position in sustainability performance.
The rating highlights the company’s strong performance across key environmental, social and governance parameters, reflecting robust climate strategy, governance practices, and transparency in disclosures.
CareEdge-ESG stated that its assessment is based on a comprehensive review of ESG risks and opportunities, benchmarked against industry peers.
The agency noted that AGEL’s sustainability approach is supported by structured policies and the integration of ESG principles across its renewable energy operations.
The recognition is expected to enhance investor confidence, especially as ESG performance increasingly influences access to green and transition-linked financing.
Company officials said the rating validates its long-term focus on sustainable growth and climate-aligned investments across its renewable energy portfolio.
14, Apr 2026
Inflation Edges Up to 3.4%, Middle East Conflict and Weak Monsoon Pose Risks
New Delhi, Apr 14 (BNP): India’s retail inflation rose modestly to 3.4 per cent in March, marking its highest level since January, according to official data released on Monday.
Despite the increase, inflation remains below the 4 per cent target set by the Reserve Bank of India, indicating that price levels are still within the central bank’s comfort zone.
However, concerns are mounting over potential upward pressure on inflation in the coming months. A prolonged conflict in the Middle East could push global crude oil prices higher, posing a significant risk for India, which imports nearly 90 per cent of its oil requirements.
Additionally, forecasts of below-average monsoon rainfall—possibly the first such instance in three years—have raised apprehensions about agricultural output and food prices.
Economists caution that the combined impact of global geopolitical tensions and domestic weather uncertainties may lead to an increase in the cost of living, prompting policymakers to remain vigilant and responsive to emerging inflationary trends.
14, Apr 2026
Income Tax Collection in Odisha Hits INR 18,500 Crore; Filers Drop to 15 Lakh
Bhubaneswar, Apr 14 (BNP): Odisha recorded a net income tax collection of around ₹18,500 crore in the financial year 2025–26, according to official data shared by the Income Tax Department.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The number of income tax return filers in the state declined to nearly 15 lakh in FY25–26, compared to about 16.7 lakh in the previous financial year. The drop of around 1.7 lakh taxpayers is attributed to the increase in the income tax exemption limit announced in the Union Budget, which reduced the number of individuals required to file returns.
The information was shared during a press briefing held after the assumption of office by Odisha’s new Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Dr. D. Sudhakar Rao.
Officials also noted that Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) emerged as the highest corporate taxpayer in the state, contributing about ₹3,750 crore in taxes during the year.
For FY26–27, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) is expected to set a new collection target for the state, with preliminary estimates placing it close to ₹20,000 crore. Authorities expressed confidence in meeting the upcoming target.
14, Apr 2026
India Cracks Down on Overloaded Vehicles with Higher Fines, Digital Monitoring
Apr 14 (BNP): India has introduced stricter enforcement rules for overloaded vehicles, combining heavier penalties, mandatory unloading of excess cargo, and advanced digital monitoring to improve road safety and protect highway infrastructure.
Under the revised framework, vehicles found carrying excess load will face a fine of ₹20,000, along with an additional ₹2,000 for every extra tonne beyond the permitted limit. Authorities will also require immediate unloading of excess cargo before the vehicle is allowed to continue its journey.
Repeat violations may attract further action, including suspension of driving licences and cancellation of transport permits for up to three months, tightening compliance across the transport sector.
To strengthen enforcement, toll plazas across the country are being upgraded with weigh-in-motion (WIM) systems that can detect overloaded vehicles without requiring them to stop. Penalties for overloading will be collected through the FASTag system, enabling automated and cashless enforcement.
In addition, violation data will be linked with the VAHAN database to improve monitoring and ensure coordinated action against repeat offenders. Both drivers and transport operators will be held responsible for ensuring compliance with load regulations.
Vehicles carrying protruding or oversized loads beyond permissible height and width limits will also face penalties of ₹20,000.
Officials have made it mandatory for overloaded vehicles to be detained until excess cargo is removed, reinforcing strict compliance measures. The rules are being enforced more rigorously on major freight corridors, particularly in mining and industrial transport routes where overloading has been a persistent concern.
