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New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): India and Austria have jointly introduced a bilateral fast-track mechanism aimed at improving investment flows and strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.

The newly launched system is designed to support businesses and investors by providing a structured platform to address challenges, streamline processes, and enhance the overall ease of doing business. It will enable companies from both countries to raise concerns, seek quicker resolutions, and engage directly with relevant authorities.

The mechanism is expected to reduce procedural delays and create a more efficient and predictable investment environment. It also encourages the exchange of suggestions between the two sides to further improve regulatory frameworks and business conditions.

A fast-track mechanism refers to a dedicated system that accelerates approvals and resolves issues faced by investors in a timely manner. By simplifying procedures and improving coordination, it helps businesses operate more smoothly and with greater confidence.

This initiative marks a significant step toward deepening bilateral economic ties and fostering greater collaboration between businesses in India and Austria.

Apr 18 (BNP): Global financial markets saw a strong upswing after tensions between the United States and Iran showed signs of easing, lifting investor confidence across regions.

Oil prices declined sharply as fears of supply disruptions eased, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global crude shipments. The earlier spike in prices, driven by geopolitical uncertainty, began to reverse as stability returned to the region.

Equity markets responded positively to the development. Major indices in the United States recorded notable gains, with technology and consumer sectors leading the rally. Lower oil prices also raised expectations of reduced inflationary pressure, further supporting market sentiment.

European and Asian markets followed the upward trend, reflecting a broader sense of relief among investors. Sectors sensitive to fuel costs, such as aviation and logistics, performed well, while energy stocks came under pressure due to falling crude prices.

Despite the optimism, market participants remain watchful. The sustainability of the current rally depends on how long the geopolitical calm holds, as any renewed tensions could quickly impact oil prices and global equities.

 Women’s Reservation Bill Marks a Defining Moment—Leadership Begins Here.  The Next MP or MLA could already be in this room” — Seetha Reddy, Chairperson, FLO 

Hyderabad | Apr 18: FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) Hyderabad, under the leadership of Chairperson Seetha Reddy, hosted “Unscripted: Life, Legacy & Reinvention” at ITC Kohenur on Friday evening, bringing together acclaimed actor Neena Gupta and celebrated designer-entrepreneur Masaba Gupta for an engaging and candid conversation on resilience, reinvention, and individuality.

Delivering her welcome address, Seetha Reddy said: “As we step into this milestone 25th year of FLO Hyderabad, it is a moment of both reflection and renewed purpose. ‘Unscripted’ is not just a conversation—it is a reminder that every woman’s journey is unique, evolving, and powerful. Through platforms like these, we hope to inspire women to embrace their own narratives with confidence, to step forward, be heard, and lead. Because real change happens when every voice matters—and when every voice rises together.”

She further added, “This is truly a defining moment for all of us as women. I would also like to acknowledge the importance of the Women’s Reservation Bill. If the bill passed,  it is only a matter of time before we see familiar FLO faces stepping into leadership roles—perhaps the next MP or MLA is already in this room.”

The mother-daughter duo was in conversation with Seetha Reddy. Opening the session, Masaba Gupta reflected on carving her own path, saying that while being the daughter of accomplished parents could have been pressurising in fields like sports or acting, she never felt that burden in fashion. “I experienced it as a positive pressure,” she noted.

Neena Gupta, in her candid and characteristic style, shared her life philosophy: “Kaam maangne mein sharam nahi honi chahiye (one should never hesitate to seek work), but paise maangne mein sharam honi chahiye (one must be mindful when asking for money). Work is worship. If you work hard, there is no time for depression. No work is small. If you are educated and willing to work, you will never go hungry.”

She further added, “There is no point in being shy. Sell your expertise. Be honest with yourself, but you don’t need to display everything outwardly. Make the most of what you have.”

Reflecting on her career, Neena Gupta shared that she experienced true success at the age of 60 with her role in Badhaai Ho. “That film brought me recognition and renewed appreciation. Suddenly, I was seen differently. Success changes perceptions,” she said with her trademark humour, adding that she became more selective with roles after that phase.

Masaba Gupta, speaking about entrepreneurship, highlighted the importance of instinct and decision-making. “If I had learned to say ‘no’ earlier, I might have been a better entrepreneur. It’s difficult, but necessary. I am not driven by trends or the market—I follow my gut and aim to set trends,” she said.

She also shared a lighter personal note: “For my mother and me, jewellery shopping is therapeutic—it’s a joyful space.” She added that both jewellery and beauty ventures are extensions of her creative expression.

Addressing the realities of entrepreneurship, Masaba noted, “The founder’s journey is inherently lonely. Decision-making is often solitary. But success or failure is never final—what matters is to keep going and not give up.”

On financial prudence, Neena Gupta remarked, “I am an FD (Fixed Deposit) person. I have always taken a cautious approach to money. Whether in failure or success, I never had the luxury of dwelling in depression.”

In her closing message, Neena encouraged the audience to pursue passion: “Have a shauk (deep desire), and you can achieve anything.”

Masaba concluded with a practical insight: “In life, you don’t always get what you deserve—you get what you negotiate.”

The session, part of FLO Hyderabad’s landmark 25th-year celebrations, explored personal journeys shaped by courage, authenticity, and reinvention across life stages. The conversation offered valuable insights into navigating challenges, embracing change, and building meaningful legacies.

The event also set the tone for FLO Hyderabad’s Silver Jubilee year, reflecting on 25 years of empowering women through leadership, entrepreneurship, and social impact. Over the years, the chapter has driven significant transformation—supporting women-led enterprises, enabling artisanal clusters to generate over INR 1 crore in sales, impacting more than 600 weavers and artisans, and nurturing over 900 women entrepreneurs.

Seetha Reddy further emphasised that FLO Hyderabad’s journey has been built on vision and collective effort. Key initiatives include the FLO Industrial Park spanning over 50 acres, generating more than 1,500 jobs and attracting investments exceeding INR 250 crore; digital skilling and financial literacy programs reaching over 50,000 women; and sustained artisan support impacting thousands across urban and rural communities.

In its 25th year, FLO Hyderabad will focus on promoting Banjara needlecraft, supporting its evolution through design innovation and enhanced market access.

The event also marked the launch of an exciting annual calendar, including entrepreneurship bootcamps, youth engagement initiatives, financial literacy programs, and flagship platforms such as StyleTatva, which celebrates women-led businesses and creative enterprises.

With “Unscripted,” FLO Hyderabad reaffirmed its commitment to creating platforms where stories are shared, voices amplified, and women empowered to lead with purpose.

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