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  • Adani Green Energy Expands Renewable Portfolio with New Step-Down Subsidiaries!

    Ahmedabad, May 7 (BNP): Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), one of India’s leading renewable energy companies, has announced the incorporation of new step-down subsidiaries as part of its continued expansion in the clean energy sector.

    The newly incorporated entities are expected to focus on renewable power generation and related infrastructure development, strengthening the company’s growing presence in India’s green energy landscape. According to company sources, the move aligns with AGEL’s long-term strategy of accelerating renewable energy capacity and supporting India’s transition toward sustainable power.

    The subsidiaries have been established to undertake activities related to solar, wind, hybrid renewable projects, and other emerging clean energy solutions. Industry experts believe the expansion reflects the company’s commitment to scaling up operations in line with the country’s ambitious renewable energy targets.

    Adani Green Energy has been actively expanding its portfolio across multiple states through large-scale solar parks, wind farms, and integrated renewable energy projects. The company continues to play a key role in India’s clean energy transformation and aims to contribute significantly toward achieving carbon reduction and energy security goals.

    The incorporation of step-down arms is also expected to improve operational flexibility, project execution, and investment management for future renewable ventures.

    India has been aggressively promoting renewable energy adoption through policy support and infrastructure investments, with a target of increasing non-fossil fuel energy capacity over the coming years. Companies like Adani Green Energy are expected to remain central to the country’s green growth strategy.

    The latest development underlines the company’s focus on strengthening its renewable energy ecosystem while expanding its footprint in sustainable infrastructure and clean power generation.

  • Cotton Import Duty Raises Cost Pressures on Textile Industry, Study Flags Competitiveness Concerns

    New Delhi: A new industry study has highlighted that India’s current cotton import duty structure could be affecting the global competitiveness of the country’s textile and apparel sector.

    The report points out that higher input costs for raw cotton are adding pressure on manufacturers, especially exporters who operate in highly competitive international markets where pricing plays a crucial role in demand.

    Cotton Import Duty Raises Cost Pressures on Textile Industry, Study Flags Competitiveness Concerns

    While the policy is designed to support domestic cotton farmers and ensure stable returns for the agriculture sector, the study notes that it may also be increasing production costs for textile companies across the value chain.

    Industry observers say the textile sector, one of India’s largest employment-generating industries, depends on cost-efficient raw material sourcing to maintain export growth and compete with global peers.

    The study further observes that competing textile-producing countries often benefit from more flexible import mechanisms, allowing them to better manage raw material costs and respond quickly to shifting global demand.

    Experts suggest that India faces a policy balancing challenge—protecting farmer incomes while also ensuring that manufacturing and exports remain globally competitive.

    The report calls for a more calibrated and balanced approach to cotton trade policy, aimed at supporting both agricultural stability and industrial growth.

    Overall, the findings underline the need for a policy framework that strengthens India’s textile ecosystem while sustaining its position in the global apparel and fabric export market.

  • MRF Reports 30% Surge in FY26 Consolidated Net Profit at Rs 2,426 Crore

    Chennai, May 07: MRF Ltd. has announced a strong financial performance for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, reporting robust growth in both revenue and profitability. The company’s consolidated total income rose by approximately 11% year-on-year to Rs 31,654 crore, compared to Rs 28,570 crore in the previous financial year. Driven by improved operational performance and sustained market demand, consolidated profit before tax increased significantly to Rs 3,222 crore from Rs 2,483 crore in FY25. After accounting for tax expenses of Rs 796 crore, the company posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 2,426 crore for FY26, marking an impressive 30% growth over the previous year’s net profit of Rs 1,873 crore.

    Operations

    The Company delivered a healthy operating performance in FY 2025-26 and crossed the milestone of Rs 30,000 Crores in Sales during the year, with good growth in both Replacement and OE segments. 

    The Company’s performance was aided by the launch of new SKUs in various categories like Truck, Passenger, Two-Wheelers etc. Besides being one of the largest OE suppliers of Tyres to ICE vehicles, the Company has become the most preferred supplier of Tyres to Electric Vehicles. MRF tyres are increasingly being fitted on vehicles exported by OEMs to many countries across the globe.

    Demand buoyancy arising from reduction in GST rates continued into the 4thQuarter of the year, which is reflected in both Replacement & OE Sales. OEMs also witnessed a high Demand in the Quarter which led to an increased demand for tyres.

    In order to cater to future demand for tyres across segments in the Replacement market, OEMs and Export, the Company is also expanding capacity across Plants.

    The ongoing conflict in the Middle East and resulting disruptions have led to uncontrolled increase in raw material costs and supply chain issues. This has severely impacted the cost of input materials which is expected to continue. The Company has taken price increases and cost management measures to mitigate the impact of higher raw material costs and will take further hikes. Further, the forecast of a sub normal monsoon may adversely impact demand. In view of the unpredictable economic conditions and cost pressures on margins, it is difficult to anticipate the expected impact on growth and the Company is in the process of evaluating the same.

    Dividend

    The dividend for the financial year 2025-26 is Rs 235/- (2350%) per share of Rs.10 each which includes two interim dividends of Rs.3/- each (30%) per share already paid.

     

  • Gausort Indigenous Bovine Gender Sorting Technology Increases Female Calf Birth Rate, Bringing Transformational Change in Dairy Sector

    Uttar Pradesh, May 07: A significant rise in the birth of female calves is being observed across the country through the use of Gausort, indigenous gender sorting semen technology, marking a transformative shift in the dairy sector. Launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in October 2024, the technology is rapidly establishing its presence in the field of bovine breeding.

    Developed by National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, this innovation is being implemented by NDDB Dairy Services under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. The initiative aims to produce superior quality livestock, enhance milk productivity and ensure long term income stability for farmers.

    The use of Gausort has now expanded at scale and is being implemented across various states. It is enabling farmers to access more accurate and efficient breeding services, thereby improving livestock quality and making dairy farming more organised, reliable and productive.

    Under the Project Gir Varanasi, the technology has delivered highly encouraging results with approximately 91% female calf births recorded so far. This outcome strongly highlights the effectiveness of the technology. As these calves mature, they are expected to significantly strengthen farmers’ dairy based livelihoods and generate additional income opportunities.

    Speaking on the development, Dr. Meenesh Shah, Chairman NDDB, said

    “Gausort is not just a technology, it is a powerful tool shaping the future of India’s dairy sector. This cost effective innovation is enabling the birth of higher proportion of female calves, leading to improved productivity and stable income. Under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, its expansion is laying the foundation for a new dairy revolution in the country. The results from Project Gir Varanasi clearly demonstrate that when modern technology reaches rural India effectively, it not only enhances production but also brings lasting positive change in farmers’ lives.”

    The impact of Gausort technology is also clearly visible in districts of western Uttar Pradesh including Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Saharanpur, Bijnor, Bulandshahr, Hapur and Shamli. In these districts, around 91% of calves born through the technology are female. This data further reinforces the reliability of the innovation and highlights its role in strengthening rural economies by improving milk production and farmer incomes.

    Farmers adopting GauSort technology are already witnessing tangible benefits. Rajveer, a dairy farmer from Varanasi, shared his experience “With the help of GauSort technology, I have witnessed the birth of many female calves. Earlier we were unsure about the gender of the calf but through this technology we are confident that the chances of female calves are much higher. This will increase milk producing animals and improve our income. Dairying will now become more profitable due to this technology.”

  • This Mother’s Day, Gift the Luxury of Serenity with Bedding by D’Decor

    With Mother’s Day just around the corner, the search for a gift as meaningful as her love, begins. She is the woman who has shaped your life with her unwavering support and guided you with grace; now is the time to shower her with the gratitude she deserves.

    This year let’s move beyond the ordinary and gift her a sanctuary of refined comfort. Bedding by D’Decor offers a collection of bedding as unique as she is, turning her bedroom into a haven of timeless elegance and warmth. Whether she finds joy in understated sophistication or the rich textures of festive design, these ensembles are the perfect way to honor the woman who makes every house feel like home.

    Luxor

    Indulge her appreciation for the finer things with Luxor, a super-premium bedding ensemble crafted for those who appreciate understated opulence. Featuring an 800 thread count cotton sateen bedsheet set, paired with a monotone embroidered quilted bed cover, Luxor brings luxury home. The plain bedsheet, elevated with exclusive panel embroidery, complements the sophisticated bed cover beautifully creating a serene, indulgent bedroom escape. It is the perfect gift for a mother who believes true luxury lies in the details.

    Raaga

    Celebrate the rhythm of her life with the Raaga Collection by D’Decor—a luxurious velvet bedding ensemble adorned with rich, grid-inspired embroidery. Designed to echo the rhythm of a musical symphony, this set includes two euro shams, two plush pillows, a decorative pillow, and a finely embroidered bed cover. It offers a touch of festive design to her cherished space, making it a magnificent gift that reflects the harmony she brings to the family.

    Bedsuites

    A premium bed linen ensemble, the Bedsuites Collection by D’Decor, is the epitome of textured & embroidered elegance. From metallic hints and abstract artistry to minimalist designs and understated embellishments, the Bedsuites collection is the simplest way to bring festive cheer to any bedroom. It is the ideal choice for mothers who believe life is a celebration.

    Cuddle

    Guaranteed to give sweet dreams is the Cuddle Collection by D’Decor, an exquisite 4-piece quilted bed cover set, crafted in plush cotton sateen, in a palette of soft pastels and rich mid-tones with deep hues. The matching quilted pillows, finished with engineered panel detailing, and the mix of organic, geometric and abstract patterns echo the calm of nature, bringing comfort to the bedroom. With both all season and winter options, Cuddle is the perfect present that promises warmth, softness, and style.

    Discover many more exquisite bed ensembles from the house of D’Decor to select the perfect gift this Mother’s Day

  • Markets Open Higher on Global Peace Hopes; Sectoral Trends Mixed

    Mumbai, May 7 (BNP): Indian equity markets opened on a positive note on Thursday, supported by improved global sentiment after reports of progress on a possible US-Iran peace framework.

    In early trade, the BSE Sensex rose nearly 380 points to touch an intraday high of 78,339, while the Nifty 50 gained over 90 points to trade above 24,400 levels.

    However, gains remained uneven across sectors. FMCG, realty, consumer durables, and private banking stocks witnessed mild pressure, while auto and metal indices saw modest gains. Select heavyweight stocks such as Tata Consumer, Power Grid, HUL, TCS, HDFC Bank, Titan, NTPC, and Sun Pharma came under selling pressure.

    Market sentiment improved after reports suggested that Iran is reviewing a US peace proposal aimed at easing regional tensions, although key issues such as nuclear restrictions and strategic maritime routes remain unresolved.

    Analysts noted that global markets continue to react to shifting geopolitical signals, especially developments in West Asia, which have also kept crude oil prices volatile.

    Brent crude remained elevated in global trade, reflecting ongoing uncertainty in supply outlook.

    Experts added that equity markets are currently witnessing a balance between optimism over global developments and caution over stretched valuations in certain segments, particularly technology-linked and AI-driven stocks.

    Foreign portfolio flows, they said, may remain sensitive to any correction in global growth themes and valuation resets in high-performing sectors.

    On earnings, market participants are rewarding strong quarterly results while penalising misses, indicating a selective and stock-specific trading environment across large, mid, and small-cap segments.

    Global cues were also supportive, with Asian markets trading higher and US indices closing in positive territory, adding to the overall upbeat sentiment in domestic trade.

  • India’s Real Estate Sector Set for Strong Growth as AI Adoption Rises

    New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): India’s real estate sector is expected to witness significant expansion over the long term, with its market size projected to reach about USD 5.8 trillion by 2047, according to a joint industry report by FICCI and KPMG.

    India’s Real Estate Sector Set for Strong Growth as AI Adoption Rises

    The report notes that the sector is being reshaped by rapid urbanisation, infrastructure expansion, rising housing demand, and growing investor interest across residential, commercial, and industrial segments. These factors are expected to support sustained growth over the coming decades.

    A major highlight of the findings is the sharp rise in artificial intelligence adoption across the real estate ecosystem, with usage levels reaching nearly 91%. AI tools are increasingly being used for property valuation, market analysis, customer engagement, project planning, and construction monitoring.

    Industry experts say this shift is improving efficiency, reducing delays, and making real estate transactions more transparent and data-driven. Developers are also using advanced analytics to better assess demand patterns and improve project execution.

    The report further indicates that the integration of technology with traditional real estate operations is transforming the sector into a more organised and structured market, attracting greater institutional participation.

    Overall, the study suggests that India’s real estate sector is entering a new phase of technology-led growth, where digital tools and long-term infrastructure development will play a central role in shaping its future.

  • Andhra Pradesh to Build Seaweed Economy to Strengthen Coastal Livelihoods and Women’s Empowerment

    Amaravati, May 7 (BNP): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to develop a structured economic model to promote seaweed cultivation as a sustainable livelihood option for coastal communities, with a strong focus on women’s self-help groups (SHGs) and fishermen.

    Chairing a review meeting at the State Secretariat, the Chief Minister underlined that Andhra Pradesh’s extensive coastline offers a significant untapped opportunity to build a scalable seaweed-based economy that can generate steady income and strengthen rural coastal livelihoods.

    He called for a shift from small-scale cultivation to a commercially viable ecosystem, where seaweed farming is linked with processing, value addition, and market access, ensuring long-term income stability for SHG members and fishing communities.

    As part of the initiative, the Chief Minister held consultations with leading national research institutions, including the Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute, National Institute of Ocean Technology, Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture, and Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, to integrate scientific expertise into large-scale cultivation and commercialization efforts.

    He also instructed officials to collaborate with Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham to prepare a detailed roadmap covering cultivation techniques, processing models, and income enhancement strategies for women-led enterprises.

    Officials said the government is also exploring the development of value-added seaweed products for use in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, food processing, and other emerging industries, positioning Andhra Pradesh to tap into fast-growing global demand.

    The Chief Minister emphasized that seaweed cultivation can become a new pillar of the coastal economy, combining environmental sustainability with inclusive growth. He added that the initiative will also help diversify income sources for fishing communities and create new entrepreneurship opportunities for rural women.

    The proposed framework aims to integrate research institutions, government support, and private sector participation to develop Andhra Pradesh as a leading hub in India’s emerging blue economy sector.

     
     
     
  • WhatsApp Introduces AI-Powered Business Support Tool for SMEs in India

    WhatsApp Launches “Business AI” in India to Help SMEs Automate Customer Support and Boost Digital Sales

    WhatsApp Introduces AI-Powered Business Support Tool for SMEs in India

    New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): WhatsApp on Thursday announced the launch of its new AI-powered feature “Business AI” in India, aimed at helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) manage customer interactions more efficiently through the WhatsApp Business app.

    The feature is designed to enable eligible businesses to provide 24/7 automated customer support, respond to queries instantly, generate leads, schedule appointments, and support sales conversations without requiring additional platforms or tools.

    According to the company, Business AI can be customised using a business’s own information such as product catalogues, pricing, services, discounts, and delivery details. This allows businesses to offer more accurate and personalised responses to customer queries.

    A key highlight of the feature is its multilingual capability, enabling interactions in multiple Indian languages to improve accessibility and customer reach across regions.

    The platform will also soon support in-chat payments through UPI, allowing customers to complete transactions directly within conversations, further streamlining the digital commerce experience.

    WhatsApp stated that businesses will retain full control over conversations and can intervene or take over chats from the AI at any time.

    The company said the feature will be gradually rolled out to eligible businesses using the WhatsApp Business app under the Tools section, where users can activate and configure “Business AI” through guided steps.

    Impact on small businesses

    The launch is expected to benefit SMEs by reducing the burden of handling large volumes of customer messages with limited staff. By automating routine queries, businesses can improve response time, enhance customer engagement, and focus more on growth and operations.

    Industry observers believe the move could strengthen India’s digital business ecosystem by enabling small enterprises to adopt AI-driven customer service and expand their online presence more efficiently.

    Overall, the initiative reflects the growing integration of artificial intelligence into everyday business communication and digital commerce in India.

  • India Emerging as Key Voice in Shaping Global Economic and Strategic Landscape

    New Delhi, May 7 (BNP): India is steadily emerging as a key player in shaping the evolving global economic and strategic landscape as geopolitics, trade, and technology become increasingly interconnected.

    Experts note that the global economy is undergoing a significant transformation, where trade is no longer driven only by commerce but is also influenced by strategic and geopolitical interests. Technology, too, has become closely tied to economic security, innovation, and national competitiveness.

    In this changing environment, India’s growing economic strength, expanding digital ecosystem, manufacturing capabilities, and strategic global partnerships are enhancing its position on the world stage.

    Analysts believe India’s focus on infrastructure development, clean energy, technology innovation, and supply chain diversification is helping the country emerge as a reliable global partner at a time of shifting international dynamics.

    India’s rapid progress in sectors such as digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, electronics manufacturing, and startups is also contributing to its rising influence in global economic discussions.

    Experts say the country now has a significant opportunity to shape future conversations around trade cooperation, technology governance, energy transition, and resilient global supply chains.

    Overall, India is increasingly being viewed not only as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies, but also as an important voice in defining the next phase of global economic and strategic cooperation.