Author: admin

  • Odisha Launches INR 2,612 Crore Water Resources Projects on World Water Day

    On the occasion of World Water Day, the Government of Odisha has launched a series of major water resources initiatives worth approximately ₹2,612 crore, aimed at strengthening irrigation infrastructure and improving water management across the state.

    The initiative includes the foundation laying of 17 new projects valued at ₹2,292 crore, along with the inauguration of 124 completed projects worth ₹320 crore. These developments mark a significant step toward enhancing the state’s water resource capacity and supporting long-term agricultural growth.

    According to officials, the projects are designed to expand irrigation coverage, improve water availability, and ensure more reliable access to water for farmers across different regions of Odisha. The focus is on creating a more efficient and sustainable irrigation system that can support agricultural productivity throughout the year.

    The government emphasized that strengthening irrigation infrastructure is a key priority in its development strategy. Improved water management is expected to benefit rural livelihoods, increase farm output, and contribute to overall economic stability in the agricultural sector.

    These initiatives also aim to reduce dependency on rainfall by building more resilient water systems capable of adapting to changing climate conditions. Enhanced irrigation facilities are expected to play an important role in supporting food security and rural development.

    Officials stated that this large-scale investment reflects the state’s commitment to building a more prosperous and self-sustaining agricultural economy, where water resources are managed efficiently and equitably.

    With the launch of these projects, Odisha is taking a significant step toward ensuring long-term water security and strengthening the foundation for sustainable rural development across the state.

  • Farah Khan Ali Unveils Her Flagship Boutique in South Mumbai – A new design destination where Jewellery, Architecture, Craft, and Storytelling converge

     

     

    Farah Khan Ali Unveils Her Flagship Boutique in South Mumbai - A new design destination where Jewellery, Architecture, Craft, and Storytelling converge

     

    Mumbai, Mar 23 — Renowned jewellery designer Farah Khan Ali unveils her flagship boutique in South Mumbai’s historic Fort district, marking a significant new chapter in her three-decade journey in fine jewellery. Set within the heritage building Chemco House, the 1,100-square-foot boutique is conceived as an immersive world of craft, design, and timeless elegance — a space where jewellery is not merely displayed, but deeply experienced.

    Framed in the brand’s signature apricot-amber hue and softened by delicate blooms, the boutique opens like a sanctuary within the city — intimate, atmospheric, and quietly luxurious. Designed as an extension of Farah’s creative language, the space brings together sculptural display, architectural detail, layered materiality, and emotional storytelling.

    “I wanted to create more than a boutique — a world where design, craftsmanship, and story could be experienced in their fullest expression,” says Farah Khan Ali. “Every corner, every surface, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to allow the jewellery to breathe and speak for itself. The space is meant to evoke intimacy and wonder, where light, texture, and atmosphere guide the visitor through each collection as though moving through a gallery of emotions. Here, the pieces are not merely displayed; they are invited to live, to tell their stories, and to connect with the wearer on a deeply personal level. This boutique is a celebration of craft, memory, and beauty — a place where the essence of Farah Khan jewellery comes alive.”

    The interiors balance old-world romance with contemporary refinement. A palette of soft champagne, ivory, and warm sand is layered with silken lacquered furniture, sculptural accents, and carefully modulated lighting, creating an environment in which the jewellery remains the true focal point.

    When I first began speaking with Farah about the boutique, it became clear that she envisioned something far more evocative than a conventional jewellery store — a space that would feel almost like a gallery of jewels,” says Usama Patel, Founder of Studio Nineteen, who designed and executed the space alongside Farah’s creative vision. “I approached the interiors in that spirit, allowing them to unfold in gentle layers, where refined tones, delicate motifs, rich textiles, and carefully selected stone surfaces reflect the poetic world of her jewellery. The brand’s Aayat motif quietly guided the flow and composition of the boutique, lending the experience a sense of rhythm, symmetry, and understated grace.”

    A design-forward haven, the boutique houses some of Farah Khan Ali’s most distinctive and sought-after collections, each presented within a setting that allows its narrative to unfold with intimacy and clarity.

    Among them is Zarine — The Golden One, a collection created in memory of Farah’s late mother and first muse, Zarine Sanjay Khan, whose instinctive style and love for adornment shaped Farah’s understanding of jewellery. Richly layered in emotion and expression, the collection draws on animal-inspired jewels that carry strength and symbolism, roses that whisper of romance and nostalgia, and Victorian forms steeped in history. The palette moves from delicate blush tones of morganite and kunzite to deeper hues of emerald green, ruby red, tanzanite blue, and amethyst purple, all accented with diamonds set in 18kt gold.

    “This collection is a tribute to my mother, Zarine — The Golden One — a legacy of strength, romance, and enduring elegance,” says Farah. “It is for a woman who believes jewellery is meant to be lived in — to gather memories and become part of who she is.”

    Another featured collection, The Rose, is an ode to romance, memory, and timeless beauty. Crafted in 18kt gold and rose gold, it brings together poetic hues of soft blush, velvety red, and luminous tones reminiscent of Mughal gardens and Renaissance art. Each piece embodies tenderness and strength, celebrating the modern woman who is ever-blooming and ever-evolving.

    Every element of the boutique has been conceived as part of a larger sensory narrative. Angel chandeliers, sculptural dragonfly wing lamps, and a triangular central display adorned with birds and floral motifs create a lyrical environment in which each jewel feels alive. A Private lounge with the brands monogram Aayat-inspired brass mesh, sculptural furnishings, and layered lighting invite moments of reflection and slow luxury, while a Wall of Memories honours Farah’s design journey and her mother’s lasting influence.

    With this flagship, Farah Khan Fine Jewellery continues to define a deeply personal vision of contemporary luxury — one rooted in design, craft, emotion, and meaning. Ultimately, this is a space where jewellery is not simply purchased, but experienced; where beauty unfolds slowly, conversation becomes part of the ritual, and every detail lingers like the memory of a rare jewel.

     

  • India and EU Strengthen Engagement to Accelerate Trade and Technology Talks

    India and the European Union have intensified their engagement to fast-track ongoing discussions on trade and technology cooperation, signaling renewed momentum in one of the world’s most significant economic partnerships.

    The latest round of talks reflects a shared interest in deepening collaboration across key sectors, including trade facilitation, digital technologies, green energy, and supply chain resilience. Both sides are working toward building a more structured and forward-looking economic framework that supports long-term growth.

    Officials noted that the discussions are focused on reducing barriers to trade, improving regulatory alignment, and creating smoother market access for businesses on both sides. The aim is to strengthen economic integration while ensuring that trade practices remain fair, transparent, and sustainable.

    Technology cooperation has emerged as a central pillar of the engagement. India and the EU are exploring opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, clean energy technologies, and digital infrastructure. These discussions are expected to support innovation-led growth and enhance competitiveness in both regions.

    The renewed push also comes at a time when global supply chains are undergoing major restructuring. Both India and the EU are looking to diversify sourcing networks and improve supply chain resilience, making bilateral cooperation increasingly important in the current geopolitical environment.

    Trade experts believe that stronger India-EU ties could unlock significant opportunities for businesses, particularly in manufacturing, technology services, and renewable energy sectors. Improved collaboration may also support investment flows and encourage joint ventures between companies from both regions.

    As discussions progress, both sides are expected to continue working toward a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement, while expanding cooperation in emerging technologies and sustainable development initiatives.

    With growing economic interdependence and shared strategic interests, India and the EU are positioning their partnership as a key driver of global trade and innovation in the coming years.

     
  • Odisha Boosts Science & Innovation with New Biotechnology Research Centre to Drive Growth and Jobs

    Odisha is strengthening its position in India’s emerging innovation landscape with the establishment of a Biotechnology Research Centre, a move aimed at accelerating scientific research, industrial development, and technology-driven growth in the state.

    The initiative is expected to play a key role in advancing cutting-edge biotechnology research while also supporting the generation of patents and the commercialization of new technologies. Officials believe the centre will act as a bridge between scientific innovation and real-world industrial applications.

    By focusing on research and development, the Biotechnology Research Centre is set to create new opportunities for collaboration between academia, industry, and government institutions. This ecosystem is expected to encourage innovation-led entrepreneurship and support the development of new biotech solutions across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science.

    The project is also anticipated to contribute significantly to employment generation, particularly for skilled professionals in science, research, and technology domains. With increased investment in knowledge-driven industries, Odisha aims to build a strong foundation for a future-ready workforce.

    State authorities have highlighted that the initiative will help position Odisha as a leading biotechnology hub in India. By promoting innovation, research commercialization, and industrial integration, the state is looking to attract both domestic and global investments in the biotech sector.

    Experts believe that such initiatives are crucial for building long-term economic resilience, as biotechnology continues to play a growing role in solving global challenges related to health, food security, and sustainability.

    With this development, Odisha is taking a significant step toward transforming itself into a knowledge-driven economy, powered by science, innovation, and technology-led growth.

     
  • Two Wheeler Sales Set to Surpass Pre COVID Levels, Expected to Hit New High in FY2026

    India’s two-wheeler industry is expected to surpass its pre-COVID sales levels and reach a new peak in FY2026, driven by improving rural demand, stable economic conditions, and rising affordability among consumers.

    Industry observers note that the segment, which forms a key part of India’s automobile market, has been gradually recovering after the slowdown caused by the pandemic. With demand conditions strengthening, the sector is now poised for a full-scale revival.

    A major growth driver is the recovery in rural and semi-urban markets, where two-wheelers remain a primary mode of transport. Improved monsoon conditions, higher agricultural income, and better credit availability are supporting purchasing power in these regions.

    At the same time, urban demand is also showing steady improvement, supported by increased mobility needs, last-mile connectivity services, and growing preference for personal transport. Entry-level and commuter motorcycles are expected to play a crucial role in driving volumes in FY2026.

    Industry experts also highlight that easing inflationary pressures and improved financing options are making two-wheelers more accessible to first-time buyers. This is expected to further support demand across both urban and rural segments.

    The sector is also benefiting from gradual stabilization in input costs, which is helping manufacturers maintain competitive pricing. In addition, companies are focusing on product upgrades, fuel efficiency, and the gradual introduction of electric two-wheelers to attract a wider consumer base.

    Analysts believe that if current demand trends continue, the industry could not only surpass pre-pandemic levels but also establish a new record in FY2026, marking a strong phase of recovery and growth for the automotive sector.

    With sustained economic momentum and improving consumer sentiment, the two-wheeler market is expected to remain a key contributor to India’s overall automobile growth story in the coming fiscal year.

     
  • Gold Slides to Multi-Month Lows as Oil Shock Reshapes Interest Rate Expectations

     Today’s markets analysis on behalf of Tony Sage, CEO of Critical Metals 

    Gold extended its decline on Monday, retreating to its lowest point in several months as rising Treasury yields and a firmer dollar are driving the selloff. Disruptions to critical energy supply routes in the Middle East continued to push oil prices higher, reigniting inflation fears and forcing markets to reprice the trajectory of global monetary policy.

    Major central banks held rates steady last week but signalled a readiness to tighten if price pressures persist. Interest rate cuts are no longer expected in the US, while other central banks are seen as likely to hike interest rates in their upcoming meetings, weighing down on non-yielding assets like gold.

    The metal could remain exposed to short-term risks, and could see its trajectory driven primarily by developments in the Middle East and their impact on inflation expectations. However, the market could continue to find some support over the long term as tensions remain elevated in Eastern Europe, and central banks continue to accumulate gold, which could help limit losses. At the same time, a return to normal conditions in the oil market could help gold rebound.

  • India a Long-Term Investment Market with Strong E-Commerce Growth Potential: Amazon VP

    India continues to stand out as a strong long-term investment destination with significant potential in the e-commerce sector, according to a senior executive from Amazon.

    Highlighting the country’s digital expansion and rapidly evolving consumer base, the Amazon Vice President noted that India’s online retail ecosystem is still in its growth phase, offering substantial opportunities for long-term investors and businesses looking to scale in emerging markets.

    The executive emphasized that rising internet penetration, increased smartphone usage, and improved digital payment systems are driving the next wave of e-commerce growth in the country. These factors, combined with a young population and growing middle class, are creating a strong foundation for sustained online retail expansion.

    India’s e-commerce sector has witnessed consistent growth over the past few years, supported by expanding logistics networks and increasing adoption of online shopping across urban and semi-urban regions. Industry experts believe that this trend is likely to accelerate further as digital infrastructure continues to improve.

    The Amazon VP also pointed out that India’s market dynamics are unique, with a diverse consumer base and rapidly changing shopping behavior. This makes the country one of the most promising markets for innovation in online retail, supply chain efficiency, and digital services.

    As global companies continue to diversify their investment strategies, India is increasingly being viewed as a key growth market in Asia. The combination of strong domestic demand and digital transformation is expected to further strengthen its position in the global e-commerce landscape.

    With continued investments in technology, logistics, and digital platforms, India is expected to remain a major focus area for global e-commerce players in the coming years.

  • New Changes in MSME Credit Guarantee Scheme Announced

    The Government of India has introduced important changes to the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME) to further support manufacturers and exporters. The revised framework is aimed at improving credit access, reducing financial burden, and encouraging investment in machinery and equipment, in line with Budget 2025–26 priorities.

    The scheme, launched in January 2025, provides credit guarantee coverage of up to 60% through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC). It supports loans of up to ₹100 crore for eligible MSMEs, primarily for the purchase of plant and machinery. Following feedback from stakeholders, the government has now refined several provisions to make the scheme more practical and inclusive.

    One of the key changes includes making the upfront contribution partially refundable, which is expected to improve liquidity for businesses. The scheme has also been expanded to include service sector MSMEs, widening its overall reach. In addition, the minimum requirement for machinery and equipment investment has been reduced from 75% to 60% of the total project cost, making it easier for enterprises to qualify.

    The guarantee tenure has also been extended to up to 10 years, offering longer-term support for businesses investing in expansion and modernization. These revisions are intended to reduce compliance pressure and improve the ease of doing business for MSMEs across sectors.

    For exporters, the government has introduced targeted incentives under the revised scheme. Eligible export-oriented MSMEs—those with at least 25% export turnover over the past three years—can now access guaranteed loans of up to ₹20 crore. The guarantee coverage for default has been increased to 75%, along with fee relaxations in the initial year of the loan.

    The government has emphasized that MSMEs play a vital role in India’s economic structure, contributing around 30% to GDP and over 45% to exports while generating large-scale employment. Strengthening this sector is seen as essential for achieving the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

    With these modifications, the scheme is expected to encourage greater investment in technology, enhance export competitiveness, and support sustainable growth of MSMEs across manufacturing and service sectors.

  • DBS Bank India Launches Direct Tax Payment Facility for Individuals and Businesses

    Mar 23: DBS Bank India today announced the launch of its direct tax payment facility, following authorisation from the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). With this launch, DBS Bank India becomes the first wholly owned subsidiary in the country authorised to facilitate direct tax payments, complementing its existing Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection capabilities.

    The new facility allows individuals and businesses to conveniently pay Income Tax, Advance Tax, Self-Assessment Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) directly from their bank accounts via DBS digital platforms. Customers can make payments through digibank by DBS for retail users and DBS IDEAL, the bank’s online business banking platform, serving SMEs, mid-sized companies, and large corporates. Payments can also be made in person at select branches.

    The integrated digital journey offers real-time confirmation, challan generation via TIN 2.0, and enhanced payment visibility, streamlining compliance and reducing operational errors for recurring or high-volume transactions. The service is available 24/7, ensuring seamless and instant digital payments.

    Divyesh Dalal, Managing Director and Country Head – Global Transaction Services, Corporate Banking – Financial Institutions and SMEs, DBS Bank India, said:

    “The authorisation for direct tax payments strengthens DBS Bank India’s trusted capabilities in transaction banking and digital cash management. By integrating with the government’s digital tax infrastructure, we reduce friction in the payment process, allowing individuals and businesses to focus on what matters most — living more and banking less.”

    The launch builds on DBS Bank India’s digital leadership, recognised by accolades such as Best Digital Bank for SMEs in India (Euromoney 2025) and Best Bank for Corporate Banking in India (Crisil Coalition Greenwich, 2025 & 2026), reinforcing the bank’s commitment to leveraging technology for smarter, intuitive financial solutions.

  • The Bear House Marks World Bear Day with Bear Care Conservation Initiative in Partnership with the WCB Research Foundation

     

    Bengaluru, Mar 23 – The Bear House, a contemporary menswear label renowned for its bear-inspired identity, is proud to announce a conservation-led initiative in recognition of World Bear Day (23rd March). As a brand that has always gone beyond symbolism, The Bear House is taking meaningful action to drive environmental responsibility and demonstrate its purpose-led ethos.

    WORLD BEAR DAY

    To mark the occasion, The Bear House will contribute a percentage of all sales made on World Bear Day (19th- 23rd March) to the WCB Research Foundation, supporting the organisation’s ongoing wildlife research and bear conservation programmes. The initiative is part of the brand’s Bear Care Initiative, a larger effort to align its growth with tangible ecological impact.

    Through this collaboration with the WCB Research Foundation, the funds raised from World Bear Day sales will support scientific research, habitat protection, and community-led initiatives that help ensure the long-term survival of bear populations while encouraging sustainable coexistence between wildlife and local communities.

    This initiative exemplifies a growing movement among forward-thinking brands who are evolving from symbolic storytelling to measurable environmental engagement, positioning The Bear House as an industry leader in purpose-driven action.

    Speaking on the initiative, Harsh and Tanvi, co-founders of The Bear House, shared,

    “The bear has always been central to our identity. World Bear Day is an opportunity for us to extend that symbolism into meaningful action. Through our partnership with WCB Research Foundation, we hope to contribute to real conservation outcomes while encouraging our community to be part of this journey.”

    “On the occasion of World Bear Day, we are delighted to collaborate with The Bear House in a partnership that goes beyond awareness into action. By supporting the WCB Research Foundation through a share of their sales, they demonstrate how responsible businesses can actively contribute to the conservation and scientific understanding of bear species.

    Collaborations like these are essential for building a collective conservation movement, and we hope this initiative inspires more organizations and individuals to step forward for wildlife.”saysDr Nishith Dharaiya, Founder and Hon. Director of Research and Dr Pratik Desai, Founder and Director of Operations

    In an era where consumers demand greater accountability and transparency, The Bear House’s initiative embodies a thoughtful, strategic approach to brand responsibility, fusing cultural relevance with environmental stewardship and setting a high benchmark for the industry.