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  • Global Supply Risks May Increase Pressure on India’s LPG Costs

    New Delhi, April 29: India’s LPG under-recoveries are expected to rise sharply and could reach nearly ₹80,000 crore in FY2027, driven by volatility in global energy markets and ongoing disruptions in West Asia, according to a recent assessment by ICRA.

    The report notes that geopolitical tensions in key oil and gas-producing regions have tightened global supply conditions, leading to higher import costs for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This is expected to widen the gap between import prices and regulated domestic retail prices.

    Under-recoveries occur when fuel retailers sell LPG at government-controlled prices that are lower than their actual procurement cost. When international prices rise, the financial burden on oil marketing companies increases.

    ICRA highlighted that continued instability in global energy supply chains may keep LPG pricing under pressure in the medium term, especially if crude oil prices remain elevated.

    Despite global uncertainties, domestic LPG demand in India remains steady, supported by household consumption and policy measures aimed at ensuring affordable access to clean cooking fuel.

    Analysts said future trends in LPG under-recoveries will depend on global crude movements, geopolitical developments, and adjustments in domestic pricing mechanisms.

    Overall, the outlook indicates continued fiscal pressure in the energy sector, with LPG cost gaps likely to remain a key concern for policymakers.

  • Warehousing Demand Shifts Toward Western India as Delhi-NCR Slows

    Mumbai, Apr 29 (BNP): India’s warehousing sector is witnessing a clear regional shift, with Mumbai and Pune emerging as key growth hubs, while Delhi-NCR has recorded a notable slowdown in activity, according to a recent report by Vestian.

    The report highlights that western India continues to attract strong industrial and logistics investments, supported by better infrastructure connectivity, proximity to ports, and rising demand from e-commerce and manufacturing sectors.

    Mumbai and Pune have seen increased warehousing absorption, driven by expanding supply chains and growing need for modern storage and distribution facilities. These cities are benefiting from strong industrial ecosystems and improved logistics networks.

    In contrast, Delhi-NCR has witnessed a sharp decline in warehousing activity, reflecting slower leasing momentum and shifting investor preference toward western and southern corridors.

    Industry experts note that India’s warehousing landscape is becoming more decentralised, with companies diversifying operations to improve efficiency and reduce logistics costs.

    The trend also reflects the broader growth of India’s logistics and supply chain sector, which is being reshaped by e-commerce expansion, manufacturing growth, and infrastructure upgrades.

    Overall, the report indicates a realignment in India’s warehousing demand, with western regions gaining prominence in the country’s evolving logistics map.

  • Solar Adoption Rises as Countries Cut Dependence on Fossil Fuels

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): The global transition toward renewable energy is gaining pace, with more countries increasingly adopting solar power as fossil fuel prices remain high and global energy supply chains face uncertainty, according to the Director General of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

    He noted that volatility in oil and gas markets, along with geopolitical disruptions, is prompting nations to look for cleaner, more stable, and cost-effective energy alternatives. Solar energy, in particular, is emerging as a key solution for strengthening long-term energy security.

    The ISA highlighted that rapid improvements in solar technology, declining installation costs, and better storage systems are making solar power more accessible and viable across both developed and developing economies.

    Experts say the global energy transition is also being driven by climate commitments and supportive government policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix.

    The Alliance stressed that solar energy will play a central role in ensuring affordable and sustainable electricity access while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

  • India Startup Ecosystem Expands in 2026 with Deep-Tech and Consumer Innovation Boom

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): India’s startup ecosystem is witnessing strong expansion in 2026, driven by a new wave of innovation across deep-tech sectors and consumer-focused businesses that are reshaping multiple industries.

    Startups are increasingly moving beyond traditional models and adopting technology-led solutions powered by artificial intelligence, automation, data analytics, and advanced digital platforms. This shift is helping companies address complex challenges while improving efficiency and scalability.

    Deep-tech startups are gaining momentum in areas such as fintech, healthtech, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing, where innovation is playing a key role in transforming operations and service delivery.

    At the same time, consumer-facing startups in lifestyle, retail, food, and fashion are experiencing rapid growth, supported by rising digital adoption and evolving customer preferences for personalised and on-demand services.

    Industry experts say this combination of deep-tech innovation and strong consumer brand growth is strengthening India’s position as one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems globally.

    Improved access to funding, supportive policy measures, and a growing entrepreneurial base are further accelerating this momentum across the country.

    Overall, the 2026 startup landscape reflects a broad-based transformation, where innovation is driving disruption across both traditional and emerging sectors.

  • Motorola Edge 70 Pro Goes on Sale with 50MP Sony LYTIA Camera, Dimensity 8500 Extreme & FIFA Perks

    Motorola Edge 70 Pro Goes on Sale with 50MP Sony LYTIA Camera, Dimensity 8500 Extreme & FIFA Perks

    Mumbai, Apr 29: Motorola, a global leader in mobile technology and innovation and India’s leading AI smartphone brand~, today announced the sale of the motorola edge 70 pro, bringing pro-grade low-light photography, flagship performance, premium design, and intelligent AI capabilities to consumers. Starting today, consumers can purchase the device from 12 PM onwards on Flipkart, Motorola.in, and leading retail stores across India.

    The motorola edge 70 pro sets a new benchmark in smartphone imaging with its Triple 50MP Pro-Grade Camera System, led by the advanced SonyLYTIA™ 710 sensor powered by moto AI. The system delivers exceptional low-light photography with superior clarity, enhanced dynamic range, and sharper details, while ensuring blur-free captures even in fast-moving scenarios. With Pantone™ Validated Colours and SkinTone™ accuracy, the device reproduces true-to-life visuals, complemented by ultra-sharp 4K 60FPS video recording across all cameras for a seamless and cinematic capture experience.

    Powering the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Extreme processor, designed to deliver fast, efficient, and AI-driven performance. With up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, 256GB UFS 4.1 storage, and an advanced vapor chamber cooling system, the smartphone ensures smooth multitasking, responsive gaming, and sustained peak performance across demanding use cases.

    Blending craftsmanship with innovation, the motorola edge 70 pro introduces Collections by Motorolafeaturing premium finishes such as Satin-Luxe, Tailored Fabric, and Marble textures in Pantone™ curated colours. With a 6.99mm* ultra-slim profile and quad-curved comfort design, the device offers a refined in-hand feel while maintaining durability and style.

    The smartphone features a stunning 6.8” 144Hz 1.5K True Colour Quad-Curved AMOLED display, delivering immersive visuals with HDR10+, 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut, and 10-bit colour depth. With segment-leading 5200 nits peak brightness and Pantone™ validation, users experience vibrant colours and exceptional outdoor visibility, complemented by Dolby Atmos® stereo speakers for an enhanced multimedia experience.

    Despite its slim design, the device houses a massive 6500mAh silicon-carbon battery, delivering up to 51 hours of battery life. Supported by 90W TurboPower™ charging, users can power up quickly and stay connected, productive, and entertained throughout the day.

    Adding to the overall experience, the motorola brings an exclusive FIFA World Cup™ 2026 campaign, where consumers purchasing the motorola edge 70 pro between 29th April and 29th May can claim assured FIFA-branded goodies worth ₹2000.

    Taking the excitement further, Consumers can access a dedicated microsite (www.hellomotofifa.in) to play an interactive football-themed game inspired by the “Football is Calling” campaign and get a chance to win 10 FIFA World Cup™ limited-edition motorola edge 70 fusion devices daily during this period

    As participants engage and climb the leaderboard, they move closer to the ultimate reward, where 10 lucky winners will win world cup match tickets to watch a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match live in Los Angeles, bringing fans closer to experiencing the world’s biggest football stage.

    Built for reliability, the smartphone meets MIL-STD-810H military-grade standards and offers the highest level of protection with IP68 and IP69 ratings, ensuring resistance against dust, water, and extreme conditions, making it a dependable companion for everyday use.

    Running on Hello UI based on Android 16, the device offers a clean, secure, and intelligent software experience with moto AI features, enhanced privacy through ThinkShield, and 3 OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates.

    Availability:

    The motorola edge 70 pro will be available in two storage variants — 8GB RAM + 256GB and 12GB RAM + 256GB — and comes in premium Pantone™ curated colours: PANTONE™ Tea, PANTONE™ Titan, and PANTONE™ Lily White, featuring luxurious Satin-Luxe, Tailored Fabric, and Marble finishes.

    The device will go on open sale starting 29th April 2026, from 12 PM onwards on Flipkart, Motorola.in, and leading retail stores across India.

    Offer Details:

    Product Name: Motorola Edge 70 Pro

    Launch Price:

    Edge 70 Pro 8/256 GB 

    Edge 70 Pro 12/256 GB 

    Affordability Offer details:

    Consumer can avail either of below 2 offers

    1. Instant Bank discount upto Rs 2000 from leading banks

    2.  Exchange Bonus upto Rs 2000

    Effective Price with Offer:

    edge 70 Pro 8/256 GB 

    edge 70 Pro 12/256 GB 

    Operator Offer:

    Exclusive Jio SIM Offer: Free access to Google Gemini Pro Plan for 18 months.

    FIFA Offer:

    The motorola edge 70 pro brings an exclusive FIFA World Cup™ 2026 campaign, where consumers purchasing between 29th April to 29th May can get assured FIFA goodies, play on www.hellomotofifa.in to win daily limited-edition motorola edge 70 fusion devices, and stand a chance to win tickets to a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match in Los Angeles.

    #Buy either a motorola signature or a motorola edge 70 pro between 29th April to 29th May to watch your world cup dream come true!

    •            After your purchase, to claim FIFA World Cup 26™ goodies just send #Hello Fifa 

    •            Register on https://www.hellomotofifa.in/ and fill in the entry form with your details

    •            Play the game and stand a chance to win match tickets

  • India Accelerates Push Toward Hydrogen, Ethanol and Electric Mobility

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that petrol and diesel vehicles have no long-term future in India, as the country moves towards cleaner and more sustainable mobility solutions.

    India Accelerates Push Toward Hydrogen, Ethanol and Electric Mobility

    He urged the automobile industry to accelerate the transition towards alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ethanol, CNG, LNG, and electric vehicles. He also highlighted that India’s heavy dependence on fossil fuel imports, worth nearly ₹22 lakh crore annually, makes energy transition essential for both economic and environmental reasons.

    Gadkari said hydrogen is emerging as a key fuel for the future, with pilot projects for hydrogen-powered buses and trucks already underway in collaboration with leading industry partners. These trials are being conducted on select corridors under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

    He added that India’s future transport strategy will focus on reducing emissions, strengthening energy security, and promoting self-reliant, clean fuel technologies.

  • Gold Prices Edge Higher in Futures Trade Amid Global Uncertainty

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): Gold prices moved slightly higher in futures trade on Wednesday as investors remained cautious ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy decision.

    Gold Prices Edge Higher in Futures Trade Amid Global Uncertainty

     On the Multi Commodity Exchange, the most-traded June gold contract rose by ₹93, or 0.06%, to ₹1,50,120 per 10 grams, with a trading volume of 9,067 lots.

    Market analysts said support came from a weaker US dollar and ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which continued to encourage safe-haven buying in gold.

    However, gains were limited due to higher crude oil prices, which weighed on broader commodity sentiment.

    Overall, market participants are awaiting clarity from the US Fed policy outcome, which is expected to guide near-term movement in gold prices.

  • Ganga Expressway Set to Drive Growth, Connectivity and Industrial Expansion in Uttar Pradesh

    Uttar Pradesh, Apr 29 (BNP): The Ganga Expressway, a major infrastructure project in the state, is expected to significantly improve connectivity while supporting industrial growth, logistics development, agricultural marketing, and regional economic balance.

    The 594-km expressway connects western and eastern Uttar Pradesh through a high-speed corridor designed to reduce travel time, improve transport efficiency, and strengthen economic linkages across districts.

    Ganga Expressway Set to Drive Growth, Connectivity and Industrial Expansion in Uttar Pradesh

     Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the expressway will play an important role in accelerating development and improving connectivity between rural and urban areas. He described it as a key project that will benefit farmers, youth, and entrepreneurs by improving access and reducing travel distances.

    The expressway passes through 12 districts, including Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh, and Prayagraj. It is designed for high-speed travel of up to 120 kmph and is expected to make movement of people and goods faster and safer.

    Modern safety and traffic systems have been installed along the corridor, including intelligent traffic management systems, CCTV surveillance, emergency response units, ambulance services, and highway patrol teams.

    A 3.2-km airstrip near Shahjahanpur has also been developed for emergency landing of Air Force aircraft, adding strategic importance to the project.

    Integrated Manufacturing and Logistics Clusters (IMLCs) are being developed along the expressway to support warehouses, cold storage facilities, and food processing units. These are expected to attract investment and generate employment opportunities.

    The expressway is also linked with other major road corridors in the state, creating a wider expressway network that will improve regional connectivity and support economic growth.

    Officials said the project will help boost investment, improve agricultural market access, strengthen logistics, and create both direct and indirect employment opportunities across Uttar Pradesh.

  • Mahindra Strengthens its presence in Tamil Nadu with a new State-of-the-art Truck and Bus dealership in Chennai

    Mahindra Strengthens its presence in Tamil Nadu with a new  State-of-the-art Truck and Bus dealership in Chennai

    Chennai, Apr 29: After achieving robust volume growth over the past 4 years, Mahindra’s Truck and Bus Business today inaugurated its state-of-the art 3S dealership in Chennai, Tamil Nadu with 12 service bays, the facility can service more than 15 vehicles per day while also providing driver lodging, 24-hour breakdown assistance and AdBlue availability.

    Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vinod Sahay, Chairman – SML Mahindra and Mahindra Advanced Technologies & President – Mahindra Aerospace, Trucks and Buses, Member of Group Executive Board, Mahindra Group said, “Delighted to inaugurate our new stateoftheart dealership in Chennai with M/s Sri Selvi Motors Pvt. Ltd. Mahindra Trucks and Buses and SML now have a combined strength of over 200 3S dealerships and over 400 secondary service touchpoints for trucks and buses across the country, providing world-class customer care to our valued customers. With close to 7% market share in trucks and busesthe Mahindra Group today has a 24% market share in I&LCV buses. We are targeting to increase our market share to 10-12% by FY31 and over 20% by FY36.” 

    Dr. Venkat Srinivas, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, SML Mahindra and Business Head – Mahindra TrucksBuses & Construction Equipment added, “Our obsession with customer-centricity has driven us towards creating disruptive value propositions for our customers. Be it the guaranteed higher mileage of our entire product range, or the most advanced telematics solution – iMAXX, which gives the fleet owners complete control over their transport business or a rapidly growing network of dealerships and other formats of after-sales support paraphernalia, we are committed to impart the best customer experience in the Indian Commercial vehicle industry.” 

    Mahindra BLAZO X, FURIO, OPTIMO, and JAYO constitute the only range of commercial vehicles in India supported by dual service guarantees. Under this assurance, vehicles are guaranteed to be back on the road within 48 hours, failing which customers are compensated with Rs. 1,000 per day. Additionally, a guaranteed turnaround time of 36 hours is ensured at authorized dealer workshops, with a compensation of Rs. 3,000 per day in the event of any delay. 

  • Bihar Shocker: Executive Officer Shot Dead, Municipal Chairman Critical in Brazen Bhagalpur Office Attack!

    Bhagalpur, Apr 29 (BNP): In a brazen daylight attack, armed assailants stormed the office of the Sultanganj Nagar Parishad in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district on Tuesday, killing Executive Officer Krishna Bhushan Kumar and critically injuring Municipal Chairman Raj Kumar Guddu.

    The shocking incident occurred at around 4:00 PM, when both officials were in their respective chambers attending official work. According to eyewitnesses, a group of three to five armed criminals arrived on motorcycles, entered the civic office premises, and opened indiscriminate fire, triggering panic among staff members and visitors.

    Eyewitness Ranjit Kumar said several people, including standing committee members, were present inside the office when the attackers barged in and began shooting randomly. Both injured officials were immediately rushed to hospital by staff and locals.

    Senior Superintendent of Police Pramod Yadav said Executive Officer Krishna Bhushan Kumar displayed exceptional courage by confronting the attackers and attempting to stop them. CCTV footage reportedly shows him struggling with the assailants before being shot multiple times.

    Kumar was hit by three bullets and succumbed to his injuries while being taken to Mayaganj Hospital. Municipal Chairman Raj Kumar Guddu remains in critical condition and is undergoing treatment.

    Police suspect the incident may be linked to long-standing personal rivalry within the local municipal administration, though all angles are being investigated.

    The SSP confirmed that special teams have been formed to identify and arrest those responsible. CCTV footage has reportedly captured at least two of the attackers.

    The incident has sparked sharp political reactions, with Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav criticising the Nitish Kumar government over deteriorating law and order in the state.

    Heavy police deployment, barricading, and additional reinforcements have been put in place across Sultanganj to prevent any escalation of tension.