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  • Coal Gasification Crucial for Energy Security, Industrial Growth: G. Kishan Reddy

    New Delhi, Mar 22 (BNP): G. Kishan Reddy on Sunday said coal gasification will play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s energy security, reducing import dependence and supporting industrial growth, while addressing the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026.

    Speaking to industry leaders, experts, start-ups, researchers and policymakers, the minister said India’s rapidly expanding economy requires a balanced energy strategy that aligns growth with sustainability. He noted that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the country is witnessing strong progress across manufacturing, infrastructure, digital connectivity and innovation.

    Coal Gasification Crucial for Energy Security, Industrial Growth: G. Kishan Reddy

    Highlighting India’s vast coal reserves of nearly 400 billion tonnes—among the largest globally—Reddy said coal currently accounts for about 55 per cent of the country’s energy mix and nearly 74 per cent of electricity generation. With annual demand at around one billion tonnes and expected to rise significantly by 2047, he underlined the continued importance of coal even as India pursues its Net Zero emissions target by 2070.

    Describing coal gasification as a transformative technology, the minister said it converts coal into syngas, which can be used to produce cleaner fuels, chemicals, fertilisers and hydrogen, enabling more efficient and sustainable utilisation of domestic resources. He also pointed to India’s heavy dependence on imports, including crude oil, natural gas, methanol and fertilisers, stressing the need to enhance energy self-reliance.

    Reddy said the government has launched the National Coal Gasification Mission with a target of achieving 100 million tonnes of gasification by 2030. An incentive scheme worth ₹8,500 crore has been introduced to support projects across the public and private sectors, with investments exceeding ₹64,000 crore already in the pipeline.

    He also highlighted advanced technologies such as Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) for their potential to utilise otherwise inaccessible reserves while reducing environmental impact.

    Calling for greater collaboration among industry, academia, start-ups and research institutions, the minister said coal gasification spans multiple sectors, including power, oil and gas, and fertilisers. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating investments through supportive policies, streamlined approvals and incentives.

    Expressing confidence in India’s capabilities, Reddy said the country is well-positioned to emerge as a global leader in clean coal technologies while advancing energy security, sustainability, and self-reliance.

  • PM Modi Chairs CCS Meet on West Asia Conflict, Orders Steps to Safeguard Supplies and Economy

    New Delhi, Mar 23 (BNP): Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review the evolving situation arising from the ongoing West Asia conflict and directed a coordinated government response to mitigate its impact on India’s economy and essential supplies.

    During the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary made a detailed presentation on the global scenario and outlined measures already undertaken as well as those being planned by various ministries and departments. The CCS reviewed the likely implications of the conflict across key sectors including agriculture, fertilisers, food security, petroleum, power, MSMEs, trade, shipping, finance and supply chains.

    PM Modi Chairs CCS Meet on West Asia Conflict, Orders Steps to Safeguard Supplies and Economy

    The Prime Minister emphasised that the conflict could have significant short-, medium- and long-term implications for the global economy and its ripple effects on India, and called for proactive and calibrated countermeasures.

    A comprehensive assessment of the availability of essential commodities, including food, fuel and energy, was undertaken. The government expressed confidence that adequate arrangements are in place to ensure uninterrupted supply, with detailed strategies discussed for immediate as well as long-term requirements.

    The CCS also reviewed the impact on agriculture, particularly fertiliser availability for the upcoming Kharif season. It noted that sufficient buffer stocks have been maintained and discussed alternative sourcing strategies to ensure continued supply to farmers.

    On the energy front, the government assessed that adequate coal stocks at power plants would prevent any disruption in electricity supply across the country.

    The meeting also deliberated on diversifying import sources for critical inputs required by the chemicals, pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals sectors. In parallel, efforts will be made to identify and develop new export destinations to promote Indian goods.

    The Prime Minister directed that a group of ministers and secretaries be constituted to oversee a “whole-of-government” approach, with dedicated sectoral groups working in consultation with stakeholders to implement mitigation measures.

    Stressing the need to minimise the impact on citizens, Modi instructed all arms of the government to work in close coordination and ensure that there is no inconvenience to the public. He also called for effective coordination with state governments to prevent black-marketing and hoarding of essential commodities.

    Describing the situation as dynamic, the Prime Minister said continuous monitoring and timely intervention would be critical to safeguarding national interests.

  • VP Radhakrishnan Stresses Naturopathy, Yoga for ‘Swasth Bharat’ at Pune Event

    Pune, Mar 23 (BNP): C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday addressed the 81st Foundation Day celebrations of Nisargopachar Ashram in Pune, underscoring the importance of naturopathy and yoga in building a healthy India.

    Speaking at the event held in Uruli Kanchan, the Vice-President said institutions like the Ashram are vital to the vision of a “Swasth Bharat”, describing it as not merely an institution but a movement inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of simple and disciplined living in harmony with nature.

    He noted that both Gandhi, who conceptualised the Ashram, and the farmer who donated land for it deserve the nation’s gratitude. Emphasising Gandhian principles, he said nature is the greatest healer and true health lies in simplicity, discipline, and alignment with natural living.

    Highlighting the growing burden of lifestyle diseases, Radhakrishnan said the Ashram’s message is more relevant than ever. He stressed that health goes beyond the absence of disease and includes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, urging people to adopt balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and mental peace.

    Recalling his tenure as Governor of Jharkhand and Maharashtra, he said he had witnessed indigenous healing practices among tribal communities, rooted in traditional knowledge and reflecting India’s long-standing civilisational wisdom in holistic healthcare.

    The Vice-President said that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, India’s traditional systems of medicine have gained global recognition, with AYUSH institutions contributing to preventive healthcare and wellness tourism. He added that yoga and naturopathy complement modern medicine and are valuable contributions from India to the world.

    Observing that material success alone does not guarantee happiness, he said true fulfilment lies in balance and harmony. “When individuals are healthy, families become strong; when families are strong, society prospers; and when society prospers, the nation rises,” he said.

    Radhakrishnan emphasised that as India moves towards the vision of “Viksit Bharat”, equal focus must be placed on achieving a “Swasth Bharat”, with institutions like Nisargopachar Ashram playing a key role.

    On the occasion, he paid floral tributes to Gandhi and Manibhai Desai, and released the book Secrets of Our Happiness, authored by Dr. Narayan Hegde, Managing Trustee of the Ashram.

    Among those present were Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, and Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe, among other dignitaries.

  • Epson showcases education innovation as Platinum Sponsor of the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association National Summit (ASPA)

    Held from 24–25 March 2026 at Gandel Hall in the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra 

    CANBERRA, 23 March 2026 – Epson Australia will take centre stage as a Platinum Sponsor at the upcoming Australian Secondary Principals’ Association (ASPA) National Summit, bringing some of its latest education technology solutions to one of the country’s most influential gatherings of public secondary school leaders.

    Held from 24–25 March 2026 at Gandel Hall in the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, the summit will bring together delegates including leading secondary school principals from across Australia, heads of principals’ associations, senior education policymakers, academics, politicians, students and representatives from parent and community organisations.

    Organised by the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association (ASPA) — the national peak body advocating for Australia’s public secondary school principals — the summit provides a unique forum to address critical challenges facing schools and to shape the future of secondary education policy and leadership.

    As a Platinum Sponsor, Epson will have a prominent presence throughout the two-day event, demonstrating its commitment to supporting educators and equipping schools with innovative, reliable technology designed to enhance learning outcomes and streamline administrative workflows.

    Epson’s participation highlights its ongoing dedication to the education sector, where schools increasingly rely on advanced technology to support teaching, collaboration and efficient document management.

    Epson technology on display
    Summit attendees will have the opportunity to experience one of Epson’s latest solutions designed for education and enterprise environments, the WorkForce DS-32000 A3 high-speed document scanner, designed to streamline document capture and digital record management for busy education environments.

    This powerful scanning solution helps schools digitise records, manage administrative tasks efficiently and support paper-to-digital workflows.

    Key features of the DS-32000 include:

    • High-speed scanning – capable of handling large volumes of documents
    • Support for a wide range of media types – including A3 documents and bound materials
    • Advanced image processing – for clear, accurate digital records
    • Excellent network connectivity – allows easy integration into school workflows

    Epson showcases education innovation as Platinum Sponsor of the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association National Summit (ASPA)

    Epson DS-32000 A3 high-speed document scanner

    In addition to scanners Epson also has a range of printers designed to meet the needs of the education sector including the WorkForce Enterprise AM-C400, the WorkForce Enterprise AM-C4000 and the SureColor T3160.

    The AM-C400 is a compact A4 colour multifunction inkjet printer with a high-resolution output of 600 x 1200 dpi and the AM-C4000 is a high-performance A3 colour multifunction printer with a professional, even higher resolution output of 600 x 2400 dpi. Both printers offer print speeds of up to 40 ISO ppm in mono and colour.

     

    Epson showcases education innovation as Platinum Sponsor of the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association National Summit (ASPA)

    Epson WorkForce Enterprise AM-C400

    Built for productivity, the AM-C400 and AM-C4000 combine print, copy, scan and workflow integration capabilities in a compact, scalable footprint suited to high-volume environments such as schools, universities and administrative departments.

    Powered by Epson’s PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology, these printers deliver fast, reliable and energy-efficient printing while reducing operational costs and environmental impact. 

    Epson showcases education innovation as Platinum Sponsor of the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association National Summit (ASPA)

    Epson WorkForce Enterprise AM-C4000

     

    Epson WorkForce Enterprise AM-C400 and AM-C4000 key features include:

    • High reliability – simple mechanism for environments where downtime is a not an option

    • More sustainable – lower power consumption saves energy thanks to Epson’s Heat-Free Technology

    • Small footprint – amongst the smallest footprints in their class

    • Solution compatibility – a wide variety of integrated software solutions

    • Award winning design – specifically designed to blend in with and complement just about any school, office or work environment

    • Powered by PrecisionCore – advanced printing technology engineered by Epson to power the world’s top performing printers

    • Work with Epson Remote Services – cloud-based, advanced diagnosis of Epson printers and MFPs

    The Epson SureColor T3160M is a compact 24-inch large-format wireless multi-function printer that includes an integrated scanner designed for precision, speed and reliability. Engineered for professionals in education, architecture, engineering and design it delivers high-quality CAD drawings, posters and technical documents with exceptional accuracy and efficiency.

    Epson showcases education innovation as Platinum Sponsor of the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association National Summit (ASPA)

    The 24-inch Epson SureColor T3160M

    The 24-inch SureColor T3160M also supports copy enlargements and reductions, as well as enhanced tracing and offers highlight detection for scanning annotated blueprints.

    Built on Epson’s PrecisionCore technology and powered by UltraChrome XD2 pigment inks, the T3160M produces sharp lines, vibrant colours and durable prints that are resistant to water and smudging. Its space-saving design and flexible media handling make it ideal for educational offices and institutions requiring professional-grade wide-format output. 

    Key features of the SureColor T3160M

    • High-speed performance – produces A1 prints in as little as 34 seconds for fast turnaround 
    • PrecisionCore print technology – delivers sharp detail and consistent output at up to 2400 × 1200 dpi 
    • Durable pigment inks – UltraChrome XD2 inks provide water- and smudge-resistant prints for professional use 
    • Wide-format capability – supports media up to 24 inches (610 mm) wide, including roll and cut-sheet paper 
    • Integrated auto-cutter – ensures clean, precise finishing of prints 
    • Flexible media handling – up to sheet feeder and roll-to-sheet switching for seamless workflow 
    • Compact, space-saving design – suitable for desktops or floor-standing configurations in smaller workspaces 
    • User-friendly interface – 4.3-inch colour touchscreen for intuitive operation 
    • Connectivity and integration – supports Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, AirPrint, and CAD/GIS software workflows 
    • Low running costs – energy-efficient operation with individual ink cartridges for cost control

    EcoTank printer giveaway at ASPA 2026
    To celebrate its Platinum Sponsorship and participation at ASPA, Epson will also host a giveaway of an EcoTank ET-4950 printer, offering one lucky attendee the opportunity to take home Epson’s premium, award-winning cartridge-free printing solution.

    Epson showcases education innovation as Platinum Sponsor of the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association National Summit (ASPA)

    EcoTank ET-4950 printer

    The EcoTank range is known for its ultra-low-cost printing, refillable ink tanks, and reduced environmental impact making it a popular choice for schools and home offices alike.

    Event

    ASPA National Summit 2026

    Dates

    Tuesday 24 March – Wednesday 25 March 2026
    Show times
    Tuesday 24 March – 8:45am to 5:00 pm
    Wednesday 25 March – 7:30 am to 2:45 pm

    Location

    Gandel Hall, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra ACT

    Summit delegates are invited to visit Epson during the event to explore the latest solutions designed to support modern education environments.

  • ABB FIA Formula E in Madrid hosts a royal visit at inaugural race, welcoming His Majesty King Felipe VI

    The race welcomed 30,000 fans over the weekend which saw António Félix da Costa win, and Jaguar TCS Racing secure a one-two finish 

     

    ABB FIA Formula E in Madrid hosts a royal visit at inaugural race, welcoming His Majesty King Felipe VI

    Dubai, UAE,  March 22: The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, welcomed His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain to Madrid’s inaugural hosting of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.  

    King Felipe VI’s presence highlighted the growing importance of sustainable motorsport and Spain’s role in embracing innovative, electric racing technologies. 

    ABB FIA Formula E in Madrid hosts a royal visit at inaugural race, welcoming His Majesty King Felipe VI

     

    The event marked a historic milestone for a championship that is currently in its twelfth season, and which since its inception has had innovation embedded in its DNA. 

    FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “It was an honour for the FIA to welcome His Majesty King Felipe VI to the Circuito de Madrid-Jarama for the city’s inaugural ABB FIA Formula E World Championship race. 

    “This landmark event reflects the growing global appeal of electric racing and underscores our shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, and cutting-edge motorsport. 

    “Madrid has embraced Formula E with great enthusiasm, and hosting the championship here for the first time allows us to showcase the excitement of electric racing while promoting cleaner mobility solutions. 

     

    “We are thrilled to bring fans from around the world to the Spanish capital and inspire the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts and innovators.” 

    Jaguar TCS Racing secured a one-two finish in the race as Portugal’s Antonio Felix da Costa secured victory ahead of New Zealander Mitch Evans. 

    Carmelo Sanz de Barros, President of the FIA Senate and President of the Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE), said“Bringing Formula E to Madrid for the first time is a historic moment for our city and for Spanish motorsport.

    “The CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix showcases not only racing at the highest level but also the importance of sustainable mobility. We are proud to have welcomed His Majesty King Felipe VI to experience this unique event, which celebrates innovation, excitement, and Spain’s commitment to a greener future in motorsport.” 

    The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship stands at the forefront of sustainable innovation in global sport, combining high-performance racing with a clear purpose: to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.

    Since it began, the championship has served as a platform for cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, driving advancements in energy efficiency, battery development and urban mobility solutions.

    Formula E not only brings world-class motorsport to fans but also demonstrates how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, supporting the FIA’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while inspiring the next generation of mobility. 

    The Championship will continue for Rounds 7 & 8 in Berlin from the 2nd May 2026.

  • Amit Shah Extends Greetings on Bihar Diwas, Lauds State’s Cultural Legacy and Contribution to Nation-Building

    New Delhi, March 22 (BNP): Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, on Sunday extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of Bihar on the occasion of Bihar Diwas, highlighting the state’s rich cultural heritage and enduring contributions to India’s progress.

    In a message shared on the social media platform X, Shah described Bihar as a land renowned for its vibrant culture, traditions, and unique art forms. He noted that the state has consistently guided the nation along the path of social justice and intellectual awakening.

    The Home Minister underscored Bihar’s historical significance, referring to its illustrious centres of learning such as Nalanda and Vikramshila. He said that from these ancient institutions to its active role in the freedom struggle and during the Emergency period, Bihar has made invaluable contributions to nation-building across eras.

    Shah further stated that by embracing and preserving its vast heritage and traditions, Bihar is today setting new benchmarks of growth and development.

    Bihar Diwas, celebrated annually on March 22, marks the formation of the state in 1912 and is observed with cultural events and public celebrations across the region.

     
     
  • IIJS Bharat – Tritiya 2026 Unveils India’s Strength as a Global Jewellery Powerhouse

    Bengaluru, March 22: India reinforced its position as a global jewellery powerhouse with the inauguration of the 4th edition of IIJS Bharat – Tritiya 2026, organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) at the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre (BIEC). As one of the country’s leading B2B jewellery trade shows, the event serves as a key sourcing platform for the upcoming festive and wedding seasons, bringing together stakeholders from across the global gem and jewellery ecosystem.

    The inauguration ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Smt. Gunjan Krishna, IAS, Commissioner for Industrial Development and Director of Industries and Commerce, Government of Karnataka. The event was attended by Guests of Honour A. Prasanna Anguraj, Managing Director, Sree Kumaran Thangamaligai, and Pratap Madhukar Kamath, Managing Director, Abaran Timeless Jewellery Pvt. Ltd., along with senior GJEPC leadership and key industry stakeholders.

    IIJS Bharat – Tritiya 2026 Unveils India’s Strength as a Global Jewellery Powerhouse

    Supported by the Government of Karnataka and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, the 2026 edition marks a significant scale-up, featuring over 1,100 exhibitors across 1,900+ stalls. Spanning three expansive halls, the exhibition offers a comprehensive sourcing platform across gold, diamond, silver, and studded jewellery, alongside loose natural diamonds, coloured gemstones, couture jewellery, lab-grown diamonds, and machinery and allied segments.

    Highlighting the industry’s resilience, Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, noted that India’s gem and jewellery exports reached ₹2.28 lakh crore between April 2025 and February 2026, registering over 4% growth despite a 44% decline in traditional markets such as the United States. He emphasised that strategic market diversification, evolving design innovation, and new free trade agreements are helping the sector navigate global challenges while unlocking new opportunities.

    IIJS Bharat – Tritiya 2026 Unveils India’s Strength as a Global Jewellery Powerhouse

     This year’s edition has also attracted participation from over 270 new companies, reflecting the sector’s expanding footprint and dynamism. Running concurrently is the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) Bharat – Tritiya 2026, showcasing advanced machinery, allied products, and packaging solutions, further strengthening the link between manufacturing excellence and retail demand.

    Underscoring Karnataka’s support, Smt. Gunjan Krishna highlighted the participation of exhibitors and visitors from over 500 cities and 40 countries, calling it a testament to the industry’s global relevance. She emphasised the need to move towards high-value, design-led luxury segments while leveraging India’s rich heritage of craftsmanship.

    In a significant development, GJEPC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Jewellers’ Association Bengaluru (JAB), aimed at strengthening the regional jewellery ecosystem, enhancing industry participation, and creating new growth opportunities through the IIJS platform.

    The exhibition also features a Crafts Pavilion celebrating India’s GI-tagged jewellery traditions, including Banaras Meenakari, Cuttack Tarakasi filigree, Thewa jewellery of Rajasthan, and Hupari silver craft—highlighting the country’s rich artisanal legacy.

    Adding to the experience, The Select Club presents a curated luxury segment showcasing high-end couture jewellery, while Innov8 Talks at the Launch Pad hosts thought leadership sessions, panel discussions, and product launches focused on emerging trends and innovation in the sector.

    The event also includes a Networking Night and the IIJS Icon Awards, recognising excellence within the industry, along with the Hidden Star Awards that honour the contributions of retail merchandising teams.

    With over 15,000 retailers expected from 500 cities across India and international participation from 40 countries, IIJS Bharat – Tritiya 2026 is set to serve as a powerful platform for business networking, knowledge exchange, and global market expansion—further strengthening India’s position on the world jewellery map.

  • IHCL Hotels in Tamil Nadu Reinforce Responsible Hospitality, Mark Four Years of Paathya with Bharat Eksaath Walkathon

    CHENNAI, MARCH 22, 2026: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, continues to advance its sustainability and social impact agenda through Paathya, its ESG+ framework.

    IHCL Hotels in Tamil Nadu Reinforce Responsible Hospitality, Mark Four Years of Paathya with Bharat Eksaath Walkathon

    Photo caption: Dr. S. Armstrong, Vice-Chancellor Convener Committee, University of Madras, Megalina Iden, DC Traffic – East, and Ian Dubier, Area Director Operations for Tamil Nadu and General Manager of Taj Coromandel, flagging off IHCL’s Bharat EkSaath Walkathon at University of Madras in Chennai.

    Marking its fourth year, IHCL reinforced its commitment to responsible tourism with Bharat EkSaath Walkathon – Tamil Nadu edition, an inclusive 3 km walk that brought together associates, their families, local partners, vendors and community members. This was held simultaneously across 14 countries in over 200 locations. The funds raised through the walkathon support the Taj Public Service Welfare Trust (TPSWT), reinforcing IHCL’s approach to social impact.

    Teams from Taj Coromandel, Taj Connemara, Taj Club House, Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa Chennai, Taj Wellington Mews Chennai, Vivanta Chennai IT Expressway, Ginger Chennai, OMR, Ginger Chennai, Vadapalani, Ginger Chennai, IITM, TajSATS, Vivanta Coimbatore, Savoy, Ooty – IHCL SeleQtions, Gateway Madurai and Gateway Coonoor participated in the 3-km walk.

    The Walkathon commenced from the University of Madras and was flagged off by distinguished guests, Dr. S. Armstrong Vice-Chancellor Convener Committee, University of Madras, and Megalina Iden, DC Traffic – East. The route began at the University of Madras, proceeded along Madras Beach Road, and concluded back at the University campus.  The event concluded with a hearty breakfast, followed by the distribution of medals and certificates to all participants.

  • India Launches Carbon Market Portal at Prakriti 2026, Positions Carbon Trading as Key to Climate Action

    New Delhi, March 21 (BNP): Union Power Minister Manohar Lal on Saturday inaugurated the International Conference on Carbon Markets, Prakriti 2026, and launched the Indian Carbon Market Portal, underscoring India’s commitment to advancing climate action alongside economic growth.

    The two-day conference, organised by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is being held in the national capital as part of the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026.

    India Launches Carbon Market Portal at Prakriti 2026, Positions Carbon Trading as Key to Climate Action

    The event brings together global experts, policymakers, industry leaders and researchers to deliberate on carbon markets and their role in supporting climate goals and green growth. The theme of this year’s conference is “Unlocking Carbon Finance for NDC Implementation through Global Partnerships and Digital Pathways.”

    During the inaugural session, the Indian Carbon Market Portal (www.indiancarbonmarket.gov.in
    ) was launched by Manohar Lal, along with Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik and other dignitaries. The portal is designed as a central platform for implementing and administering the country’s carbon market.

    Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister said India has demonstrated that climate responsibility and economic development can progress together. He highlighted initiatives such as the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), renewable energy expansion and energy efficiency programmes as key steps toward building a transparent and credible carbon market framework.

    He noted that the country has already notified nine methodologies under the CCTS, with over 40 entities registering projects in sectors such as biogas, hydrogen and forestry. Additionally, greenhouse gas emission intensity targets have been set for nearly 490 entities across seven energy-intensive sectors.

    Emphasising the economic potential of carbon markets, Lal urged businesses to view them not merely as compliance mechanisms but as opportunities for innovation, investment and entrepreneurship.

    Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik highlighted three key pillars for robust carbon markets — credibility through digital monitoring, reporting and verification systems, capital mobilisation for clean technologies, and international collaboration under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

    He said India’s progress in renewable energy and energy efficiency demonstrates that climate action and economic growth are complementary, adding that carbon markets can empower MSMEs and farmers while enabling transparent global cooperation.

    The conference will feature discussions on global carbon markets under the Paris Agreement Crediting Mechanism, compliance frameworks, digital technologies, carbon border policies and financing clean technologies.

    Officials said Prakriti 2026 reflects India’s growing role as a global leader in climate action and its efforts to develop a transparent, inclusive and innovation-driven carbon market ecosystem.

  • Luxor Introduces Crayola to India; Amitabh Bachchan Calls It a ‘New Beginning’ for Creativity

    Mumbai, Mar 21: As Luxor group brings America’s No.1 iconic creative brand Crayola to India, Amitabh Bachchan has extended his wishes to the company, calling the moment “a beginning” for creativity and expression in the country.

    The veteran actor’s message comes at a time when Luxor, long associated with writing instruments in India, expands its portfolio to strengthen the creative tools category through its partnership with Crayola.

    The launch signals a renewed focus on nurturing imagination and hands-on creativity among young audiences, with Luxor aiming to make globally trusted creative products more accessible across India.

    Mr Bachchan’s note adds cultural resonance to the launch, spotlighting the growing importance of creativity as a core part of learning and self-expression.