Category: News

New Delhi, June 27: The Government of India convened a high-level Pre-Expression of Interest (Pre-EOI) meeting to advance plans for setting up green urea production plants, marking a significant step toward strengthening sustainable fertilizer manufacturing in the country.

The meeting focused on preparing the framework for inviting participation from industry stakeholders, technology providers, and investors for the development of green urea facilities. Officials discussed key aspects including technology selection, investment models, project structuring, and timelines for implementation.

The initiative aims to reduce dependence on conventional fossil-fuel-based fertilizer production by promoting environmentally sustainable alternatives. Green urea, produced using cleaner energy sources such as green hydrogen, is expected to play a crucial role in lowering carbon emissions from the agriculture and fertilizer sectors.

Government representatives emphasized that the proposed plants will support India’s broader clean energy and agricultural sustainability goals while ensuring long-term fertilizer security for farmers. The initiative is also expected to encourage private sector participation and foster innovation in green chemical manufacturing.

The Pre-EOI meeting marks the preparatory phase of the project, which will be followed by formal expressions of interest from eligible bidders in the coming stages. The government reiterated its commitment to building a robust ecosystem for green fertilizers as part of India’s transition toward a low-carbon economy.

New Delhi, June 26: India’s foreign exchange reserves rose by nearly $1 billion, reaching $672.5 billion, according to the latest data, reflecting continued stability in the country’s external financial position.

The increase in reserves is seen as a positive signal of economic resilience, supported by steady capital inflows, healthy export performance, and prudent macroeconomic management.

Economists said the strong reserve position provides a buffer against global financial volatility, currency fluctuations, and external shocks, while also supporting confidence in the Indian rupee.

Foreign exchange reserves play a crucial role in maintaining financial stability, ensuring adequate import cover, and supporting overall economic growth. India’s current reserve levels remain among the highest globally.

Officials noted that the steady accumulation of reserves reflects strong underlying fundamentals and sustained investor confidence in the Indian economy.

The rise is expected to further strengthen India’s ability to manage external risks and support long-term economic stability.

New Delhi, June 2026: India’s green economy has reached an estimated $110 billion, expanding at a strong 20% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), according to a recent report. The data highlights the rapid acceleration of India’s transition toward a more sustainable, low-carbon economic model driven by clean energy expansion, policy support, and increasing private sector participation.

The report notes that the green economy is becoming a major structural component of India’s overall growth story. Key contributing sectors include renewable energy, electric mobility, sustainable infrastructure, energy efficiency solutions, waste management, and climate-focused innovation. Together, these industries are reshaping traditional business models while creating new investment opportunities and employment pathways.

A significant driver of this growth has been India’s continued push toward clean energy adoption, supported by large-scale deployment of solar and wind power, increasing electrification of transport, and broader adoption of energy-efficient technologies across industries. Government initiatives promoting sustainability and emissions reduction have further strengthened momentum across the sector.

Industry observers also point to rising investor interest in environmentally sustainable businesses as a key factor behind the expansion. Companies are increasingly integrating environmental considerations into their long-term strategies, aligning with global sustainability expectations and evolving market demand.

The report emphasizes that India’s green economy is moving beyond early-stage development and is now emerging as a mainstream contributor to economic growth. It is playing an increasingly important role in shaping industrial competitiveness, improving energy security, and supporting long-term economic resilience.

Experts suggest that continued policy focus, technological innovation, and sustained capital inflows will be critical in maintaining this growth trajectory. The sector is expected to remain a key pillar of India’s economic transformation in the coming years, reinforcing the country’s position as a fast-growing hub for sustainable development.

Overall, the findings reflect a broader shift in India’s economic landscape, where sustainability is becoming central to growth strategies rather than a parallel initiative.

Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UDN): In a major boost to Odisha’s industrial landscape, the state on Friday witnessed the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for seven mega projects involving investments worth Rs 24,823 crore, with the proposed ventures expected to generate employment opportunities for nearly 29,500 people.

The agreements were signed in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during the third Eastern Regional Council Meeting of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) held in Bhubaneswar.

The proposed projects span key sectors and are expected to significantly strengthen Odisha’s industrial ecosystem, attract fresh investments and accelerate the state’s economic growth trajectory.

Addressing industry leaders and investors, Chief Minister Majhi said the new investment commitments reflect growing confidence in Odisha’s industrial potential and reaffirm the state’s vision of emerging as a leading growth engine in eastern India.

“The next chapter of India’s growth story is being written in Eastern India. Odisha is poised to play a pivotal role in this transformation in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Purvodaya’,” the Chief Minister said.

He highlighted that Odisha’s investor-friendly policies, robust infrastructure, abundant natural resources and skilled workforce have made the state a preferred destination for industries and entrepreneurs.

Majhi further stated that the newly signed projects would not only strengthen the state’s manufacturing and industrial base but also create large-scale employment opportunities, thereby contributing to inclusive socio-economic development.

Industry representatives participating in the meeting expressed optimism over Odisha’s growth prospects and appreciated the state’s proactive approach towards industrial development and ease of doing business.

The signing of the seven MoUs is being viewed as a significant milestone in Odisha’s efforts to attract large investments and position itself as a key industrial hub in eastern India.

New Delhi, June 26: The Centre has initiated a roadmap for the production of Green Urea as part of its efforts to promote sustainable fertiliser manufacturing and accelerate India’s transition to clean energy.

As part of the initiative under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, the government plans to procure 7.24 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of Green Ammonia annually to support the production of environment-friendly fertilisers.

The Department of Fertilisers has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) for setting up Green Urea plants and has begun consultations with public and private sector stakeholders to prepare an implementation strategy.

Officials said the proposed framework aims to encourage the use of Green Ammonia in place of conventional Grey Ammonia without increasing the cost burden on fertiliser manufacturers. The initiative is expected to create a viable ecosystem for green fertiliser production while promoting investments in renewable energy and green hydrogen.

The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based inputs, strengthen fertiliser security, and lower carbon emissions from the agriculture sector.

The Green Urea programme is expected to play a significant role in advancing India’s clean energy goals while supporting sustainable agricultural and industrial development.

New Delhi, June 26: The Centre has launched India’s first ‘Easy Connect’ flight service from Varanasi to make international travel easier and more convenient for passengers.

The new service allows travellers to complete baggage check-in and other required formalities at their departure airport before connecting to international flights through a major hub, reducing waiting time and making the journey smoother.

The inaugural service was launched from Varanasi and will initially provide seamless connectivity to several international destinations via Delhi.

Officials said the initiative is aimed at improving international air connectivity from non-metro cities and offering passengers a hassle-free travel experience.

The government plans to expand the ‘Easy Connect’ service to more cities in the coming phases as part of efforts to strengthen India’s aviation network.

Agartala, June 2026: The Tripura government has announced that it has achieved its target of doubling farmers’ income in the state, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said while highlighting key developments in the agriculture sector.

According to the Chief Minister, the progress has been driven by a combination of measures aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods, improving agricultural productivity, and expanding access to modern farming inputs and practices. He noted that consistent policy support and welfare initiatives have played a key role in enhancing the income levels of farming communities.

The state government pointed to increased focus on irrigation infrastructure, distribution of quality seeds and inputs, and improved extension services to farmers as important contributors to this outcome. Efforts to promote allied sectors such as horticulture, fisheries, and animal husbandry have also helped diversify income sources in rural households.

CM Saha stated that the achievement reflects the government’s commitment to farmer welfare and sustainable agricultural development. He added that continued efforts will be made to further strengthen rural economies and ensure long-term income stability for farmers across the state.

Officials said the initiative aligns with broader goals of boosting agricultural growth, improving productivity, and ensuring better market access for farmers.

Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UDN): In a major relief for consumers and jewellery buyers, gold and silver prices witnessed a significant decline in domestic markets on Thursday, raising hopes of increased demand ahead of the upcoming festive and wedding seasons.

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Market sources said the prices of both precious metals registered a sharp correction amid fluctuations in global bullion markets, easing concerns among consumers who had deferred purchases due to soaring rates in recent months.

Jewellers said the decline in prices is expected to boost retail demand, particularly among customers planning purchases for weddings, festivals and investment purposes. Traders are optimistic that the correction in rates will revive market sentiment and improve sales in the coming weeks.

Industry experts attributed the fall in prices to a combination of factors, including changing global economic indicators, fluctuations in international bullion prices, movements in the US dollar and investor sentiment in global markets.

While market analysts expect some volatility in the near term, they advised consumers and investors to closely monitor price trends before making large purchases or investment decisions.

Jewellery traders across several cities reported an increase in customer inquiries following the price drop, with many buyers viewing the correction as an opportune time to invest in precious metals.

Market observers said future price movements would largely depend on international market trends, geopolitical developments and monetary policy decisions by major central banks.

New Delhi, June 26: India delivered a strong performance at the ISSF Junior World Championship 2026, securing a total of 24 medals, officials said.

The Indian contingent showed consistent performance across rifle, pistol, and shotgun events, reflecting the growing depth of junior shooting talent in the country.

Coaches and officials attributed the success to structured training programmes, improved infrastructure, and increased exposure to international competitions, which have helped young athletes perform confidently at the global level.

Sports authorities said the achievement highlights India’s rising presence in international shooting and the strength of its talent development system.

The performance is expected to boost morale ahead of upcoming international events and strengthen India’s prospects in senior-level competitions.