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  • MRF Achieves FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, Reinforcing its Global Motorsport and Sustainability Commitment

     

    Chennai, India | June 18: MRF Limited has been awarded the prestigious Three-Star level of the FIA Environmental Accreditation Programme, marking a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability journey and its continuing presence in global motorsport.

    The certification, awarded recently, follows an audit conducted under the FIA Environmental Accreditation framework. The FIA audit recognised MRF’s structured approach to environmental management, continual improvement and responsible manufacturing practices across its motorsport tyre operations.

    MRF Achieves FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, Reinforcing its Global Motorsport and Sustainability CommitmentCommenting on the achievement, Mr Arun Mammen, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, MRF Limited, said: “MRF’s global motorsport journey is powered by performance and responsibility. This FIA Three-Star accreditation reinforces our commitment to sustainable innovation, environmental stewardship and continuous improvement across our operations worldwide today.”

    With this recognition, MRF is the only Indian Tyre Company and also joins a select group of global motorsport tyre manufacturers to have achieved the FIA’s highest environmental accreditation.

    MRF manufactures motorsport tyres at its manufacturing locations, which are certified to ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System standards. The audit also noted that these manufacturing locations maintain ISO 50001 Energy Management System certification.

    The audit further recognised MRF’s SMART environmental objectives across its manufacturing locations, covering areas such as reducing specific power consumption, fuel consumption, water consumption and waste generation. Monitoring and measurement systems were documented across key environmental impact areas, including energy use, waste management, water consumption, biodiversity, air quality, noise, materials and procurement, transport, and Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions.

    The FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation is the highest level within the programme and reflects MRF’s continued commitment to integrating sustainability into its motorsport operations while maintaining the performance standards associated with the MRF brand globally.

  • Jan Aushadhi Kendras Cross 19,200 Mark Nationwide, Expanding Affordable Healthcare Access

    New Delhi, June 18: The number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) has increased to over 19,200 across the country, rising sharply from just 84 in 2014, the Government of India said on Wednesday.

    The expansion reflects a significant scale-up of the affordable healthcare initiative aimed at improving access to quality generic medicines for citizens at lower costs.

    Officials said the Jan Aushadhi scheme is designed to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure by providing medicines at prices significantly lower than branded alternatives while maintaining quality standards approved by regulatory authorities.

    The scheme has expanded its reach across urban and rural areas, including remote and underserved regions, ensuring wider availability of essential medicines through dedicated retail outlets.

    Health officials noted that the growth in Kendras has contributed to increasing awareness and acceptance of generic medicines among patients, helping to improve affordability in healthcare delivery.

    The government reiterated its commitment to further strengthening the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to ensure that essential medicines remain accessible and affordable to all sections of society.

  • FIA President Ben Sulayem says Macau conference can help shape future of motorsport, mobility

    FIA President Ben Sulayem says Macau conference can help shape future of motorsport, mobility

    Three-day event will welcome over 450 senior FIA delegates from 149 countries

    Dubai, UAE, June 18: H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, says the Federation’s Extraordinary General Assembly and Annual Conference in Macau next week has an important part to play in guiding the future of motorsport and mobility.

    Hosted in partnership with the Automobile General Association Macao-China (AAMC) and Galaxy Entertainment Group, and held at the Galaxy International Convention Centre, the three-day event starting on Tuesday will welcome over 450 senior FIA delegates across mobility and motorsport from 149 countries.

    It offers opportunities for the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, to address key initiatives in regional sporting growth, road safety, sustainable mobility, and innovation in transport.

    Macau is an iconic location for motorsport fans, playing host to the Macau Grand Prix at the Guia Circuit since 1954. Now, the event welcomes competitors across four FIA categories and is notorious for its demanding course, combining fast straights and tight corners.

    Speaking ahead of his return to Macau, H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “This conference provides a valuable opportunity to bring together our community and help shape the future of global motorsport and mobility. As we continue to grow participation, advance innovation and improve road safety worldwide, these discussions are more important than ever.

    “I am delighted to be returning to Macau, a truly iconic location for motorsport fans and a fitting location for the FIA to host one of the most important weeks of our calendar. My thanks to our hosts, the AAMC, Chairman Chong Coc Veng, and President Roberto Carlos Osorio.”

    Chong Coc Veng, Chairman of the AAMC, said: “We are honoured to welcome the FIA and our fellow Members from across the world back to Macau. The Annual Conference provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made together over the past year and shape the priorities that will drive our Federation forward. We look forward to welcoming delegates for what promises to be a productive few days.”

    The conference will be attended by representatives from the 245 FIA Member Clubs who represent motorsport and mobility at a global scale. This structure forms the backbone of the federation’s governance and operations, with each full Member Club holding voting rights across the FIA’s elections and regulatory decisions.

    Clubs are grouped into two primary categories, with some serving in both roles. Mobility Clubs provide mobility services and represent the interest of road users, with a focus on road safety, travel and tourism, consumer rights, and sustainable mobility.

    National Sporting Authorities (ASNs) govern and develop motorsport at a national level, are responsible for sporting events, issuing licenses, and engagement across regulations.

     

     

  • ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations Celebrates Fathers Through ‘A Briefcase of Love’ This Father’s Day

    ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations Celebrates Fathers Through ‘A Briefcase of Love’ This Father’s Day

    June 18: Some expressions of love are spoken, while others are carried quietly through everyday actions. This Father’s Day, ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations unveils ‘A Briefcase of Love’, a heartfelt tribute to fathers whose love has always been reflected through responsibility, resilience, and unwavering presence.

    At the heart of the campaign is the briefcase, an everyday companion that, over time, came to symbolize everything a father carried: responsibilities, aspirations, sacrifices, and the quiet promise of showing up, day after day.

    Bringing the campaign’s central symbol to life is the Father’s Day Couverture Chocolate Briefcase Cake, a handcrafted creation designed as a chocolate briefcase that embodies the love, responsibility, and dedication fathers carry every day. The cake features layers of chocolate sponge, caramel diplomat cream, and a delightful crunchy layer, making it as meaningful as it is indulgent.

    The Father’s Day collection also includes Dad’s Favourite Pistachio Chocolate Pastry, a delightful combination of rich chocolate sponge and velvety pistachio mousse finished with an edible moustache, alongside the Belgian Chocolate Brownie (No Added Sugar), which delivers deep chocolate flavour and a dense fudgy crumb with zero added sugar for those seeking a mindful indulgence.

    Extending beyond the product range, the campaign comes alive through an emotional digital film, social media storytelling that explore what a father’s briefcase truly held, not just essentials, but memories, values, and acts of love that often went unnoticed.

    With ‘A Briefcase of Love’, Sunfeast Baked Creations invites people to look beyond the ordinary and recognize that sometimes, the things fathers carried every day were carrying their love all along. This is now available across Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai & Hyderabad on Swiggy and Zomato.

  • Apple May Hike Product Prices Amid Rising Memory and Storage Costs: Tim Cook

    New Delhi, June 18: Apple may increase the prices of its devices in the coming period as global costs of memory and storage components continue to rise, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook has indicated.

    The company said that persistent cost pressures in semiconductor supply chains are impacting key input materials used across its product range, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other connected devices. Memory and storage chips, which are essential components in modern consumer electronics, have seen notable price increases due to supply constraints and rising global demand.

    Apple stated that while it continues to focus on supply chain optimisation, operational efficiency, and long-term vendor partnerships, sustained increases in component prices may eventually be reflected in retail pricing.

    Industry experts note that the development highlights broader inflationary pressures within the global electronics manufacturing ecosystem, particularly in segments dependent on advanced chip technologies. The trend could potentially influence pricing strategies across multiple technology companies beyond Apple.

    Analysts also suggest that strong demand for high-performance devices, coupled with constrained supply in certain semiconductor categories, is contributing to upward cost pressure across the sector.

    The company has not announced any immediate changes to product pricing but acknowledged that adjustments may be considered if current cost trends persist in the global supply chain environment.

  • Government Allocates INR 18,907 Crore for 26,474 km Rural Road Network in FY27

    New Delhi, June 18: The Government of India has earmarked ₹18,907 crore for the construction of 26,474 kilometres of rural roads during the financial year 2026–27, aimed at improving connectivity and strengthening rural infrastructure across the country.

    Government Allocates INR 18,907 Crore for 26,474 km Rural Road Network in FY27

     Pic Credit: Pexel

    The allocation is expected to support continued expansion of all-weather road networks in rural and remote areas, facilitating better access to markets, healthcare, education, and essential public services for rural populations.

    Officials said the initiative will play a key role in enhancing last-mile connectivity and supporting inclusive development by linking villages with nearby towns and economic centres. The programme is also expected to generate employment opportunities in construction and allied sectors.

    The rural road development programme has been a key focus area of the government’s infrastructure push, with emphasis on improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and boosting economic activity in rural regions.

    Experts note that improved rural road infrastructure is likely to have a multiplier effect on agricultural supply chains, rural trade, and overall socio-economic development.

    The construction targets for FY27 continue the government’s broader effort to expand and upgrade rural connectivity across states and union territories.

  • Kharif Sowing in India Crosses 84 Lakh Hectares, Early Monsoon Progress Supports Agriculture

    New Delhi, June 18: The total area sown under India’s ongoing kharif season has crossed 84 lakh hectares so far, indicating steady progress in early sowing operations across key agricultural regions of the country.

    Kharif Sowing in India Crosses 84 Lakh Hectares, Early Monsoon Progress Supports Agriculture

     Pic Credit: Pexel

    According to preliminary agricultural data, sowing activity has picked up momentum with the onset of the monsoon season, supporting timely cultivation of major kharif crops. Farmers across several states have begun planting operations, aided by improving rainfall conditions in many regions.

    Officials said the early progress in sowing is an important indicator of the overall agricultural outlook for the season, as kharif crops depend heavily on monsoon rainfall patterns and distribution.

    The kharif season typically includes major crops such as rice, maize, cotton, pulses, and oilseeds, which form a significant part of India’s agricultural output and rural economy.

    Agricultural experts note that consistent rainfall distribution in the coming weeks will be crucial for sustaining sowing momentum and ensuring healthy crop development across different states.

    The data reflects initial progress in the current season, with further updates expected as sowing activity continues across the country.

  • India–UK Trade Agreement to Be Operational from July 15, Says PM Modi, Calling It a ‘Historic Milestone’

    New Delhi, June 18: The India–UK trade agreement will come into effect from July 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Wednesday, describing it as a “historic milestone” in the economic partnership between the two countries.

    India–UK Trade Agreement to Be Operational from July 15, Says PM Modi, Calling It a ‘Historic Milestone’

    Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia 

    The operationalisation of the agreement is expected to mark a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations, while opening new opportunities for businesses, exporters, and industries on both sides.

    According to officials, the agreement is designed to enhance market access, streamline trade processes, and deepen cooperation in key sectors including goods, services, manufacturing, technology, and innovation-driven industries. It is also expected to support supply chain integration and encourage greater economic collaboration between India and the United Kingdom.

    Prime Minister Modi said the agreement reflects the growing trust and shared ambition between India and the UK to build a stronger, future-oriented economic partnership. He noted that the pact will contribute to expanding trade opportunities and fostering long-term economic growth.

    Officials further stated that the implementation of the agreement will provide a structured framework for boosting bilateral trade flows and improving ease of doing business between the two economies.

    The development is being viewed as a major milestone in India’s expanding global trade engagements, reinforcing its position as a key player in international economic partnerships.

  • MENA Fintech Association and FINTECH.TV Forge Strategic Global Media Alliance to Amplify Fintech Leadership, Shape Industry Dialogue, and Connect Innovation Across Global Markets

    MENA Fintech Association and FINTECH.TV Forge Strategic Global Media Alliance to Amplify Fintech Leadership, Shape Industry Dialogue, and Connect Innovation Across Global Markets

     

    Dubai, UAE – June 18 – The MENA Fintech Association (MFTA), the leading not-for-profit fintech ecosystem enabler and industry advocacy platform across the Middle East and Africa, announced a strategic collaboration with Fintech.TV, the premier global media platform dedicated to financial innovation, capital markets, fintech, digital assets, and the future of finance.

    The partnership will establish a dedicated series of high-impact on-air discussions, executive interviews, thought leadership programs, and ecosystem-focused broadcasts featuring global policymakers, regulators, financial institutions, fintech founders, investors, technology innovators, and industry leaders.

    Powered by the MENA Fintech Association and amplified through Fintech.TV’s international media reach, the initiative aims to showcase the rapid evolution of the UAE and broader MENA fintech landscape while facilitating meaningful dialogue around the future of financial services, innovation, regulation, and digital transformation.

    “The future of fintech will be shaped by those who lead global conversations, not simply participate in them. Through the MENA Fintech Association’s partnership with FINTECH.TV, we are creating a powerful international platform that positions the MENA region at the center of financial innovation, policy dialogue, and industry leadership – connecting regional excellence with global influence.”

    – Nameer Khan, Chairman, MENA Fintech Association

    The MENA region is rapidly becoming a global hub for fintech innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment. At FINTECH.TV, we are excited to partner with the MENA Fintech Association to spotlight the leaders and ideas transforming the industry. By combining MFTA’s ecosystem leadership with FINTECH.TV’s international media platform, we will deliver impactful conversations, amplify regional innovation, and connect the MENA fintech community with audiences around the world.

    Troy McGuire Co-Founder and Global Head of Content and Operations, FINTECH.TV

     

  • PM Modi–Trump Meeting at G7 Focuses on Trade, West Asia and Strengthening India–US Ties

    New Delhi, June 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump held discussions on key global and bilateral issues on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, focusing on West Asia developments, progress on the India–US trade agreement, and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

    PM Modi–Trump Meeting at G7 Focuses on Trade, West Asia and Strengthening India–US Ties

     Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia

    PM @narendramodi met US President @realDonaldTrump in Evian and reviewed progress in India-US cooperation across sectors such as energy, trade, defence, technology and people-to-people ties.

    The two leaders also exchanged views on developments in West Asia. The Prime Minister… pic.twitter.com/CVZLtgcmDL

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 17, 2026

    The MEA said the meeting covered strategic, economic and geopolitical priorities of mutual interest, with both leaders reviewing ways to further strengthen trade, investment, defence, energy and technology partnerships between India and the United States.

    The discussions also included the situation in West Asia, with emphasis on regional stability and its global economic impact. Both sides expressed interest in deepening cooperation to support long-term strategic and economic alignment.

    Following the meeting, business leaders and members of the Indian diaspora welcomed the engagement, saying it could help further boost confidence in India–US economic and strategic relations.

    Officials noted that the interaction reflects continued efforts to expand the comprehensive global strategic partnership between the two countries.