Blog

  • Gold and Silver Prices Rise as Weaker Dollar Supports Precious Metals

    New Delhi, July 20: Gold and silver prices moved higher as a weaker US dollar provided support to precious metals, offsetting concerns over possible interest rate decisions by the US Federal Reserve.

    Market sentiment remained influenced by global economic developments, with investors closely tracking currency movements and monetary policy signals. A softer dollar generally makes precious metals more attractive for buyers holding other currencies, contributing to the upward movement in prices.

    Analysts said ongoing uncertainty over interest rate policies and global market conditions continues to influence precious metal trading. Investors are keeping a close watch on inflation trends, economic data, and central bank decisions for further direction.

    The rise in gold and silver prices reflects continued demand for safe-haven assets amid changing global financial conditions. Market participants expect volatility to remain as investors assess future interest rate outlooks and currency trends.

  • India’s Gems and Jewellery Exports Rise Over 26 pc in June, Boosting Trade Growth

    New Delhi, July 20: India’s gems and jewellery exports recorded strong growth in June, rising by more than 26% compared with the previous period, reflecting increased demand from international markets and strengthening the country’s position in the global jewellery trade.

    The export growth was supported by improved market conditions, steady demand for precious jewellery, and rising interest in Indian craftsmanship across global markets. The sector continues to play an important role in India’s export economy by generating employment and supporting businesses across the value chain.

    Industry stakeholders said the positive trend highlights the resilience of the gems and jewellery sector despite global economic challenges. Exporters are focusing on expanding international reach, improving product quality, and adopting new designs to meet changing consumer preferences.

    The growth in exports is expected to provide further momentum to the sector and create new opportunities for manufacturers, artisans, and exporters. The industry remains focused on strengthening India’s presence in global markets through innovation, sustainability, and competitive trade practices.

    The latest performance underscores the significant contribution of the gems and jewellery sector to India’s economic growth and export diversification efforts.

  • How Technology-Led Skilling Is Strengthening India’s Healthcare Services Economy

    By  Mr Deepak Sharma, Co-founder & CEO of MedLern

    India’s medical services segment is entering a transformative phase, driven by the rapid expansion of digital integration such as AI-powered healthcare tools, telemedicine, and robotics. As we adapt to evolving demographics of the growing elderly population and increasing burdern of non communicable diseases, modern tech-driven skilling models are emerging as a driving force in navigating workforce deficit challenges. Moreover, it is creating millions of employment opportunities by training medical professionals with advanced digital skills. 

    Other than strengthening service delivery, technology-enabled training is helping hospitals and healthcare institutions onboard professionals faster, improve operational readiness, and support continuous learning across departments. On top of that, with increasing pressure on hospitals to manage higher patient volumes seamlessly, the need for digitally skilled medical professionals is becoming more important than ever. 

    Bridging Digital Gaps In Healthcare 

    A WHO-SEARO study from 2025 claims that more than 47 percent of the medical workforce in India needs to be prepared with foundational digital knowledge to make use of  evolving tools and technologies, including AI diagnostics and EHRs. Additionally, a NITI Aayog report highlights India requires over 1 million trained allied health professionals (AHP), including online health administrators, health data analysts and telehealth technicians. 

    These numbers reflect an pressing need, especially at a time when hospitals are already dealing with manpower shortages, high attrition rates, and nurse migration overseas. In many healthcare institutions, newly graduated professionals also require additional practical exposure before adapting to fast-moving clinical environments and digital workflows. As hospitals continue to adapt AI tools, smart diagnostics, automation systems, and digital patient management platforms, there is a growing need for continuous workforce training. 

    Rising Demand For Continuous Healthcare Skilling 

    While the current growth in healthcare is opening up a lot of doors, it’s also putting a massive amount of pressure on hospitals to manage a larger patient load with limited staff. This is why healthcare leaders should focus more on AI training by upskilling their employees to handle HMIS, HIMS, EHR systems, AI-powered tools, and digital patient management platforms. 

    At the same time, it’s no longer enough to just have your medical degree; front-line workers should stay current with advanced technology to ensure smooth operations and effective patient care. This has created a huge need for digital training models, as it supports specialised areas, such as nursing training modules, practising emergency response, or staying on top of the latest compliance rules. Since healthcare professionals often work under intense workplace pressure and long shifts, flexible digital learning solutions are helping them continue training without affecting patient responsibilities.

    More importantly, technology is now becoming an enabler for scalable workforce development, helping healthcare institutions strengthen workforce readiness while building capabilities at a much faster pace. 

    AI and Its Economic Impact

    In today’s tech-savvy world, it is important to recognise that AI will play a vital role in healthcare, delivering faster early-onset detection, patient-centric treatments and care, improved outcomes and limited manual labour. However, the larger opportunity lies not in workforce replacement but in preparing healthcare professionals to work effectively alongside evolving technologies.

    As hospitals continue integrating AI tools, smart diagnostics, automation systems, and digital patient management platforms, there is a growing need for continuous workforce training. 

    Doctors, nurses, technicians, and administrative teams must regularly adapt to new systems to ensure efficient implementation and safe patient care. Rather than replacing healthcare professionals, technology is increasingly becoming an enabler that helps healthcare institutions scale training, strengthen workforce preparedness, and improve capability building at a much faster pace. This shift will not only cut down hospital operational costs but also minimise financial stress on patients suffering long-term diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart-related issues. 

    Takeaway 

    Technologyled skilling in India is an opportunity for delivering better results in the healthcare sector, making it future-ready for any challenge and capable of meeting global standards to treat modern patients. These fundamental changes will not only enhance India’s medical domain but also empower millions of healthcare professionals by upskilling them.

  • Hyundai Motor India Expands EV Ecosystem with Access to 30,000 Charging Points Nationwide

    New Delhi, July 20: Hyundai Motor India has announced expanded access to a network of 30,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging points across India, strengthening efforts to make electric mobility more accessible and convenient for customers.

    The initiative aims to provide EV owners with wider charging options and greater confidence while travelling, addressing one of the major factors influencing electric vehicle adoption. The expanded network will support customers by improving access to charging facilities across different locations.

    The move reflects Hyundai’s continued focus on developing a robust EV ecosystem in India through enhanced infrastructure support and customer-centric solutions. As demand for electric vehicles grows, reliable charging availability is expected to play a key role in accelerating the transition towards cleaner transportation.

    Hyundai Motor India is working towards supporting sustainable mobility by integrating technology, innovation, and infrastructure development. The expansion of charging access is expected to encourage more consumers to adopt electric vehicles and contribute to the growth of India’s green mobility sector.

    The company’s latest initiative marks another step in strengthening the electric vehicle landscape and improving the overall ownership experience for EV users across the country.

  • Sunfeast Marie Light Drives Vitamin D Awareness with ‘Surya Vardaan’ initiative at Puri Rath Yatra

    Sunfeast Marie Light Drives Vitamin D Awareness with ‘Surya Vardaan’ initiative at Puri Rath Yatra

    Puri, 20th July: Despite being blessed with abundant sunshine, Vitamin D deficiency continues to affect millions of Indians, often going unnoticed due to limited awareness. Continuing its meaningful association with Odisha’s culture, Sunfeast Marie Light launched Sunfeast Surya Vardaan, a Vitamin D awareness initiative. The initiative is built on Sunfeast Marie Light’s long-standing association with the Sun and its proposition of ‘Goodness of Vitamin D’.

    As one of Odisha’s largest cultural congregations, Rath Yatra offered Sunfeast Marie Light a powerful platform to disseminate its message on Vitamin D at scale. With the thought “Har Kiran Mein Chhupa Hai Vitamin D Ka Vardaan”, the brand encouraged devotees and families to become more aware of their Vitamin D requirement.

    The campaign came alive through a strong on-ground and online presence. At Puri Rath Yatra, Surya Sahayaks interacted with devotees, assisted them in taking a 2-minute Vitamin D requirement check and shared educational material creating awareness about Vitamin D deficiency. Select participants were also offered free Vitamin D medical tests, enabling the initiative to translate awareness into meaningful action. The campaign was further amplified online, where consumers could take a WhatsApp-based test by answering simple behavioural questions around sunlight exposure, outdoor routines and Vitamin D awareness.

    Mr. Suraj Kathuria, VP and Head of Marketing – Biscuits, Foods Division ITC Ltd, said: “Odisha’s enduring relationship with the Sun provided a meaningful starting point for us to spark conversations around Vitamin D. Through Surya Vardaan, our endeavour has been to make Vitamin D awareness simple and relevant for consumers. Combining technology, community engagement and the scale of Rath Yatra, we encouraged people to better understand their Vitamin D needs and take informed steps towards their well-being like spending time in the Sun and making Sunfeast Marie Light with Vitamin D a part of their everyday tea-time.”

    Archita Sahu, renowned Odia film actress and the brand’s ambassador in Odisha, said: “As an Odia, Rath Yatra is very close to my heart. I’m happy to be part of Sunfeast Marie Light’s Surya Vardaan initiative, which encouraged people to understand their Vitamin D requirement. I urge everyone to take this 2-minute Vitamin D requirement check.”

    With the second edition of Surya Vardaan, Sunfeast Marie Light continues to demonstrate how brands can transform cultural moments into meaningful platforms for consumer awareness, strengthening its association with Odisha while encouraging awareness around Vitamin D and everyday well-being.

  • PM Modi Highlights Youth Power and India’s Space Aspirations During Monsoon Session

    New Delhi, July 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for constructive participation from all members of Parliament during the Monsoon Session, emphasizing that the experience and knowledge of senior lawmakers can play an important role in shaping the country’s future.

    PM Modi Highlights Youth Power and India’s Space Aspirations During Monsoon Session

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

    Addressing the nation ahead of the session, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of meaningful debates and cooperation in Parliament. He said the experience of seasoned MPs, combined with the energy and aspirations of young India, can contribute to stronger policymaking and national development.

    The Prime Minister also praised the achievements of young innovators in India’s space sector, highlighting the efforts of a 28-year-old team at Skyroot Aerospace as an example of the country’s growing technological capabilities and entrepreneurial spirit.

    Referring to India’s economic performance, he said the country’s growth momentum reflects its inherent strength despite challenges arising from global uncertainties, including the West Asia crisis. He emphasized that India’s progress is being driven by resilience, innovation, and the determination of its people.

    During his address, the Prime Minister said the aspirations and potential of India’s youth are limitless, comparing their ambitions to the vast possibilities of space exploration. He urged lawmakers to focus on creating opportunities that support the dreams of the next generation.

    The Monsoon Session of Parliament is expected to focus on important legislative matters and discussions related to national development, with the government calling for cooperation and productive dialogue among all parties.

  • Odisha Student Wins Gold at International Chemistry Olympiad

    Bhubaneswar, July 20 (UDN): Bhubaneswar student Debadatta Priyadarshi has won a gold medal at the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) 2026, bringing recognition to Odisha and India at the global stage.

    Odisha Student Wins Gold at International Chemistry Olympiad

    Held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the prestigious competition saw participation from students representing 93 countries. Debadatta was among four Indian students who secured gold medals, marking a historic achievement for the country with its first-ever all-gold medal performance at the International Chemistry Olympiad.

    Along with Debadatta, Harshit Singla from Punjab, Kabeer Chillar from Delhi, and Sandeep Kuchi from Hyderabad also earned gold medals, helping India achieve a top position in the overall medal standings.

    The achievement has been widely appreciated as a reflection of India’s growing strength in science and the exceptional talent of its young students. The success of the Indian team highlights the importance of academic excellence, innovation, and dedication in scientific fields.

    Odisha Governor Dr. Kambhampati Hari Babu congratulated the young achievers, praising their accomplishment as a symbol of India’s scientific potential and the capabilities of the country’s youth.

    Debadatta’s remarkable performance has brought pride to Odisha and inspired students across the state to pursue excellence in science and technology.

  • Students Develop Impact-Resistant Sports T-Shirt, Win National Hackathon Recognition

    New Delhi, July 20: Three students have won national recognition at a hackathon for developing an innovative impact-resistant sports T-shirt aimed at improving athlete safety and comfort.

    The student team created a unique sportswear solution designed to provide better protection against physical impacts while maintaining flexibility and ease of movement. The innovation focuses on addressing safety concerns in sports by combining practical design with advanced materials.

    The project impressed the jury for its creativity, functionality, and potential to benefit athletes. The achievement highlights the growing role of young innovators in developing solutions that address real-world challenges through technology and design.

    The national hackathon provided a platform for students to present innovative ideas across various fields, encouraging creativity, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving among the next generation of innovators.

    The success of the students reflects the increasing importance of sports technology and the potential of youth-led innovations to contribute to safer and more advanced sporting environments.

  • NRI Inflows to Strengthen India’s Banking Sector, Deposit Growth Expected to Reach 15 pc in FY27

    New Delhi, July 20: Rising inflows from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are expected to provide a significant boost to India’s banking sector, with deposit growth projected to accelerate to around 15% in the financial year 2026-27.

    The increase in NRI deposits is likely to support banks by improving liquidity and strengthening their funding base. Higher remittances and overseas investments from the Indian diaspora are expected to contribute to the growth of deposits while supporting the country’s financial stability.

    The projected rise comes at a time when banks are focusing on expanding their deposit base to meet growing credit demand from businesses, individuals, and various sectors of the economy. Strong deposit growth will help financial institutions maintain a healthy balance between lending activities and available funds.

    Experts believe continued confidence among overseas Indians, along with India’s economic growth prospects, will remain key drivers of higher inflows in the coming year. The trend is expected to further strengthen the role of the Indian diaspora in supporting the country’s financial ecosystem.

    The expected increase in deposits highlights the importance of NRI contributions in boosting banking sector resilience and supporting long-term economic growth.

  • Tamil Nadu Faces Power Challenges as Weak Monsoon Reduces Hydel Generation

    Chennai, July 20: A weaker-than-expected monsoon has impacted hydropower generation in Tamil Nadu, leading to a sharp decline in electricity output from hydroelectric stations and increasing the state’s dependence on costlier power purchases.

    Lower rainfall has resulted in reduced water inflows into reservoirs, affecting the availability of hydel power that plays an important role in meeting the state’s energy requirements. To bridge the gap between demand and supply, power authorities have increased procurement from other sources.

    The rise in power purchases is expected to put additional pressure on electricity costs, as market-based procurement can be more expensive compared with locally generated hydroelectric power. Officials are closely tracking rainfall patterns and reservoir levels to manage the situation effectively.

    Despite the short-term challenges, Tamil Nadu continues to focus on strengthening its energy mix through renewable sources and improving power infrastructure. Authorities remain committed to ensuring a reliable electricity supply for households, industries, and businesses across the state.

    The situation also highlights the need for greater energy diversification and sustainable resource management to address weather-related fluctuations in power generation.