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  • Indian Railways Rolls Out Eight Key Reforms to Modernise Operations and Boost Logistics

    July 15: Indian Railways has introduced eight major reforms aimed at transforming freight transportation, strengthening logistics operations, and improving overall efficiency across the railway network.

    Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the reforms under the ‘52 Reforms in 52 Weeks’ initiative, which focuses on bringing structural and procedural improvements to railway operations. With the latest announcements, 17 reforms have been implemented under the initiative this year.

    The newly introduced measures are designed to simplify processes, improve supply chain management, and create better opportunities for industries to use railway services.

    A major highlight of the reforms is the introduction of a container-based system for transporting fly ash. The new system will help reduce dust pollution, ensure cleaner handling, and improve transportation efficiency by enabling direct loading and specialised unloading facilities.

    The Railways has also revised fertiliser transportation procedures, allowing containers to be unloaded based on demand instead of holding an entire rake at a single location. This change is expected to improve logistics flexibility and ensure smoother distribution.

    In another important step, oil companies will now have the option to purchase or lease specialised railway wagons for transporting petroleum products. The initiative aims to reduce transportation costs, improve supply chain planning, and promote greater movement of goods through rail networks.

    The freight policy for foodgrains, flour, and pulses has also been simplified with the introduction of a per tonne-per-kilometre rate structure. The revised system will make transportation easier and encourage containerised movement of essential commodities.

    The Ministry of Railways said these reforms are part of its larger vision to create a modern, efficient, and industry-friendly railway system. The initiatives are expected to strengthen freight capacity, improve logistics connectivity, and support India’s economic growth.

    Through continuous reforms and technology-driven improvements, Indian Railways is working towards building a more efficient transport network that benefits passengers, businesses, and the nation’s overall development.

  • ManageEngine Completes the Certificate Life Cycle Management Loop With CA-Agnostic, Zero-Touch Automation

    Cairo, Egypt, July 15 – ManageEngine, a division of Zoho Corporation and a leading provider of enterprise IT management and security solutions, today announced post-deployment automation for TLS certificates in Key Manager Plus, its certificate life cycle and machine identity management solution. Key Manager Plus now automates the final stages of certificate renewal, pushing certificates to the target server, running configured scripts, restarting dependent services, and notifying stakeholders, so the whole certificate life cycle runs without manual intervention.

    Historically, most organizations did not have much incentive to automate certificate management. Even the ones that did adopt automation workflows limited it to discovery, periodic expiration alerts, and in some instances, automated renewals. That changed when the CA/Browser Forum voted to reduce the maximum validity of public TLS certificates, phasing down from the legacy 398-day validity period to a 200-day period in March 2026 (current cadence), which will drop to 100 days by March 2027, and finally 47 days by March 2029.

    “We’re going from under 200 certificates to over 2,000, across a lot of domains, different server setups, credentials and post-deployment actions for nearly all of it. We’ve had to dedicate significant engineering time to certificate management alone since the change to 200 days. With the 47-day certificate renewals coming up, automation is the only way we can keep up, and Key Manager Plus’ CA-agnostic, certificate life cycle management has helped us automate the whole thing,” said Jonathan Choiniere, infrastructure manager at RevSpring, a payment solutions provider based in Nashville, Tennessee.

    Automating the Last Mile of Certificate Renewal

    Getting the certificate live is the last step in the renewal process, and this post-deployment task has primarily been handled manually by many teams. While this works when teams are renewing one certificate a year, as certificate lifespans shrink and the same steps repeat roughly eight times as often, manual errors become more likely and the cost of an outage can run into the millions.

    ManageEngine Completes the Certificate Life Cycle Management Loop With CA-Agnostic, Zero-Touch Automation 

    “Certificate renewal is rarely the hard part. The work that piles up on teams is what comes after it, at scale: pushing certificates to the server, restarting the services, and confirming they actually went live. End-to-end automation is what turns a 47-day renewal cycle from a scramble into something that runs on its own. With Key Manager Plus, we are eliminating the last manual step in the life cycle management loop,” said Vasudevan Seshadri, director of product management at ManageEngine.

    Quantifying the 47-Day Shift

    To help organizations assess their own exposure to the reduced certificate validity mandate, ManageEngine has also released a 47-day TLS impact calculator. It lets enterprises quantify what the mandate means for them based on three factors: the size of their certificate estate, their current renewal labor, and their outage exposure. From there, it compares those numbers against what they will look like once their TLS certificate life cycle is fully automated. That automation is what Key Manager Plus delivers, and it runs identically whether teams deploy on-premises or in the cloud.

     

     

     

  • NSE, Augmont Partner to Strengthen India’s Electronic Gold Receipt Ecosystem

    July 15: The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has partnered with Augmont to strengthen India’s Electronic Gold Receipt (EGR) ecosystem, marking a significant step towards developing a more transparent and organised gold market.

    NSE, Augmont Partner to Strengthen India’s Electronic Gold Receipt Ecosystem

    The partnership aims to encourage wider adoption of Electronic Gold Receipts, providing investors with a modern and efficient way to hold and trade gold through digital platforms backed by physical gold.

    The initiative is expected to improve transparency, enhance price discovery, and create greater participation in the formal gold market. It will also help bridge the gap between traditional gold ownership and emerging financial market solutions.

    Electronic Gold Receipts offer investors the convenience of digital ownership while reducing the challenges associated with storing physical gold. The platform-based approach is designed to provide a secure, efficient, and accessible option for individuals and institutions interested in gold investments.

    The collaboration between NSE and Augmont is expected to benefit various stakeholders, including investors, jewellers, traders, and other participants in the gold value chain, by supporting a more structured and transparent trading ecosystem.

    The move reflects the growing efforts to modernise India’s gold market and strengthen the role of technology in creating efficient financial solutions. The partnership is expected to contribute towards wider acceptance of digital gold instruments and support the formalisation of gold trading in India.

  • Andhra Pradesh Backs PPP Model for Ramayapatnam Port, Cites Growth and Development Benefits

    July 15: The Andhra Pradesh government has reiterated its support for operating Ramayapatnam Port under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, stating that the approach will help accelerate infrastructure development and improve the state’s maritime growth prospects.

    Officials said the PPP framework will enable the integration of government support with private sector expertise, bringing advanced technology, efficient management practices, and greater investment into port operations.

    The government highlighted that Ramayapatnam Port is a key strategic project aimed at improving cargo movement, strengthening logistics networks, and supporting industries across the region. The port is expected to create new opportunities for trade, commerce, and employment while enhancing Andhra Pradesh’s position in the maritime sector.

    Authorities said private participation in infrastructure projects helps ensure faster development, better operational efficiency, and improved services while contributing to long-term economic growth.

    The state government reaffirmed its commitment to developing world-class infrastructure and creating a business-friendly environment. The development of Ramayapatnam Port under the PPP model is expected to support industrial expansion and boost economic activity in Andhra Pradesh.

  • Northeast Set to Become India’s Next Innovation Powerhouse: NITI Aayog Officials

    July 15: The Northeast region has the potential to emerge as India’s next major innovation hub, according to NITI Aayog officials, who highlighted the area’s growing strengths in technology, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

    Officials said the region’s young workforce, rich natural resources, diverse culture, and strategic importance provide a strong foundation for building an innovation-driven economy. With the right support systems, the Northeast can become a key contributor to India’s growth and development journey.

    NITI Aayog emphasised the importance of strengthening research and development, promoting startups, improving digital connectivity, and creating an ecosystem that encourages local talent to develop innovative solutions.

    The region has already been witnessing growth in areas such as technology, agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, and entrepreneurship. Greater collaboration between government agencies, industries, educational institutions, and local communities can further accelerate this transformation.

    Officials noted that empowering young entrepreneurs and expanding opportunities for innovation will play a crucial role in unlocking the Northeast’s full potential.

    The focus on innovation-led development aligns with India’s broader vision of inclusive growth, where every region contributes to the country’s economic progress. With continued investment and support, the Northeast is expected to emerge as an important centre for innovation, enterprise, and sustainable development.

  • Faith Overcomes Monsoon Challenges as Char Dham Yatra Draws Record Devotee Rush

    July 15: The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand continues to witness a remarkable surge of devotion, with lakhs of pilgrims visiting the revered Himalayan shrines despite challenging monsoon conditions and heavy rainfall in several parts of the state.

    More than 14 lakh devotees have visited Kedarnath Dham so far this pilgrimage season, reflecting the strong spiritual connection of pilgrims with one of India’s most sacred shrines. Meanwhile, Badrinath Dham is receiving around 6,000 devotees every day, with the steady flow of visitors continuing despite weather-related challenges.

    Authorities have intensified monitoring and safety arrangements along the pilgrimage routes to ensure a smooth and secure journey for devotees. Measures are being taken to manage crowd movement, improve facilities, and address challenges caused by rainfall and changing weather conditions.

    Pilgrims have been advised to remain alert, check weather updates regularly, and follow instructions issued by local authorities while travelling to the high-altitude shrines.

    The administration is also focusing on maintaining essential services, ensuring safe travel routes, and providing necessary support to devotees throughout the pilgrimage period.

    The overwhelming response to the Char Dham Yatra highlights the enduring faith of devotees, who continue to undertake the spiritual journey with dedication and devotion. Despite the difficulties posed by the monsoon, the pilgrimage remains a symbol of faith, resilience, and spiritual commitment.

  • India Can Become the World’s Next Superpower in AI and Deep-Tech: Dr. Mashelkar

    Mumbai , July 15: Speaking at a special lecture under the FICCI Legends Series, Padma Vibhushan awardee, Fellow of the Royal Society, and former Director General of CSIR, Dr. R. A. Mashelkar said that “Deeptech, Artificial Intelligence, and inclusive innovation can become the strongest pillars of Viksit Bharat 2047.” Delivering a lecture on the theme “Winning Through Innovation: Lessons for Industry and Society,” he emphasized that India must evolve from being a consumer of global technologies to becoming a creator of world-class innovations.

    India Can Become the World's Next Superpower in AI and Deep-Tech: Dr. Mashelkar

    DrMashelkar highlighted his widely acclaimed philosophy, “More from Less for More,” as the guiding mantra for India‘s growth. He said, 

    “The purpose of innovation should be to deliver world-class, affordable solutions to more people using fewer resources. Excellence, affordability, and inclusivity must define India‘s innovation model.”
    He cited examples such as smartphone-based tuberculosis screening, AI-powered disease detection, digital maternal healthcare, and non-invasive anemia diagnosis as evidence that India has already demonstrated its ability to develop globally relevant solutions despite limited resources. He also urged the government to significantly increase investments in deep science, disruptive technologies, and high-risk research.
     
    Former FICCI President R. V. Kanoria said,
    “Innovation will determine India‘s economic competitiveness and technological leadership.” Meanwhile, Ankit Mehta, Co-founder and CEO of ideaForge, remarked that “‘More from Less for More’ provides the roadmap for people-centric innovation capable of transforming the lives of millions.”
    The event witnessed participation from leading representatives of industry, startups, research institutions, and the policy ecosystem, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening India‘s innovation-led growth trajectory.
  • Carne Group’s Study finds Asset Managers accelerate Outsourcing pivot as Regulatory Burden Intensifies

    July 15: A global study of 200 fund managers across Europe and the United States who collectively manage $7.72 trillion in assets, commissioned by Carne Group (Carne), Europe’s largest third-party management company (ManCo), reveals a fundamental shift in the operational architecture of the asset management industry. Faced with a looming regulatory storm and an increasingly difficult recruitment landscape, fund managers are moving rapidly towards a model defined by the aggressive outsourcing of core functions to third-party specialists (please see the attached press release).

    The research reveals fund managers are increasingly moving away from a do-it-all-in-house approach in favour of external partnerships that offer the scale, technological sophistication, and jurisdictional reach required to survive in a high-cost, high-scrutiny environment.

    The regulatory squeeze and the talent deficit

    Central to this transformation is a deepening concern regarding the global regulatory environment. An overwhelming 89% of fund managers surveyed agree that the ability to navigate regulatory complexities will become much harder over the next two years. This sentiment is driving a flight to expertise, as many fund managers realise that internal resources are no longer sufficient to keep pace with evolving transparency requirements and reporting standards.

    The data also points to a critical talent gap within the industry. When asked why they are increasing their use of third-party service providers, 35% of respondents ranked the difficulty in recruiting appropriate staff as their top challenge. This was followed by the growing burden of regulation, which was cited by one in five (21%) as being the number one driver.

    The outsourcing surge: Middle and back office in focus

    In terms of the scale of this planned operational overhaul, 70% of fund managers surveyed expect to increase their use of third-party service providers over the next 12 months alone, with 41% of respondents planning a dramatic increase.

    This trend is not a short-term fix but a long-term strategic realignment. Looking ahead over the next five years, 96% of asset managers questioned expect their use of third-party suppliers to increase, with over a third (37%) anticipating a dramatic shift in how they support their fund management businesses.

    The willingness to switch

    The research also reveals a highly competitive and fluid market for third-party services. Gone are the days of ‘provider for life’ relationships; fund managers are increasingly willing to switch suppliers to find the right fit for their evolving needs.

    One in five managers (20%) confirmed they expect to switch to an alternative third-party service provider within the next year. When asked what would trigger such a move, the ability to offer a wider range of services was most frequently ranked top by respondents, followed by wanting higher service levels and then the need for better technological capabilities.

    Interestingly, while cost and price remain important, they were cited as the primary reason for switching by only 13% of managers. This suggests that for today’s fund managers, value-add and service depth are now considered more critical than purely competing on price.

     

  • Indore Launches Madhya Pradesh’s First International Flight Service to Abu Dhabi

    July 15: Madhya Pradesh has taken a major step towards strengthening international connectivity with the launch of its first international flight service from Indore to Abu Dhabi. The new route marks an important milestone for the state’s aviation sector and is expected to open new opportunities for passengers, businesses, and travellers.

    The direct flight service will provide improved access between Madhya Pradesh and the United Arab Emirates, benefiting tourists, professionals, students, and the business community. The new connection is expected to make international travel more convenient by reducing dependence on connecting flights through other major cities.

    The launch of the Indore-Abu Dhabi route is also expected to support economic growth by promoting trade, investment, and tourism between Madhya Pradesh and global markets. Improved air connectivity will help strengthen business links and provide better opportunities for industries and entrepreneurs in the region.

    Aviation officials said the introduction of the international service reflects the growing importance of Indore as a key commercial and transport hub in central India. The development is expected to further enhance the city’s role in connecting the state with international destinations.

    The new flight service represents a significant achievement for Madhya Pradesh’s aviation infrastructure and is expected to contribute to the state’s growing presence on the global connectivity map.

  • The Leela Gandhinagar Celebrates India’s Regal Culinary Heritage with the Royal Biryani & Kebab Trail at Diya

    The Leela Gandhinagar Celebrates India's Regal Culinary Heritage with the Royal Biryani & Kebab Trail at Diya

    Gandhinagar, July 15India’s royal kitchens have long been celebrated for their fragrant biryanis, expertly grilled kebabs, and the artistry of slow-cooked flavours. This July, The Leela Gandhinagar brings that regal culinary legacy to life with a specially curated Biryani and Kebab Festival at Diya, from 16th July to 31st July 2026. Set within the elegant surroundings of the award-winning Indian specialty restaurant, the festival offers an immersive journey through the rich traditions, aromas, and flavours that once graced the tables of the Royals.

    As the festival unfolds, the air is filled with the aromas of saffron-infused rice, slow-roasted spices, charcoal-grilled kebabs, and fragrant basmati layered with delicate seasonings. Drawing from culinary traditions once cherished by royal households across India, each preparation reflects the depth, warmth, and craftsmanship that have made biryanis and kebabs enduring symbols of Indian fine dining.

    The festival presents a thoughtfully curated selection of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties, featuring signature biryanis such as the Hyderabadi Kathal Dum Biryani, Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani, and Murgh Dum Biryani, alongside expertly crafted kebabs including Shahi Subz Akhrot Ki Seekh, Ulta Tawa Subz Galouti, Murgh Angar Bedgi, Gosht Aur Hare Pyaaz Ki Seekh, and more. Prepared by the hotel’s Master Chef, each dish brings together fragrant basmati rice, saffron, aromatic spices, and traditional cooking techniques to celebrate the depth, elegance, and richness of India’s royal culinary heritage.

    Beyond the menu, the experience is elevated by Diya‘s opulent surroundings, where silver-adorned ceilings, handcrafted chandeliers, Venetian mirrors, and contemporary Indian design create a setting reminiscent of a modern royal dining chamber. Whether enjoyed as an intimate evening, a family gathering, or a special celebration, the festival invites guests to immerse themselves in the splendour of Indian gastronomy.

    Speaking about the festival, Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, said, “Biryanis and kebabs carry a remarkable legacy of royal kitchens, regional craftsmanship, and generations of culinary artistry. Through this festival, we wanted to recreate the warmth and grandeur of those timeless traditions while offering our guests an experience that reflects the elegance and authenticity associated with Diya and The Leela.”

    Blending royal culinary traditions, masterful craftsmanship, aromatic spices, and signature Leela hospitality, the Biryani and Kebab Festival at Diya promises an indulgent journey through the flavours that have graced India’s royal tables for centuries.