Preparing India for a true innovation-led economy
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 2:06AM IST
Driving Indias research, development, and innovation story needs decisive private sector participation
Continue reading at The Hindu
1h
Economic Survey promises, impact of new labour codes
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 2:00AM IST
The promises of reform cannot hide the realities in Indias informal workforce
Continue reading at The Hindu
1h
S&P 500 Slumps in Worst Day Since War Began
GLOBAL NEWS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 1:48AM IST
The stock index fell 1.5 percent on Thursday, as concerns continued to grow about oil prices rising amid the war in the Middle East.
Continue reading at The New York Times
1h
Trump to Target Forced Labor in Global Tariff Scheme
GLOBAL NEWS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 1:44AM IST
The Trump administration is expected to begin a trade investigation into whether dozens of countries have policies to combat forced labor.
Continue reading at The New York Times
1h
LPG crisis updates LIVE: Those trying to cause panic are harming the country, says PM Modi
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 1:24AM IST
Govt. allocates 48,000 kilolitre of additional kerosene to States
Continue reading at The Hindu
2h
New LCR norms could help banks expand credit by 7%
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:48AM IST
New banking rules starting April 1 will empower lenders to boost credit by an estimated 7 percent. Banks can now use their existing liquidity for loans, increasing lending capacity. This shift is expected to benefit public sector banks significantly. Analysts believe this will ease concerns about lending growth constraints. Credit expansion may soon outpace deposit growth.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
'IEA's record oil release to ease pressure'
INDIA NEWS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:44AM IST
New Delhi: Indian refinery executives expect supply pressures to ease partly after the IEA said Wednesday that its 32 member countries will make 400 million barrels of oil available to the market at a pace determined by each country.The timing of the release will be crucial, executives said. If a large volume is released quickly-sufficient to prevent those countries from seeking barrels from the international market -it would make it easier for buyers such as India to secure supplies, an executive said. As pressure on global supplies eases, prices will begin to reflect that, he added.Oil prices shot past $100 per barrel again on Thursday, overlooking the IEA's record release.India received its first crude cargo at Mumbai port from the Gulf region on Wednesday afternoon since the Iran war began on February 28, according to shipping data. It was a Liberia-flagged tanker that started its journey on March 3 from Saudi Arabia's Ras Tanura port and reportedly turned off its transponder while crossing the Strait of Hormuz.Government officials did not confirm media reports that India and Iran have struck a deal on safe passage for India-bound oil tankers crossing the strait.Oil minister Hardeep Puri told Parliament that crude supplies from non-Hormuz routes are rising, accounting for about 70% of India's imports now, compared to 55% before the conflict.India is also encouraging LPG consumers to switch to alternative fuels such as kerosene, biomass and coal, Puri said.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
IEA's record oil release will ease pressure, say Indian refiners
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:44AM IST
Indian refiners anticipate easing oil supply pressures following a major international release. The speed of this release is key for India to secure needed barrels. Meanwhile, India received its first crude cargo from the Gulf since the Iran war began. Crude supplies from non-Hormuz routes are increasing, and the government is promoting alternative fuels.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
Streamers dive into bigger talent pool of new generation creators
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:42AM IST
Indian streaming platforms are moving away from a few trusted production houses. They are now seeking new creators to bring fresh stories to audiences. This shift aims to reflect India's diversity and boost growth. Platforms are using various methods to find and support emerging talent. This includes digital creators and new filmmakers.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
Too Much On Their Plate: Caterers scramble as LPG cylinders run out amid West Asia conflict
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:39AM IST
India faces widespread disruption as tight LPG supplies impact major events. Weddings and iftar parties are being affected. Hotels and caterers struggle to secure gas cylinders, leading to menu changes and cancellations. The shortage stems from the West Asia conflict impacting global energy routes. Home consumption is prioritized, but businesses face significant challenges.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
Packaged food companies slash production amid LPG crunch
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:38AM IST
Packaged food manufacturers nationwide are halting production due to a severe LPG shortage, exacerbated by West Asian conflict disruptions. Alternative fuels like piped natural gas are also facing restrictions and hefty price hikes. This crisis impacts companies already seeing demand recovery, forcing them to consider production cuts if the situation persists.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:33AM IST
Canadas 2nd largest pension fund, also the largest institutional investor in infrastructure globally, looks to deploy about $3 bn in next 4-5 yrs.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
'Alternate sources in play to meet peak power demand this summer'
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:31AM IST
India anticipates sufficient power supply this summer. New coal and renewable energy capacities will meet demand. Battery storage is also coming online. This comes as gas-fired power generation may be reduced. Peak power demand is projected to rise significantly. The government has alternative resources to ensure adequate supply.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
India's kitchens safe amid energy shock, assures Hardeep Puri
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:30AM IST
As the world grapples with an intense energy upheaval, India remains steadfast in its commitment to its citizens by prioritizing access to cooking fuel. The government is actively protecting LPG supplies while maintaining consumer prices against the backdrop of global market shifts. Crude oil remains in supply, and LPG production has been ramped up to meet demand.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
Banks urged to devise low-interest loans
INDIA NEWS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:29AM IST
New Delhi: The government has asked banks to devise low-interest loan schemes for retail borrowers as well as micro and small enterprises, and explore credit products for tribals who may lack collateral. Banks are expected to share inputs by the end of this month and implement the schemes early next financial year, said people familiar with the development."Banks have been asked to look at various loan schemes and further build upon the existing models such as Grameen Credit Score and the Stand Up India 2.0 scheme," a government official said on condition of anonymity, adding that the aim is to push credit growth.Bank-led credit growth stood at a 19-month high of 14.6% at January-end, compared with 11.4% a year ago.Banks will discuss internally how such schemes can be designed with a uniform loan application and other credit appraisal metrics. The retail loans will cover all consumer loans, including housing loans, subject to prudent lending guidelines, said the official.129521921 Public sector banks have already implemented the Grameen Credit Score framework for better assessment of self-help group members and people in rural areas to increase lending to this category. A bank executive said lenders will look at tailored schemes for micro enterprises, which may include longer tenure periods to bring down interest rates and lower requirements of margin funds. "Firms operating in sectors such as leather, toys and even street vendors will be targeted through these new loan products," he said, adding that the government wants banks to come up with inclusive credit strategies for the unbanked population.Another bank executive said that models such as the proposed customised credit cards with a 5 lakh limit for micro enterprises registered on Udyam portal can also be looked at. "We are already in the process of rolling out these projects and can add more features to them including additional lending support," he saidNon-food bank credit increased 14.4% year-on-year in January, accelerating from 11.3% a year earlier while remaining at levels similar to those in December 2025, according to a report by CareEdge Ratings."Growth was broad-based, led by personal loans, especially vehicle loans, and remained double-digit in MSME (micro, small and medium enterprises) lending. Credit to services, including trade and NBFCs (non-banking financial companies), remained healthy, supported by a gradual pickup in corporate borrowings," it said, noting that gold loans surged 128.8% year-on-year in January, reflecting strong collateral-backed demand amid higher gold prices.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
Banks urged to devise low-interest loans for retail, MSME clients
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:29AM IST
Banks will discuss internally how such schemes can be designed with a uniform loan application and other credit appraisal metrics. The retail loans will cover all consumer loans, including housing loans, subject to prudent lending guidelines, said an official.
Continue reading at Economic Times
2h
IndiGo has lowest pilots-to-aircraft ratio at 7.6: Civil Aviation Minister
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:24AM IST
Recent statistics show that IndiGo tops the chart among domestic airlines with the most efficient pilot-to-aircraft ratio, while SpiceJet lags with the highest ratio. Air India and its subsidiary also reflect a greater number of pilots per aircraft. These insights were shared by the Civil Aviation Ministry.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
India re-evaluates plan to float tenders for 1 GW wind energy projects
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:22AM IST
India's government is reconsidering plans for 1 GW wind energy project tenders. Rising steel costs are impacting bidder enthusiasm. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is consulting with global bodies to boost wind sector investments. A new policy for small hydro projects is also anticipated soon. Financial aid for solar module components is being explored.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
Centre reviews 1-GW offshore wind tender timing
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:22AM IST
The tender documents for the 1-GW capacity wind project are ready, but feedback from industry participants suggests the market may not respond adequately at this stage. The ministry of new and renewable energy has begun engaging with policy institutions and multilateral agencies to explore ways to improve investor participation.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
Rail travel insurance should not be limited to online tickets: SC
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:21AM IST
The Supreme Court has ruled that all railway passengers must have equal access to travel insurance. This applies whether tickets are bought online or at counters. The court stated that a distinction in treatment is not justified. While misuse of insurance is a concern, solutions should be found instead of denying the facility.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
SC to hear LG India's plea against EPF requirement for expat staff
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:19AM IST
The Supreme Court will hear LG Electronics India's challenge to rules requiring foreign workers in Indian companies to join the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation. LG argues this is discriminatory compared to Indian employees. The Delhi High Court had previously upheld these rules. The court has issued notices and will hear the case further on March 20.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
Banking Regulators Plan to Ease Some Capital Requirements
GLOBAL NEWS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:18AM IST
The Federal Reserve and other financial regulators will soon release proposals to loosen some planned rules on how much capital banks must hold in reserve to mitigate risks.
Continue reading at The New York Times
3h
'India has intellectual power to be a leader in biomedical innovation,' says Bayer AG
INDIA BUSINESS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:13AM IST
Bayer's CEO Bill Anderson believes India can become a top pharmaceutical market. He highlights the need for supportive policy frameworks, including stronger intellectual property protection. This will attract investment in cutting-edge drugs. India's young population and technological leadership offer significant opportunities. Bayer is investing in innovation centers in Bengaluru, leveraging Indian talent for global missions.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
China leaders project stability despite war
INDIA NEWS | Fri, 13 Mar 2026, 12:04AM IST
China's leaders wrapped up nine days of annual legislative meetings in Beijing on Thursday, projecting an image of domestic stability seemingly unaffected by the war in key trading partner Iran.Officials under President Xi Jinping vowed to boost domestic consumption and invest in new technologies including artificial intelligence to drive growth, while making few changes to China's policy roadmap for the next five years.There was also little signalling whether the United States and Israel's ongoing strikes against Iran Would disrupt US President Donald Trump's expected visit to Beijing this month.This year's "Two Sessions" political gathering saw Beijing announce a steady seven-percent boost to China's annual defence budget, and approve laws on development planning, ethnic unity and a new environmental code.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
China's New 'Ethnic Unity' Law Sparks Alarm In Taiwan, Raises Fears of Legal Crackdown
INDIA MARKET | Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 11:50PM IST
Taipei warns Beijing could use the law to target Taiwanese seen as supporting independence.
Continue reading at NDTV
3h
Supreme Court rap puts spotlight on RERA's weak links
INDIA BUSINESS | Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 11:49PM IST
Experts highlight RERA's ineffectiveness due to a lack of intent from chiefs, poor state coordination, and underutilization of powers. Reforms are needed to protect homebuyers, as the cost of violating laws often outweighs the benefits for developers, leading to a credibility gap.
Continue reading at Economic Times
3h
Political stability makes India attractive for global investors: Bryan Marsal, CEO, Alvarez & Marsal
INDIA BUSINESS | Thu, 12 Mar 2026, 11:47PM IST
Global investors find India attractive due to its stable politics and policies. This stability contrasts with China's investor confidence issues. Alvarez & Marsal, a consulting firm, has significantly expanded its India operations. The firm sees strong growth in India's consulting sector, driven by transactions and performance improvement. Artificial intelligence is also shaping future consulting demand.
Continue reading at Economic Times
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