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India, Norway Upgrade Bilateral Relations to Green Strategic Partnership

/ Governance Community

India and Norway have agreed to elevate their bilateral ties to a “Green Strategic Partnership” following high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo. During restricted and delegation-level discussions, both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of India-Norway relations and committed to deepening cooperation in areas such as clean energy, blue economy, green transition, renewable energy, trade and investment, circular economy, artificial intelligence, science and technology, education, space, and Arctic affairs. The two sides also highlighted the growing opportunities under the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, particularly in boosting trade, technology partnerships, and employment generation. In a joint press statement issued after the meeting, Prime Minister Modi recalled that his planned visit to Norway last year had been postponed following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. He expressed gratitude to Norway for firmly supporting India during that period, calling it a sign of genuine friendship between the two nations. Mr Modi said the India-EFTA trade pact, which came into force last year, would act as a roadmap for shared prosperity and stronger economic engagement between India and Norway. He also welcomed Norway’s decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, emphasizing that both countries, as major maritime nations, would enhance collaboration in maritime security, marine economy, and capacity building. The Indian Prime Minister reiterated that both nations strongly support a rules-based international order and believe in dialogue and diplomacy for resolving conflicts. Referring to ongoing crises in Ukraine and West Asia, he stressed that military solutions alone cannot resolve global disputes and underlined support for efforts aimed at restoring peace. Mr Modi also emphasized the need for reforms in global institutions to effectively address emerging international challenges and reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Norway to combating terrorism in all forms. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed strong support for India’s fight against terrorism and agreed to strengthen cooperation with India in multilateral platforms and global forums. Source: News on AIR

India, Norway Upgrade Bilateral Relations to Green Strategic Partnership Read More »

Government Raises Gold, Silver Import Duty to 15% to Control Imports and Support Rupee

/ Governance Community

In a significant policy move, the Indian government has increased import duties on gold and silver to 15% from the earlier 6%, aiming to reduce precious metal imports and ease pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves. The decision comes amid growing concerns over India’s rising trade deficit and weakening rupee, as heavy bullion imports have added strain to external finances. Analysts believe the higher tariffs could discourage fresh demand in one of the world’s largest gold-consuming markets. The announcement follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal urging citizens to postpone non-essential gold purchases for a year in the national interest. He had cited global economic uncertainty and tensions in the Middle East as reasons to conserve foreign exchange reserves. According to trade estimates, India’s gold imports have surged sharply in recent years, with increasing shipments from the UAE. Policy experts have also called for a review of tariff concessions under the India-UAE trade agreement, which they say contributed to higher imports. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also supported the move, stressing the need to reduce import-driven spending as geopolitical instability continues to impact global markets and energy routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The tariff hike has triggered mixed reactions. While some see it as a necessary step to protect the rupee and improve the trade balance, others fear it may encourage smuggling, disrupt wedding-season buying, and increase costs for consumers. Source: TOI  

Government Raises Gold, Silver Import Duty to 15% to Control Imports and Support Rupee Read More »

PM Modi Revives Covid-Era Work Culture Habits, Urges Indians to Prefer WFH and Virtual Meetings Amid Global Uncertainty

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to adopt certain work and travel habits that were common during the Covid-19 pandemic, including work-from-home arrangements, virtual meetings, and online conferences, as India prepares for possible economic pressure caused by rising global tensions in West Asia. Addressing a gathering in Secunderabad after launching development projects worth around ₹9,400 crore in Telangana, PM Modi said the country must focus on reducing unnecessary fuel consumption and lowering dependence on imported energy resources. Highlighting the importance of energy conservation, the Prime Minister advised offices and organisations to once again encourage remote working wherever possible. He said online meetings and digital conferences can help cut daily commuting, lower petrol and diesel usage, and ease pressure on fuel demand, especially in major cities. Unlike the pandemic years, Modi clarified that the appeal is not linked to any health emergency, but rather to economic preparedness during a period of international instability impacting fuel prices, supply chains, and global markets. He also encouraged citizens to make greater use of public transport such as metro rail services, and suggested carpooling when private vehicles are necessary. Beyond workplace habits, PM Modi called on people to limit non-essential foreign travel, postpone overseas vacations and destination weddings for the next year, and reduce unnecessary gold purchases to help conserve foreign exchange reserves. The Prime Minister said responsible consumption is essential at a time when the world is facing challenges related to energy security. He added that India is continuing to invest in alternative energy solutions such as solar power, ethanol blending, CNG mobility systems, and piped gas networks. During the same visit, Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple infrastructure projects in Telangana, including highways, railways, petroleum facilities, industrial developments, and the PM MITRA textile park in Warangal.

PM Modi Revives Covid-Era Work Culture Habits, Urges Indians to Prefer WFH and Virtual Meetings Amid Global Uncertainty Read More »

SEBI Plans Wider OBPP Access to GIFT City Products

/ Governance Community

The Securities and Exchange Board of India has proposed permitting Online Bond Platform Providers (OBPPs) to distribute investment products available in GIFT City, in a move aimed at broadening choices for domestic investors and enhancing India’s international financial hub as a global investment destination. The products fall under the regulatory framework of the IFSCA and include overseas-listed debt instruments. The proposal comes after IFSCA sought regulatory alignment, noting that stock brokers are already allowed to operate in these segments, while OBPPs remain restricted. In a separate measure, SEBI has suggested allowing OBPPs to distribute tax-saving bonds issued under Section 54EC by government-backed institutions. These offerings would remain subject to conditions such as mandatory disclosures, lock-in requirements, investment caps, and adherence to foreign exchange rules. The regulator is also considering relaxation in norms related to the appointment of compliance officers for OBPP platforms. SEBI has opened the consultation paper for public feedback, with comments invited until May 26. Source: News on AIR

SEBI Plans Wider OBPP Access to GIFT City Products Read More »

PM Modi Launches ₹4,000 Crore Development Projects During Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Celebrations

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th Statehood celebrations at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, where he inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth ₹4,000 crore. He also announced the establishment of six cricket academies across the North East region. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister praised Sikkim’s talented people and said visiting the state is always a joyful experience. Calling Sikkim the “Heaven of the East,” he encouraged tourists to explore its natural beauty, especially its famous orchids, while also appreciating the state’s cleanliness. The event was attended by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, ministers, and Members of Parliament. A grand cultural presentation titled “1000 Steps of Unity,” featuring more than 1,500 performers, highlighted India’s diverse traditions. PM Modi lauded the performance as a symbol of the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang thanked the Prime Minister for the new development initiatives and reiterated Sikkim’s dedication to contributing towards the vision of a developed India. Source: News on AIR

PM Modi Launches ₹4,000 Crore Development Projects During Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Celebrations Read More »

IMD Warns of Heatwave and Humid Conditions Across Southern States; Thunderstorms Likely in Several Regions

/ Governance Community

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heatwave conditions in Gangetic West Bengal, indicating intense heat during the day. Similar heatwave conditions are expected to affect parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. In southern India, residents of coastal Andhra Pradesh, coastal Karnataka, Kerala, Mahe, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal are likely to experience hot and humid weather conditions, adding to discomfort levels. Meanwhile, regions including Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Odisha may face warm night conditions over the next two days, with temperatures remaining elevated even after sunset. The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across several regions such as Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Odisha, parts of the Northeast, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, and Sikkim. Additionally, isolated hailstorms are likely to occur in parts of Madhya Maharashtra and North Interior Karnataka. Source: News On AIR  

IMD Warns of Heatwave and Humid Conditions Across Southern States; Thunderstorms Likely in Several Regions Read More »

PM Modi, South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung Hold High-Level Talks to Deepen Strategic Partnership

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral discussions with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in New Delhi, focusing on enhancing cooperation across key sectors and strengthening strategic ties between the two nations. The talks are expected to result in the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at boosting collaboration in areas of mutual interest. Earlier in the day, President Lee was accorded a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The welcome ceremony was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. President Lee, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hea Kyung, also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat by laying a wreath. Later in the evening, President Lee is scheduled to meet President Murmu for further discussions at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a state banquet in his honour. President Lee arrived in India on a three-day official visit, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers, senior officials, and business leaders. India and South Korea share a strong and evolving partnership anchored in historical ties, democratic values, and a shared commitment to the rule of law. This visit is expected to further solidify existing collaborations while opening new avenues in emerging sectors. Source: Newsonair

PM Modi, South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung Hold High-Level Talks to Deepen Strategic Partnership Read More »

India Crosses $860 Billion Export Milestone in FY 2025–26: Govt Highlights Resilience Amid Global Challenges

/ Governance Community

India has recorded its highest-ever export performance, reaching an impressive $860 billion in the financial year 2025–26, according to Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Sharing the update on social media, the minister emphasized that the achievement reflects India’s economic resilience and its expanding footprint in global trade despite ongoing international uncertainties. He noted that the momentum has been significantly supported by nine trade agreements finalized under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These agreements are helping India access new markets and unlock growth opportunities across multiple sectors. Goyal further highlighted that continued government efforts to improve ease of doing business and foster an investor-friendly ecosystem are playing a crucial role in driving export growth, aligning with the broader vision of building a “Viksit Bharat.” Welcoming the development, ASSOCHAM President Nirmal Minda described the milestone as a testament to India’s strong economic fundamentals amid global headwinds. He pointed out that the growth has been largely driven by services exports, along with strong contributions from sectors such as engineering and electronics. Minda added that the performance underscores the effectiveness of policy measures and industry collaboration, boosting confidence in India’s export trajectory. He also expressed optimism that the country is on track to surpass the $1 trillion export mark in FY 2026–27, backed by rising global competitiveness and diversification across markets. Source: Newsonair  

India Crosses $860 Billion Export Milestone in FY 2025–26: Govt Highlights Resilience Amid Global Challenges Read More »

Govt Assures Adequate Coal, Fuel Supplies; Monitoring Situation Amid West Asia Tensions

/ Governance Community

The government on Wednesday affirmed that coal reserves remain sufficient at both mines and power plants across India, even as geopolitical developments unfold in West Asia. Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing in New Delhi, Coal Ministry Joint Secretary Sanjeev Kumar Kassi stated that coal prices have remained stable and adequate stockpiles are being maintained despite the evolving situation. From the energy supply front, Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma assured that essential fuels, including LPG, petrol, and diesel, are readily available nationwide, with uninterrupted supply chains in place. She highlighted that domestic consumers are being prioritised to ensure full household access to LPG, while commercial LPG distribution is being managed in a regulated and balanced manner. Additionally, the government has expanded PNG connections and is scaling commercial LPG supply in a calibrated way. On the diplomatic front, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal welcomed the recently announced ceasefire between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would contribute to lasting peace in West Asia. He also emphasised the importance of ensuring uninterrupted global trade and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route. Meanwhile, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Mukesh Mangal, confirmed that port operations across India remain normal, with no congestion reported. He added that over 700 Indian seafarers, including 63 from various Gulf locations, have been safely repatriated. The Directorate General of Shipping’s control room has actively responded to more than 5,000 calls and over 11,000 emails since being set up, continuing to coordinate closely with maritime stakeholders to ensure seafarer welfare and smooth operations. Source: Newsonair

Govt Assures Adequate Coal, Fuel Supplies; Monitoring Situation Amid West Asia Tensions Read More »

India Tightens Oversight on GLP-1 Drugs Amid Rising Misuse Concerns

/ Governance Community

The Government of India has issued a comprehensive advisory on GLP-1 drugs, cautioning against their inappropriate use while acknowledging their growing role in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. With demand surging—particularly for weight loss—authorities are stepping up regulation to safeguard public health. GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) medications are designed to regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing excess glucose. They also aid in weight management by slowing digestion and curbing appetite, making them increasingly sought after beyond their primary medical purpose. However, officials have emphasized that these are not lifestyle or wellness products, but potent prescription drugs that must only be used under medical supervision. The advisory comes in response to concerns over their easy availability through online platforms and wellness clinics. Health authorities have warned that unsupervised use may lead to adverse effects, including gastrointestinal problems, hormonal disturbances, and other complications. Experts underline that these drugs are not suitable for everyone and should never be used casually for weight loss. As per the guidelines, only qualified specialists—such as endocrinologists, internal medicine physicians, and cardiologists—are authorised to prescribe GLP-1 drugs. Over-the-counter sale is strictly prohibited, and individuals are strongly advised against purchasing them without a valid prescription. Regulatory bodies, including the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and State Drug Controllers, have intensified inspections across pharmacies, clinics, and digital platforms. Any violations—ranging from illegal sales to misuse—will invite stringent penalties, including licence suspension and legal action. The government’s move comes at a time when the popularity of these drugs is rapidly increasing, especially as quick weight-loss solutions. Authorities aim to ensure that genuine patients retain access while preventing unsafe and unregulated usage. The advisory reinforces a critical message: GLP-1 drugs are powerful medical treatments, not shortcuts for weight loss. Responsible use, guided by medical expertise and supported by strict regulation, will be essential to ensuring patient safety in India. Source: India Today

India Tightens Oversight on GLP-1 Drugs Amid Rising Misuse Concerns Read More »