Economy

economy

Copper at ₹1,450 a kg: Coimbatore's MSMEs squeezed as prices jump 75% in a year

Copper prices in Coimbatore have risen nearly 75% in a year to about ₹1,450 a kg, squeezing MSMEs that make auto components, pumps and electronic goods. Industry representatives say units have passed on only 10%–15% of the increase because prices are fixed annually or once in two years. Rising costs of steel, zinc and petroleum-based products have added to the pressure on the cluster's competitiveness.

16 Sep 2026, 03:31 PM

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economy

Food Prices Push Retail Inflation to 4.82% in August, Still Within RBI's Target

Retail inflation in India rose to 4.82% in August, up from 4.45% in July, mainly due to higher food prices. Food inflation increased to 5.95%, while wholesale price inflation climbed to 9.92%. The RBI has kept policy rates unchanged and projects CPI inflation at 5% for 2026-27.

14 Sep 2026, 11:57 AM

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economy

Tiruppur knitwear units urge Centre to fix minimum floor price for cotton yarn

A joint committee of Tiruppur knitwear manufacturers and Tamil Nadu textile mill associations has asked the Union government to fix a minimum floor price for cotton yarn and to link yarn exports to it. The panel also sought removal of import duty on cotton for five years, priority CCI supply for State mills, and direct cotton procurement by the Tamil Nadu government.

14 Sep 2026, 01:29 AM

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economy

PepsiCo opens first Northeast foods plant in Assam, eyes India in its top 10 global markets

PepsiCo has opened its first foods manufacturing plant in India's Northeast — a 44.2-acre facility at Danguapara in Assam's Nalbari district, and its fifth such unit in the country. The plant, part of the company's investment commitment through 2030, will directly employ 700 people, over 75% of them women, and is expected to support thousands of potato farmers. PepsiCo says the expansion is aimed at placing India among its top 10 global anchor markets.

10 Sep 2026, 03:33 PM

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economy

Cabinet Approves Eight Railway Projects Worth ₹20,804 Crore, Adding 1,196 km

The Union Cabinet has approved eight railway multi-tracking projects across six states at a total cost of ₹20,804 crore. The projects, expected to add 1,196 km to the network, aim to improve connectivity and freight movement.

09 Sep 2026, 01:53 PM

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economy

Coimbatore foundry hub logs 20% growth, faces skilled manpower crunch

Coimbatore's foundry industry has grown by 20% in the last year, with demand outstripping supply. The sector produces 1.5 million tonnes of castings annually, worth ₹25,000 crore, and exports ₹10,000 crore worth. A three-day expo starting September 10 will showcase new technologies to address skilled manpower shortages.

08 Sep 2026, 03:47 PM

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economy

Udaan acquires Swiggy's Lynk Logistics in ₹500 crore deal

Udaan has agreed to acquire Swiggy's retail distribution arm Lynk Logistics for ₹500 crore. Swiggy will receive a 2.8% stake in Udaan and invest ₹75 crore more for an additional 0.4% stake. The deal aligns with Udaan's recent recapitalisation and growth strategy.

07 Sep 2026, 01:45 PM

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economy

Asian Markets Open Higher, Crypto at Inflection: Analyst Flags Oil and Inflation Risks

Asian shares opened higher on Monday, but oil and inflation concerns persist. Analyst Nischal Shetty says crypto faces key levels for Bitcoin and Ethereum, with a recent liquidation resetting market positioning.

07 Sep 2026, 02:37 AM

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economy

GIFT to host national seminar on second-generation GST reforms from Monday

The Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation will host a two-day national seminar on second-generation GST reforms, starting Monday in Thiruvananthapuram. The event will feature former finance ministers and leading economists discussing tax reforms, fiscal federalism, and impacts on State finances.

06 Sep 2026, 01:37 PM

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economy

Kirby India to set up 100,000-tonne steel building plant in Manapparai SIPCOT

Kirby Building Systems and Structures India will set up a new manufacturing plant at Manapparai SIPCOT in Tamil Nadu, with an annual capacity of 1,00,000 tonnes of pre-engineered steel. The company said the facility, expected to begin operations by mid-2027, will create over 200 employment and skilling opportunities.

05 Sep 2026, 01:37 PM

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economy

Sustainable debt-GSDP ratio for Tamil Nadu is 23%, says economic consultant

Tamil Nadu's economic consultant, K.R. Shanmugam, has said the sustainable debt-GSDP ratio for the State is 23%, lower than the current 27%. He recommends expenditure rationalisation and fiscal discipline to achieve this level, while deferring certain welfare promises.

05 Sep 2026, 02:58 AM

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economy

GDP Data Clash: World Bank's Mishra Terms Critics 'Ill-Educated and Egregiously Wrong'

World Bank's Neelkanth Mishra has dismissed critics of India's 7.8% GDP growth as 'ill-educated and egregiously wrong', while former Finance Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg continues to argue that the figure is inflated by a change in the base year. The debate highlights the government's shift to a new statistical series and the gap between official numbers and ground realities.

04 Sep 2026, 04:58 AM

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economy

Tamil Nadu MSME Policy Statement Disappoints Industry: Infrastructure Omitted

MADITSSIA expressed disappointment over Tamil Nadu's MSME policy statement, saying it omitted key demands like 100% infrastructure facilities, power charge reductions, and the Madurai–Thoothukudi industrial corridor. The industry body welcomed some measures, including ₹600 crore subsidy disbursal and the single window portal, while hoping for a more comprehensive future policy.

03 Sep 2026, 03:33 PM

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economy

Noida protest fallout: Workers face acute financial distress, unemployment months later

Four months after the April 13 Noida protest, workers arrested during police action continue to face severe financial hardship. Legal costs, travel expenses, and job losses have drained savings, forcing many to rely on crowdfunding and loans.

03 Sep 2026, 05:57 AM

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economy

Indian Envoy Rings Nasdaq Bell, Says 7.8% Growth Keeps India Fastest-Growing Major Economy

Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra cited 7.8% GDP growth for the April-June quarter to affirm India's status as the fastest-growing major economy. He spoke while ringing the opening bell at Nasdaq and called for stronger US-India technology partnerships.

03 Sep 2026, 02:33 AM

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economy

Inside Noida's New Airport: World-Class Terminal, But Getting There is the Challenge

The Noida International Airport at Jewar offers a world-class terminal, but passengers from Delhi still face high cab fares and limited public transport options. While bus services are expanding, the absence of direct connectivity and high costs remain significant challenges for commuters.

02 Sep 2026, 03:37 AM

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economy

Bessent urges G20 to re-examine trade terms with China over global imbalances

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has urged G20 members to re-examine trade terms with China to address global imbalances. He called on countries to press Beijing to shift from exports to domestic consumption, while noting the U.S. trade deficit with China has narrowed.

31 Aug 2026, 05:48 AM

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economy

Hyderabad Property Show 2026 draws 36,000 visitors, signals strong realty demand

The CREDAI Hyderabad Property Show 2026 concluded with an estimated 36,000 visitors over three days, with developers reporting strong buyer engagement. The event featured RERA-approved projects, discussions on growth corridors, and insights into Hyderabad's evolving real estate market.

30 Aug 2026, 03:38 PM

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economy

Kerala's ailing rubber sector: New study proposes revival of societies, overhaul of incentives

A new PPRI study on Kerala's natural rubber crisis recommends reviving rubber producers' societies, restructuring the incentive scheme to include labour, and tapping abandoned plantations. The report, based on a survey in Kottayam's Chirakkadavu panchayat, also suggests regulating imports and expanding the KERA project.

30 Aug 2026, 01:32 PM

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economy

Gram Panchayats, Urban Local Bodies Owe Mescom ₹305.84 Crore for Power

Mescom says gram panchayats and urban local bodies owe ₹305.84 crore for power used in streetlights and water supply. The utility also lost ₹25.77 crore due to weather damage. It has approved several infrastructure projects, including underground cables and covered conductors.

30 Aug 2026, 01:45 PM

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economy

HDFC Bank CEO Jagdishan to step down, board begins succession process

HDFC Bank CEO Sashidhar Jagdishan has decided not to seek reappointment and will retire on October 26, 2026. The board will fast-track the selection of his successor, as the bank navigates post-merger integration and governance scrutiny.

30 Aug 2026, 04:24 AM

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economy

FM Sitharaman urges global firms to 'manufacture in India, build for world'

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman invited global investors to set up manufacturing and innovation centres in India, emphasising the country's potential as a platform for global markets. She highlighted reforms, digital infrastructure, GIFT City and production-linked incentives as key opportunities.

29 Aug 2026, 05:12 AM

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economy

September 2026 Money Alert: ITR Deadline, Milk Price Hike, LPG E-KYC and FD Rules Explained

September 2026 brings key changes: international boarding pass stamping ends, Mumbai milk prices rise, and taxpayers face an August 31 ITR deadline. LPG e-KYC ends August 31, while new RBI FD rules start only in October. Verify dates before acting.

29 Aug 2026, 02:49 AM

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economy

VOC Port invests ₹739 crore to modernise berths, boost cargo capacity

VOC Port is investing over ₹739 crore in infrastructure projects, including upgrading Berth No. 7 into a modern container terminal, developing a new multi-cargo berth, and building a custom bond area. These upgrades aim to handle projected cargo growth of up to 53.25 million tonnes by 2029-30.

28 Aug 2026, 03:49 PM

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economy

NIT Rourkela Sees 1,340 Job Offers; Top BTech Package Rs 1.31 Crore

NIT Rourkela's 2025-26 placement season ended with 1,340 job offers and 364 internships. The highest BTech package was Rs 1.31 crore, while the average BTech CTC stood at Rs 15.33 lakh. Over 83 students received packages above Rs 30 lakh.

28 Aug 2026, 02:58 AM

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economy

Private Banks Reduce Workforce by 13,000 While Expanding Branches: The Key Drivers

Four major private banks reduced their combined workforce by around 13,000 in FY26 even as they expanded branch networks. The decline reflects a shift towards digital banking, automation, and productivity focus, with attrition and slower hiring playing a significant role rather than mass layoffs.

27 Aug 2026, 05:05 AM

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economy

Govt releases 3 lakh tonnes sugar into market; prices set to ease

The government has decided to release about 3-3.5 lakh tonnes of refined sugar into the domestic market to improve availability and check prices. Ex-mill prices have already fallen by 20%, and consumers are likely to get relief soon.

26 Aug 2026, 09:00 PM

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economy

India-Japan 'Shark Tank' style startup pitch series proposed to deepen bilateral business ties

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has proposed an India-Japan startup pitching series in the style of 'Shark Tank' to connect young entrepreneurs with investors. The initiative, to be held virtually, aims to deepen commercial ties and move from pitches to real business collaborations, including a proposed deeptech capital corridor.

26 Aug 2026, 07:02 AM

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economy

Volkswagen's Job Cut Plan Sparks Worker Anger Amid Chinese Competition and Weak Demand

Volkswagen workers booed CEO Oliver Blume as the company mulls job cuts of up to 50,000 amid competition from Chinese automakers and weak demand. Management and labour are at odds over restructuring plans, with a key board meeting scheduled for September 4.

26 Aug 2026, 05:48 AM

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economy

Sensex, Nifty Rise in Early Trade as Crude Oil Prices Fall; FII Inflows Boost Sentiment

Indian equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty opened higher on Wednesday, driven by a sharp fall in crude oil prices and continued foreign fund inflows. While banking and consumer stocks led gains, IT and telecom stocks lagged, mirroring positive global cues.

26 Aug 2026, 04:44 AM

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economy

‘Kanda Express’ Brings Onions to Delhi at ₹35/kg; Government Steps In

The Delhi government has announced that it will procure onions and sugar from NAFED and sell them at procurement price if prices rise further. Meanwhile, the Centre's 'Kanda Express' is bringing 800 tonnes of onions to Delhi to be sold at ₹35 per kg, offering significant relief from current retail rates.

25 Aug 2026, 04:09 PM

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economy

Mining Engineers Applaud MMDR Amendment for Fiscal Clarity

The Mining Engineers' Association of India has welcomed the MMDR Amendment Act, 2026, citing its provision for fiscal clarity and stability in the sector. The association highlighted Section 9D that restricts state-level levies on mineral rights, and said downstream industries will also benefit.

25 Aug 2026, 03:06 PM

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economy

Sugar prices jump 40%: What is driving the sweet cost spiral?

Sugar prices across India have surged 40% in a year, crossing ₹65 per kg in eight states. The steep rise is linked to sugarcane diversion for ethanol production, lower yields, and rising cane costs, raising concerns for households and businesses.

25 Aug 2026, 01:22 PM

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economy

CAZRI's Research Cultivates New Growth in Rajasthan's Arid Lands

The Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI) is driving economic growth in Rajasthan's desert landscape through research on sustainable farming, water conservation, and arid legumes. Its innovations are boosting farm incomes and supporting India's food-processing industry.

25 Aug 2026, 01:27 PM

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economy

SEBI's ITRI: A global first in measuring market tech resilience

SEBI has introduced the IT Resilience Index (ITRI) to measure the robustness of critical IT systems at market infrastructure institutions. It is a global first in quantifying operational resilience for stock exchanges, clearing corporations and depositories. The index will assess parameters like availability, security and business continuity to safeguard India's increasingly digital capital markets.

25 Aug 2026, 09:27 AM

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economy

U.S.-India business leaders meet in Hyderabad to bolster $500 billion trade goal

U.S. Ambassador Sergio Gor and Consul General Laura Williams hosted Indian industry leaders and Telangana Minister D. Sridhar Babu at Hyderabad's Taj Falaknuma Palace to boost bilateral trade and highlight Mission 500, a shared goal of reaching $500 billion in U.S.-India commerce by 2030. The roundtable focused on defence, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals.

25 Aug 2026, 06:03 AM

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economy

Wheat export ban lifted as govt looks to boost farmer incomes, revive sowing

The government has lifted the ban on wheat and wheat product exports with immediate effect to support farmers amid falling domestic prices. The decision, which simplifies export procedures, comes as India records a bumper wheat harvest and comfortable buffer stocks. Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra said the move will boost farmer incomes and encourage rabi sowing.

24 Aug 2026, 06:59 PM

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economy

Sugar prices nearly double in Mysuru, hotel owners urge government action

Sugar prices in Mysuru have nearly doubled from ₹40 to ₹72 per kg in 15 days, putting severe strain on the local hotel industry. The Mysuru Hotel Owners’ Association attributes the rise to ethanol production and monsoon failure, and has urged the government to stabilise prices.

24 Aug 2026, 02:16 PM

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economy

Karnataka Cooperative Proposes Interest-Free Loans for the Poor

The Khaja Bandanawaz Minority Souharda Cooperative in Kalaburagi is considering interest-free fixed deposits and loans to support economically weaker members. President Syed Mohammed Ali Al-Hussaini announced the plan at the annual general body meeting, underscoring the cooperative's commitment to mutual aid.

24 Aug 2026, 01:20 PM

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economy

Sensex, Nifty edge higher on blue-chip buying amid crude oil, geopolitical worries

Indian stock indices Sensex and Nifty traded higher in early trade on Monday, supported by buying in blue-chip stocks like HDFC Bank and Infosys. However, geopolitical tensions and elevated crude oil prices continue to weigh on market sentiment, while FIIs remained net sellers.

24 Aug 2026, 06:06 AM

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economy

Tata Group's IHCL merges Oriental Hotels in share-swap deal

IHCL, the Tata Group's hospitality arm, is set to merge Oriental Hotels in an all-stock deal, offering 25 IHCL shares for every 117 OHL shares. The merger aims to simplify the group structure and unlock value in iconic properties like Taj Coromandel.

24 Aug 2026, 06:20 AM

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economy

India negotiating trade pacts with 8-9 more partners, aims to cover 75% of global trade: Goyal

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said India is negotiating free trade agreements with 8-9 more countries and blocs, aiming to cover 75% of global trade. Speaking in Tokyo, he noted India's existing FTAs cover $70 trillion in GDP. The minister is leading a business delegation to boost economic ties with Japan.

24 Aug 2026, 05:02 AM

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economy

Shein Aims for $27bn Valuation as Hong Kong IPO Set for 1 September

Shein is set to make its stock market debut in Hong Kong on 1 September, aiming to raise up to $1.77 billion and achieve a valuation near $27 billion. The listing comes after failed attempts in the US and UK, with the company facing slowing sales and higher costs. Its valuation is significantly lower than the $100 billion seen in 2022.

24 Aug 2026, 04:06 AM

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economy

Onam season: vegetables and sugar prices rise, but rice and coconut oil see relief

As Onam approaches, vegetable prices in Kerala have risen, with raw bananas and onions leading the surge, while sugar prices have also climbed. However, rice and coconut oil prices have eased, providing some relief to consumers amid government market intervention.

23 Aug 2026, 07:48 PM

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economy

Allow jaggery units to produce ethanol to check sugar prices, says growers' body

The State Sugarcane Growers' Association has urged the government to allow ethanol production at jaggery units, saying this will help check rising sugar prices and empower farmers financially. The association also demanded a scientific increase in the Fair and Remunerative Price and a share in factory profits from by-products.

23 Aug 2026, 03:08 PM

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economy

Karnataka's rural jobs push helps curb migration in Kalyana Karnataka

Karnataka is using its rural employment scheme to offer local work in high-migration districts such as Bidar and Yadgir, helping seniors and others earn without leaving their villages. Officials are also focusing on water-harvesting works and awareness drives to sustain the effort.

23 Aug 2026, 03:24 PM

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economy

Sugar Price Surge Sparks Concern Among Food Makers, Hotels in Mysuru; MCCI Seeks Govt Intervention

The Mysuru Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged central and state governments to intervene as sugar prices surge, impacting food manufacturers and hotels. Citing falling sugarcane output and ethanol diversion as key reasons, MCCI seeks subsidised sugar supply and strict action against hoarding to stabilise costs.

23 Aug 2026, 02:21 PM

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economy

Centre asks States to appoint district officers for faster piped gas adoption

The Petroleum Ministry has asked States to appoint district-level nodal officers to speed up the adoption of piped natural gas (PNG) over LPG. The move follows supply disruptions during the West Asia crisis and aims to enforce rules preventing dual connections.

23 Aug 2026, 07:55 AM

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economy

India's maize bind: Ethanol goals clash with feed and fuel costs

India's push for ethanol blending has made maize its top feedstock, but the policy has led to rising maize imports, higher feed costs, and losses for sugar mills. Even as crude prices fall, ethanol-blended petrol remains costly, exposing a policy bind.

22 Aug 2026, 04:56 PM

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economy

RBI Swap Facility Generates $72.85 Billion in Forex Inflows

The RBI's special forex swap facility has generated $72.85 billion in inflows via FCNR(B) deposits, OFCBs, and ECBs as of August 21, 2026. The facility, launched to support the rupee amid FPI outflows and high oil costs, remains open until December 31, 2026 for certain instruments.

22 Aug 2026, 09:44 AM

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