India Charts GVC Roadmap to Boost Global Role in Auto IndustryNITI Aayog has unveiled a report, Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains, setting a strategic course to enhance India’s automotive sector. While India accounts for 7.1 per cent of global GDP through automotive manufacturing, its share in auto component trade is just 3 per cent. The Vision 2030 roadmap aims for Rs 12 trillion in production output, Rs 5 trillion in exports, and 2-2.5 million new jobs. Key focus areas include investment in EVs, smart manufacturing, and green mobility, with initiatives like FAME and PLI supporting localisation and clean technologiesContact: Niti AayogWebsite: https://www.niti.gov.in/Tel: 130, 23096677India Extends Deep-Sea Mineral Auction Deadline India has extended the deadline for bids on 13 offshore deep-sea mineral blocks, according to the Ministry of Mines. The auction, launched in November, covers blocks containing essential minerals such as cobalt, copper, manganese, and nickel, crucial for electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technologies. Initially set to close on 27 February, the deadline was extended to 2 April and now to 1 May, following requests from companies for more time. Despite concerns over environmental impacts, including protests from Kerala fishermen, the government assures consultations with relevant departments. The auction is vital to India’s energy transition goals.Contact: Ministry of MinesWebsite: https://mines.gov.in/Tel: 91-11-2307039691 per cent of Centre’s FY25 Investment Directed Towards Five Core Sectors: BoBA Bank of Baroda report reveals that 91 per cent of the central government’s Rs 6.8 trillion investment for FY 2024–25 targets five core sectors: renewable electricity, road transport, refineries, conventional power, and shipping. Renewable energy leads with Rs 2.7 trillion allocated for 12,555MW generation. Refineries are set to receive Rs 1 trillion, while Rs 993.76 billion will go towards conventional power, including an Rs 800 billion project in Bihar. Gujarat dominates shipping investments with Rs 587.5 billion. Chhattisgarh tops state-wise allocations at Rs 1.4 trillion. Just 9 per cent is earmarked for housing, railways, education, healthcare, and chemicals.Contact: Bank of BarodaWebsite: https://www.bankofbaroda.in/Tel: 1800 5700TRAI Automates PMR Submission for Telecom Service ProvidersThe Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has automated the submission of Performance Monitoring Reports (PMRs) for telecom service providers, enhancing operational efficiency and supporting digital governance. This shift to a paperless system is in line with TRAI's efforts to streamline quality of service (QoS) monitoring, following the implementation of the revised QoS Regulations in October 2024. Telecom providers are now required to submit PMRs within 15 days after each reporting period, using APIs for wireless services and a user-friendly interface for wireline services. This automation reduces errors and simplifies the process, ensuring improved service quality and transparency.Contact: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Website: https://mines.gov.in/Tel: 011-23664145Email: ap@trai.gov.inIndia’s Data Centre Capacity Set to Jump 77 per cent by 2027India’s data centre capacity is projected to grow by 77 per cent, reaching 1.8 GW by 2027, according to JLL. This expansion will require around 9.3 million sq ft of new space to accommodate 795 MW of additional capacity. Surging data consumption, cloud adoption, AI, and digital services are driving this growth. Mumbai, Chennai, and Delhi-NCR are emerging as key hubs. Government support, including infrastructure status for data centres and the Rs 103 billion IndiaAI Mission, is catalysing development. Industry players like Anant Raj are investing heavily, while sustainability is becoming central, with green tech and renewable energy gaining ground.Contact: JLLWebsite: https://www.jll.co.in/enTel: 91 22 7149 5900Amaravati Set to Become World's First Fully Renewable-Powered CityAmaravati, the upcoming capital of Andhra Pradesh, is on track to become the world's first city powered entirely by renewable energy. The city plans to harness 2,700 MW of green energy from sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, ensuring zero dependence on fossil fuels. The Rs 65,000-crore project, located along the Krishna river, is set to showcase India's commitment to clean energy. By 2050, Amaravati aims to source at least 30% of its energy from renewables. The city will integrate solar systems, green building standards, and electric transport, positioning it as a global model for sustainable urban development.Contact: Government of Andhra PradeshWebsite: https://www.telangana.gov.in/?Email - ceo_andhrapradesh@eci.gov.inTel -  0866-2527820Assam CM Unveils Projects Worth Over Rs 1 Bn in Karbi AnglongAssam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched development works exceeding Rs 1 billion during his two-day visit to Karbi Anglong. In Diphu, he inaugurated key road and bridge upgrades to enhance regional connectivity. He also spotlighted educational initiatives, including a medical and engineering college, Sainik School, and cancer hospital. Sarma reviewed major infrastructure works, including a Rs 1.98 billion flyover, two significant road upgrades, and announced funding for the Bhupen Hazarika Stage and unveiled cultural statues.Contact: Government of Assam Website: https://assam.gov.in/Tel: 0361-234567 Email:  gad.assam@gov.inOtis India Secures Elevator Contract for Patna Metro InfrastructureOtis India has been awarded a significant contract to supply, install, and maintain 65 Gen2 Nova elevators for the Patna Metro project, marking a key milestone in Bihar’s urban mobility development. Manufactured at Otis' Bengaluru facility, the elevators are designed to enhance accessibility, particularly for individuals with reduced mobility, in line with the Patna Metro’s commitment to inclusivity. The Patna Metro, Bihar's first, spans two lines and 26 stations across nearly 30 kms. Contact: Otis IndiaWebsite: https://www.otis.com/en/usTel: 1800-103-0055Bansal Wire to Invest Rs 6 Bn in New Steel and Wire Manufacturing Plant in GujaratBansal Wire Industries (BWIL) has announced a Rs 6 billion investment in a greenfield project in Gujarat, which will feature a 1.8 lakh-tonne induction-based steel plant and a 60,000-tonne facility for low-carbon and stainless-steel wires. The company has secured a 42-acre site in Sanand, near Tata Nagar, for the project, which is expected to be completed by September 2027. This investment follows BWIL’s recent Rs 5.5 billion expansion in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, doubling its capacity to 6 lakh tonnes. The new plant will cater to high-demand sectors such as automotive, agriculture, power & transmission, construction, and general engineering. Contact: Bansal Wire IndustriesWebsite: https://www.maharashtra.gov.in/Tel - 91-11-23651891-93Email:  info@bansalwire.comJammu & Kashmir Receives Rs 740.3 Mn Under RAMP SchemeJammu and Kashmir has been allocated Rs 740.3 million under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme, with Rs 666.3 million from the Central Government and Rs 74 million from the Union Territory. The scheme aims to bolster the MSME sector across the region. A district-level workshop in Reasi, led by Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary of Industries and Commerce, and Sudarshan Kumar, Managing Director, JKTPO, provided guidance on implementation. Key initiatives include Udyam Registration, promotion of region-specific products, and cluster development, alongside the launch of a health clinic and buyer-seller meets.Contact: Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion OrganizationWebsite: https://www.jktpo.in/Email:  contactjktpo@gmail.com Maharashtra to Revamp ITIs with Advanced Labs and TrainingMaharashtra has taken a significant step to enhance skill development by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to upgrade 20 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state. The MoU, signed in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, involves partnerships with social organisations like the Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust, Schneider Electric India Foundation, DeAsra Foundation, and Project Mumbai. This collaboration aims to establish state-of-the-art labs, improve technical education for students with disabilities, and promote entrepreneurship through fairs for micro and small businesses. Schneider Electric will modernise electrician trade workshops and provide 15-day training sessions in Bangalore on modern technology and soft skills. Contact: Government of MaharashtraWebsite: https://www.maharashtra.gov.in/Tel - 1800 120 8040 Telangana, Japanese Firms Ink Pact to Develop Eco Town in HyderabadTelangana has signed MoUs with Japanese companies—EX Research Institute, Nippon Steel Engineering, New Chemical Trading, and Amita Holdings—to develop an eco town in Hyderabad. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy emphasised the government’s commitment to sustainability, job creation, and rapid development, stating that green development is no longer optional. The collaboration also explored a sister city agreement with Kitakyushu. Discussions included launching Japanese language education in Hyderabad and ensuring time-bound goals. Japanese delegates showcased successful environmental projects, offering to share expertise to support Telangana’s green ambitions. Contact: Government of TelanganaWebsite: https://www.telangana.gov.in/?Email - secy-agri@telangana.gov.in.Tel -  040-23453269Tamil Nadu Approves Space Policy, Eyes Rs 100 Bn InvestmentTamil Nadu has become one of India’s first states to adopt a dedicated Space Policy, aiming to transform into a hub for space-tech innovation, manufacturing, and services. The policy targets Rs 100 billion in investments and the creation of at least 10,000 high-value jobs in the sector. It promotes participation from startups, MSMEs, and larger firms, with support for both upstream manufacturing and downstream services. The state will establish “Space Bays”—special industrial zones for the sector—and offer tailored incentives. The initiative seeks to build a skilled, future-ready workforce and drive technology-led economic growth.Contact: Government of Tamil NaduWebsite: https://www.tn.gov.in/Tel: 044-25671555Aurika Group Invests Rs 2.2 Billion in Uttar Pradesh’s Hospitality ProjectsAurika Group has announced a Rs 2.2 billion expansion plan to strengthen its presence in Uttar Pradesh’s emerging Tier-II cities. This includes a 150-key serviced suites project in Ayodhya in partnership with Best Western Hotels, and a luxury villa community in Bareilly. The Ayodhya project, located on the revered 14 Koshi Parikrama Marg, aims to cater to the city’s religious tourism sector, offering premium suites, wellness facilities, and spiritual experiences. The Bareilly project will feature a gated community of low-density luxury villas focused on sustainable living. These initiatives are expected to generate over Rs 3.5 billion in revenue.Contact: Aurika GroupWebsite: https://www.aurikahotels.com/Tel: 022 6943 6000IHCL to Launch 18th Property in Uttarakhand’s KausaniThe Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has signed its 18th property in Uttarakhand, marking another step in its expansion into leisure destinations. Set in the tranquil hill station of Kausani, the upcoming Taj-branded hotel will offer 50 rooms along with a restaurant, bar, spa, and signature luxury amenities. Scheduled to open by 2026, the property aims to serve upscale travellers while promoting tourism in the region. IHCL’s continued investment in Uttarakhand supports sustainable development, local employment, and the state's growing appeal for nature, wellness, and adventure tourism.Contact: Indian Hotels CompanyWebsite: https://www.ihcltata.com/Tel -  1-800-111-825. India and Nepal Strengthen Customs CooperationIn a bid to enhance cross-border trade and customs operations, India and Nepal have pledged a joint effort to combat smuggling, particularly of gold, narcotics, and fake currency notes (FCN). During the 21st Director-General Level Talks on Customs Cooperation in Kathmandu, both nations focused on upgrading border infrastructure and automating transit processes to improve efficiency. Discussions also highlighted tackling trans-border criminal activities and preventing the smuggling of prohibited goods like e-cigarettes, e-lighters, and certain types of garlic. The two sides agreed on increased cooperation, including intelligence sharing and the review of key agreements like the Memorandum of Understanding on Pre-arrival Exchange of Customs Data. Contact: Government of Andhra PradeshWebsite: https://www.telangana.gov.in/?Email - ceo_andhrapradesh@eci.gov.inTel -  0866-2527820JCBL Group Signs India’s First Defence MoU with SlovakiaAirbornics Defence & Space, part of the JCBL Group, has signed India’s first-ever defence MoU with Slovakia to co-develop and manufacture advanced technologies for Light Tanks, Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs), and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICVs). The agreement, formalised during President Droupadi Murmu's state visit to Slovakia, aims to enhance India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. This partnership will focus on producing critical systems like Turrets, Active Protection Systems (APS), and Remote-Controlled Weapon Systems (RCWS) in India, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It marks a significant step towards India becoming a self-reliant defence powerhouse with global export potential.Contact: JCBL Website: https://jcbl.com/Email - info@jcbl.comTel -  9056905695India and Italy Eye Deeper Tech and Trade Ties Through Strategic Action PlanAt the Italy-India Business, Science and Technology Forum, Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani underscored the potential for collaboration in innovation, AI, supercomputing, space, and defence. He emphasised India’s strategic role in Indo-Pacific stability and called for deeper trade and investment ties. Union Minister Piyush Goyal described the forum as a timely platform to implement the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–29, aiming to elevate bilateral trade and cooperation in fashion, food processing, tourism, and green technologies. External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar affirmed that India’s development trajectory aligns well with Italy’s industrial strengths, offering opportunities for long-term, forward-looking partnerships.Contact: Ministry of External Affairs of IndiaWebsite: https://www.mea.gov.in/Tel -  91-11-23017160India, Russia Ink Pact on Six Strategic Investment ProjectsIndia and Russia have agreed to advance six new strategic projects to enhance bilateral investment cooperation, following the 8th Session of the India-Russia Working Group on Priority Investment Projects held in New Delhi. The meeting, co-chaired by senior officials from both nations, reviewed previous outcomes and set a forward-looking agenda focused on mutually beneficial sectors. A protocol was signed to formalise these developments. Alongside the session, the 2nd India-Russia Investment Forum was convened with support from Invest India and the Indian Chamber of Commerce, reinforcing the two countries’ commitment to deepening economic collaboration through strategic partnerships.Contact: Ministry of External Affairs of IndiaWebsite: https://www.mea.gov.in/Tel -  91-11-23017160Brussels Airport Unveils Decade-Long Expansion to Boost CapacityBrussels Airport (BRU) has announced a significant expansion programme, marking its largest transformation in 30 years. The project, set for completion by 2032, will include the construction of a new intermodal hub, an expanded terminal, a four-star hotel, and a green boulevard with a park. Aimed at enhancing passenger experience and supporting rising traveller numbers, the upgrades will improve interconnectivity between transport modes like trains, buses, and trams. The airport's expansion will also prioritise sustainability, mobility, and quality, positioning BRU as a key European transport hub for the future.Contact: Brussels Airport (BRU)Website: https://www.brusselsairport.be/en/Email: service.en@brusselsairlines.com