Air India Secures $120 Mn Loan from SMBC Japan for Aircraft Purchase

22 Dec 2023 CW Team

In a significant financial development, Air India concludes a $120 million loan agreement with SMBC Japan, specifically designated for the procurement of Airbus aircraft. This strategic financial arrangement underscores Air India's dedication to advancing its fleet, embracing modernisation, and fortifying its standing within the competitive landscape of the aviation sector.

The loan from SMBC Japan not only provides Air India with the necessary financial support for aircraft acquisition but also reflects the confidence of international financiers in the airline's growth prospects. The funds are expected to play a crucial role in facilitating the expansion and upgrading of Air India's fleet, contributing to operational efficiency and service enhancements.

As Air India strategically navigates the challenges and opportunities in the aviation industry, this loan agreement represents a proactive move towards reinforcing its capabilities and competitiveness. The acquisition of Airbus planes is poised to position Air India for improved performance and enhanced service offerings, aligning with broader trends in modernising fleets for optimal efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

Infrastructure Urban

13 Mar 2026

Implementation Status of Jal Jeevan Mission

Since August 2019 the Government has implemented Jal Jeevan Mission to provide assured potable water through household tap connections in rural India. At the start of the mission only 32.3 million (mn) rural households, representing 16.7 per cent, were reported to have tap water connections. States and union territories have reported that 125.8 mn additional rural households have since been provided with tap connections. As a result, of about 193.6 mn rural households roughly 158.2 mn, or 81.71 per cent, are reported to have tap water supply at home.\n\nThe State, district and village level st..

Jal Jeevan Mission Reaches Eighty One Per Cent Rural Coverage

The Government reported substantial progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission, launched in August 2019 to provide tap water to every rural household. At launch only 32.3 million (mn) rural households had tap connections and states and Union territories reported provision of 125.8 mn additional households by March 2026. Consequently, out of about 193.6 mn rural households around 158.2 mn, or 81.71 per cent, are reported to have tap water at home. The Finance Minister announced extension of the mission until 2028 in the 2025-26 budget speech. The Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen, launched in October 20..

Empowering Local Governance for Sustainable Rural Water Supply

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has aligned the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) with the 73rd Amendment to strengthen village level planning and community ownership of water supply. Gram Panchayats, village water and sanitation committees and Pani Samitis are to plan, implement, manage and maintain piped water systems, with gram sabha processes formalising handover and oversight. Implementation support agencies including non government organisations, community based organisations and self help groups have been empanelled to train local committees and promote women participation. Under JJM, the department ..