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The Indian cement industry is on track to reach 5.09 billion tonnes by 2028-29, driven by robust government investment in infrastructure. According to an IANS report originally attributed to Infomerics Ratings, this marks a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9 per cent between 2024 and 2029. In 2022-23, the industry’s market size stood at 3.82 billion tonnes, with a total installed capacity of 622 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) in FY24 and production at 427 million tonnes. Notably, India contributes over 8 per cent to the world’s total installed cement capacity, highlighting its importance in the global market. Despite this, India’s per capita cement consumption is 260 kg—significantly below the global average of 540 kg—indicating substantial room for growth. Globally, the cement market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3 per cent from 2024 to 2032. The sector’s expansion is fuelled by ambitious government initiatives, including an allocation of ₹11.11 lakh crore for infrastructure in FY25 and housing schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The construction sector consumes 55 per cent of cement production, while public infrastructure projects account for the remainder. The industry also plays a critical role in employment, providing direct jobs to over one million people and creating downstream opportunities for about 20,000 individuals per million tonnes of cement produced. Private players dominate the sector, controlling 98 per cent of production capacity, while public sector units hold a mere 2 per cent. Domestic production meets almost all demand, with imports accounting for just 0.2 per cent of total production in FY23. However, exports have declined recently due to reduced global demand and rising competition. India currently has 341 cement manufacturing facilities, including 159 integrated large cement plants, 120 grinding units, and 62 mini cement plants. Cement production has seen steady growth, with a 7.1 per cent increase in September 2024 and a cumulative growth of 1.6 per cent between April and September of FY25, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This growth aligns with India’s overall industrial performance, which saw a 2 per cent rise in core industries in September, led by cement, steel, coal, and fertilisers. As India invests heavily in infrastructure and housing, the cement industry is set to play a pivotal role in supporting the nation’s economic and developmental goals. (with IANS inputs)

India's cement industry expected to grow to 5.09 billion tonnes by 2028-29 amid infrastructure push: Report

The department for promotion of industry and internal trade (<keyword id="19952901" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="DPIIT" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="DPIIT" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="DPIIT">DPIIT</keyword>) on Monday asked <keyword id="19957196" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="white-goods" source="keywords">white goods</keyword> manufacturers to participate in large numbers to avail fiscal benefits under the <keyword id="19952889" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="production-linked-incentive" source="keywords">production linked incentive</keyword> scheme for the sector as the response has been muted so far. Additional Secretary in the DPIIT Rajeev Singh Thakur said that the department has again reopened the application window for the PLI (production linked incentive) scheme for white goods (<keyword id="20360726" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ACs" source="keywords">ACs</keyword> and LED lights). The application window is open from July 15 to October 12. "In the PLI in white goods scheme, somehow the response has been muted. ...Probably due to various reasons not sufficient response has come. So I request (the industry) to have a look and probably this time, you can consider (applying)," Thakur said at the CII Consumer Electronics and Durables Summit 2024 here. So far, 66 applicants with committed investment of Rs 6,962 crore have been selected as beneficiaries under the PLI scheme. The Union Cabinet had given approval for the PLI scheme for white goods for <keyword id="19914449" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="manufacturing" source="keywords">manufacturing</keyword> of components and sub-assemblies of Air Conditioners (ACs) and LED lights on April 7, 2021. The scheme is to be implemented over a seven-year period, from 2021-22 to 2028-29, and has an outlay of Rs 6,238 crore. He added that the department can hold talks with the industry separately on issues like quality control orders and logistics. Thakur told the industry that the time is right to increase investments into the country as the government has enhanced its capex and taken steps to promote <keyword id="19996629" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ease-of-doing-business" source="keywords">ease of doing business</keyword>. The public capex in the last 10 years is growing at a fast pace in areas like highways, expressway, ports, airports and railways, but the commensurate response of the private sector "somehow is not up to the expectation", he said. Earlier speaking at the event, DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia said that a lot of steps have been taken to promote ease of doing business, cutting down compliance burden and decriminalisation of minor offences. The government has also recently approved 12 industrial townships and the industry can look at investing there. He added that capital availability is not an issue now and the government has also provided protection to the industry from predatory imports. Schemes like PLI and semiconductor mission have been rolled out to promote manufacturing and "now we want the industry" to ensure that they have necessary collaborations in place for technology and investments. The industry should do collaborations not only to target the domestic market but also become part of global value chains. "That is an expectation we are having from the entire industry and I think industry will rise to meet these expectations... We have a huge demographic dividend and the industry should take advantage of this otherwise we will miss it," Bhatia added. He also said that there is no paucity of adequate skilled labour in the country and logistics costs too are coming down. On logistics, he cited examples of Amazon and Flipkart selling goods in the remotest part of the country. "I don't think industry should look at the current domestic demand only for collaborations. They should look at the future and export market also in addition to the domestic market," he said, adding expenditure on research and development is "abysmally" low and that needs to be enhanced. 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Govt asks white goods industry to apply for manufacturing sops in large numbers

<keyword id="19931193" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Maruti-Suzuki-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Maruti Suzuki India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Maruti Suzuki India">Maruti Suzuki India</keyword> reported its <keyword id="20025887" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="highest-ever" source="keywords">highest-ever</keyword> <keyword id="20423741" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="monthly-sales" source="keywords">monthly sales</keyword> volume at 206,434 units. Total sales in the month include <keyword id="20025843" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="domestic-sales" source="keywords">domestic sales</keyword> of 163,130 units, sales to other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of 10,136 units and the highest-ever monthly <keyword id="19916774" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="exports" source="keywords">exports</keyword> of 33,168 units. Festival season and on top of that the deep discounts offered by various automakers have invariably helped dealers sell more cars this October. Here is a table listing out the <keyword id="19909974" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Maruti-Suzuki" source="keywords">Maruti Suzuki</keyword> India car-wise sales figures in October: In October, total sales, domestic plus exports combined, were 3.6 per cent higher year-on-year. So far in 2024-25 - April to October, the total sales were 1.64 per cent higher year-on-year. Coming to exports, the shipments in October and April-October were 51 per cent and 17 per cent, higher year-on-year, respectively. In the fiscal year 2023-24, the company exported over 2.8 lakh units to more than 100 countries, holding a commanding 42 per cent share in the country's passenger vehicle exports. In other news, Maruti Suzuki India recently reached a significant milestone, with ist <keyword id="21943254" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Manesar-facility" source="keywords">Manesar facility</keyword> crossing the 1 crore cumulative production mark. The Manesar plant achieved this feat in just 18 years, making it the fastest among Suzuki's global automobile manufacturing facilities to reach the 1 crore production milestone. The facility, which commenced operations in October 2006, is spread over 600 acres and manufactures a range of models, including Brezza, Ertiga, XL6, Ciaz, Dzire, Wagon R, S-Presso, and Celerio. These vehicles serve both domestic and international markets, with exports reaching regions such as Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and neighboring Asian countries. Since its inception, Maruti Suzuki has produced over 3.1 crore vehicles, reinforcing its leadership in the Indian <keyword id="19945567" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="automotive-industry" source="keywords">automotive industry</keyword>. Maruti Suzuki India Limited also started the export of its acclaimed 'Made-in-India' SUV, the Fronx.

Maruti Suzuki India registers highest-ever monthly sales in festive-filled October

India’s electric vehicle (EV) sector, often seen as a key player in the country’s clean energy transition, has been called “irrelevant” without government <keyword id="20231384" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="incentives" source="keywords">incentives</keyword> by a recent Bernstein research report. The report highlights the serious challenges automakers face in achieving profitability and scaling operations in the EV segment, which remains heavily reliant on financial support from the government. <h2>Struggling to achieve profitability</h2>The Bernstein report reveals that generating profitable margins in the Indian EV sector is proving to be an uphill battle for automakers. “It is tough to generate sufficient margins and get scale in EVs. Even with hefty incentives, incumbent OEMs are still unprofitable,” the report stated. This underscores the fact that even with <keyword id="20022183" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="government-subsidies" source="keywords">government subsidies</keyword> aimed at promoting <keyword id="20138204" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-mobility" source="keywords">electric mobility</keyword>, automakers are struggling to make EVs financially viable. High production costs, limited infrastructure, and relatively low consumer demand all contribute to this issue. Traditional automakers, particularly in India’s two-wheeler market, are facing significant financial losses. According to Bernstein, while some niche startups may survive, their long-term market share will likely remain limited, and competition will primarily be between established original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The key challenge for these OEMs is achieving the scale and cost reductions required to compete with the well-entrenched internal combustion engine (ICE) sector. <h2>Reliance on incentives</h2>One of the most striking conclusions from Bernstein’s analysis is the deep reliance of the EV sector on government subsidies. Without these incentives, the <keyword id="19952060" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="EV-Industry" source="keywords">EV industry</keyword> would be unable to compete with traditional ICE vehicles. “The EV Industry is not relevant without incentives currently, and to break the ICE sector, it needs intense focus, scale, and continued cost downs,” the report emphasised. This indicates that while government schemes like GST benefits have helped reduce the cost difference between EVs and ICE vehicles, they are not enough to ensure the long-term sustainability of the EV sector. Bernstein estimates that the overall EV two-wheeler industry in India generates around USD 1.3 billion in annual revenues, but without government support, the sector incurs an EBIT loss of approximately USD 300-400 million. The high cost structure of EVs, combined with the relatively low sales volumes, makes it difficult for companies to operate without subsidies. <h2>Established players face mixed fortunes</h2>Among India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers, Bernstein noted that <keyword id="19897354" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bajaj-Auto" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Bajaj Auto" meta.hostid="265" meta.entityid="Bajaj Auto">Bajaj Auto</keyword> and <keyword id="20326963" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="TVS-Motors" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="TVS Motors" meta.hostid="265" meta.entityid="TVS Motors">TVS Motors</keyword> are on a similar footing in terms of their performance in the EV space. Bajaj Auto received an "Outperform" rating from Bernstein due to its lower valuations, while TVS Motors was rated "Market Perform" after it was found to be losing approximately 7.5% in EBITDA, or Rs 11,000 per vehicle, despite generating a gross profit margin of 7% without subsidies. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113631992" title="Tata Nexon EV with a bigger battery launched starting at ₹13.99 lakh" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Hero MotoCorp, a major player in India’s automotive market, lags behind both Bajaj and TVS in terms of its EV offerings. Bernstein also pointed out that Eicher Motors, which is expected to launch its own <keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">electric vehicles</keyword> soon, is likely to remain “sub-scale and less relevant” in the competitive EV landscape. Interestingly, <keyword id="19897349" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ola-Electric" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Ola Electric" meta.hostid="265" meta.entityid="Ola Electric">Ola Electric</keyword> (Ola-E) stands out as a startup that has been able to generate positive operating earnings (EBITDA) from its premium models like the S1 Pro and S1 Air, even as it incurs losses on its mass-market model, the S1X. “Our analysis indicates that Ola-E is generating positive operating EBITDA from its premium models, such as the S1 Pro and S1 Air while incurring a loss on its mass-market model, the S1X,” the report said. While Ola has shown some promise, it too remains heavily dependent on subsidies to maintain its financial health. <h2>Long-term outlook</h2>Bernstein’s report paints a challenging picture for the future of India’s EV sector, suggesting that while dominant startups may survive, the majority of the competition will come from traditional automakers. However, without significant scale and continued cost reductions, the EV industry will struggle to become self-sustaining. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113315022" title="Waiting for the festive season to buy an EV? Cabinet approves PM E-Drive subsidising most EVs, sans electric cars" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Bernstein emphasised that to truly compete with ICE vehicles, the EV sector needs to focus on scaling up operations, reducing costs, and maintaining long-term commitment. Until these conditions are met, India’s EV industry will remain highly dependent on government support and may continue to face an uphill battle for relevance. In conclusion, while India’s EV sector is seen as a vital part of the country’s clean energy future, Bernstein’s analysis highlights that it is far from being self-reliant. The industry’s heavy dependence on government incentives raises questions about its long-term sustainability and relevance, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges with profitability and scale. (With inputs from ANI)

Why has Bernstein called India’s EV sector 'irrelevant'?

The <keyword id="20143656" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="turnover" source="keywords">turnover</keyword> of India's automotive component industry registered a <keyword id="19910261" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="growth" source="keywords">growth</keyword> of 9.8 per cent in the financial year 2023-24, according to the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (<keyword id="20475655" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ACMA" source="keywords">ACMA</keyword>). The turnover stood at Rs 6.14 lakh crore (USD 74.1 billion) during the year, said the ACMA, the body representing India's auto component manufacturing industry, in its review for the fiscal year 2023-24, as per a release. <keyword id="20373789" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shradha-suri-marwah" source="keywords">Shradha Suri Marwah</keyword>, President, ACMA, and CMD, Subros, said that apart from an increase in <keyword id="21825714" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vehicle-production" source="keywords">vehicle production</keyword>, higher value addition from the component sector has led to growth in the auto components sector. "On the front of trade, whilst overall merchandise <keyword id="19916774" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="exports" source="keywords">exports</keyword> from India witnessed degrowth in FY24, auto component exports have grown despite geopolitical challenges and an increase in logistics costs," Marwah said. Elaborating on the mood of the industry and outlook for the near future, Marwah mentioned, steady growth in the vehicle industry has resulted in the industry reaching pre-pandemic levels of performance in 2023-24 in most segments, however, the first quarter of FY25 witnessed somewhat slower offtake in <keyword id="20051501" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vehicle-sales" source="keywords">vehicle sales</keyword>, especially in passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles, given the high base, due to inclement weather conditions and elections. "With strong macro-economic indicators, conducive government policies, and over 7 per cent growth projected for the Indian GDP, we are hopeful that the auto components industry will continue to perform well in 2024-25," Marwah added in the release. Following are some of the key findings of the ACMA Annual Industry Performance Review: Auto component sales to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the domestic market were at Rs 5.18 lakh crore (USD 62.4 billion), growing 8.9 per cent compared to the previous year. Consumption of increased value-added components, a thrust on localisation, and a shift in market preference towards larger and more powerful vehicles contributed to the increased turnover of the auto-components sector. Exports of auto components witnessed growth of 5.5 per cent to Rs USD 21.2 billion in 2023-24 in contrast to USD 20.1 billion in 2022-23. North America accounted for 32 per cent of exports. Europe accounted for another 33 per cent and Asia for 24 per cent, respectively. Exports to Europe grew by 12 per cent while to Asia remained flat. The key export items included drive transmission and steering, engine components, body and chassis, suspension and braking systems. Component imports grew by 3.0 per cent in 2023-24 to USD 20.9 billion from USD 20.3 billion in 2022-23. Further, increased vehicle movement and a surge in demand for used vehicles led to buoyancy in the aftermarket across all segments. The turnover of the aftermarket in 2023-24 stood at Rs 93,886 crore (USD 11.3 billion) compared to Rs 85,333 crore (USD 10.6 billion) in the previous year. The aftermarket, with an increase in e-commerce, is witnessing enhanced penetration, especially in the hinterland, and a gradual evolution into the organised sector. (ANI)

Indian auto component industry turnover grows 9.8% in 2023-24; outlook positive: ACMA review

<keyword id="19896016" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="new-delhi" source="keywords">New Delhi</keyword>, <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s industrial production grew 3.8 per cent in January 2024, according to official data released on Tuesday. <keyword id="6428111" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Factory-output" source="Orion">Factory output</keyword> measured in terms of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) witnessed a growth of 5.8 per cent in January 2023. "India's Index of Industrial Production grows by 3.8 per cent in January 2024," an official statement said. The data released by the <keyword id="20070866" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="national-statistical-office" source="keywords">National Statistical Office</keyword> (<keyword id="20067517" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nso" source="keywords">NSO</keyword>) showed that the manufacturing sector's output grew 3.2 per cent in January 2024, down from 4.5 per cent in the year-ago month. In January this year, mining production rose 5.9 per cent, and power output increased 5.6 per cent. The IIP grew 5.9 per cent during April 2023 to January 2024 compared to a 5.5 per cent expansion in the year-ago period.

India's industrial production grows 3.8% in January

India’s diamond industry is grappling with a severe downturn as both imports and exports have significantly declined over the past three years, triggering defaults, <keyword id="23043782" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="factory-closures" source="keywords">factory closures</keyword>, and widespread <keyword id="20013745" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="job-losses" source="keywords">job losses</keyword>, according to a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (<keyword id="19962754" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="GTRI" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="GTRI" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="GTRI">GTRI</keyword>). The think tank highlighted that the sector is struggling with unsold <keyword id="20237406" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rough-diamonds" source="keywords">rough diamonds</keyword> and increasing competition from lab-grown alternatives. Ajay Srivastava, Founder of GTRI, pointed out that the downturn in India’s diamond industry has had devastating effects. "This has led to defaults, factory closures, and widespread job losses. Tragically, more than 60 individuals from Gujarat’s diamond sector have taken their own lives, highlighting the intense financial and emotional stress," Srivastava said. He emphasised the urgent need for intervention to address these issues and ensure the survival of the sector. <h2>Declining imports and exports</h2>Data from GTRI paints a grim picture of the industry. Imports of rough diamonds have dropped by 24.5%, from USD 18.5 billion in 2021-22 to USD 14 billion in 2023-24, reflecting weakened global demand and fewer orders for diamond processing. After accounting for re-exported rough diamonds, net imports saw a 25.3% decrease, signalling reduced interest in processing diamonds in India. The situation is even worse on the export front. Exports of cut and polished diamonds fell by 34.6%, from USD 24.4 billion in FY 2022 to USD 13.1 billion in FY 2024. Net exports experienced an even sharper decline, dropping by 45.3% from USD 15.9 billion to USD 8.7 billion, indicating a weak global market and rising inventories of unsold diamonds. <h2>Rising inventories and market competition</h2>The report also highlighted that the percentage of unsold diamonds returned to India increased from 35% to 45.6% during this period. Additionally, the gap between net rough diamond imports and net exports of cut and polished diamonds widened from USD 1.6 billion in FY 2022 to USD 4.4 billion in FY 2024, signifying a growing stockpile of unsold inventory and insufficient export demand. Several factors contribute to this crisis. Global economic uncertainty, inflation, and geopolitical tensions — particularly in key markets like the US, China, and Europe — have led to decreased spending on luxury items such as diamonds. Fluctuating global diamond prices have added to this uncertainty, causing buyers to hesitate in purchasing rough diamonds. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113445065" title="&amp;#39;The pressure became too much for her&amp;#39;: Mother blames &amp;#39;work stress&amp;#39; for 26-year-old EY employee&amp;#39;s death" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Moreover, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has disrupted the global diamond supply chain, with sanctions on Russia, a major producer of rough diamonds, further complicating trade. This slowdown has impacted the global market, stalling the flow of diamonds and affecting India’s processing sector. Another challenge facing the industry is the shift in consumer preferences toward <keyword id="20662742" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lab-grown-diamonds" source="keywords">lab-grown diamonds</keyword>, which are seen as more affordable, ethical, and sustainable. This shift is particularly evident in markets where customers are becoming more conscious of the environmental and ethical implications of their purchases. <h2>Internal regulatory and operational hurdles</h2>Internally, the Indian diamond sector is facing a host of challenges. Many polishing units are burdened with unsold inventories of polished diamonds, discouraging them from importing new rough diamonds. Rising operational costs, including labour, energy, and materials, have also made it difficult for many polishing units to remain profitable. These factors have led to the closure of many shops and significant layoffs, particularly in Surat, the world’s largest hub for diamond cutting and polishing. The sector's heavy reliance on financing has also become a problem. Tighter credit conditions and reduced lending from banks have made it increasingly difficult for businesses to purchase rough diamonds, further stalling production. Additionally, a significant number of cut and polished diamonds exported from India are being returned due to quality issues, overstocking, and price fluctuations, creating costly delays and adding to the strain on exporters. <h2>Dubai's rising influence</h2>An interesting development highlighted by GTRI is the increasing share of rough diamond imports from Dubai, which does not produce diamonds itself. Instead, Dubai imports diamonds from countries like Botswana, Angola, South Africa, and Russia and re-exports them to India. Dubai’s share in India’s rough diamond imports surged from 36.3% in FY 2020 to 60.8% in FY 2024, further rising to 64.5% in April-June 2024. In contrast, Belgium’s share of these imports fell from 37.9% in FY 2020 to 17.6% in FY 2024. One major reason for Dubai's increasing role is India’s high corporate tax regime, which pushes foreign suppliers of rough diamonds to re-export their diamonds to Dubai before sending them to India. This has rendered India’s Special Notified Zones (SNZs) in Mumbai and Surat largely ineffective. <h2>Revitalising the sector</h2>To help revitalise the struggling sector, GTRI has proposed several measures. These include extending export credit terms, exempting foreign rough diamond sellers from corporate taxes in India, regulating the lab-grown diamond industry, and reconsidering the zero-tariff import of cut and polished diamonds from Dubai under the India-UAE trade agreement. The think tank also suggested that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extend the export credit period for cut and polished diamond exporters from six months to 12 months, as buyers are increasingly demanding longer credit terms. India’s strong foreign exchange reserves make this feasible. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113449316" title="Small businesses generated 35 million job applications till Aug 2024, 14 million were from women: Report" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>The Indian diamond industry, which consists of over 7,000 companies — many of them small or medium enterprises — provides direct employment to about 1.3 million workers, with Surat alone employing nearly 8,00,000 people. The industry is also crucial for millions of indirect jobs in sectors like logistics, transport, and retail. With the sector being such a vital part of India’s economy, immediate and coordinated efforts are needed to address its current challenges and ensure its long-term viability. (With inputs from PTI)

India's diamond sector faces major crisis amid plummeting imports, exports, and massive job losses

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s <keyword id="19938893" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="defence-exports" source="keywords">defence exports</keyword> have surged from Rs 15 billion in 2017 to Rs 210 billion in 2024, registering a CAGR of 46 per cent, highlighted a report on 'Defence Conference 3.0' by Antique Stock Broking. The report stated that the <keyword id="20861069" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-shift" source="keywords">global shift</keyword> towards a China+1 strategy and the impact of the <keyword id="20016971" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Russia-Ukraine-war" source="keywords">Russia-Ukraine war</keyword> offer India additional opportunities to fill supply chain gaps, potentially boosting its share in the <keyword id="23046732" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-defence-industry" source="keywords">global defence industry</keyword>. The report noted that the country's long-term goal is to become a global defence manufacturing hub is driven by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), private enterprises, start-ups, and MSMEs. "Indian defence exports have grown multi-fold from INR 15 bn in 2017 to INR 210 bn in 2024 at a CAGR of 46%. The China + 1 strategy and the Russia-Ukraine war provides an additional opportunity for India to fill the gap created in the supply chain and hence increase its contribution to the global defence industry," the report read. The report added that to achieve this target a well-developed domestic ecosystem is crucial as lower import content in products accelerates approvals by reducing international conflicts. The report added that the Ministry of Defence has taken key initiatives to attract Indian private players and global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) include establishing aerospace parks and defence corridors, fast-tracking project approvals, and enhancing development and testing facilities. Highlighting the potential in India's Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) segment the report explained that it holds a significant potential for global aerospace companies due to its technical expertise and cost-competitive solutions. "India provides a huge opportunity in the <keyword id="23046733" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="MRO-segment" source="keywords">MRO segment</keyword> for global aerospace leaders given the expertise the country provides as well as the cost efficiency solutions compared to its global competitors" the report added. India aims to increase domestic defence turnover to Rs 3 lac crore by 2029, Rs 500 billion targeted for exports. This growth will help reduce the Government of India's import bill as India remains the world's largest importer of defence equipment. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative of the government, 75 per cent of the defence capital outlay is now reserved for domestic players, up from 49 per cent in FY21. Given the geopolitical challenges and modernisation needs of its Armed Forces, the report added that India plans to invest Rs 8.3 lac crore in domestic procurement, offering substantial business opportunities for local companies. "India intends to place orders worth INR 8.3 trn through domestic procurement and thus it presents a massive business opportunity for local players" it added. As per the Ministry of Defence, India's defence manufacturing sector has witnessed an increase of 16.8 per cent in the fiscal year 2023-24. This significant increase marks the highest-ever growth in the country's defence production value. The total value of defence production reached Rs 1,26,887 crore this year, up from the previous year's figures.

India's defence exports surge to Rs 210 billion after global shift towards China+1, Russia-Ukraine war: Report

Budget announcements for the <keyword id="22541837" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="marine-sector" source="keywords">marine sector</keyword> such as rationalisation of customs duties and financing facilities will help boost the country's India's <keyword id="20765822" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="aquaculture" source="keywords">aquaculture</keyword> and <keyword id="20765821" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="seafood-exports" source="keywords">seafood exports</keyword>, <keyword id="22541838" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="MPEDA" source="keywords">MPEDA</keyword> said on Thursday. The <keyword id="181386" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Marine-Products-Export-Development-Authority" source="Orion">Marine Products Export Development Authority</keyword> (MPEDA) also said the Budget includes a range of strategic measures aimed at bolstering the competitiveness of marine products, with a particular focus on <keyword id="22541839" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shrimp-production" source="keywords">shrimp production</keyword> and export. Various inputs used in the manufacture of shrimp and <keyword id="22526510" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fish-feed" source="keywords">fish feed</keyword> will now enjoy customs duty exemptions, it said adding a number of feed inputs such as mineral and vitamin pre-mixes, krill meal, fish lipid oil, crude fish oil, algal prime, algal oil are fully exempted from any import duty. Artemia and Artemia cysts which are key nutritional inputs in aqua hatchery were also fully exempted from any import duty. The Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on essential aquafarm/ hatchery inputs such as Vannamei and black tiger broodstock, polychaete worms, and fish/shrimp feed has been reduced to 5 per cent. Import duty for insect meal and single-cell protein has been cut down to 5 per cent. "These announcements made in the Union Budget 2024-25 are set to significantly enhance aquaculture and seafood export sectors," the authority said. It also said that the government has committed to providing substantial financial support to establish a network of <keyword id="22541840" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nucleus-Breeding-Centres" source="keywords">Nucleus Breeding Centres</keyword> (NBCs) for shrimp broodstocks. "This initiative is anticipated to drastically reduce India's reliance on imported broodstock, potentially saving the industry up to Rs 150 crore annually," it said adding hatchery operators are expected to benefit significantly, with projected savings of 50 per cent on broodstock costs. About one lakh farmers will benefit from a 30 per cent reduction in shrimp seed costs. Further, it said the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) will play a crucial role in facilitating financing for <keyword id="20342132" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shrimp-farming" source="keywords">shrimp farming</keyword>, processing, and export. "This intervention is designed to cover 80 per cent of project costs for farmers, accompanied by an interest subvention of up to 3 per cent," MPEDA said. It added that a total of 639 export processing units are expected to benefit from enhanced access to infrastructure development funds, enabling them to improve and expand their facilities through assistance from NABARD. DV Swamy, Chairman of MPEDA, said that the proposed measures will substantially lower production costs, elevate quality, and enhance the international competitiveness of Indian marine products. The marine products sector has been a vital contributor to India's export earnings, with seafood exports reaching an all-time high of over Rs 60,000 crore in the last financial year. The authority was established in 1972 under the Ministry of Commerce and it is responsible for the development of the marine products industry with a special focus on exports.

Budget proposals for marine sector to boost India's seafood exports, aquaculture: MPEDA

<keyword id="20242552" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Adar-Poonawalla" source="keywords">Adar Poonawalla</keyword>’s <keyword id="23624211" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Serene-Productions" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Serene Productions" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Serene Productions">Serene Productions</keyword> is set to acquire a 50% stake in <keyword id="19901337" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Karan-Johar" source="keywords">Karan Johar</keyword>’s <keyword id="20050088" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Dharma-Productions" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Dharma Productions" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Dharma Productions">Dharma Productions</keyword> and Dharmatic Entertainment for ₹1,000 crore. The deal, which was officially announced in a joint press release, marks a strategic partnership that aims to capitalise on the growing opportunities within the global entertainment sector, driven by India’s digital expansion and a diverse, content-hungry audience. Under this new agreement, Johar will retain the remaining 50% stake in the company, continuing in his role as Executive Chairman, while Apoorva Mehta will stay on as Chief Executive Officer. The collaboration between Serene Productions and Dharma is expected to transform content creation, distribution, and audience engagement through the integration of advanced technologies and innovative production techniques. "I am delighted to have the opportunity to partner with one of the most iconic production houses in our nation, along with my friend Karan Johar. We hope to build and grow Dharma and scale even greater heights in the years to come," Poonawalla said. For the unversed, he is the CEO of Serum Institute of India and leader of Serene Productions. Karan Johar also shared his excitement about the partnership, describing it as the perfect blend of Dharma’s emotional storytelling legacy and Poonawalla’s forward-thinking business strategies. "From its inception, Dharma Productions has been synonymous with heartfelt storytelling that captures the essence of Indian culture. My father dreamed of creating films that would leave a lasting impact, and I've dedicated my career to expanding that vision. Today, as we join forces with Adar, a close friend and an exceptional visionary and innovator, we're poised to elevate Dharma's legacy to new heights. This partnership represents a perfect blend of our emotional storytelling prowess and forward-thinking business strategies," Johar said in the release. The Raine Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor for Dharma, with legal counsel provided by AZB &amp; Partners. Serene Productions was advised by JSA on legal matters. This partnership comes at a time when India’s entertainment industry is undergoing rapid growth, driven by digital penetration and demand for high-quality content across multiple platforms. Together, Serene Productions and Dharma aim to push the boundaries of creative storytelling while meeting the demands of digital-first audiences and shaping the future of entertainment.

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