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<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

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

India's gold and silver imports from its free trade agreement (FTA) partner UAE have skyrocketed 210 per cent to USD 10.7 billion in 2023-24 and there is a need to potentially revise the concessional customs duty rates under the pact to mitigate the arbitrage driving this surge, a report said on Monday. Economic think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (<keyword id="15910220" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="GTRI" source="Orion">GTRI</keyword>) said this sharp rise in gold and silver imports is primarily driven by import duty concessions granted by India to the UAE under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). India allows 7 per cent tariffs or customs duty concessions on import of unlimited quantities of silver and a 1 per cent concession on 160 metric tonnes of gold. CEPA was signed in February 2022 and implemented in May 2022. Additionally, India facilitates gold and silver imports by allowing private firms to import from the UAE through the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) in Gift City. Previously, only authorised agencies could handle such imports, the report said. "While India's total imports from the UAE fell 9.8 per cent from USD 53.2 billion in FY23 to USD 48 billion in FY24, imports of gold and silver skyrocketed 210 per cent, from USD 3.5 billion to USD 10.7 billion," it said. "Import of all remaining products fell 25 per cent, from USD 49.7 billion in FY23 to USD 37.3 billion in FY24," it said. GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava said the current import of gold and silver from the UAE is unsustainable as the UAE does not mine gold or silver or add sufficient value to imports. "High import duties in India on gold, silver, and jewellery at 15 per cent are at the root of the problem. Consider lowering tariffs to 5 per cent. This will cut large-scale smuggling and other misuse," Srivastava said. Trade in gold, silver, and diamonds has been prone to misuse due to their low volume but high value and high import duties in India. Low tariff imports of gold, silver only benefit few importers who keep all profits arising through tariff arbitrage and never pass it to consumers, he said. Srivastava suggested the government implement certain measures to help India balance its <keyword id="21681862" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="trade-policies" source="keywords">trade policies</keyword>, protect domestic revenue, and ensure fair competition in the import of precious metals and jewellery. It suggested reassessing and potentially revising the concessional duty rates under CEPA to mitigate the arbitrage driving the surge in imports of gold and silver. "At least, implement yearly import quotas (tariff rate quotas) for silver, similar to those for gold, to control the volume of imports and prevent revenue loss," it said, adding that India should rigorously verify the claimed value addition by Dubai-based refiners in gold and silver imports to ensure compliance with CEPA rules of origin. It also asked to tighten regulations around the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) at Gift City to control the volume and nature of <keyword id="22080399" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="precious-metal-imports" source="keywords">precious metal imports</keyword> and the exchange should not allow country-based exemptions. As increased imports contribute to a higher current account deficit and since gold and silver act more like financial instruments than regular trade items, India should avoid including them in any FTA. "India has granted <keyword id="20542001" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tariff-concessions" source="keywords">tariff concessions</keyword> for these items in many FTAs and under the DFTP (duty-free tariff preference) scheme, so a comprehensive review is needed. India announced the scheme for LDCs (least developed countries) in 2008. Under this, India provides duty free/preferential market access on about 98.2 per cent of India's tariff lines (or product categories). Further, the report stated that silver imports from the UAE increased multifold to USD 1.74 billion in 2023-24 from a meagre USD 29.2 million in 2022-23 due to India charging an 8 per cent duty under the CEPA versus a 15 per cent duty from other countries. "The large 7 per cent tariff arbitrage resulted in a loss of revenue for India of Rs 1,010 crore in FY24. Revenue loss will increase as India has committed to make tariffs zero on unlimited quantities of silver from the UAE within next 8 years," it added. It said this trade is unusual because the UAE just imports large silver and gold bars, melt and convert these into silver grains and unwrought gold for exports. "A check with global refiners will show that value addition in such process is much less than 1 per cent as opposed to 3 per cent required under the FTA," it said. On gold bars, the report said India agreed to import 200 metric tons of gold annually from the UAE with a 1 per cent tariff concession and due to this gold imports rose 147.6 per cent from USD 3 billion in FY23 to USD 7.6 billion in FY24, causing India to lose Rs 635 crore in revenue in FY24. Similarly, India's jewellery imports have increased 187.6 per cent from USD 1.1 billion in FY23 to USD 3.3 billion in FY24, whereas these imports from the UAE have increased 290 per cent from USD 347 million in FY23 to USD 1.35 billion in the last fiscal.

Gold, silver import from UAE surged 210% in 2023-24; Need duty revision in FTA: GTRI

For generations, adhesive bandages have been a staple in every household's first aid kit, offering a quick and convenient solution to minor cuts and scrapes. However, a recent consumer report has unveiled a concerning truth about these seemingly innocuous products — they may harbour harmful chemicals that pose a risk to our health. Testing 40 bandages, including popular brands sold in India such as <keyword id="20298068" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Johnson-Johnson" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Johnson &amp; Johnson" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Johnson &amp; Johnson">Johnson &amp; Johnson</keyword>, the study found that an alarming 65% of the bandages contained detectable levels of <keyword id="20570153" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="phthalates" source="keywords">phthalates</keyword>, also known as <keyword id="20307473" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pfas" source="keywords">PFAS</keyword>, or "forever chemicals." These chemicals, typically added to plastics to make them flexible, can persist for decades inside our bodies, and have been linked to a range of health issues including <keyword id="6355291" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cancer" source="Orion">cancer</keyword>, reproductive problems, and <keyword id="49683" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="thyroid" source="Orion">thyroid</keyword> disease. New studies are discovering that PFAS — detected in the sticky portion and the adhesive pads of the bandages tested — are present in an increasing number of <keyword id="20447338" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="household-items" source="keywords">household items</keyword>, including nonstick cookware, shampoos, makeup items, and even yoga pants. Evidence from the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has indicated that virtually all Americans have some of it in their bodies. What's particularly concerning is that since bandages are designed to be applied directly to open wounds, they inadvertently provide an easy route for these chemicals to enter the body. Even if these bandaids contain only a trace amount of the stuff, experts warn that these small exposures can add up, leading to significant <keyword id="19977451" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-risks" source="keywords">health risks</keyword> over time. “Because bandages are placed upon open wounds, it’s troubling to learn that they may be also exposing children and adults to PFAS,” explains Linda Birnbaum, a health expert. “It’s obvious from the data that PFAS are not needed for wound care, so it’s important that the industry remove their presence to protect the public from PFAS and opt instead for PFAS-free materials.” Moreover, the lack of transparency in the industry exacerbates the problem. While some companies may claim ignorance about the presence of PFAS in their products, the responsibility ultimately falls on manufacturers to ensure the safety of their offerings. Without federal regulations mandating transparency, consumers are left in the dark about the potential dangers lurking in everyday items like bandages. “It is discouraging to find yet another important product space, bandaids or bandages, containing PFAS compounds where transfers into users are conceivable,” laments Terrence Collins, another health expert. “PFAS compounds deserve the ‘forever chemicals’ name, such that when PFAS-containing bandaids and bandages are discarded post-use, the final resting places will be contaminated into the indefinite future.” After this issue garnered significant attention, other health experts have weighed in, and reassured that there might not be complete cause for concern yet. A panel of reviewers from heathfeedback.org pointed out that only two PFAS types out of a thousand have been connected to a heightened cancer risk. Since the study did not sufficiently identify the types of PFAS found in the bandages, further research is necessary to conclude if they are actually cancer-causing. The findings of this study can be accessed <a href="https://www.mamavation.com/health/band-aids-bandages-pfas-forever-chemicals-report.html" data-type="tilCustomLink">here</a>. The article has been edited since the original publishing to reflect new context.

Cancer-causing ‘forever chemicals’ may have been detected in many popular band-aids available in India

One aspect that always garners much traction on the <keyword id="19936553" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Budget" source="keywords">Budget</keyword> day is what got <keyword id="20257498" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cheaper" source="keywords">cheaper</keyword> and what got <keyword id="20286063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="costlier" source="keywords">costlier</keyword>. Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> as part of her Budget presentation proposed a host of tweaks in basic <keyword id="20454068" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="customs-duty" source="keywords">customs duty</keyword> (BCD) for various products or items that are critical for manufacturing. In her Budget speech, Sitharaman proposed an exemption on customs duty on certain <keyword id="22516435" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cancer-medicines" source="keywords">cancer medicines</keyword> and a reduction in duties on <keyword id="19920958" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mobile-phone" source="keywords">mobile phone</keyword> parts and chargers, aimed at bringing down their prices in the retail market. "With a three-fold increase in domestic production and almost 100-fold jump in exports of mobile phones over the last six years, the Indian mobile phone industry has matured. In the interest of consumers, I now propose to reduce the BCD on mobile phone, mobile PCBA and mobile charger to 15 per cent," said Sitharaman in her Budget speech that lasted around 90 minutes. To provide relief to cancer patients, she proposed to fully exempt three more medicines from customs duties. Imported <keyword id="19895579" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gold" source="keywords">gold</keyword>, silver, leather goods and seafood will also get cheaper, as duties were invariably lowered on them. Duty cut on gold would boost retail demand and help in curtailing smuggling in the world's second-biggest bullion market. "To enhance domestic value addition in gold and precious metal jewellery in the country, I propose to reduce customs duties on gold and silver to 6 per cent and that on platinum to 6.4 per cent." She also proposed changes in the customs duty on X-ray tubes and flat panel detectors for use in medical X-ray machines under the <keyword id="20330318" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="phased-manufacturing-programme" source="keywords">Phased Manufacturing Programme</keyword>, so as to synchronise them with domestic capacity addition. Also, she proposed to fully exempt customs duties on 25 critical minerals and reduce basic customs duty on two of them. Minerals such as lithium, copper, cobalt and rare earth elements are critical for sectors like nuclear energy, renewable energy, space, defence, telecommunications, and high-tech electronics, said the finance minister. "This will provide a major fillip to the processing and refining of such minerals and help secure their availability for these strategic and important sectors," Sitharaman said. Putting energy transition on focus, as it is critical in the fight against climate change, the finance minister proposed to expand the list of exempted capital goods for use in the manufacture of solar cells and panels in the country. However, in view of sufficient domestic manufacturing capacity of solar glass and tinned copper interconnect, it was proposed not to extend the exemption of customs duties provided to them. To enhance competitiveness in marine products, the reduced duty on certain broodstock, polychaete worms, shrimp and fish feed to 5 per cent, besides exempting customs duty on various inputs for manufacture of shrimp and fish feed. Moving on to leather and textile, reduction in duty was announced for various items. "...to enhance the competitiveness of exports in the leather and textile sectors, I propose to reduce BCD on real down filling material from duck or goose," Sitharaman said. To reduce cost of production of steel and copper, two important raw materials, it was proposed to remove the customs duty on ferro nickel and blister copper. "I am also continuing with nil BCD (customs duty) on ferrous scrap and nickel cathode and concessional BCD of 2.5 per cent on copper scrap." On the flip side, to support chemicals and petrochemicals, an increase in duty was proposed. To support existing and new capacities in the pipeline, an increase in duty on ammonium nitrate from 7.5 to 10 per cent would be applicable. PVC flex banners are non-biodegradable and hazardous for environment and health. To curb their imports, a propose was made to raise the duty on them from 10 to 25 per cent. To incentivise domestic telecommunication equipment manufacturing, a propose to increase the duty from 10 to 15 per cent on PCBA (printed circuit board assembly) of specified telecom equipment was made. Explaining her rational behind the indirect taxes tweak, Sitharaman said her proposals for customs duties intend to support domestic manufacturing, deepen local value addition, promote export competitiveness, and simplify taxation, while keeping the interest of the general public and consumers surmount. In Budget 2022-23 too, the government reduced the number of customs duty rates.

Here's what will get cheaper and costlier after this Budget

New Delhi [<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>], February 21 (ANI): President of <keyword id="19915275" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="boeing" source="keywords">Boeing</keyword> India and South Asia, <keyword id="20265370" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="salil-gupte" source="keywords">Salil Gupte</keyword>, hailed the 'Make in India' initiative and said that New Delhi is moving from being one of the largest importers to developing its own platforms. He said that Boeing is one of the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) that has coordinated most with India in this direction. <keyword id="20666703" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gupte" source="keywords">Gupte</keyword> said that a lot of discussion at the Indus X event -- which is being held on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue 2024 -- is around co-development and co-production. Speaking to ANI, Salil Gupte said, "Several products for defence, that are in the pipeline for co-development...Boeing has decided to specifically participate in those types of programmes, because in defence, under the 'self-reliance' theme, India is moving from being one of the largest importers of products to developing its own platforms here." "Some of it will be done totally with Indian companies and some of it will do in partnership with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM). Boeing has been one of the OEMs that has coordinated most with India," he added. Gupte said that Boeing is exporting worth of Rs 10000 crores per annum as part of 'Make in India' programme. "We have Rs 10000 crores per annum of sourcing that we export from India already as part of our 'Make in India' programme. And now we think that our new engineering centre in Bangalore, it is an opportunity to combine the strong engineering capability with manufacturing capability to give a fillip to the Make in India programme," he said. The Boeing India President further said that he is expecting over 2500 aircraft to come to India over the course of the next 20 years. "In civil aviation, we see over 2500 aircraft that will be coming in India over the next 20 years, which makes it more than 10 aircraft per month. Not just aircraft, but airlines are also growing very rapidly. Akasa Air, one of the fastest-growing airlines in history, is now going international and Air India is placing large orders in the last year as they spread their wings into long-haul flights," Gupte further said. Gupte also reiterated US President <keyword id="19919748" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="joe-biden" source="keywords">Joe Biden</keyword>'s remark that the India-US relationship is the "most consequential of the 21st century." (ANI)

India moving from one of largest importers to developing its own platforms: Boeing India Prez Salil Gupte

Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles will travel to Ahmedabad to witness the summit clash between <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> and <keyword id="6355478" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="australia" source="Orion">Australia</keyword> at the <keyword id="3859" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cricket-world-cup" source="Orion">cricket World Cup</keyword> on Sunday. Marles, who is also Australia's <keyword id="32723" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="defence" source="Orion">defence</keyword> minister, and Foreign Minister Penny Wong are visiting India to co-chair the second edition of the "2+2" ministerial dialogue along with their Indian counterparts on Monday. The defence ministry on Saturday announced the Australian deputy prime minister's two-day visit to India from November 19-20 primarily for the "2+2" dialogue that is expected to focus on boosting the overall defence and strategic ties between the two countries. It said Marles will also attend the cricket World Cup final between India and Australia on Sunday. "Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles will visit India from November 19 to 20 to co-chair the second India-Australia 2+2 ministerial dialogue with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh," the ministry said in a statement. The Indian delegation at the "2+2" dialogue will be led by Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. "During his visit, Minister Marles will also attend the Cricket World Cup final between India and Australia in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on November 19," the ministry said. It said Singh and Marles will hold a bilateral meeting on November 20 that would be followed by the "2+2" dialogue. "India and Australia are pursuing a comprehensive strategic partnership and the visit of Minister Marles is expected to give further impetus to the collaboration as well as bilateral defence cooperation," the defence ministry said. "The two countries are expected to discuss wide-ranging issues of mutual interest during the 2+2 dialogue and the bilateral defence ministers' meeting," it added. The two sides are expected to focus extensively on further ramping up the overall defence and security ties and boost the strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region during the "2+2"dialogue. Both Australia and India are part of the Quad or Quadrilateral coalition that is focused on working towards ensuring a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. The other two members of the Quad are the United States and Japan. The situation in West Asia in view of the Hamas-Israel conflict, China's increasing military muscle flexing in the Indo-Pacific and issues relating to regional security is expected to figure in the talks, people familiar with the preparation for the dialogue said. The inaugural "2+2" ministerial dialogue between India and Australia took place in September 2021. India has such a framework for talks with a very few countries, including the US and Japan. The latest edition of the India-US foreign and defence ministerial dialogue took place in New Delhi on November 10. The bilateral defence and strategic ties between India and Australia are on an upward trajectory in the last few years. In June 2020, the two countries elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and signed a landmark deal for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support. The <keyword id="10796857" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="mutual-logistics-support-agreement" source="Orion">Mutual Logistics Support Agreement</keyword> (<keyword id="449908" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="mlsa" source="Orion">MLSA</keyword>) allows the militaries of the two countries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, besides facilitating scaling up of the overall defence cooperation. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/webstories/ind-vs-aus-icc-world-cup-final-past-battles-head-to-head-record-and-more/slidelist/105309620.cms">India vs Australia ICC World Cup final – Past battles, head-to-head record and more</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/jio-strengthens-market-leadership-with-3-25-mn-new-subscribers-vis-decline-slows/articleshow/105289414.cms">Jio strengthens market leadership with 3.25 mn new subscribers, Vi’s decline slows</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-pc-market-surges-to-4-5-million-devices-in-q3-2023/articleshow/105285251.cms">India’s PC market shipments surge in Q3 amidst import restrictions talks</a>

Australian Deputy PM Marles to watch India-Australia World Cup cricket final in Ahmedabad

As PC and laptop makers urge the government to rethink its decision on import licensing requirements accompanied by a quota, the industry stakeholders have met <keyword id="296566" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="it-ministry" source="Orion">IT Ministry</keyword> officials to seek solutions on the matter. The meeting discussed proposed changes, like linking the import of IT hardware to the local manufacturing of a company value and its export value of electronic items, according to sources. The meeting on Friday was called to give suggestions on how the proposed import management system should work and get the stakeholders' feedback. Another meeting is likely to happen again next week to continue discussions on the issue. Last month, the <keyword id="7825659" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="india-cellular-and-electronics-association" source="Orion">India Cellular and Electronics Association</keyword> (<keyword id="6816005" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="icea" source="Orion">ICEA</keyword>) wrote to the IT Ministry, requesting the government to rethink its decision on import licensing requirement accompanied by a quota, which was extended by 3 months until October 31, fearing that this may lead to price rise in consumer electronics products as companies are not yet prepared for manufacturing PCs, laptops and servers domestically at scale. The letter said that an overarching factor that should be taken into consideration in "avoiding supply chain disruption till domestic production ramps up" is that any "reduction in supplies or even an indication will lead to hoarding and market distortion". This, in turn, can push up consumer prices, "which will adversely impact not just key stakeholders such as students, but also those who are the core of growing the digital economy, i.e. start-ups, IT and ITES firms, BPOs". The industry seeks at least nine-month breather after the PLI for IT Hardware was launched. "The government may undertake a re-assessment of the investment pipeline and the supply situation before inviting the industry to discuss whether any further policy intervention is needed at that stage. It may be too early to assess the full implication of the new scheme before then," according to the letter. Where servers are concerned, the ICEA has received inputs that companies in that sector seek a relook at their inclusion in the proposed intervention. The Central government earlier deferred its decision to restrict the import of certain categories of laptops and computers until November 1, allowing companies three-months time to import these devices. Post November 1, no entity will be allowed to import laptops, computers, and related items without a license. The PLI 2.0 for IT hardware has garnered applications from 40 companies including global and domestic. The expected incremental production under the scheme is around Rs 3.35 lakh crore. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/india/news/g20-leaders-summit-adopts-new-delhi-declaration/articleshow/103535369.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/india/news/g20-leaders-summit-adopts-new-delhi-declaration/articleshow/103535369.cms" target="_blank">G20 Leaders Summit adopts New Delhi Declaration</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/india/news/g20-summit-pm-modi-announces-launch-of-global-biofuel-alliance/articleshow/103535675.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/india/news/g20-summit-pm-modi-announces-launch-of-global-biofuel-alliance/articleshow/103535675.cms" target="_blank">G20 Summit: PM Modi announces launch of Global Biofuel Alliance</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/entertainment/webstories/from-dream-girl-2-to-tootsie-epic-roles-which-saw-male-actors-crossdress/slidelist/103525812.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/entertainment/webstories/from-dream-girl-2-to-tootsie-epic-roles-which-saw-male-actors-crossdress/slidelist/103525812.cms" target="_blank">From Dream Girl 2 to Tootsie – Epic roles which saw male actors crossdress</a>

PC manufacturers meet MeitY officials on import curbs, seek solutions

At the WWDC in June this year, <keyword id="19894961" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="apple" source="keywords">Apple</keyword> had given us all a glimpse of <keyword id="21976092" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="apple-intelligence" source="keywords">Apple Intelligence</keyword>, the AI-powered features designed for the latest models of the iPhone. From a revamped <keyword id="20024792" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="siri" source="keywords">Siri</keyword> and AI-powered writing tools to enhanced photo management, there are many features that caught our eye. The wait for Apple Intelligence has been long and finally came to an end last night, when Apple officially started rolling out <keyword id="22604334" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ios-18-1" source="Orion">iOS 18.1</keyword> in the US. Read on to know all about the new update, how to access <keyword id="23717584" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="apple-intelligence-in-india" source="Orion">Apple Intelligence in India</keyword>, and more. <h2>iOS 18.1: How to get iOS 18.1 and Apple Intelligence </h2> The iOS 18.1 is available as a direct update on eligible devices. You can head to settings on your iPhone or iPad and look for the update. If you are unable to see the update option, wait for a while. It should rollout soon. Since support for Apple Intelligence is limited to US English initially, you will have to change your phone’s language to US English if it is set to US India currently. After this, head to Settings - Apple Intelligence and Siri - Join the <keyword id="23725852" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="apple-waitlist" source="keywords">Apple Waitlist</keyword>. After joining the waitlist, Apple Intelligence should come to your device on its own in a couple of hours. Yes, there’s a waitlist involved. Beta users, who received the update earlier this year, have said the access files (typically large in size) required to run Apple Intelligence usually come within the same day. For the unversed, Apple Intelligence is only compatible with the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 series, newer iPad models with M-series chips, and Macs equipped with M1 or later. On a related note, Apple also has plans to introduce localised support for additional regions and languages, with Chinese, French, and Spanish expected to follow in 2025. <h2>Apple Intelligence new features </h2> One of the most anticipated elements of iOS 18.1 has been the addition of Apple Intelligence. This feature is specifically tailored to streamline everyday tasks, providing tools such as rewriting, reviewing, and summarizing text directly on the device. For example, iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro users can access the “Rewrite” tool, which offers suggestions to improve written text in professional, informal, or fun tones. With the “Review” function, users receive suggestions on grammar and structure, while the “Summary” option provides concise breakdowns of long texts, all powered by Apple’s in-house AI. The real power of Apple Intelligence lies in its on-device processing, ensuring user data remains private and secure. Apple has announced plans to expand language support and compatibility with additional devices over the coming months, making this a significant evolution for users focused on productivity and security. <h2>A smarter, more interactive Siri </h2> iOS 18.1 has introduced a revamped Siri, now more intuitive and visually engaging. Siri has undergone significant updates to better understand natural language, allowing it to pick up on pauses, shifts in conversation, and contextual cues. This makes interacting with Siri more fluid and conversational, which could be especially helpful for users who rely on the assistant for multitasking. The new Siri interface also features a vibrant, dynamic light indicator that wraps around the screen during interactions, creating a more engaging visual experience. Siri now allows users to activate “Type to Siri” with a double-tap, and it’s smarter at helping users navigate their devices by providing more specific guidance on performing actions. Siri’s improved voice is another addition, making it sound more natural and expressive, ultimately enhancing the user experience across devices. <h2>Enhanced photo search and editing tools </h2> With iOS 18.1, Apple has reimagined how users interact with their photo libraries, adding AI-driven tools for enhanced search and editing. Users can now search for images based on descriptive terms, helping them locate specific moments and items with ease. A new “Clean” function also allows users to remove distractions in photos, helping to simplify and highlight important details. For those who enjoy creating memory videos, iOS 18.1 includes an AI-assisted tool that allows users to craft videos around chosen themes. This feature, powered by Apple Intelligence, compiles images and clips into cohesive memory reels, offering an easy way to revisit and share meaningful moments. <h2>Streamlined notifications and messaging </h2> Notification management is a crucial element of the iOS 18.1 update, providing more control over when and how alerts are delivered. With the new notification summary feature, users get a quick overview of the most relevant information without feeling bombarded by alerts. This aligns with Apple’s ongoing push for productivity, as users can remain updated while avoiding unnecessary interruptions. In messages and mail, iOS 18.1 introduces “quick replies” for commonly used phrases, allowing users to streamline communication. The “priority messages” feature is another addition that highlights emails needing immediate attention, which can be especially useful for professionals managing high volumes of correspondence. <h2>Call recording and real-time transcriptions </h2> A particularly groundbreaking addition to iOS 18.1 is the new call recording feature, allowing users to capture and transcribe phone conversations. Within the Phone app, users can activate recording, with all parties automatically notified that the call is being recorded. Transcriptions can be saved in the Notes app, and users can search within the conversation text, making this feature ideal for business and personal use alike. <h2>Camera and AirPods Enhancements </h2> Apple has also focused on improving the camera experience, particularly for iPhone 16 users. New features in iOS 18.1 make switching between front and rear cameras quicker and more fluid. Users of the iPhone 15 Pro, meanwhile, gain access to a mode for capturing spatial photos, complementing the spatial video capabilities already in place. The update also brings health-related features for <keyword id="20022494" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="airpods-pro" source="keywords">AirPods Pro</keyword>, designed to assist users with mild or moderate hearing loss. This includes a personalised sound feature and an added protection mode that reduces exposure to loud environmental sounds. Currently, the hearing test option is available in the United States, with plans for a broader rollout anticipated. Alongside these exciting new features, iOS 18.1 also brings a range of bug fixes and enhancements to improve the overall system. Issues with playback interruptions in the Podcasts app, errors in car digital key functionality, and connectivity in the Control Center have been resolved. Additionally, search functionality in the App Store and Game Center invitations has been fine-tuned for smoother user experience.

You Searched For "imported defence items in india" and got 9 results

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

ANI

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

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Gold, silver import from UAE surged 210% in 2023-24; Need duty revision in FTA: GTRI

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Cancer-causing ‘forever chemicals’ may have been detected in many popular band-aids available in India

Ankush Banerjee

Here's what will get cheaper and costlier after this Budget

ANI

India moving from one of largest importers to developing its own platforms: Boeing India Prez Salil Gupte

ANI

Australian Deputy PM Marles to watch India-Australia World Cup cricket final in Ahmedabad

PTI

PC manufacturers meet MeitY officials on import curbs, seek solutions

IANS

iOS 18.1 is officially here: How to get Apple Intelligence in India, compatible devices, and all you need to know

Divyanshi Sharma

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