Best printers for Home

Best Mixer Grinder

Best wired Earphones

Best 43 Inch TV in India

Best Wi Fi Routers

Best Home Theatre in India

Smart Watch under 5000

Best Laptops for Education

Best Laptop for Students

New Delhi: The <keyword id="19938513" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Department-of-Consumer-Affairs" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Department of Consumer Affairs" meta.hostid="268" meta.entityid="Department of Consumer Affairs">Department of Consumer Affairs</keyword> has constituted a committee of experts to recommend a robust framework for a <keyword id="22964001" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Repairability-Index" source="keywords">Repairability Index</keyword> aimed at empowering consumers and promoting <keyword id="20128078" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sustainable-practices" source="keywords">sustainable practices</keyword> within the tech industry. The committee, chaired by Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) Additional Secretary Bharat Khera, will develop the Repairability Index to provide consumers with greater transparency on repair information for their products and foster a more sustainable technology industry. The National Workshop on the Right to Repair in the <keyword id="20881182" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mobile-and-electronics" source="keywords">Mobile and Electronics</keyword> Sector, convened on August 29, brought together industry stakeholders to establish a consensus on the framework for evaluating components for the Repairability Index, fostering longevity in product design and democratising access to repair information and spare parts. "The framework on Repairability Index aimed to provide consumers with essential information about product repairability besides seamless access to spare parts will enable informed purchasing decisions," the DoCA said in a statement. The committee, which includes representatives from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and industry stakeholders, is expected to submit a comprehensive report on the Repairability Index framework by November 15. The key components of the proposed Repair Ecosystem include comprehensive repair information, accessible spare parts, affordable tools, modular product design and ensuring the economic feasibility of repairs for consumers. "By standardising the assessment of repairability, the index will create an ecosystem where consumers can easily compare products and choose options that align with the ethos of mindful consumption and sustainability," the DoCA statement said.

Government set to introduce Repairability Index for mobile, electronics products

As the world celebrates World EV Day, <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s significant progress in adopting <keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">electric vehicles</keyword> (EVs) across various categories is commendable, however, there is still a long way to go. The government of India's <keyword id="23096041" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Vaahan-Dashboard" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Vaahan Dashboard" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Vaahan Dashboard">Vaahan Dashboard</keyword> data shows an increasing trend to shift towards green mobility solutions. The most notable trend in EV penetration has been witnessed in the three-wheeler category, where EVs have surged ahead in overall sales. According to the data, 53.61% of all new three-wheeler vehicles purchased this year (2024) were electric, making this segment the leader in <keyword id="20421629" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EV-adoption" source="keywords">EV adoption</keyword>. The two-wheeler segment has also shown encouraging signs of EV adoption, with electric vehicles accounting for 4.97% of all two-wheeler sales so far in 2024. While the percentage is lower compared to <keyword id="20412606" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="three-wheelers" source="keywords">three-wheelers</keyword>, the two-wheeler category holds significant potential for growth, given its dominance in India's overall vehicle sales market. As more consumers seek cost-effective and <keyword id="20991927" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="environmentally-friendly" source="keywords">environmentally friendly</keyword> alternatives, the penetration of EVs in this segment is expected to grow further in the coming years. However, in the four-wheeler segment, the adoption of EVs remains relatively low, with electric cars making up just 2.14% of total car sales this year. Despite this, the increasing availability of EV models and government incentives are expected to drive further growth in this segment. Interestingly, the penetration of electric buses is higher than that of electric cars, with 3.20% of all new buses sold in 2024 being electric. This trend highlights the growing importance of sustainable public transport solutions as cities aim to reduce emissions and promote cleaner alternatives in mass transit. "Electric vehicles offer a very compelling solutions because they do not emit any tailpipe emissions so that improves their air quality that reduces their air pollution. It also reduces the carbon emission so it helps India to meet with its climate goals and generally, electric vehicles have lower operating cost as compared to the IC engine vehicles," said Samhita Shiledar, Director RMI to ANI. On a state-wise level, the Vaahan dashboard data highlighted that Goa leads the country in EV penetration, with 14.20% of all new vehicles sold this year being electric. Tripura ranks second, followed by Chandigarh in third place. Delhi also stands out with a 10.72% penetration of EVs in total vehicle sales, showcasing the capital's push towards sustainable urban mobility. On the other hand, Himachal Pradesh reported the lowest EV penetration, with only 1.09% of new vehicles sold being electric. In terms of total number of EV sales across all segments in India, the two-wheeler category dominates the electric vehicle market in India, accounting for approximately 51% of total EV sales this year. As World EV Day highlights the global commitment to cleaner mobility solutions, India's data reflects a promising shift but a long way to go towards electrification across various vehicle segments.

World EV Day: 50%+ three-wheelers, 5% of 2-wheelers, and 2% of cars purchased in 2024 are EVs.

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> is planning a <keyword id="22964001" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="repairability-index" source="keywords">repairability index</keyword> for <keyword id="20016418" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mobile-phones" source="keywords">mobile phones</keyword> and electronic products to address the growing <keyword id="19932462" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="e-waste" source="keywords">e-waste</keyword> problem and encourage manufacturers to produce more easily repairable items, officials said on Thursday. The <keyword id="20026051" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Consumer-Affairs-Ministry" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Consumer Affairs Ministry" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Consumer Affairs Ministry">Consumer Affairs Ministry</keyword> is spearheading the initiative, which will provide a score on key parameters to inform consumers about the ease with which a product can be repaired, the officials said at a national workshop on the issue. Addressing the workshop, <keyword id="20003684" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="consumer-affairs" source="keywords">Consumer Affairs</keyword> Secretary Nidhi Khare said: "As India emerges as the third largest economy in the world, we should have a vibrant and tech-savvy repair system." She also added, "India can become a repair hub for the world." The proposed index will be similar to initiatives in other countries, such as France's repairability index. It will rate products on criteria including availability of technical documents, ease of disassembly, spare parts availability and pricing. The workshop was aimed at establishing a consensus among industry stakeholders on "key parameters for accessing and evaluating repairability index" besides promoting longevity in product design, and democratizing repair information to enhance consumer experiences in reusing the mobile and <keyword id="19896834" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electronics" source="keywords">electronics</keyword> products they own. Additional Secretary Bharat Khera emphasized the need for transparent and affordable repair solutions, increased consumer awareness, and support for local repairers. Joint Secretary Anupam Mishra highlighted concerns about the lack of genuine spare parts in local markets, compatibility issues with product components, and the absence of information for consumers to repair their own devices. He also mentioned that the Repairability Index of France rates products on five criteria, while the EU has additional parameters. <keyword id="20032279" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="HCL-Technologies" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="HCL Technologies" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="HCL Technologies">HCL Technologies</keyword> Founder Ajai Chowdhry called for legislation to drive change. "Today, most products are not repairable. We need to design products which can be repaired.... Unless we create a law, things will not change," he said. The government has already launched a <keyword id="22964002" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Right-to-Repair-Portal" source="keywords">Right to Repair Portal</keyword>, with 63 companies onboard, including 23 from the mobile and electronics sector. India is the third largest electronic waste producer globally after China and the US. The initiative aims to reduce e-waste, promote <keyword id="20128078" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sustainable-practices" source="keywords">sustainable practices</keyword>, and create opportunities for third-party repairers in India's growing electronics market.

India plans repairability index for mobile, electronics to tackle e-waste

The Indian automotive landscape is evolving as consumers lean toward both luxury and sustainable options, according to <keyword id="20034170" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Grant-Thornton-Bharat" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Grant Thornton Bharat" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Grant Thornton Bharat">Grant Thornton Bharat</keyword>’s survey, Shifting Gears: Understanding Passenger Vehicle Market Trends. The survey, gathering insights from over 3,500 respondents, found that 85% are interested in high-end variants, with a notable rise in preference for <keyword id="20372525" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hybrid-vehicles" source="keywords">hybrid vehicles</keyword> over electric options. With 40% of respondents favouring hybrids and only 17% opting for EVs, the shift suggests a cautious approach as consumers await more robust <keyword id="20415012" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EV-infrastructure" source="keywords">EV infrastructure</keyword> and incentives. Meanwhile, 34% still prefer petrol vehicles, indicating the ongoing transition in <keyword id="21046358" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="consumer-preferences" source="keywords">consumer preferences</keyword>. Hybrid vehicles, acting as a bridge, are likely to boost familiarity with green technology, paving the way for broader EV adoption in the future. According to Saket Mehra, Partner and Auto &amp; EV Industry Leader at Grant Thornton Bharat, automakers must focus on both hybrid and electric solutions to match changing demands. This year’s festive season—typically accounting for 30-40% of annual sales—is critical, yet high inventory levels, weather impacts, and regional elections have slowed growth. Utility (UV) and sports utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to dominate, now representing 65% of passenger vehicle sales with 13% growth year-over-year. Despite a slow start to FY25, the popularity of SUVs and UVs reflects a strong preference for versatile vehicles. Yet, automakers are grappling with inventory challenges, with 7.9 lakh units worth ₹79,000 crore in stock as of September 2024. To tap into festive demand, nearly 90% of consumers expect substantial discounts. The survey also highlights a shift in consumer priorities, with a heightened focus on <keyword id="20961985" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vehicle-safety" source="keywords">vehicle safety</keyword> overtaking traditional factors like design or performance. Subscription models are also gaining traction, indicating a broader transformation in how Indians perceive mobility solutions.

Indian consumers shift gears toward luxury and sustainability in the auto sector: Survey

The Union Budget for 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, places significant emphasis on <keyword id="19941381" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="energy-security" source="keywords">energy security</keyword> and sustainability. As per the government, the current strategy will focus on ensuring that energy resources are readily available, making energy affordable for all citizens and keeping energy costs low to prevent economic strain on consumers. Here's a breakdown of the key initiatives announced: <h2>PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana</h2>One of the standout initiatives is the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. This program aims to install <keyword id="20366573" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rooftop-solar-plants" source="keywords">rooftop solar plants</keyword> across 1 crore households, providing up to 300 units of free electricity per month. As per the FM, the scheme has already seen significant interest, with over 1.28 crore registrations and 14 lakh applications. <h2>Pumped Storage Policy</h2>To enhance electricity storage capabilities and integrate more <keyword id="19895602" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="renewable-energy" source="keywords">renewable energy</keyword> into the grid, the government will introduce a policy promoting pumped storage projects. These projects are crucial for balancing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111956035" title="Union Budget 2024: What FM Nirmala took from your pocket, what she gave you" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Development of <keyword id="20876045" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nuclear-energy" source="keywords">Nuclear Energy</keyword></h2>Recognising the importance of nuclear energy in India's future energy mix, the government plans to invest in new nuclear technologies. The announcement also mentioned partnering with the private sector to develop and set up Bharat <keyword id="20260886" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Small-Modular-Reactors" source="keywords">Small Modular Reactors</keyword>. Boasting up to a 300 MW capacity, Small Modular Reactors are mobile, flexible in design and require a smaller footprint. Unlike conventional nuclear reactors that need to be built on-site, SMRs can be factory-built. These advantages can add up to significant savings in cost and construction time. <h2>Advanced Ultra Super Critical Thermal Power Plants</h2>The Budget highlights the completion of indigenous technology development for Advanced Ultra Super Critical (AUSC) thermal power plants. These plants boast higher efficiency and will be established through a joint venture between the National Thermal Power Corporation and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited. The initiative includes government support for fiscal needs and aims to boost local production of high-grade steel and advanced metallurgical materials. <h2>Roadmap for Hard-to-Abate Industries</h2>A significant shift is planned for industries that are difficult to decarbonise. The government will move these industries from energy efficiency targets to emission reduction targets. This transition will be regulated through the Indian Carbon Market, replacing the current 'Perform, Achieve and Trade' mode. <h2>Support for Traditional Micro and Small Industries</h2>To promote cleaner energy usage and efficiency, the government will conduct energy audits in 60 clusters of traditional micro and small industries, including brass and ceramics. Financial support will be provided to help these industries switch to cleaner energy forms and implement energy efficiency measures. This initiative will be expanded to 100 more clusters in the next phase. As per Sameer Jain, Managing Director at Primus Partners, MSMEs consume approximately 50% of the nation's power needs while generating over 75% of greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, additional support — such as climate financing — will be crucial to ensure that the MSME sector adapts well to the green revolution, especially with how the budget has committed support to MSMEs to grow and compete globally. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111953230" title="Union Budget 2024-25: Mobile Phones to get cheaper, as FM Nirmala Sitharaman reduces basic customs duty to 15%" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2><keyword id="22521154" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-resilient-crops" source="keywords">Climate-Resilient Crops</keyword></h2>The government will release 109 high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties of 32 field and horticultural crops for cultivation by farmers. With the provision of research funding, including for the private sector, this move is part of a broader strategy to enhance agricultural productivity while adapting to climate change. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111957080" title="What does Union Budget 2024-2025 have in store for farmers and the agricultural sector?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Minerals for Green Technologies</h2>To support the growing demand for minerals used in green technologies, such as cobalt and lithium, the budget proposes exemptions from custom duties for 25 critical minerals and reduction on basic customs duty for two other essential metals. This move aims to bolster the domestic manufacturing of batteries and other components crucial for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. <h2>Development of Climate Taxonomy</h2>A new climate taxonomy will be developed to guide the green transition, ensuring that investments and policies are aligned with the goal of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices. All in all, the Union Budget 2024-25 sets a promising course for India's energy and sustainability sector. With substantial investments and new initiatives, it aims to accelerate the transition to a greener future, and hopefully take us a step further towards India's net-zero emissions target by 2070.

Free solar electricity to mobile nuclear plants — major sustainability initiatives announced in Budget 2024!

<ul class="summary-list"><li>North Korean troops in Russia help Putin beyond sheer manpower needs — they help him at home, too.</li><li>The ISW wrote on Sunday that Pyongyang's deployments help Putin avoid another mobilization, for now.</li></ul>North Korea's manpower injection for the Kremlin allows Russian leader Vladimir Putin to avoid another political stumbling block at home, according to the Institute for the Study of War.The Washington-based think tank <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-november-17-2024">said on Sunday</a> that the influx of fresh troops gives Putin a way to, at least temporarily, avoid a second involuntary mobilization.Russia's <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-prosecutor-says-putin-troop-mobilization-thousands-illegal-2023-2">first mobilization</a> of some 300,000 reservists was announced in November 2022, a move that tanked public opinion of the war as families of drafted soldiers fretted that they would be sent into combat and <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-mobilization-some-drafted-dead-less-than-month-2022-10">casualties among reservists mounted.</a>"ISW has repeatedly observed efforts by Russian authorities to delay highly unpopular involuntary reserve call-ups," ISW analysts wrote.Putin and his generals have since repeatedly signaled a <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-to-mobilize-500k-soldiers-as-putin-regime-risks-collapsing-says-kyiv-2023-1">need for another call-up</a> but have held off on a second mobilization wave in favor of an aggressive recruitment drive. <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-sign-up-bonuses-reaching-on-par-with-us-military-2024-7">Steeply rising bonuses</a> in some areas indicate, however, that the Kremlin may be having difficulty attracting enough sign-ups.Pyongyang's contributions now give Russia a healthy buffer, as Western officials estimate that Moscow has been <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-suffered-1500-average-casualties-a-day-october-uk-official-2024-11">losing thousands of men a week</a> this fall in a grinding advance on the eastern front.But the ISW said that if Russia continues to take high casualties, even Pyongyang's troop rotations won't be enough to sustain the invasion."The deployment of roughly 100,000 North Korean personnel would only replace Russian losses for less than three months," the think-tank wrote."Such a limited deployment would also fail to address Russia's broader shortages of millions of workers due to demographic crises and the war and the resulting mid- to long-term shortcomings in Russian defense industrial base operations," it added.Ukraine and Western officials said last week that Pyongyang has sent up to 11,000 troops to Kursk as Russia attempts to reclaim territory taken by Kyiv this summer.Anonymous sources familiar with the assessments of some G20 nations told <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-11-17/north-korea-may-end-up-sending-putin-100-000-troops-for-his-war">Bloomberg</a> that it's likely North Korea is planning to send a total of 100,000 troops in the longer run.Dmytro Ponomarenko, Ukraine's ambassador to South Korea, also told <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.voakorea.com/a/7865608.html">Voice of America</a> that Pyongyang would likely maintain a presence of about 15,000 troops in the war, rotating soldiers every two to three months.In total, that could mean 100,000 North Korean troops cycling in and out of combat within a year, he said.The North Korean troops in Russia are <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/north-korean-storm-corps-kim-jong-un-best-russia-ukraine-2024-11">believed to be special forces</a>, which <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.mnd.go.kr/user/mnd/upload/pblictn/PBLICTNEBOOK_202303070948276600.pdf">South Korean intelligence estimates</a> say consist of about 200,000 members in total.Seoul also says that Russia is paying about <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/north-korea-soldiers-wont-get-2k-pay-russia-ukraine-war-2024-11">$2,000 a month</a> for each North Korean soldier. But defectors and North Korea researchers say it's highly likely that most, if not all, of the money will go to Kim Jong Un and his family.Russia's partnership with North Korea has other implications for Pyongyang. <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20241103050116">South Korea's intelligence agency</a> said Kim is expected to receive some 700,000 tons of rice and assistance with space technology, allowing his country to further circumvent international sanctions aimed at stalling its <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-was-helping-north-korea-before-botched-satellite-launch-report-2024-5">weapons and satellite programs.</a>

Putin paying for 100,000 North Korean troops helps him delay a second mobilization: ISW

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'?

Prime Minister <keyword id="19895781" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="narendra-modi" source="keywords">Narendra Modi</keyword> on Tuesday asked the automotive industry to bring global best practices to <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>, while also working on green and <keyword id="7340072" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="clean-mobility" source="Orion">clean mobility</keyword>. In a written address to the annual convention of the <keyword id="20163832" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="society-of-indian-automobile" source="keywords">Society of Indian Automobile</keyword> Manufacturers (SIAM), Modi said the automotive industry will drive even higher economic growth and in turn, thrive on demand growth. "As we shift gears towards our collective goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, I am confident that organisations like SIAM will continue to bring together all stakeholders and become a force multiplier in this mission," he said. The prime minister said the road ahead demands that the country's progress is rapid, while also being sustainable. "Working (on) greener and cleaner mobility is a vital step in this direction. It is important that this climate-conscious and sustainable vision resonates with domestic and international partners," he asserted. "Further, at this critical juncture for India and the world, it is essential that our automobile sector set not only an example for others to follow, but also work towards bringing global best practices to India. I am confident that the discussions and deliberations during the Annual Convention will serve as a catalyst for this," he added. He further said, "Through innovation and enterprise, I am sure that the automotive industry will drive even higher economic growth and in turn, thrive on the demand growth that inevitably creates." He said over the last decade, India's automotive sector has witnessed tremendous and unprecedented growth. "This is as much a testament to our nation's expanding economic growth, as it is to the pivotal role played by the automotive industry," Modi said. The success story of Indian mobility is noteworthy. The nation is witnessing the creation of future-ready infrastructure, such as state-of-the-art expressways, high-speed railways and other forms of multi-modal connectivity that reaches every corner, the prime minister noted. "The holistic approach is ensuring that the benefits of growth are not just confined to a few, but shared by all," Modi said.

PM Modi asks automakers to bring global best practices to India, focus on clean mobility

Shares of <keyword id="19956271" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ola-Electric-Mobility" source="keywords">Ola Electric Mobility</keyword> were in a freefall today, tanking about 4.55% on the NSE and 4.88% on BSE. Today also marked 30 days since the company was listed on the bourses (August 9th), bringing down shutters on the one-month lock-in window anchor investors are mandated to hold stocks for, before deciding to offload 50% of shareholding. Around 18.18 crore shares, or about 4% of company's outstanding shares were eligible for trading in the market post the 30-day lock-in, which hurtled Ola's stock towards Rs 100. While the stock managed to gain some ground later in the day, and was trading at Rs 114.10 when the markets closed today, slightly up from its intraday low of Rs 109. However, it still remained a far cry from its all-time high price of Rs 157.4, which it had hit on August 20th, 2024. Ola Electric, which currently dominates the Indian EV space, debuted on stock exchanges last month, and was looking to raise Rs 6,145.56 crore via fresh issue, along with an OFS (offer for sale) of 8.49 crore equity shares. The IPO was oversubscribed by around 4x. Going ahead, the Bhavish Aggarwal-led startup is also set to face intense competition from fellow EV maker Ather Energy. With its IPO set to hit the markets soo, Ather is looking to raise Rs 3,100 crore via fresh issue, and an OFS of about 2.2 crore equity shares. Per the DRHP (draft red herring prospectus) filed by Ather, its net worth for FY24 stood at Rs 545.9 crore. The remaining 50% of Ola Electric's shares will be eligible for offloading by anchor investors in 60 days from now, or 90 days since the date of allotment. While this event will certainly test Ola's buoyancy in the market, the fact remains that Ola was off to a stellar start days after its listing, when the stock price accelerated to Rs 157.4 on August 20th, 2024. This skyrocketed the company's valuation well beyond that of established Indian 2-wheeler giants like Hero Moto Corp and Bajaj, albeit briefly. In fact, for a small period, Ola Electric Mobility had recorded valuations higher than that of Tesla's. For perspective, Ola's market capitalization, as of today, stood at Rs 50,327.57 crore. Bajaj Auto, which listed on the exchanges in 2008, presently has a market value of Rs 3,02,993.79 crore, while Hero Moto Corp, which was listed in 2003, currently has a market value of Rs 1,14,788.59 crore. However, ever since hitting this peak on August 20th, Ola's prices have only been on a downward journey. However, now that the stock has witnessed a price correction of sorts, the question remains- has Ola corrected enough, or are we still in for further downside? As per SEBI registered Investment Advisor Gaurav Goel, Ola continues to trade in the expensive zone despite recent correction. "The recent mercurial rise in the stock has been more on the promise it holds for the future. It is the largest <keyword id="23099550" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="E-Scooter-Manufacturing" source="keywords">E-Scooter Manufacturing</keyword> company in India, with 31% market share in the E2W sector, selling 3,29,618 scooters in FY24. Recently, it also forayed into the motorcycle segment with several new “Roadster” models at an attractive pricing. It is building an Ola Gigafactory for cell production in Tamil Nadu, and a Battery Innovation Centre in Bangalore", Goel explained. "However, we feel that despite attractive future plans, the stock is currently overpriced. Despite rising revenues, we need to see how quickly it is able to translate widening losses into profits", he continued. <h2>Gaping holes, take a long-term approach </h2>It is hard to overlook the wide, year on year losses that the company continues to incur. As of March 2024, the company had racked up an operating loss of Rs 1,266 crore. Per its Q1FY25 financials, the company's losses before taxes during April-June 2024 grew to Rs 347 crore, up from Rs 267 crore in the year-ago period. The company's cash flows from operating activities continued to be in red, rising from Rs 2,520.25 crores in March 2021 to Rs 15,072.71 crore as of March 2023. Generally, if a company is regularly registering negative cash flows from its primary, operational activity, it is a troubling sign, indicating that the company is spending more than what its making. Ola continues to rack up major losses in its cell business, which reported a loss of Rs 5 crore in Q1FY25. The segment's operating expenses, however, doubled from Rs 11 crore in Q1FY24 to Rs 22 crore in Q1FY25. Per Agrawal, the indigenously developed 4680 Bharat Cell, which will be integrated in all Ola vehicles starting Q1FY26, will help in bettering the company's profit margins, given that cells constitute around 30-35% of overall vehicle's cost. Which is why experts suggest not to buy into any short-term euphoria surrounding the stock, and instead, opt for a long-term approach. While there is scope, it is largely unchartered waters, which will have to face the tides of multiple market volatilities and cycles, before it starts to generate sustainable, significant returns. Goel believes that while the new vehicle segment is a good space to enter, the competition here is going to be stiff. Customer actual response in terms of sales is yet uncertain. "We recommend a buy on dips on this stock. An entry level of Rs 100 would be good point for purchase. It should be kept for the long-term, for a period of at least 3-5 years for realization of its potential"

Shares of Ola Electric have tapered down from their record-highs. Is this a good time to buy in?

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Russia needs a lot of ammo supplies to sustain its offensives in Ukraine, a NATO official said.</li><li>It's already turned to allies like Iran and North Korea to help replenish its stocks.</li></ul>Russia needs "significant" ammo supplies from countries other than Iran and North Korea in order to sustain its offensives in Ukraine, a senior NATO official said, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-lacks-munitions-troops-big-ukraine-offensive-says-nato-official-2024-07-09/">per Reuters</a>.The unnamed official shared NATO intelligence with reporters ahead of the military alliance's annual summit in Washington, DC."To sustain real offensive operations, we think that Russia would have to secure significant ammunition supplies from countries beyond what it is already getting from Iran and from North Korea," they said, per Reuters.Russia has turned to allies like North Korea and Iran to replenish its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-desperate-need-for-weapons-ukraine-win-for-north-korea-2023-9">dwindling</a> ammunition stockpiles as its troops launch <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/grinding-russian-offensive-reflects-putin-stated-war-plan-attrition-experts-2024-6">grinding offensives</a> in Ukraine and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ukraine-fires-7k-rounds-a-day-russia-fired-60k-early-in-2023-report-2023-9">burn</a> through artillery shells.While the total amount of ammo the two countries have sent to Russia is unclear, South Korea's defense minister <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/north-korean-arms-factories-full-tilt-russias-war-south-korea-2024-2">said</a> in February that North Korean weapons factories were "operating at full capacity" making arms and ammunition for Russia.He also said it had sent 6,700 containers to Russia since last August.Meanwhile, Iran sent 300,000 artillery shells to Russia in 2023, an unnamed NATO official told <a target="_blank" href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/03/10/politics/russia-artillery-shell-production-us-europe-ukraine/index.html">CNN</a> in March.Russia has also ramped up its own production.According to an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-producing-shells-three-times-faster-cheaper-ukraines-allies-report-2024-5">analysis</a> by consulting firm Bain &amp; Company, reported by Sky News in May, Russia's armaments industry is expected to make or refurbish 4.5 million artillery shells this year — three times more than Ukrainian allies' 1.3 million expected shells.However, even help from Iran and North Korea won't be enough for Russia to sustain offensive operations on the battlefield in Ukraine, according to the NATO official.In addition to munition problems, Russia also faces a lack of manpower on the battlefield after its army suffered "very high" losses in Ukraine, the NATO official said, meaning it can't mount a large-scale offensive."Vladimir Putin would have to order a new large-scale mobilization," the official said, per Reuters, adding that Russia is having to "order undermanned, inexperienced units to move into areas to achieve unrealistic objectives."

Russia needs 'significant' ammo from countries beyond Iran and North Korea to sustain Ukraine offensives, NATO official says

<keyword id="19913553" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tech" source="keywords">Tech</keyword> giant <keyword id="19894961" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="apple" source="keywords">Apple</keyword> has reportedly shelved plans to develop display screens for its smartwatch. According to a <keyword id="19897999" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bloomberg" source="keywords">Bloomberg</keyword> report, the tech giant has pulled the plug on an in-house project to build screens with microLED technology. The iPhone maker is now reportedly "reorganising the teams that handle display engineering," and also "eliminating dozens of roles in the US and Asia". Apple did not immediately comment on the report. The display project was reportedly part of a "broader push by Apple to design more of its technology in-house". Apple is also likely to launch new iPad Pro models with OLED displays from <keyword id="19897758" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="samsung" source="keywords">Samsung</keyword> and LG. Meanwhile, the US Justice Department and 16 states have accused tech giant Apple of using exclusionary business practices to sustain the monopoly of its flagship product, the iPhone. The lawsuit alleged that the tech giant uses this monopoly to keep the cot of its product high for consumers. Apple's iPhone dominates the US market with a 65 per cent share. And it has made the company immensely rich, along with its other products. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/motorola-edge-50-pro-to-launch-in-india-on-april-3-everything-we-know-so-far/articleshow/108667275.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/motorola-edge-50-pro-to-launch-in-india-on-april-3-everything-we-know-so-far/articleshow/108667275.cms" target="_blank">Motorola Edge 50 Pro to launch in India on April 3 – Everything we know so far</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/jsw-group-and-saic-motors-jv-jsw-mg-motor-india-set-to-up-production-to-3-lakh-vehicles-a-year-with-a-new-car-every-3-6-months/articleshow/108647799.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/jsw-group-and-saic-motors-jv-jsw-mg-motor-india-set-to-up-production-to-3-lakh-vehicles-a-year-with-a-new-car-every-3-6-months/articleshow/108647799.cms" target="_blank">JSW Group and SAIC Motor’s JV ‘JSW MG Motor India’ set to up production to 3 lakh vehicles a year with a new car every 3-6 months</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/mobile-number-portability-revamped-to-reduce-sim-swap-frauds-here-are-the-new-rules/articleshow/108613683.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/mobile-number-portability-revamped-to-reduce-sim-swap-frauds-here-are-the-new-rules/articleshow/108613683.cms" target="_blank">Mobile Number Portability revamped to reduce SIM swap frauds – Here are the new rules</a>

You Searched For "sustainable mobility" and got 11 results

Government set to introduce Repairability Index for mobile, electronics products

PTI

World EV Day: 50%+ three-wheelers, 5% of 2-wheelers, and 2% of cars purchased in 2024 are EVs.

ANI

India plans repairability index for mobile, electronics to tackle e-waste

PTI

Indian consumers shift gears toward luxury and sustainability in the auto sector: Survey

BI India Bureau

Free solar electricity to mobile nuclear plants — major sustainability initiatives announced in Budget 2024!

Ankush Banerjee

Putin paying for 100,000 North Korean troops helps him delay a second mobilization: ISW

Matthew Loh

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

BI India Bureau

PM Modi asks automakers to bring global best practices to India, focus on clean mobility

PTI

Shares of Ola Electric have tapered down from their record-highs. Is this a good time to buy in?

Ira Alok Puranik

Russia needs 'significant' ammo from countries beyond Iran and North Korea to sustain Ukraine offensives, NATO official says

Thibault Spirlet

Apple shelves plans to develop displays for smartwatch: Report

IANS

Popular Keywords

Buying Guides