July 24, 2025
India-UK Free Trade Deal Excludes Some Foods but Opens 95% Agri Exports Duty-Free to Boost Farmers and Trade
A recent free trade agreement between India and the UK excludes dairy products, edible oils, apples, and oats to protect domestic farmers, while granting zero tariffs on 95% of agricultural and processed food exports. Indian staples like spices, pulses, and marine products will enter the UK market duty-free, enhancing export opportunities and farmer incomes. The agreement aims to boost agricultural exports by over 20% in three years, supporting India's goal of $100 billion in agri-exports by 2030. It also provides zero-duty access for 99% of marine exports, including shrimp and tuna, and offers Geographical Indication protection for select Indian craft drinks. Key agricultural states in India are expected to benefit significantly, while the food processing sector gains increased access to the UK market. The FTA addresses existing trade imbalances by opening premium UK markets to Indian products, promoting growth in emerging sectors like organic herbs and millets.
July 24, 2025
Indian airlines report 183 technical aircraft defects in 2025, down from previous years, under DGCA safety rules
Five Indian airlines reported a total of 183 technical defects in their aircraft to the aviation regulator DGCA from January to July 21, 2025. The largest number of defects, 85, were reported by the Air India Group. Other airlines reported 62, 28, and 8 defects respectively. The figures represent a decrease compared to previous years, with 421 defects reported in 2024 and 448 in 2023. The civil aviation ministry stated that all reported defects must be investigated promptly by the airlines in coordination with the DGCA to ensure timely corrective and preventive measures. Major defects receive particular attention through joint investigations to maintain aviation safety standards.
July 24, 2025
Four Arrested in Rs 3.77 Crore Illegal Gutka Seizure Under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
Authorities seized banned gutka valued at approximately Rs 3.77 crore in Maharashtra and arrested four individuals connected to its illegal possession and transport. The Anti-Narcotics Cell conducted raids following a tip-off, initially apprehending one suspect with gutka worth Rs 22.40 lakh. Subsequent investigation led to a larger seizure of goods valued at Rs 3.54 crore in another location, with additional arrests of truck drivers involved in the transport. The operation was supported by the Food and Drug Administration and involved charges under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Law enforcement continues to investigate the source and intended recipients of the banned product.
July 24, 2025
Company Approves Expansion into Organic Waste Management with Strategic Investment Offer at 100% Premium
A company based in Ahmedabad has approved a plan to enter the organic waste management and recycling sector as part of its diversification strategy. The industry is expected to grow at an annual rate of 10-12% over the next five years. The company views this expansion as a commitment to sustainable business models and long-term stakeholder value. Additionally, a Singapore-based firm has proposed acquiring up to 12% equity in the company through a strategic investment at a 100% premium over the current share price.
July 24, 2025
Global Hairdressing Director Leads Advanced Masterclass on Innovative Cutting and Client Service Techniques
A global hairdressing education director conducted an advanced masterclass at a leading hair academy in India, focusing on innovative cutting techniques, hairstyling, and client servicing. The session emphasized integrating the brand's signature collection into everyday salon work, blending creativity with commercial viability. The training aimed to enhance stylists' technical skills and their ability to deliver personalized client experiences. The event reinforced the academy's commitment to high-quality professional education and its leadership role in the regional hairdressing industry. Key educational leaders supported the initiative, contributing to curriculum development and mentorship.
July 24, 2025
Domestic Currency Gains 1 Paisa Against US Dollar Amid Trade Talks and Market Volatility
The domestic currency marginally appreciated by 1 paisa against the US dollar, closing at 86.40, amid global market risk aversion and rising crude oil prices. Market uncertainty persists due to pending bilateral trade negotiations between the two countries, with the next round scheduled for August. Negative domestic equity trends and significant foreign institutional investor outflows have constrained the currency's gains. Analysts expect continued volatility influenced by geopolitical tensions, crude oil prices, and upcoming economic data releases. The unresolved trade deal poses risks to exporters and maintains cautious investor sentiment. The foreign exchange market is anticipated to trade within a narrow range until clarity on the trade agreement emerges.
July 24, 2025
Free Trade Agreement Grants Geographical Indication Protection to Indian Craft Beverages for UK Market Access
A recently signed free trade agreement between two countries grants traditional Indian craft beverages, including regional spirits and wines, Geographical Indication protection and access to UK retail and hospitality markets. This legal recognition ensures exclusive rights to market these products under their regional names, preventing misuse and enhancing brand value. The agreement facilitates export growth by enabling these beverages to compete alongside established international products, supporting government efforts to increase alcoholic beverage exports from current levels to a targeted USD 1 billion by 2030. The move also aligns with broader trade and intellectual property strategies to promote indigenous products in developed markets.
July 24, 2025
Equity Market Drops Over 540 Points Amid Foreign Fund Outflows and Profit-Taking; India-UK Trade Deal Signed
The equity market experienced a significant decline with the benchmark index dropping over 540 points due to profit-taking in major stocks and sustained foreign fund withdrawals. Key blue-chip companies saw notable losses, while some firms recorded gains. Foreign Institutional Investors sold equities worth over Rs 4,200 crore, although Domestic Institutional Investors made purchases exceeding Rs 4,300 crore. Concurrently, India and the UK signed a comprehensive free trade agreement aimed at reducing tariffs on various goods, including whisky and automobiles, expected to enhance bilateral trade by approximately USD 34 billion annually. The agreement is anticipated to benefit the majority of Indian exports and facilitate British exports to India. Global markets showed mixed trends, with Asian indices mostly positive and European and US markets also performing well. Brent crude oil prices rose by over 1 percent during this period.
July 24, 2025
DGCA penalizes airline officials for ignoring EU airworthiness directive on Airbus A320 engines under safety rules
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) took punitive action against an airline for failing to comply with an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning engines on Airbus A320 aircraft. Following a surveillance inspection, the DGCA found non-compliance and initiated penalties against the airline's responsible officials, including cancellation of approval for the Quality Manager, a warning and financial penalty of Rs 1.5 lakh for the Continuing Maintenance Manager, and a Rs 30 lakh fine for the Accountable Manager. The airline was held accountable for not adhering to mandatory service bulletins and airworthiness directives necessary to maintain aircraft safety. The DGCA's enforcement was carried out under its established surveillance and audit framework, though specific details on the timing of the non-compliance and penalties were not disclosed.
July 24, 2025
Fatal Plane Crash Leads to Increased Pilot Sick Leave; Calls for Mental Health Training and Support Programs
Following a fatal plane crash resulting in 260 deaths, a national airline experienced a slight increase in pilots reporting sick leave, with 112 pilots, including 51 commanders, absent on a single day. The aviation ministry highlighted existing guidelines from the civil aviation authority recommending specialized mental health training and peer support programs for flight crews and air traffic controllers to manage psychological impacts. Currently, there is no specific government policy addressing compensation for ground civilians affected by air accidents.
July 24, 2025
India-UK Free Trade Deal Cuts Tariffs on 99% of Goods, Boosts Bilateral Trade by $34 Billion Annually
India and the UK have entered into a free trade agreement that eliminates tariffs on approximately 99 percent of tariff lines, covering nearly all trade values between the two countries. The agreement reduces average UK tariffs on Indian goods from 15 percent to 3 percent and facilitates easier export of British products such as whisky, cars, soft drinks, cosmetics, and medical devices to India. This deal, finalized after three years of negotiations, is projected to increase bilateral trade by around USD 34 billion annually and improve market access for Indian goods across all sectors. The agreement aims to lower costs for consumers and businesses in both countries while significantly boosting exports and trade relations.
July 24, 2025
India-UK Free Trade Deal Boosts Trade by $34 Billion with 99% Tariff Elimination and Market Access
India and the UK have entered into a free trade agreement that aims to enhance bilateral trade by approximately USD 34 billion annually. The agreement provides tariff elimination on about 99 percent of tariff lines, covering nearly all trade values between the two countries. It facilitates easier market access for Indian exports and allows British companies to export products such as whisky and cars to India with reduced barriers. The deal, concluded after three years of negotiations, is designed to promote comprehensive market access for goods across all sectors, significantly benefiting trade relations between the two nations.
July 24, 2025
First Hybrid Endoscopic-Microscopic ENT Skill Lab Launches with Patented Two-Handed Surgery System
A medical institution inaugurated the first Hybrid Endoscopic-Microscopic ENT Skill Lab featuring a patented two-handed endoscopic surgery system. The facility integrates cadaveric dissection with advanced microscopic and endoscopic techniques, enhancing surgical training. The lab was established through the leadership of the institution's governing body and includes multiple surgical innovations. It hosted a workshop training selected ENT surgeons and postgraduates, and will serve as the dissection hub for an upcoming international ENT conference. The initiative aims to set global standards in surgical education, fostering innovation and hands-on learning in otologic and neuro-otologic surgery. The institution holds multiple accreditations and rankings, supporting its commitment to high-quality medical education and patient care.
July 24, 2025
Innovation Incubator Hosts Investor Pitch Day Connecting Startups with Venture Capital for Growth Opportunities
An innovation incubator hosted an Investor Pitch Day featuring ten startups presenting technologies in sectors such as health tech, AI, fintech, and social impact. The event connected emerging companies with multiple venture capital firms and investors, facilitating live pitches, networking, and mentoring sessions. The incubator, supported by various government initiatives, has a track record of over 1100 startups accelerated and more than 120 investments, including successful exits. The participating startups offer solutions ranging from credit infrastructure and chronic care platforms to AI-powered commerce and healthcare services. Investor engagement included expressions of interest and ongoing due diligence, highlighting active investment potential. The incubator provides strategic mentorship, infrastructure, and access to high-net-worth individuals and venture funds to support scalable growth for startups throughout their development stages.
July 24, 2025
UK and India sign major free trade deal removing tariffs on 99% of Indian exports and easing UK product access
The UK and India formalized a free trade agreement after three years of negotiations, eliminating tariffs on approximately 99 percent of Indian exports and facilitating easier market access for British products such as whisky and cars. This agreement, the largest UK trade deal post-Brexit, aims to enhance bilateral trade across all sectors. Additionally, the two countries signed a double contribution convention exempting employers of Indian workers from UK social security contributions. The leaders also announced a joint "UK-India Vision 2035" to deepen their partnership.
July 24, 2025
Commercial Insurance Protects Business Assets from Fire, Theft, Floods, and More Under Key Policy Sections
Commercial Insurance provides essential financial protection for businesses by covering property and physical assets against risks such as fire, theft, floods, and other unforeseen events. Property insurance, a key component, safeguards buildings, machinery, inventory, and related assets, enabling business continuity by compensating losses and facilitating quick recovery. While standard property insurance typically excludes third-party liability unless specifically added, comprehensive policies can include such extensions to cover damages caused to others. Regulatory and contractual obligations often mandate maintaining valid property insurance. Coverage may also extend to loss of income, debris removal, and protection against natural calamities, depending on policy terms and selected add-ons. Tailored plans are especially critical for SMEs, which face greater financial vulnerability. Businesses must assess asset values, risk profiles, and location-specific hazards to select appropriate coverage and riders, ensuring adequate protection and compliance with legal requirements.
July 24, 2025
Wellness Brand Launches India-Focused Probiotics with INR 10 Crore Investment and Local Strain Formulations
A wellness brand specializing in gut health has launched in India with an investment exceeding INR 10 crore from its parent probiotic company. The brand offers clinically validated probiotic products formulated specifically for the Indian gut microbiome, addressing issues such as digestion, immunity, skin, weight, and stress. All products are manufactured in GMP-certified facilities, vegan, cruelty-free, and free from unnecessary additives. Unlike generic supplements based on Western strains, these formulations use locally sourced probiotics tailored to the Indian population for improved efficacy. The product range includes solutions for gut health, sleep, gas relief, bowel regularity, skin and hair wellness, stress resilience, weight management, UTI prevention, and plant-based protein. The brand's products are widely available on major Indian e-commerce platforms and also serve markets in the US and UAE, with India as the primary focus for growth.
July 24, 2025
Men's Fashion Brand and Digital Talent Platform Launch Season 3 Talent Competition with Exclusive Prizes
A men's fashion brand entered into a strategic partnership with a digital talent hunt platform to launch the third season of a talent competition aimed at discovering and promoting emerging youth talent nationwide. The collaboration includes a grand finale event where finalists will showcase the brand's latest collection in a fashion show. The winners will receive exclusive photo shoots conducted by a renowned celebrity photographer, providing significant exposure and career opportunities in the fashion industry. Both parties emphasize their commitment to nurturing and celebrating diverse talent, offering participants a platform for visibility and recognition. This alliance represents a mutual effort to empower young individuals and integrate contemporary fashion trends into the competition's culminating event.