E GOVERNANCE
MSME Ministry reviews CPSE procurement from SC/ST enterprises to meet mandated target
A total of 30 public sector undertakings, including Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, NTPC, Airports Authority of India, BEML, and Coal India Limited, attended the consultations.
"Bogus movement led by bogus leader Rahul Gandhi": Pralhad Joshi targets Congress over ethanol blending row
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi accused the Congress of misleading the public regarding ethanol blending in petrol. He stated that Congress's criticism aims at political appeasement of minorities and Rahul Gandhi. The Karnataka government supports claims of substantial ethanol blending by oil marketing companies, despite their denial. Joshi argued there is no commercial logic to the Congress's claims considering petrol and ethanol prices.
mjunction facilitates sale of 3,200 tonnes of onions through NAFED, NCCF auctions
mjunction Services has facilitated the sale of more than 3,200 metric tonnes of onions through digital auctions for government agencies NAFED and NCCF, as the government releases buffer stocks to improve market supplies and contain price increases.
Pakistan's Punjab govt questions Hafiz Saeed-linked party's participation in NA by-poll
Pakistan's Punjab government expressed concerns about the involvement of Hafiz Saeed's political party in elections. The PML-N government criticized the PMML for contesting elections despite being declared a banned group. While the election saw PML-N's candidate secure a significant victory, PMML alleged rigging and violations. Additionally, members of the Punjab government previously associated with PMML have raised eyebrows. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between political entities and the state.
"Tipu fought four Anglo-Mysore wars; RSS didn't particapate in freedom struggle:" Priyank Kharge on Tehrik-e-Khudadaad memorandum
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge addressed a memorandum submitted for reinstating Tipu Sultan Jayanti celebrations. He criticized the BJP for not acknowledging their history regarding Tipu Sultan's contributions. Kharge emphasized the participation of Tipu Sultan in the freedom struggle compared to the RSS. The memorandum also calls for a review of educational materials on Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali.
India extends Halal certification for meat exports to Egypt
The government has extended the implementation of the mandatory i-CAS-Halal for meat exports to Egypt by three months. This extension aims to facilitate the accreditation process of Egyptian Halal certification bodies. Additionally, the government specified that the Certificate of Inspection for rice exports is limited to certain European countries. Exemption from this requirement will continue until April 2027 for other European nations.
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Rising maize diversion for ethanol production may fuel food inflation
Oil marketing companies have increased maize demand for ethanol, which is raising concerns for animal feed costs and inflation. Maize prices have doubled compared to last year amid projections of declining kharif production. Ethanol manufacturing is experiencing high competition for maize due to reduced sugarcane availability. Experts warn that heightened maize prices will affect poultry farmers and ultimately consumers.
Shivakumar promises minority outreach meet, assures more support for Urdu Academy
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has announced a meeting next week with representatives of various minority communities. This meeting aims to address their concerns and discuss enhanced financial support for the Karnataka Urdu Academy. The Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to safeguarding the rights of minorities and fulfilling election manifesto commitments. Furthermore, he noted the cultural significance of Urdu in connecting diverse communities.
OMCs reject Karnataka’s high-ethanol fuel claim, seek fresh tests
State-run oil marketers in India have rejected Karnataka's claims regarding excessive ethanol content in petrol sold. They argue that the state's testing procedures lack adherence to prescribed standards and were unverified. The oil companies assert that their E20 fuel adheres to Bureau of Indian Standards and undergoes strict quality checks. They highlighted that previous tests indicated compliance within the mandated ethanol blending range.
Karnataka stands by E20 report, seeks nationwide third-party fuel testing
Karnataka has intensified its allegation regarding petrol containing ethanol levels exceeding the 20% limit. The state government is seeking independent testing from accredited laboratories and urges other states to conduct similar inspections. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Rizwan Arshad released test results indicating ethanol content as high as 31.2% in various petrol samples. Oil marketing companies have denied these allegations and questioned the sampling methodology used by Karnataka.
How rising bond yields and interest rates are putting pressure on stock market valuations
Higher yields boost safer investments’ appeal, pressuring equity valuations despite earnings recovery. Equities are riskier than sovereign bonds. If a virtually risk-free government bond pays 7.4%, investors won’t settle for the same return from volatile stocks they accepted when bonds yielded 5% or 6%.
India's three-wheeler market takes an electric turn, with one in two new sales now EVs
Electric three-wheelers are increasingly popular in India, with sales significantly rising and concerns about fossil fuels decreasing. Mahindra Last Mile Mobility now produces a large number of e-rickshaws to meet growing demand. Drivers like Afroz Alam have reported substantial savings after switching from gas-powered models to electric versions. Analysts attribute this shift to lower operational costs and government subsidies promoting EV adoption.
E20 debate widens: Karnataka to reveal probe findings on Monday; MoS Suresh Gopi backs OMCs
Karnataka authorities are set to reveal more information regarding the alleged excessive ethanol blending in petrol. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated that the government has received numerous complaints from motorists concerning vehicle performance issues. Inspection teams collected petrol samples from various retail fuel outlets and ethanol blending facilities across the state. Additionally, Kerala has ordered laboratory tests on petrol samples amid this controversy.
Rahul Gandhi demands clarity on ethanol blending in petrol from PM Modi amid Karnataka findings
Rahul Gandhi has called on Prime Minister Modi to clarify the ethanol blending limits in petrol. Karnataka officials claim independent tests revealed excessive ethanol levels in petrol samples. According to Gandhi, 11 out of 14 tested samples exceeded the 20% ethanol limit. Oil companies like HPCL, IOC, and BPCL have denied these accusations regarding the blending practices.
E20 petrol supplied by PSU oil firms meets prescribed quality standards: Oil Min
The government's statement confirmed compliance of 893 petrol samples with prescribed ethanol content standards. Karnataka's Department of Food contested these findings, claiming higher ethanol levels in some petrol samples. Oil marketing companies asserted their sampling procedures were not followed during inspections in Karnataka. They requested access to sampling documentation and proposed joint testing of the ethanol content.
Rahul Gandhi questions Centre over excess ethanol in E20 petrol, seeks action against oil companies
Rahul Gandhi has raised concerns regarding high ethanol levels in petrol sold in Karnataka. He claims that numerous petrol samples exceeded the prescribed limit of 20%. Oil marketing companies have disputed these allegations, asserting their fuel meets regulatory standards. Karnataka authorities are seeking accountability and transparency regarding fuel quality. An investigation into the matter has been called for to protect consumer interests.
Poverty low, expectations high: India’s next challenge is creating jobs and driving reforms
Poverty rates in India have decreased remarkably, with expectations rising for future economic prosperity and growth. Initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer and Swachh Bharat Mission have significantly improved living conditions. However, while the government has driven welfare improvements, job creation remains the role of entrepreneurs.
World War III: Why is Trump's 'Doomsday Plane' flying across US? Nuclear-proof aircraft spotted heading to unknown location
The Boeing E-4B Nightwatch, Trump's emergency transport, has been spotted in the skies over the United States, having taken off from Offutt Air Force Base. The purpose of this flight is still unknown, particularly as it coincides with Trump's recent threats towards Iran. Although it may just be part of a regular drill, there has been no confirmation of its mission or any senior officials on board.
IOCL, BPCL, HPCL dispute Karnataka's claim of excess ethanol in petrol, seek fresh tests
Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation have disputed Karnataka's ethanol content claims in petrol. They reported testing showing their supplies adhere to prescribed ethanol standards. The companies also raised concerns about the sampling and testing methods used by the state government. They noted discrepancies in density readings related to the alleged high ethanol content.
Karnataka finds ethanol content above E20 limit in petrol samples, seeks action against OMCs
The Karnataka government has accused oil marketing companies of exceeding the mandated ethanol content in petrol. Tests conducted on petrol samples showed levels surpassed the legal 20% threshold significantly. The government plans to submit its findings to the Centre and seek appropriate actions against the companies involved. It has also demanded a compensation fund and clearer disclosures at fuel stations.
Waste to wealth: Centre earns over Rs 970 crore from disposal of scrap
Inspired by the vision and direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and under the guidance of Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh, the Special Campaign 6 for institutionalising swachhata and minimising pendency in government offices has recorded its highest-ever achievements across key parameters since the commencement of the annual special campaign in 2021, an official statement said.
E30 petrol being sold as E20? Karnataka minister claims oil companies are supplying petrol exceeding the 20% ethanol limit
Karnataka Minister Rizwan Arshad has flagged alleged over-blending of ethanol in petrol after tests found concentrations of up to 31.2% in samples from major oil companies. The state has warned of possible damage to vehicle fuel systems, questioned laboratory disclosures and demanded action, consumer compensation and mandatory display of ethanol percentages at petrol pumps.
India's Karnataka finds fuel samples exceeding 20% ethanol limit, state minister says
Surveys indicate that 80% of petrol stations in Karnataka are breaching the 20% ethanol limit in petrol sales. To address this, officials gathered 63 samples for testing after oil companies neglected to reveal ethanol percentages. The introduction of E20 petrol aligns with India's objectives to cut crude imports while boosting ethanol production.
Assam opens online registration for Bhupen Hazarika centenary finale in Delhi
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the online registration portal for Dr. Bhupen Hazarika's centenary celebration. The event is set to be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on November 29, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the Chief Guest and will confer an award. A large number of national and local artistes will participate in the program.
Kazakhstans growing presence in global technology landscape
Kazakhstan is improving its position in global digital development as it prepares for integrating artificial intelligence. The country ranked 60th in the Government AI Readiness Index, a notable rise of 16 places. Additionally, it was placed 24th in the UN E-Government Survey for digital services, reflecting strong advancements.
Bank of England hikes rates to 4%, first raise since 2023, says more may come amid high UK inflation
In a decisive move, the Bank of England has escalated interest rates to 4% amidst spiraling inflation, projected to hit 4.8% in Q2 next year. Governor Andrew Bailey cautioned that further hikes may be necessary, especially with ongoing global conflicts. Market reactions were notably favorable, with the British pound gaining strength against the US dollar. Enhancements in economic data have prompted economists to revise growth forecasts upwards.
Bank of England raises rates for first time since 2023, says more may come
British inflation is likely to reach around 5% in the middle of next year, the BoE said, more than double the central bank's target and a blow for new Prime Minister Andy Burnham who has sought to ease of cost of living pressures.
OCI passport update: India removes $25 late fee for applications submitted by December 31
In a significant move to aid Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders, the Government of India has implemented a temporary two-month waiver of late fees for those updating their passport details.
Garment workers' protests in Bangladesh turn violent
The BNP government has formed a wage board to determine revised pay scales for garment workers. However, protests have continued, potentially emerging as a major challenge for the Tarique Rahman government, which is already facing growing anti-incumbency amid a slowdown in the domestic economy.
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