INDIA IT MINISTRY
IATO welcomes simplification of Indian visa regime
The Indian Association of Tour Operators has welcomed the government's efforts to simplify the visa process. The number of main visa categories has been reduced to enhance accessibility for international tourists. A new Visitor Visa is being introduced, allowing for multiple entries and covering various short-term activities. The Ministry of Home Affairs is expected to implement these changes by the end of 2026.
Union Minister K Rammohan Naidu praises 'Modinomics' for India's economic growth at CII Summit
Union Minister K Rammohan Naidu emphasised India's economic growth during the 31st CII Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam. He attributed this growth to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, coining the term 'Modinomics'. Naidu highlighted the transformation in global economic landscapes and emphasized India's potential with its young population and innovation capabilities. He mentioned the civil aviation ministry's extension of the UDAAN scheme aimed at enhancing connectivity.
Road ministry proposes a simplified Rent-a-Cab scheme 2026; to replace the 1989 scheme
The proposed draft Rent-a-Cab Scheme 2026, which comes into force from January 2027, reduces the minimum fleet requirement to 5 compared to 50 mandated earlier, extends its coverage to even rental cars with or without drivers and provides for online licensing, time-bound approvals, stringent safety, insurance and operational requirements and formal grievance redressal mechanism.
Centre bans export of Li-ion battery waste, scrap to boost domestic recycling and critical mineral recovery
India has imposed an immediate ban on the export of lithium-ion battery black mass to strengthen its local recycling ecosystem. This decision aims to enhance domestic recovery of critical minerals, such as lithium and cobalt, which are vital for technology and energy sectors. The prohibition will ensure that battery waste generated in India is processed locally and improves utilization of recycling capacities.
Number of main visa categories cut from 13 to 9: Move aimed at boosting arrivals of tourists, patients, students, researchers, investors
The Union home ministry has streamlined India's visa regime by reducing main visa categories from 13 to 9. Additionally, sub-categories have been decreased from 49 to 23 to improve accessibility. This rationalization aims to facilitate foreign tourist, student, and healthcare arrivals into India. Application forms have seen a significant reduction in required fields, enhancing the overall process efficiency. E-visas are now available for citizens of 172 countries, further easing travel.
Cabinet approves Yuge Yugeen Bharat museum in Delhi for Rs 3,230 crore
On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet, led by PM Narendra Modi, approved the creation of a massive museum. This museum, named 'Yuge Yugeen Bharat', will be built in the North and South Block complex in Delhi. It aims to depict the civilizational journey of Akhand Bharat, highlighting its historical and cultural evolution. The project is estimated to cost ₹3,230 crore and preserve the heritage of the historic buildings.
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Centre cuts visa categories from 13 to 9, reduces application form fields by up to 70%
India has announced changes to its visa regime by reducing the main categories from 13 to nine. The number of sub-categories has also been cut down significantly, streamlining the entire application process. Visa application forms will require 65-70% fewer fields to simplify the process for foreign nationals. This rationalization aims to enhance foreign tourist arrivals, students, and medical visitors in India.
Indian Navy to conduct fifth Sea Vigil exercise from November 11, covering entire coastline and EEZ
The Indian Navy has launched the Sea Vigil-26 exercise to assess India's coastal defense preparedness. Scheduled from November 11 to 19, this exercise will cover the entire coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone. It involves multiple agencies, including the Coast Guard and local communities, to enhance maritime security. This exercise is crucial for identifying gaps and improving coordination among various security forces.
Govt raises price cap for electronic devices to Rs 1.8 lakh for officers; personal retention rights after 4 yrs
The Centre has raised the purchase ceiling for laptops, tablets and similar devices for eligible government officers to ₹1.5 lakh plus taxes, or ₹1.8 lakh for devices with more than 40% Make-in-India content. Officers in Pay Level 12 and above will be eligible, while departments can extend coverage to some lower pay levels, and employees may retain the devices after four years of use.
Indian Navy's INS Betwa to get diesel propulsion system in Rs 500-crore refit
The Ministry of Defence executed a contract worth Rs 498.58 crore for the refit and upgrade of INS Betwa. This project replaces the frigate's steam propulsion with a modern diesel-engine system and enhances its combat systems. The refit aims to improve operational effectiveness while promoting indigenous capabilities in naval repairs. More than 50 micro, small, and medium enterprises will be involved in the initiative.
Indian IIT talent thrives in Japan's MIRAI-Setu programme as nations near 75th anniversary
As India and Japan approach 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2027, 40 IIT and IIIT students visited Japan under the "Foster System = MIRAI - Setu" programme. Immersed in Japanese universities and corporations, they developed strong industry insights, proposing innovative solutions for bilateral growth.
India holds Pernod, Diageo Scotch shipments as investigators seek 150% tariff
Indian customs has detained dozens of containers of bulk Scotch imported by Pernod Ricard and Diageo, seeking a 150% tariff instead of the reduced 75% duty under the India-UK trade pact. The dispute persists despite assurances from the commerce ministry, raising concerns over supply disruptions and the trade deal's implementation.
HEG Advanced Materials shares gain 5% after subsidiary secures Rs 610 crore incentive under ECMS
HEG Advanced Materials shares rise 5% after subsidiary TACC receives ₹609.50 crore incentive approval under the ECMS scheme for its Dewas synthetic graphite anode project, supporting domestic battery manufacturing, capacity expansion and India's advanced energy storage ecosystem. The first production phase targets commissioning by June 2027.
Pannun case: US serves summons to NSA Ajit Doval, former RAW chief Samant Goel
The US State Department has served summons to NSA Ajit Doval and former RAW chief Samant Goel through diplomatic channels in a civil lawsuit filed by Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The case relates to an alleged assassination plot against Pannun. India has termed the lawsuit "frivolous, fabricated and malicious" and questioned the route used to serve the judicial documents.
"Fabricated, malicious attacks": India rejects US court order involving officials in Sikh separatist Pannun case
India's Ministry of External Affairs has rejected a lawsuit against its officials filed by Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The US court allowed Pannun to pursue service of summons on Indian officials through local courts. Pannun's claims involve alleged assassination plots that remain unproven in civil proceedings. Indian officials firmly deny involvement in these allegations and emphasize legal document protocols.
India rejects USCIRF remarks on gurdwara attacks, calls it 'blatantly political'
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also wondered why the USCIRF chose to remain silent on attacks on religious places in the US and on racial abuse targeting the Indian community in that country.
NTPC submits two coal gasification project proposals under govt's Rs 37,500 crore scheme
NTPC Limited has submitted proposals to establish coal gasification projects for producing urea, methanol, and dimethyl ether. The Ministry of Coal announced that applications for the third round will open on November 10. January 11, 2027, is set as the deadline for these applications. The government's initiative aims to expand domestic production and support the broader use of indigenous resources.
One killed as violence flares in Bangladesh amid tensions over ex-PM Hasina's planned return
Violent incidents occurred across Bangladesh, resulting in one death and multiple vehicles set ablaze overnight. Police reported that activists of the banned Awami League and its affiliates initiated crude bomb explosions at various locations. Tensions have risen after news surfaced about Sheikh Hasina's possible return to Bangladesh next month from India. Hasina, living in exile since August 2024, faces serious legal charges upon her potential return.
India's unemployment rate falls to 5.1% in July-September as rural joblessness declines
India's unemployment rate saw a decline to 5.1% from 5.4% in the prior quarter. The decrease in unemployment primarily occurred in rural areas, where it fell to 4.3%. The survey indicated that more individuals were either working or seeking jobs during this period. Women's employment participation also improved, rising to 34.7% from 33.2%. The overall employment figure reached approximately 57.9 crore individuals in India.
No one should be left behind in efforts to tackle climate change: India at COP31
At the ongoing COP31 climate conference in Turkiye, India highlighted the urgent need for equity in climate action. The country reaffirmed its commitment to addressing adaptation needs, especially for the Global South. India called attention to the critical role of public finance from developed nations in supporting developing countries. Additionally, India's statement emphasized the importance of Article 9.1 of the Paris Agreement for financing.
India signs Haj 2027 agreement with Saudi Arabia, secures quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims
India has secured a Haj quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims for 2027 after signing a bilateral agreement with Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on November 9. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju signed the agreement following discussions with Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah. The two sides reviewed preparations for the next pilgrimage season and discussed logistical support, coordination and pilgrim welfare.
DPIIT seeks Fillip for local mfg of 100 goods in budget
DPIIT has examined 500 heavily imported products to identify opportunities for boosting domestic manufacturing. The department plans to share its findings with the finance ministry for the FY28 budget recommendations. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met with Skoda Auto Volkswagen to promote electric vehicle manufacturing and increase localization. High import dependence is classified based on the percentage of domestic demand met by imports.
India gets quota of 1.75 lakh pilgrims under Saudi Arabia's Haj 2027 agreement
India and Saudi Arabia signed the Haj agreement for 2027, permitting 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims to participate. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met with Saudi Minister Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah to establish the agreement. Discussions also included enhancing cooperation for pilgrims' welfare and logistical support in the upcoming pilgrimage. The Haj quota for India has gradually increased, reflecting the growing number of pilgrims.
Govt may extend support measures in FY28 Budget to boost manufacturing of 100 products: Official
The government may announce Budget 2027-28 support measures to boost domestic manufacturing of 100 products, including auto components, chemicals and machinery, to reduce import dependence. DPIIT has identified the products after consultations with ministries and industry.
Rare earth magnet scheme: Coal India, IRP seek no sops; other contenders include ReNew, Prozeal
The scheme will run for seven years from the date of award, including a two-year gestation period for setting up an integrated manufacturing facility, and five years for incentive disbursement on the sale of REPM. These magnets are among the most powerful in the world and are widely used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, high-end electronics, aerospace and defence systems.
No More Zeroes: Govt plans to extend ZED certification scheme to services sector MSMEs
In a significant move, the Indian government is widening its Zero Defect Zero Effect certification initiative to include service enterprises in the MSME sector. This strategy will target key industries like transport, hospitality, and healthcare with approximately 20 predefined quality metrics. Furthermore, specialized standards for MSME exporters will ensure they meet global quality benchmarks, ultimately empowering these businesses in the international marketplace.
India finalises association with Horizon Europe for research and innovation collaboration
India has concluded negotiations with the European Union to associate with Horizon Europe for research cooperation. The agreement aims to create a long-term framework for collaborative R&D projects between India and the EU. Indian researchers will have access to European consortia and cutting-edge research infrastructure through this partnership. The collaboration seeks to deepen talent mobility and co-develop critical technologies and standards effectively.
Unable to handle Home Ministry: Congress leader Pawan Khera takes a dig at Amit Shah
Congress has called out the Home Minister Amit Shah for his failure to effectively control the ministry. The party highlighted several incidents, including infiltration and regional unrest, over the past years. Pawan Khera expressed that the ongoing situation requires a change in leadership. He suggested that Shah should return to his role as BJP president.
Centre proposes 10 new entry points for drug imports into India, Noida airport included
The Centre has proposed expanding India's authorised import network for pharmaceuticals and medical devices by adding ten new locations. These include Noida International Airport and several inland container depots across industrial hubs in India. This expansion aims to simplify the import process and reduce transportation costs for companies. The health ministry has invited public feedback on the draft amendment to Drugs Rules, 1945.
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