Twesh Mishra

RITES Limited recently dispatched the first rake of passenger coaches to Bangladesh Railway for a contract. This shipment is part of a larger agreement to supply 200 passenger coaches.

In a recent announcement, the Ministry of Heavy Industries confirmed the extension of the ACC Production Linked Incentive Scheme deadline to November 10, 2026. Manufacturers now have more time to submit technical bids, which will be addressed on November 11, 2026. This initiative seeks to support local ACC manufacturing efforts, ultimately reducing imports and enhancing India's battery production landscape.

The Competition Commission of India has sanctioned three key transactions across various industries. Notably, GRT Jewellers' majority stake acquisition in Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri received approval. Moreover, NuageLux BidCo's acquisition of a 23% equity stake in Kids Clinic India Limited was also greenlit. Lastly, FarMart Service Private Limited successfully attracted investments from multiple development finance institutions, highlighting the vibrant investment climate in the jewellery, healthcare, and agricultural sectors of India.

DP World is increasing its focus on the Indian port sector to explore new opportunities. The company plans to expand its capacity at Tuna Tekra and aims to renew concessions in Mumbai and Mundra. Significant disruptions in West Asia have heightened global supply chain costs and influenced capacity planning within logistics. As companies shift away from just-in-time supply chains, larger inventories are now prioritized for resilience.

Alternative RoutesIndia and Egypt could serve markets on opposite sides of the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz chokepoints, Narayan said

Indian Railways has introduced a one-year pilot offering parcel aggregators discounted round-trip bookings at 1.5 times the one-way fare, reducing the combined freight charge by 25%. The scheme aims to improve return-direction train utilisation, shift cargo from road to rail and boost parcel revenue ahead of the festive season.

Essar Ports has been approved by Deendayal Port Authority to develop a cargo terminal at Tuna Tekra. The project, costing Rs 2,276.06 crore, will be built under a Build, Operate and Transfer model. It will have an annual capacity of 18.33 million tonnes and accommodate large vessels. Development includes common-user infrastructure, which aims to improve efficiency and connectivity. Essar Ports currently operates around 60 million tonnes capacity across multiple locations.

Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited has announced a cumulative disbursement target of Rs 60,205 crore by 2031. The financing has reached Rs 11,563 crore, with Rs 5,107 crore disbursed so far. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized SMFCL's role in supporting port-led development and shipbuilding initiatives. The Maritime Investment Fund aims to strengthen long-term financing for maritime projects nationwide.

Indian Railways is implementing changes in container transport to enhance export traffic and streamline operations. The initiative includes exemption from mandatory weighment and introducing mini container rakes for higher value commodities. Additionally, the Railways is considering allowing private sector maintenance of wagons to improve efficiency. Hub and spoke terminals will be expanded to offer better consolidation of containers for freight transport.

The Korea Marine Equipment Association has announced its first office in Mumbai, facilitating collaboration with Indian shipyards. This partnership will focus on modernization, technology transfer, and local manufacturing of marine equipment. Union Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlights the opportunity for Korean suppliers in India's growing maritime sector. The Indian government has approved significant investments, boosting shipbuilding output and vessel orders.