India

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, underscored the strategic significance of strengthening India-European Union (EU) relations, emphasizing their potential to stabilize and de-risk the global economy. Addressing economic, trade, and geopolitical dynamics, Jaishankar highlighted collaborative initiatives in technology, sustainable development, and supply chain resilience. Analysts note that India-EU ties are increasingly vital amid global uncertainties, offering diversified trade routes, investment opportunities, and a buffer against systemic risks.

India’s pharmaceutical and medical technology (MedTech) sectors are closely monitoring the Union Budget 2026, anticipating policy measures that could accelerate innovation, enhance domestic manufacturing, and expand global competitiveness. Industry stakeholders expect incentives for research and development, tax breaks for high-value manufacturing, and support for technology adoption in healthcare delivery.

Orient Electric reported a 4.4% decline in net profit for the third quarter, registering Rs. 26 crore, reflecting a challenging operating environment marked by rising input costs and competitive pricing pressures. While revenue growth remained stable, higher raw material and logistics costs weighed on margins. Analysts note that the results highlight the sectoral pressures facing consumer electrical companies, including fluctuating commodity prices and intensified competition in the home appliances and lighting segments.

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India has underscored the urgent need to reinforce audit practices across Public Authority Institutions (PAIs), warning that weak oversight can undermine financial discipline and public trust. In recent observations, the national auditor emphasized that transparent, timely and technology-driven audits are essential to ensure accountability in the use of public funds. The remarks come amid rising government expenditure and increasingly complex financial structures within public bodies.

India’s capital market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has introduced sweeping changes to mutual fund regulations aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and investor protection. The revised framework sharpens disclosure requirements, rationalises expense reporting, and seeks clearer communication around portfolio risks and fund performance. By tightening compliance norms and standardising reporting practices, SEBI intends to curb mis-selling, reduce information asymmetry, and empower retail investors to make more informed decisions.

Neville Tata’s growing association with the Sir Ratan Tata Trust reflects a broader effort to ensure leadership continuity and long-term strategic alignment within one of India’s most influential philanthropic institutions. As part of the Tata family’s next generation, his involvement underscores a blend of legacy stewardship and evolving governance priorities. The Trust, a key shareholder in Tata Group companies, plays a pivotal role in shaping social impact initiatives across education, healthcare, and rural development.

The Vinitaly India Roadshow has emerged as a strategic platform to deepen trade ties between Italian wine producers and India’s rapidly evolving wine market. Designed to showcase Italy’s diverse wine portfolio, the roadshow brings together producers, distributors, hospitality leaders and policymakers under one roof. As Indian consumers develop a growing appreciation for premium and origin-led wines, Italy is positioning itself to capture long-term demand through education, partnerships and market access.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued new guidelines mandating the appointment of an Internal Ombudsman (IO) in banks and select Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) to enhance customer grievance redressal mechanisms. This regulatory move aims to provide an independent, accessible, and transparent framework for resolving complaints related to banking services, lending practices, and financial products. Analysts note that the step underscores RBI’s commitment to consumer protection, accountability, and trust in the financial sector.

British bicycle brand Muddyfox has announced its entry into the Indian market through a strategic partnership with Anata Ventures, marking its first formal expansion into the country. The move reflects growing global interest in India’s fast-evolving fitness, mobility, and lifestyle segments. By leveraging Anata Ventures’ local market expertise and distribution capabilities, Muddyfox aims to establish a strong retail and online presence across key urban centers.

Alembic Pharmaceuticals has received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration for a cancer treatment, marking another milestone in the company’s expanding oncology portfolio. The regulatory clearance allows Alembic to market the drug in the United States, the world’s largest pharmaceutical market. The approval underscores the company’s growing capabilities in complex generics and regulated markets.