Author: Staff Writer

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Beyond

India makes E20 petrol mandatory nationwide

Starting April 1, 2026, every petrol pump across India will sell E20 petrol, fuel blended with 20% ethanol. The decision, announced by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, marks a major change in the fuel Indians use every day.

For millions of motorists, the shift may go largely unnoticed at the pump. But behind the scenes, it reflects India’s push to cut pollution, reduce crude oil imports and support farmers who produce crops used to make ethanol, such as sugarcane and maize.

Ethanol is a biofuel made from plant-based materials. Blending it with petrol helps lower harmful emissions from vehicles. Officials say the move will help India reduce its carbon footprint while also saving foreign exchange by importing less crude oil.

Under the new rule, all petrol sold must meet a minimum standard of RON 95, which refers to fuel quality and engine performance. Higher RON fuel reduces engine knocking and supports smoother functioning. Most cars manufactured in recent years are already compatible with E20 fuel.

However, owners of older vehicles may have concerns. Experts say while older cars can generally run on E20, there could be a slight drop in fuel efficiency. Automobile companies have gradually upgraded engines to handle higher ethanol blends, and consumers are being advised to check their vehicle manuals for compatibility.

For farmers, the policy offers a potential boost in income. Increased demand for ethanol means higher demand for crops used in its production. For the government, it is also a step toward energy security and reduced dependence on volatile global oil markets.

While drivers may simply notice a new label at fuel stations, the change represents a broader shift in how India balances environmental responsibility, economic growth and everyday mobility.

Also Read: Narayana Murthy urges youth to master AI

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1 Minute-Read

DeepSeek withholds AI model from US firms

Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has reportedly decided not to share its latest AI model with major US chipmakers, including Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices.

Sources said the company instead gave early access to selected Chinese hardware partners, such as Huawei Technologies, ahead of the model’s expected launch.

Typically, AI developers provide early versions of new models to global chip firms to improve compatibility and performance. The move is seen as part of China’s push to strengthen domestic technology capabilities amid ongoing US-China trade and technology tensions.

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Leaders

Narayana Murthy urges youth to master AI

Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys, has cautioned young Indians against fearing artificial intelligence and instead encouraged them to learn and use it effectively.

Speaking about the rapid growth of AI tools, Murthy said the technology is transforming the workplace across industries. However, he stressed that AI should be seen as an opportunity rather than a threat. According to him, those who understand how to use AI wisely will improve their productivity and remain valuable in the job market.

Murthy pointed out that while automation may change certain routine tasks, it will not replace human intelligence, creativity or critical thinking. He said individuals who combine strong thinking skills with knowledge of AI tools will have an advantage. “A smarter mind using AI will produce better results,” he suggested, highlighting the importance of both intelligence and effort.

The veteran industry leader also underlined the need for continuous learning. He said young professionals must stay curious, disciplined and willing to upgrade their skills as technology evolves. Simply relying on existing qualifications may not be enough in a fast-changing environment shaped by AI.

Murthy compared the current AI shift to earlier technological revolutions such as the arrival of computers and the internet. While those developments initially raised concerns about job losses, they eventually created new industries and employment opportunities. He believes AI will follow a similar path.

His remarks come at a time when many students and young professionals are anxious about automation reducing job opportunities, especially in sectors like information technology and services. Murthy’s message is clear: instead of resisting change, young Indians should prepare themselves to work alongside AI.

Also Read: Historic East India brand in London shuts again

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1 Minute-Read

2000 L&T workers clash with police in Hazira

Around 2,000 contract workers employed by Larsen & Toubro staged a protest at a steel plant site in Hazira, Gujarat, demanding higher wages and reduced working hours.

The demonstration turned violent after clashes broke out between workers and police. Authorities said some protesters allegedly resorted to stone-pelting and set vehicles on fire, prompting police to fire tear gas shells to disperse the crowd.

Several workers and police personnel suffered minor injuries. Additional security forces were deployed in the area. Officials have appealed for calm and said talks may be held to address workers’ grievances.

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Corporate

Historic East India brand in London shuts again

The East India Company has closed once more, not as a colonial trading empire this time, but as a modern luxury brand that tried to revive one of history’s most powerful names.

The original East India Company was once at the centre of Britain’s global trade network, shaping the course of history in India and beyond before it was dissolved in the 19th century. Decades later, entrepreneur Sanjiv Mehta revived the name as a high-end lifestyle brand based in London.

The modern company sold premium teas, fine chocolates, rare spirits and luxury gifts. Its stores were designed to reflect heritage and exclusivity, appealing to customers drawn to the brand’s historical legacy. For a time, the revival generated curiosity and attention.

But running a luxury retail business proved far more difficult than reviving a famous name. The company reportedly struggled with mounting losses, rising operating costs and changing consumer behaviour. Luxury shoppers increasingly moved online or chose established global brands, making competition intense.

Over time, stores quietly shut down. Now, the company has ceased operations completely. Employees have lost jobs, and the brand’s physical presence has disappeared from London’s retail streets.

The closure feels symbolic to many observers. A name once linked to vast trade networks and political power has now faded for a second time.

For the East India Company, the second chapter has come to an end, as it is said that the legacy alone cannot sustain a brand.

Also Read: Japan plans missile deployment near Taiwan

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Beyond

Gold around ₹1.60  lakh, Silver near ₹2.85 lakh

Gold and silver prices in India stayed steady, supported by global uncertainties and demand for safe investments.

In domestic markets, 24‑carat gold traded near ₹1,60,000 per 10 grams, while silver hovered around ₹2.85 lakh per kilogram. These levels are similar to the previous session, showing that prices are holding rather than falling sharply.

On the Multicommodity Exchange (MCX), gold futures were around ₹1,57,900 per 10 grams, up slightly by 0.2%, and silver futures were near ₹2,59,700 per kilogram. Internationally, spot gold remained above $5,200 an ounce and silver around $90 an ounce, keeping domestic prices supported.

City-wise, 24‑carat gold was quoted at about ₹1,60,460–₹1,60,690 per 10 grams in major cities like Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Silver prices ranged between ₹2,65,930 and ₹2,66,320 per kilogram depending on the city and dealer.

Experts say that safe-haven demand is keeping prices stable. Investors often buy gold and silver during uncertain times, such as global political tensions or weak stock markets. At the same time, some short-term traders are booking profits, which keeps prices from rising sharply.

While local prices can vary slightly because of taxes, making charges, and dealer margins, the overall trend is steady. Gold and silver remain attractive for people who want a safe investment or to protect their savings from market ups and downs.

Also Read: Sensex falls 500 points to 81,950, Nifty slips below 25,350

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Corporate

Sensex falls 500 points to 81,950, Nifty slips below 25,350

The stock markets opened with a dip as the BSE Sensex dropped 505 points to close at 81,950, while the Nifty 50 fell below 25,350, testing key support levels.

Selling pressure was broad-based, with metals, energy, banking, and auto sectors seeing significant declines. Among top losers were Reliance Industries, Tata Steel, and ICICI Bank, while Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Nestle India were notable gainers, providing limited support to the indices.

Global markets weighed on sentiment as Wall Street ended lower overnight, dragged down by technology stocks. Asian peers also traded cautiously, reflecting investor caution ahead of key economic data. Futures in GIFT Nifty indicated a weaker start for the domestic session.

Market participants noted that foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued to be net sellers, adding pressure to benchmark indices. The Indian rupee opened slightly weaker against the U.S. dollar, further influencing trading sentiment.

Domestically, investors also focused on corporate earnings and stock-specific developments. Shares of Indian Oil Corporation, Bharti Airtel, and Bharat Petroleum were in focus due to quarterly results and block deals.

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Corporate

Volatile session keeps Sensex, Nifty range-bound

Equity markets ended nearly unchanged on Thursday where the BSE Sensex slipped marginally by about 27 points to close near 82,248, while the Nifty 50 added around 14 points to settle close to 25,496.

Markets opened on a strong note, tracking firm global cues. Asian markets traded higher and Wall Street posted gains overnight, which supported early buying interest. The Nifty briefly moved above the 25,500 mark in morning trade. However, profit booking at higher levels erased most gains as investors turned cautious in the absence of fresh domestic triggers.

Sectorally, public sector banks led the gains. Shares of State Bank of India advanced after positive brokerage commentary on liquidity and earnings outlook. The pharmaceutical index also rose over 1 percent as investors rotated toward defensive sectors amid global uncertainties.

On the downside, HDFC Bank declined nearly 1 percent, emerging as the biggest drag on the benchmarks due to its heavy weightage in both indices. The IT pack saw intraday buying following global tech strength but trimmed gains toward the close.

Broader markets showed resilience. Mid-cap stocks outperformed, while small-cap indices ended largely flat, indicating selective buying interest beyond frontline stocks.

Among individual stocks, Shaily Engineering gained after securing a ₹423-crore order, boosting investor sentiment. In contrast, Sanofi India declined following weaker quarterly earnings. Edtech player PhysicsWallah remained under pressure, trading below its IPO price after recent volatility.

In commodities, gold prices stayed firm near record levels on the Multi Commodity Exchange, supported by safe-haven demand. Silver saw mild profit booking after recent gains.

Also Read: Japan plans missile deployment near Taiwan

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Beyond

Japan plans missile deployment near Taiwan

Japan has announced plans to deploy surface-to-air missiles on its westernmost island, Yonaguni, a small but strategically important location just over 100 km from Taiwan. The deployment is expected to be completed by 2031 and is part of Tokyo’s broader effort to strengthen its defence in the face of growing regional tensions.

Japanese officials say the move is purely defensive and meant to protect the country’s remote islands, which lie close to potential conflict zones. The government has been increasing its military presence in the southwest in recent years, citing concerns over China’s expanding military activity and the possibility of a crisis involving Taiwan.

Yonaguni, which has a population of around 1,700, has already seen the arrival of troops, radar systems and other military facilities. The planned missile unit will add another layer of protection, allowing Japan to respond more quickly to aerial threats in the area.

Defence Minister Gen Nakatani said strengthening the island’s security is essential because of its location and the changing security environment around Japan. Officials believe that better defences will act as a deterrent and reduce the risk of conflict.

China has repeatedly criticised Japan’s military build-up in the region, saying it increases tensions. Beijing claims Taiwan as its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to take control of it, while Taiwan rejects those claims.

However, the announcement has also drawn mixed reactions from Yonaguni residents.

Also Read: Dr Reddy’s eyes March launch of low-cost Ozempic copy

Categories
Technology

Tecno showcases AI vision with modular phone

Tecno used the global stage at MWC 2026 to present its vision for the future, combining artificial intelligence, modular hardware and next-generation smartphones.

The biggest talking point was a concept device described as the world’s thinnest modular smartphone. Designed with a sleek and lightweight body, the phone supports magnetic accessories that can be attached instantly. These modules can add extra camera power, boost battery life or bring new features, allowing users to customise the phone for different situations.

The company said this approach could reduce the need for multiple gadgets and give users more flexibility with a single device.

Tecno also introduced its expanded AI ecosystem, where different products work together seamlessly. The demonstration showed smartphones, AI glasses, laptops and other smart devices sharing data and responding intelligently to user behaviour. This system is meant to improve multitasking, content creation and daily communication.

Another key launch was the Camon 50 series, which will focus strongly on AI-driven imaging. Tecno claims the phones will deliver better portrait shots, clearer night photography and smarter video recording with the help of real-time AI processing.

In addition, the company showcased several experimental technologies and design ideas, underlining its push toward premium innovation and global recognition.

Although the modular smartphone is only a concept for now, it reflects Tecno’s long-term strategy, creating thinner devices, building a strong AI ecosystem and offering more personalised user experiences.

The MWC presentation makes it clear that Tecno is no longer just targeting the budget segment but is aiming to compete through design, AI and advanced camera technology.

Also Read: ₹3,700-cr Anil Ambani home seized in money-laundering case