Category: Beyond

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Beyond

₹37,500 cr plan to boost coal gasification projects

The government is preparing a major ₹37,500 crore push to promote coal gasification projects, as it looks to make better use of India’s coal reserves while reducing dependence on imports. The proposal is expected to be taken up by the Union Cabinet soon.

Coal gasification is a process that converts coal into a cleaner gas, which can then be used to produce fuels, fertilisers, and chemicals. Instead of burning coal directly, this method allows it to be used in a more efficient and less polluting way.

The main goal behind the plan is to reduce India’s reliance on imported fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and key inputs such as urea. By using locally available coal, the government hopes to improve energy security and support domestic industries at the same time.

To encourage companies to invest in this technology, the government plans to offer financial incentives. Reports suggest that each project could receive support of up to ₹3,000 crore, making large-scale investments more viable for both public and private players.

The move is also part of a broader effort to shift towards cleaner energy solutions. While coal continues to play a major role in India’s energy mix, gasification is seen as a smarter way to use it with lower emissions. The government has set a long-term target of significantly increasing coal gasification capacity by 2030.

Officials believe the new scheme will simplify earlier policies and make it easier for companies to participate. A more streamlined approach is expected to speed up project approvals and implementation.

The plan comes at a time when global energy markets remain uncertain, with fluctuating prices and supply concerns. By focusing on domestic resources, India is aiming to become more self-reliant and less vulnerable to external shocks.

Also Read: Tata Trusts to review Tata Sons board changes

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Tata Trusts to review Tata Sons board changes

Tata Trusts is set to hold an important meeting on May 8 to review its representation on the board of Tata Sons, in what could lead to notable changes at the top level of the group.

The discussions are expected to focus on possible changes to nominee directors appointed by the Trusts. One of the key developments under consideration is the potential exit of Venu Srinivasan from the Tata Sons board. At the same time, former Titan Company managing director Bhaskar Bhat is being considered for a board position.

Tata Trusts, which collectively hold a majority stake in Tata Sons, play a central role in shaping decisions within the Tata Group. Any changes in board representation are therefore seen as significant for the group’s overall direction.

The review comes at a time when there are differing views within the Trusts on certain strategic matters. One of the key issues being debated is whether Tata Sons should remain a privately held company or consider going public. While some members have supported the idea of listing, others have preferred to keep the current structure unchanged.

Apart from board composition, the meeting may also touch on broader governance issues, including leadership roles within the Trusts and long-term planning for the group. Reports suggest that even internal positions, such as the vice-chairman role, could be reviewed as part of this exercise.

The outcome of the meeting is being closely watched by industry observers, as it could signal how decision-making and influence are evolving within the Tata Group.

Also Read: Vietnam sees tourism boom with over 2 mn visitors

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Vietnam sees tourism boom with over 2 mn visitors

Vietnam is witnessing a strong tourism rebound in 2026, with more than 2 million international visitors arriving in April alone. The steady inflow highlights the country’s growing popularity as a preferred travel destination in Southeast Asia.

Official figures show that Vietnam received around 2.03 million foreign tourists in April, taking the total number of international arrivals in the first four months of the year to nearly 8.8 million. This marks a significant rise compared to last year and reflects sustained growth in the sector.

One of the key highlights is the consistency in visitor numbers. Vietnam has now recorded over 2 million international arrivals for four consecutive months—an indication that the tourism recovery is not just strong, but stable.

Several factors are driving this growth. Improved flight connectivity, relaxed visa policies, and better tourism infrastructure have made travel to Vietnam easier and more convenient. In addition, the country’s mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions continues to appeal to a wide range of travellers.

Visitors are arriving from both traditional and emerging markets. Countries like China, South Korea, the United States, Japan, and Australia remain major sources of tourists. At the same time, markets such as India and Russia are showing rapid growth, supported by increasing travel demand and improved air links.

Industry experts say Vietnam is benefiting from changing travel preferences, with more tourists looking for unique experiences such as eco-tourism, local culture, and wellness travel. The country’s diverse offerings, from beaches and mountains to historic cities, make it an attractive choice for such travellers.

Compared to other destinations in the region, Vietnam is emerging as one of the fastest-growing tourism markets. While some countries are seeing slower recovery, Vietnam continues to attract strong visitor numbers.

Also Read: OPEC plans small output increase amid gulf tensions

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AIIMS launches portable MRI for faster patient scans

AIIMS Delhi has introduced India’s first portable MRI system, making it possible to carry out brain scans right at a patient’s bedside. The new device is expected to improve care for critically ill patients, especially those in intensive care units (ICUs).

Traditionally, patients need to be shifted to a separate room for MRI scans. For those who are on ventilators or in unstable condition, this process can be risky and time-consuming. With the portable MRI, doctors can now perform scans without moving the patient, reducing both risk and delay.

The system is designed mainly for brain imaging and will be used in cases such as stroke, head injuries, and other neurological emergencies. Quick access to imaging helps doctors understand a patient’s condition faster and begin treatment without waiting.

Another key benefit is continuous monitoring. Doctors can repeat scans when needed without the hassle of transporting patients multiple times. This is especially useful in ICUs, where even small movements can affect a patient’s condition.

The portable MRI uses a lower magnetic field compared to conventional machines. While it does not replace full-scale MRI scans, it works as a rapid diagnostic tool in emergency situations. Detailed scans can still be done later if required.

Also Read: Rohit Jain camed RBI Deputy Governor

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Gold near ₹1.51 lakh, Silver slips below ₹2.65 lakh

Gold prices in India remained mostly steady on May 4, 2026, while silver saw a noticeable drop, reflecting a mixed trend in the bullion market. Despite global uncertainties, gold continued to trade close to the ₹1.50–1.51 lakh mark per 10 grams for 24-carat purity, showing little movement compared to previous sessions.

Across major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, gold prices stayed largely unchanged, with only minor differences due to local taxes and demand. The steady pricing suggests that buyers are still active, especially in the jewellery segment, but are also being cautious given the uncertain global environment.

In contrast, silver prices declined significantly during the day. The metal fell to around ₹2.64 lakh to ₹2.65 lakh per kilogram, with losses of up to ₹1,900 per kg reported in several markets. This drop highlights weaker demand and global pressure on silver prices compared to gold.

The difference in performance between gold and silver is largely due to their roles in the market. Gold, often seen as a safe-haven asset, continues to attract steady interest during uncertain times. Silver, which is more closely linked to industrial demand, tends to react more sharply to global economic concerns.

On the futures market, both metals showed some weakness. Gold prices slipped slightly, while silver recorded a sharper decline during intraday trading. Analysts say this reflects cautious sentiment among traders who are closely watching global developments.

Factors such as movements in crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and uncertainty around interest rates are currently influencing the bullion market. Investors are waiting for clearer signals before making big moves, which is keeping gold stable but putting pressure on silver.

Also Read: Sensex rises 800+ points, Nifty tops 24,200

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India rolls out test of real-time disaster alert system

If your phone suddenly made a loud alert sound recently, you were not alone. The government carried out a nationwide test of a new emergency alert system, sending a message marked “extremely severe” to mobile users across India.

The alert was part of a trial run of the Cell Broadcast System, a technology built to deliver real-time warnings during disasters. While the message caught many people off guard, officials later confirmed that it was only a test and no action was needed.

The system is designed to improve how quickly people are informed during emergencies such as floods, earthquakes, cyclones, or other crises. Instead of sending individual text messages, it broadcasts alerts to all phones in a particular area at once.

This approach has a key advantage,  it works even when networks are busy or overloaded, which is often the case during emergencies. It also does not require users to install apps or register for alerts, making it more accessible.

The government says the system has been developed locally and is part of a larger effort to strengthen disaster response across the country. Future alerts are expected to be available in multiple languages to reach a wider population.

The recent test also helped authorities understand where improvements are needed. Some users said they did not receive the alert, highlighting areas where coverage can be enhanced.

Also Read: Pentagon ties up with tech giants for AI push

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GST hits record ₹2.43 lakh cr in April

India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections rose to a record ₹2.43 lakh crore in April 2026, marking the highest monthly revenue since the tax system was introduced. The strong numbers reflect steady economic activity along with improved tax compliance.

A key factor behind the surge was a sharp increase in revenue from imports. GST collected on imported goods grew significantly, driven by higher global prices and increased import values, particularly in energy and commodity segments. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia have also contributed to rising import costs, which in turn boosted tax collections.

Domestic transactions also contributed to the growth, though at a more moderate pace. This suggests that while consumption within the country remains stable, the larger push in April came from external trade-related factors rather than a sharp rise in local demand.

April typically sees higher GST collections because it includes tax payments related to March, the last month of the financial year. Businesses usually settle pending dues during this period, which adds to the overall collections. This seasonal trend, combined with tighter enforcement and better reporting systems, helped push revenues to a record level this year.

Government efforts to improve compliance through digital monitoring and data analytics have also played a role. Measures such as e-invoicing and stricter checks have reduced tax leakages and brought more businesses into the formal system.

Also Read: Government to sustain ₹12.2 lakh cr capex amid fiscal stress

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Government to sustain ₹12.2 lakh cr capex amid fiscal stress

The government has admitted that it is under growing fiscal pressure due to global uncertainties, especially disruptions linked to the ongoing situation in West Asia. Rising import costs, energy market volatility, and subsidy demands have added strain to the public finances. But despite this, officials say one thing will not change: infrastructure spending will stay on track.

Senior officials in the Finance Ministry have confirmed that India will stick to its planned capital expenditure of around ₹12.2 lakh crore this financial year. This money is earmarked for building and upgrading roads, railways, ports, airports, and urban infrastructure projects across the country.

Expenditure Secretary V. Vualnam said the fiscal situation is “tight but manageable,” adding that while the government is feeling the pressure, it does not intend to slow down investment spending that directly supports growth. In simple terms, the Centre is choosing to protect long-term development spending even if short-term costs rise.

One of the key pressure points is energy imports, especially LPG. India imports a large share of its LPG requirement, and much of it is transported through the Strait of Hormuz, a route affected by tensions in West Asia. This has raised shipping risks and increased costs, adding to the government’s subsidy burden.

Even with these challenges, officials say cutting back on capital expenditure is not an option. Infrastructure projects are seen as critical for job creation, economic activity, and private investment. As a result, the government has decided to prioritise capex over other types of spending.

At the same time, the Centre is keeping a close watch on overall fiscal management. While non-essential revenue spending may be adjusted if needed, the focus remains on ensuring that infrastructure projects do not slow down or face delays due to budget constraints.

Also Read: Gautam Adani launches employee initiative on anniversary

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India plans to relax FDI rules for China-linked firms

India is planning to ease foreign direct investment (FDI) rules for overseas companies that have a small exposure to Chinese firms, in a move aimed at attracting more global investments.

Under the proposed change, foreign companies with up to 10% stake from Chinese entities may face fewer restrictions when investing in India. The final notification is expected soon from the Department of Economic Affairs.

The move comes as India looks to speed up approvals and make it easier for global businesses to invest, especially in key sectors. Current rules, introduced in 2020, require stricter scrutiny of investments linked to countries sharing land borders with India, including China.

Officials say the new approach will help remove delays for companies where Chinese ownership is minimal, without compromising on security concerns.

At the same time, investments with higher Chinese stakes are likely to continue facing tighter checks.

The step is seen as an effort to strike a balance, encouraging foreign investment and economic growth, while still keeping a close watch on sensitive inflows.

Also Read: Reliance retail acquires Anomaly haircare brand

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Commercial LPG price hiked by ₹993 to ₹3,071 in Delhi

The price of the 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder has been increased by ₹993 with effect from May 1, 2026, raising the cost in Delhi to ₹3,071.50. The revision marks a significant upward movement in fuel prices used by commercial establishments such as hotels, restaurants, bakeries, and small businesses.

Oil marketing companies implemented the hike across the country, with similar increases seen in other major cities. The sharp revision is expected to raise operating costs for businesses that depend heavily on LPG for cooking and heating purposes.

Despite the steep rise in commercial cylinder prices, there has been no change in domestic LPG rates. The 14.2-kg household cylinder continues to remain at its existing price level, offering relief to consumers amid volatile energy markets.

Officials and industry sources link the price hike to global energy disruptions and rising international fuel costs, influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions. These factors have pushed up import prices for LPG, leading to higher retail rates in the commercial segment.

This is one of the most notable single-day increases in recent months and adds pressure on the hospitality and food service sectors, which may eventually pass on the higher costs to customers.

However, the government has kept domestic LPG prices unchanged in an effort to shield households from inflationary pressure, even as commercial fuel rates continue to fluctuate with global market trends.

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