MORNING NEWS BULLETIN
Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, DRDO sign MoU to develop smart defence technologies
Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together on advanced technology solutions. The partnership will focus on supporting the deployment and operational needs of indigenous defence systems. The MoU aims to combine GSV’s technical expertise with DRDO’s research capabilities to develop smart and modern defence technologies. This collaboration is expected to enhance India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing and strengthen national security.
Prime Minister Modi meets delegation of 16th Finance Commission
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met members of the 16th Finance Commission (XVIFC), led by Chairman Dr. Arvind Panagariya. During the meeting, the Commission presented a copy of its report, which covers the five-year period starting April 1, 2026. The report includes recommendations on sharing the Centre’s net tax revenue with States, division of taxes among States, grants-in-aid, and methods for financing disaster management initiatives. The discussion also included structural reforms, fiscal arrangements, and ways to improve the financial strength of states.
New filing alleges $533 million was routed back to Byju Raveendran; founders deny charges
A fresh filing in the Delaware Bankruptcy Court has claimed that the missing $533 million from Byju’s Alpha — a subsidiary now controlled by Term Loan B lenders — was allegedly “routed back to Byju Raveendran and his affiliates.” However, the founders of Think & Learn, the parent company of Byju’s, have strongly denied the allegations. In a statement issued on November 17, the company said the claims are baseless and misleading. The matter is currently under legal examination in the US court.
India’s agri exports worth $1 billion exempted from tariff hike under new Trump waiver
India’s agricultural exports worth nearly $1 billion will not face tariff hikes after US President Donald Trump announced a reduction in duties on around 200 food items. The decision comes amid rising food prices in the US and political pressure to reduce consumer burden. Indian products that will benefit include tea, coffee, spices, tropical fruits, bananas, fruit juices, cocoa and other agri items.
Centre hikes print media advertisement rates by 26%
The Centre on Monday approved a 26% increase in advertisement rates for print media. Along with this, a new premium has been introduced for colour advertisements and preferential placement. The rates per sq. cm for black-and-white ads in newspapers with a circulation of one lakh have increased from ₹47.40 to ₹59.68. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said the move aims to strengthen the print media ecosystem and support its financial health.
India–US trade deal likely soon; talks in final stage
India and the United States are close to concluding the first phase of negotiations for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said on Monday. He stated that both countries have been holding regular virtual meetings and there is strong momentum toward finalizing the deal. US President Donald Trump recently expressed confidence about strengthening ties with India, saying discussions with PM Modi were “going great,” raising hopes of an early agreement.
Rs 68,000 crore Kapas Kranti Mission transforming cotton farming
The government’s new Kapas Kranti Mission, worth ₹6,000 crore, is pushing India’s cotton sector towards a scientific and digital future. The initiative focuses on improving cotton productivity using high-density plantation (HDP), precision irrigation, and advanced agronomy practices. Over the past decade, cotton procurement in India grew from 173 lakh bales ($3.5 billion) to 473 lakh bales ($17 billion), and the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for cotton nearly doubled. The Mission aims to build on this progress and empower farmers with modern tools.
India’s exports rise 4.84% in April–October 2025
India’s cumulative merchandise and services exports reached $491.8 billion during April–October FY26, registering a 4.84% growth compared to the same period last year. Merchandise exports rose to $254.25 billion, while non-petroleum exports grew 3.92% to $219.90 billion. Key export drivers in October 2025 included electronic goods (up 19.05%), meat and dairy (up 30.87%), marine products (up 11.08%), cashew (up 126.85%), and coffee (up 10.91%). Top-growing export destinations included China, Spain, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania. However, imports for October surged 14.87%, reaching $94.70 billion.
Labour Force Participation Rate rises to 6-month high in October
India’s Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for people aged 15 years and above touched 55.4% in October — a six-month high. Female participation also rose steadily for the fourth consecutive month, especially in rural areas. The female LFPR reached 34.2%, its highest since May 2025. The Worker Population Ratio (WPR) also improved, rising to 52.5%, showing consistent job growth. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate remained stable at 5.2%.
World Bank warns Pakistan of deep economic troubles
The World Bank has warned that Pakistan’s export crisis is not temporary but rooted in long-term structural weaknesses. In its latest review, the Bank said inconsistent policies, market distortions, and repeated failure to reform have severely weakened Pakistan’s export potential. The warning has raised concerns about Pakistan’s ability to prevent an economic breakdown.
Air India to restart Delhi–Shanghai non-stop flights from February 2026
Air India announced that it will resume direct flights between Delhi and Shanghai starting February 1, 2026. The airline is returning to mainland China nearly six years after suspending services. The resumed route is expected to boost business and travel between the two countries.
India’s GDP expected to grow 7% in Q2 FY26: ICRA
India’s GDP growth for the second quarter of FY26 is projected at 7%, according to ratings agency ICRA. The forecast shows a slight dip from the 7.8% recorded in Q1. The services sector is expected to grow at 7.4%, while agriculture may see 3.5% growth. Industrial sector performance, however, is likely to improve to 7.8%, a five-quarter high.
Capital market investor base could double in next 3–5 years: SEBI Chief
SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey said on Monday that India’s capital markets could soon become a major destination for household savings. He stated that if India continues its strong economic growth, the number of unique capital market investors could double within the next 3–5 years.
Centre approves ₹7,712 crore investment under electronics component scheme
The Central Government has cleared a new round of investments worth ₹7,712 crore under the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS). IT Secretary S. Krishnan said the approval will support domestic component manufacturing and strengthen the electronics supply chain.
Anil Ambani skips ED summons again in FEMA probe
Reliance ADAG Chairman Anil Ambani skipped the Enforcement Directorate’s summons for the second time on Monday. He was summoned for questioning in a FEMA case linked to the Jaipur–Reengus highway project. Ambani had requested a virtual hearing, which the agency rejected.
India’s October exports fall 11.8%; trade deficit at record $41.68 billion
India’s exports fell 11.8% in October to $34.38 billion due to US tariff hikes. Imports, however, jumped 16.63% to a record $76.06 billion, driven by higher gold, silver, cotton waste, fertiliser, and sulphur imports. The trade deficit widened sharply to $41.68 billion — the highest ever.
Haryana raises DA of 5th Pay Commission employees to 474%
The Haryana government has increased the Dearness Allowance (DA) rate for employees under the 5th Pay Commission from 466% to 474%, effective July 1, 2025. The finance department has issued the official order.
16th Finance Commission submits report to President Murmu
Chairman Arvind Panagariya on Monday submitted the 16th Finance Commission’s report to President Droupadi Murmu. The report covers tax devolution between Centre and States for the period starting April 1, 2026. It will be tabled in Parliament during the Winter Session beginning December 1.
