General Awareness

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY - June 2022

Jun 2022

Jan 16, 2026

Netflix and Sony Pictures expand global theatrical-to-streaming deal

Netflix and Sony Pictures announced an expanded multi-year agreement extending the streaming rights for Sony’s feature films worldwide after theatrical runs. The Pay-1 style deal runs from 2027 to 2032, broadening the previous U.S.-centric licensing arrangement established in 2022. The contract will roll out gradually across territories, with full global availability expected by early 2029. Netflix will gain exclusive first streaming window for Sony Pictures titles, including major franchises such as Spider-Man, Jumanji, and Ghostbusters. The arrangement reinforces Netflix’s dominant streaming role while broadening Sony’s media distribution reach.

Netflix-Sony multi-year streaming deal extended (2027–2032).
Global first streaming window for Sony titles on Netflix.
Full global availability anticipated by early 2029.
Includes franchises like Spider-Man, Jumanji, Ghostbusters.
Strengthens Netflix’s position in film distribution.

India Post joins ONDC as logistics partner; first ONDC parcel delivered

The Department of Posts officially began handling shipments on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform, becoming a Logistics Service Provider (LSP). The first ONDC order was booked on January 13, 2026, by UdyamWell, with delivery completed on January 15, 2026. This move enables the postal network to offer parcel pickup, transmission, and delivery within ONDC’s Click and Book model. The collaboration aims to expand digital commerce reach for artisans and rural entrepreneurs, leveraging India Post’s nationwide footprint to strengthen supply chains and expand market access for small-scale sellers.

India Post becomes ONDC Logistics Service Provider.
First ONDC order booked Jan 13, 2026; delivered Jan 15, 2026.
Post office offers pickup, transmission, and delivery via ONDC.
Uses Click and Book model; expands access for rural sellers.
Aims to strengthen digital commerce and supply chains.

India draws USD 51 billion in FDI over six months amid startup and manufacturing push

Government data show India attracted USD 51 billion in foreign direct investment in the last six months, signaling strong external confidence in the economy. DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia noted this period coincides with a startup push and manufacturing expansion. He also announced National Startup Day on January 16, with 75 Grand Challenges to be launched to spur innovation and problem-solving across sectors. Additionally, 20 National Startup Awards will honour entrepreneurship excellence. The government подчерк the importance of startups in job creation, technology adoption, and global competitiveness as India seeks broader industrial growth.

FDI inflows total USD 51 billion in six months.
National Startup Day announced for January 16, with 75 Grand Challenges.
20 National Startup Awards to recognise entrepreneurs.
Startup push aligned with manufacturing growth goals.
DPIIT emphasises startups as job creators and innovation engines.

Dynamatic Technologies delivers first complete Airbus A220 door ship-set

Dynamatic Technologies announced the delivery readiness of the first complete ship-set of all eight Airbus A220 doors, including main passenger and service doors, cargo doors, and over-wing exits. The milestone is part of India’s Make in India initiative and showcases the company’s high-precision aerostructure capabilities. CEO Udayant Malhoutra noted the project achieved over 99% indigenous value-added content through collaboration with Airbus and domestic suppliers. The development highlights India’s growing footprint in complex aerospace manufacturing and its potential to attract further global aerospace contracts and supply-chain integration.

Dynamatic delivers first complete Airbus A220 door ship-set.
Includes all main, service, cargo, and exit doors.
Aligned with Make in India and high-tech manufacturing goals.
Over 99% indigenous value-added content achieved.
Strengthens India’s aerospace export potential.

India joins Riyadh metro expansion as L&T leads Red Line project

India’s Larsen & Toubro (L&T) joined an international consortium to expand Riyadh’s Red Line by 8.4 kilometers with five new stations, linking Diriyah Gate and other districts. The project, led by Webuild Group and involving NESMA and Alstom, will include underground and elevated sections over about six years. The extension supports Saudi Vision 2030 and Diriyah’s transformation into a cultural and tourism hub. The collaboration highlights India’s growing role in global infrastructure and the strength of Make in India in large-scale transport projects, with India-based firms supplying key components and expertise.

Riyadh Red Line extension awarded to international consortium including L&T.
Extension adds 8.4 km with five new stations; six-year timeline.
Diriyah Gate integration enhances cultural and tourism access.
Project strengthens Saudi Vision 2030 and regional transport networks.
India’s Make in India presence grows in global infrastructure.

Jan 15, 2026

Make in India drive showcased at SteelFab 2026 in Sharjah

Ahead of the Make in India push, the Indian pavilion at SteelFab 2026 in Sharjah highlighted the country’s steel fabrication and metalworking capabilities. The event, running January 12–15, spotlighted 31 Indian exhibitors and 54 total Indian participants, emphasizing machine tools, welding technologies, automation, and fabrication services. The pavilion served as a platform for B2B meetings and live demonstrations, connecting Indian manufacturers with Gulf, African, and regional buyers. Exhibitors showcased advanced tools and solutions, signaling India’s growing role in global manufacturing and the government’s efforts to expand export-oriented industry partnerships.

Make in India showcased at SteelFab 2026, Sharjah
31 Indian exhibitors; 54 total Indian participants
Focus on welding, automation, and fabrication tech
B2B meetings and live demos with Gulf and regional buyers

TVS SCS appoints Vikas Chadha as Global CEO from January 22, 2026

TVS Supply Chain Solutions announced the appointment of Vikas Chadha as Global CEO, effective January 22, 2026. Chadha succeeds Ravi Viswanathan, who will retire during the 2026–27 financial year. The leadership transition follows a formal succession process led by the board and its Nomination and Remuneration Committee. Previously CEO at Dubai-based Jumbo Electronics, Chadha brings extensive international experience to TVS SCS as it scales its supply chain and logistics services globally. The announcement highlighted continuity in strategy and the company’s ongoing focus on expanding global footprints and enhancing operational excellence.

Vikas Chadha appointed Global CEO of TVS SCS, effective Jan 22, 2026.
Succeeds Ravi Viswanathan, who retires in 2026–27.
Chadha previously led Jumbo Electronics (Dubai).
Board-led succession process ensured leadership continuity.
Aims to expand global footprint and operational excellence.

Intersec 2026 in Dubai showcases firefighting robots and AI security tech

Intersec 2026, the security and safety trade fair in Dubai, concluded with a demonstration of firefighting robots, AI innovations, and cyber-security tools. The event drew more than 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries and attracted tens of thousands of visitors. Highlights included Dubai Civil Defence’s advanced firefighting robots and robotic dogs for emergency response. Experts discussed regional security challenges and technology-driven solutions across five sectors: homeland security, cyber, perimeter security, fire and rescue, and health and safety. The exhibition reinforced how technology is shaping protective services and public safety in the Middle East and beyond.

Intersec 2026 concluded in Dubai
Showcased firefighting robots and AI safety tech
1,200+ exhibitors; 60+ countries; 50,000+ visitors
Five core sectors highlighted: security, cyber, rescue, health

IOCL-BPCL JV discovers oil in Abu Dhabi Onshore Block 1

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Bharat Petroleum’s exploration arm, Bharat PetroResources (BPCL), through the Urja Bharat Pte Limited venture, reported new oil discoveries in Abu Dhabi’s Onshore Block 1. UBPL, a 50:50 SPV, completed the exploration phase after investing about $166 million since securing the concession in 2019. The latest finds include unconventional oil resources in the Shilaif play (XN-76) and exploratory well XN-79 02S (Habshan carbonate). The block spans roughly 6,162 square kilometres, with UBPL holding full concession rights. The discoveries strengthen India’s overseas upstream portfolio and energy security strategy.

IOCL-BPCL joint venture UBPL discovers oil in Abu Dhabi
Block Onshore 1; 50:50 SPV UBPL
Invested ~$166 million since 2019 concession
Finds include Shilaif play XN-76 and XN-79 02S

TVS Supply Chain Solutions names Vikas Chadha as Global CEO

TVS Supply Chain Solutions announced the appointment of Vikas Chadha as Global CEO, effective January 22, 2026. The Chennai-based firm confirmed a planned leadership transition following the retirement of Ravi Viswanathan, the current Managing Director. Chadha previously served as CEO of Jumbo Electronics in Dubai and will lead a multi-national team across the supply chain services company. The move aligns with enterprise succession planning and growth strategies as the company expands its logistics network and digital offerings. Industry observers expect Chadha to drive expansions in new markets, technology-enabled solutions, and cross-border operations.

Vikas Chadha named Global CEO of TVS SCS
Effective January 22, 2026; successor to Ravi Viswanathan
Chadha previously led Jumbo Electronics (Dubai)

Swiggy and Zepto drop '10-minute' delivery claim after government order

Swiggy and Zepto have altered branding around their '10-minute' delivery service following a government directive. The government ordered Eternal's Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy to stop promoting grocery deliveries as a '10-minute' service due to safety concerns about riders and wage implications for rapid deliveries. Industry analysts describe the branding change as optics-driven rather than fundamentally altering business models. The move highlights regulatory scrutiny in the fast-delivery segment, which remains valued at about $11.5 billion. Despite branding adjustments, analysts say core delivery capabilities and logistics networks remain largely unchanged, though operators will need to emphasize safety and fair compensation.

Regulators require removal of '10-minute' branding claims
Concerns over rider safety and wages cited
Industries see branding changes as optics-driven
Fast-delivery market valued at ~$11.5 billion
Core operations remain unless further policy actions occur

Jan 14, 2026

Karnataka Bank enables Khajane-2 payments via net banking

Karnataka Bank announced it has enabled Khajane-2 government e-receipts payments through its internet banking platform. The move aligns with state and central digital payment initiatives, offering customers a secure and convenient way to settle government receipts. The bank emphasized its commitment to digital services, aiming to simplify transactions for individuals and businesses, while reinforcing security and reliability. The feature complements existing mobile and branch-based payment options and is expected to improve user experience and reduce processing times for government payments.

Karnataka Bank enables Khajane-2 payments via net banking
Aligns with state and central digital payment initiatives
Aims to simplify government receipts for customers
Emphasis on security, reliability, and convenience
Supports digital transformation in public finance

Nissan strengthens India leadership with Sabbagh appointment

Nissan announced a leadership reshuffle in its AMIEO region, expanding Thierry Sabbagh’s responsibilities to include India as Divisional Vice President and President for Middle East, KSA, CIS, and India—Nissan and Infiniti. The changes take effect on January 1, 2026. The company frames India as central to its 2026 plan, with a forecast of three new models—GRAVITE, TEKTON, and a 7-seater C-SUV—within 14 to 16 months. The move underlines Nissan’s push to regain momentum in the Indian market and strengthen its manufacturing, sales, and after-sales footprint across the region.

Thierry Sabbagh appointed Divisional VP and President for India
Effective January 1, 2026; India central to 2026 plan
Three new models expected within 14–16 months
Strategic emphasis on refreshed operations in AMIEO region
India leadership move signals growth ambitions

Jan 13, 2026

Websol Renewable to build 8 GW solar manufacturing complex in Naidupeta

Websol Renewable Private Limited (WRPL) received government approval to establish a fully integrated 8 GW solar manufacturing facility in Naidupeta, Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh. The project comprises 4 GW solar cells and 4 GW solar modules on a 120-acre site, with total investment of ₹3,538 crore. Development will occur in two phases, targeting commercial production by July 2027 and July 2028. The facility aims to boost domestic solar supply chains, reduce imports, and support India’s renewable energy growth. The GoAP stated the project would create jobs and advance the state’s clean energy goals.

WRPL to build 8 GW solar manufacturing complex in Naidupeta.
Facility: 4 GW cells + 4 GW modules on 120 acres.
Total investment: ₹3,538 crore; two-phase development.
Production scheduled July 2027 and July 2028.
Aims to strengthen India’s domestic solar supply chain.

Akzo Nobel India appoints Parth Jindal as chairman; board approves leadership changes

Akzo Nobel India announced the appointment of Parth Jindal as Chairman, effective 9 January 2026. Jindal is currently managing director of JSW Paints and JSW Cements. JSW Paints acquired a majority stake in Akzo Nobel India in a ₹12,915 crore deal last year, making JSW the promoter. The board also redesignated Rajiv Rajgopal as joint managing director and chief executive officer, effective 9 January 2026. Rajgopal previously served as chairman and managing director. Akzo Nobel India remains a leading paints and coatings company, best known for Dulux paints. The leadership changes come as the group pursues growth and integration strategies.

Parth Jindal appointed Chairman, effective 9 January 2026.
Jindal also MD of JSW Paints and JSW Cements.
JSW Paints acquired majority stake in Akzo Nobel India for ₹12,915 crore.
Rajiv Rajgopal redesignated as joint MD and CEO, effective 9 January 2026.
Company continues to market Dulux paints in India.

Jan 12, 2026

Google teams with Walmart, Shopify and others to add shopping in Gemini AI chatbot

Google said on Sunday that it is expanding shopping features in its Gemini AI chatbot by partnering with Walmart, Shopify, Wayfair and other large retailers to turn the Gemini app into a virtual merchant as well as an assistant. An instant checkout function will let customers buy from participating businesses without leaving the chat, using a range of payment providers. The announcement was made on the first day of the National Retail Federation’s annual convention in New York, where AI in e-commerce was a central topic. Walmart’s incoming president and CEO John Furner, and Alphabet chief Sundar Pichai, described this as the next evolution in retail.

Gemini AI chatbot will host shopping from multiple major retailers including Walmart, Shopify and Wayfair.
Instant checkout feature enables purchases directly within Gemini chat without switching apps.
Payments will be processed through a variety of providers, without leaving the chat interface.
Announcement coincides with the National Retail Federation convention in New York.
Company executives frame agent-led commerce as a key future trend in retail.

CIO Mahesh Patil steps down from Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC after 21 years

Mahesh Patil has resigned as Chief Investment Officer at Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC after 21 years with the fund house. He announced on LinkedIn that he is leaving to pursue personal goals and will hand over responsibilities to his successors. Patil oversaw assets under management of about Rs 4.5 lakh crore and noted that the leadership team would continue to meet investor expectations. He named Harish Krishnan (CIO Equity), Kaustubh Gupta (CIO Fixed Income) and Sunaina da Chuna (Co CIO Debt) as his potential successors. The transition comes amid a broader phase of succession planning at the company.

Mahesh Patil resigns as CIO of Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC after 21 years.
Leaves to pursue personal goals; handover to named successors.
Managed roughly Rs 4.5 lakh crore in AUM.
Successors named: Harish Krishnan, Kaustubh Gupta, Sunaina da Chuna.
Resignation signals ongoing leadership succession planning.

NLCIL wins SKOCH Gold award for financial performance

NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has won the SKOCH Gold award for financial performance, announced at the 105th SKOCH summit in New Delhi. The award recognises strong financial management, operational efficiency and consistent value creation for stakeholders. NLCIL, a Navaratna CPSE under the Ministry of Coal, emphasised transparency and accountability in its reporting and governance practices. The accolade reflects the company’s efforts to maintain financial discipline while supporting energy production and diversification strategies in India’s coal and power sectors.

NLCIL receives SKOCH Gold award for financial performance.
Award announced at the 105th SKOCH summit, New Delhi.
Honours financial management, efficiency and stakeholder value.
NLCIL is a Navaratna CPSE under the Ministry of Coal.
Highlights governance and transparency in corporate performance.

Macquarie India head Abhishek Poddar resigns; second senior exit in months

Abhishek Poddar, managing director and country head-India at Macquarie Asset Management, has resigned after an eight-year tenure. He is currently on gardening leave and is expected to formally exit by the end of January. This marks the second senior-level departure from Macquarie India in recent months, following the December resignation of Deep Gupta after nearly 18 years with the group. The leadership churn at the Australia-headquartered asset manager’s India franchise highlights restructuring within the firm’s local operations as it navigates evolving market conditions and investment strategies.

Abhishek Poddar resigns as MD-India at Macquarie Asset Management.
Exit planned by end of January; Poddar is on gardening leave.
Second senior departure from Macquarie India in recent months.
Follow-up leadership changes include earlier departure of Deep Gupta.
Indicates ongoing leadership churn within Macquarie’s India franchise.

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