Amal Anzari

Summary of major developments, initiatives, and partnerships as outward looking India continues to strengthen its ties with ASEAN nations during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term.

Highlights include PM Modi's 10-point plan at ASEAN-India Summit. Cabinet approves $530 million road project in Rajasthan and Punjab.

Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “total killer” despite his friendly appearance. Speaking on the Flagrant podcast, Trump recalled their joint appearance at the Howdy Modi event in Houston in 2019 and shared anecdotes about the Prime Minister&

Highlights include PM Modi laying the foundation for $914 million development projects in Maharashtra, while RBI maintains repo rate at 6.50% and projects 7.2% GDP growth for FY25.

India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, with solar energy playing a crucial role. States like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka have emerged as solar energy hubs, contributing significantly to India's renewable energy goals.

Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, announced at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference that India will invest $25 million to establish hydrogen hubs at Deendayal, Paradip, and V.O. Chidambaranar ports, supporting the country’s green shipping ambition. Joshi also highlighted India’s renewable energy growth, with a 175

India signed contracts for 15 billion cubic metres of natural gas from post-Final Investment Decision (FID) projects between January and August 2024, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Globally, 50 BCM of gas contracts were inked during this period, with India cornering the largest share at 30%.

The Shipping Ministry is finalising regulations requiring international container lines operating in Indian waters to reserve at least 5% of their cargo space for domestic operators. Additionally, vessel-sharing agreements among container lines must also ensure a 5% reservation for domestic cargo movement. These new rules aim to strengthen business for