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The Chandigarh administration has approved an increase in the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for group housing projects, aimed at reducing per-unit housing costs and improving affordability in the city. The decision, cleared in the past week, allows higher construction density, including permission for additional floors in select developments such as the Sector 53 housing scheme. The revised FAR, increased from earlier limits, is expected to enable developers to build more units on the same land parcel, thereby distributing land costs across a larger inventory. The move aligns with the Chandigarh Master Plan framework and follows concerns over high housing prices and limited supply. The policy also introduces caps on ground coverage and building height to maintain planning controls while facilitating higher-density development.Read more

Hyderabad News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Cyberabad Municipal Corporation (CMC) has directed builders and developers to implement stringent safety and environmental measures at construction sites across its jurisdiction in Hyderabad. The instructions, issued during a stakeholder meeting in the past week, emphasise compliance with statutory norms, including worker safety, dust and pollution control, and adherence to sanctioned building plans. The civic body has also mandated proper disposal of construction debris through authorised agencies and reinforced conditions around occupancy certificate approvals. The move comes amid increasing construction activity in the IT corridor and surrounding areas, with authorities seeking to ensure that urban expansion does not compromise public safety or environmental standards. The directive applies to both ongoing and upcoming projects and involves coordination with industry bodies.Read more

Gurugram News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has initiated a major drainage infrastructure project to address chronic waterlogging along the Old Delhi-Gurgaon Road, a critical arterial corridor in Gurugram. The proposed intervention involves constructing a continuous surface drainage network spanning approximately 7.5 km between Mahavir Chowk and the Kapashera border. The project, planned in the past week, aims to streamline stormwater flow and mitigate monsoon-related flooding that has affected mobility and adjacent urban areas for several years. The initiative forms part of GMDA's broader efforts to upgrade ageing infrastructure in older parts of the city, where rapid urbanisation and inadequate drainage systems have led to repeated disruptions. Implementation is expected to improve road usability and reduce flood-related damage.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The district administration in Beed has intensified efforts to expedite land acquisition for the Beed Parli Vaijnath railway corridor, with the district collector conducting a multi-location inspection across key tehsils. The review, carried out in the past week, focused on resolving pending land acquisition issues and technical constraints that have slowed project progress. Covering villages in Wadwani, Dharur and Parli tehsils, the inspection involved direct engagement with affected landowners and coordination with railway and state officials. The corridor is part of a broader rail infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity between Marathwada and major economic centres such as Mumbai and Pune. The intervention is expected to facilitate smoother execution by addressing stakeholder grievances and unlocking stalled land parcels critical to project completion.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) has submitted a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Bhakti Shakti Chakan metro corridor, increasing the project cost to INR 12,937 crore from an earlier estimate of INR 10,383 crore. The revised plan, reported in the past week, extends the corridor length to approximately 47.2 km and increases the number of stations from 31 to 34. Key modifications include alignment changes across industrial zones such as Bhosari MIDC and Landewadi, along with a proposed 17 km integrated double-decker structure in coordination with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The proposal has been submitted to the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) for review and will require state-level approval before progressing towards implementation.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Liquidators of China Evergrande Group have entered into an exclusivity agreement with a selected bidder to sell their 51.016% stake in Evergrande Property Services, according to a recent exchange filing. The parties will undertake exclusive negotiations for a period of 30 business days, although the identity of the bidder and transaction value have not been disclosed. The development comes as the group continues to address its prolonged debt crisis, having defaulted on over USD 300 billion in liabilities since 2021. The services arm, which was valued at over HKD 94 billion at listing in 2020 and peaked near HKD 200 billion in 2021, currently has a market capitalisation of approximately HKD 13.19 billion. The transaction forms part of ongoing efforts to monetise assets under liquidation proceedings.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Arisinfra Solutions Ltd has entered into a five-year agreement with Capacite Infraprojects Ltd for the procurement of construction materials valued at a minimum of INR 800 crore. Reported in the past week, the arrangement will see Capacite source materials through Arisinfra's digital platform across multiple infrastructure, commercial, and real estate projects. The partnership formalises and expands an existing relationship under which transactions exceeding INR 600 crore have already been executed across more than 15 project sites. Covering over 100 material categories, the agreement reflects a structured, long-term procurement model supported by a large supplier network. The development highlights the growing role of technology-led platforms in managing construction supply chains and improving efficiency in material sourcing.Read more

15 Apr 2026

India's hospitality sector is projected to expand to approximately USD 31 billion by 2029 from around USD 24.6 billion in 2024, driven primarily by domestic tourism growth, according to a CBRE report. The consultant noted a 40% year-on-year rise in domestic travel, with visits reaching 4.1 billion in 2025. Listed hotel operators are expected to add more than 70,000 keys by 2030, indicating continued capacity expansion. The sector recorded stable performance metrics in the past year, with occupancy levels at about 64%, alongside increases in revenue per available room and average daily rates. CBRE indicated that investment activity is likely to remain steady through 2026, supported by sustained travel demand and institutional interest in scalable hospitality platforms.Read more

15 Apr 2026

NASSCOM has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on workplace misconduct following allegations of sexual harassment at Tata Consultancy Services Nashik office. The case involves complaints by eight female employees, leading to a police investigation and multiple arrests. The company's leadership has initiated an internal probe, while authorities have constituted a special investigation team. Nasscom stated that such incidents are treated with seriousness and described them as isolated rather than systemic across the industry. The development has drawn attention to workplace safety frameworks, compliance mechanisms, and grievance redressal processes within India's technology sector, particularly in large IT services firms operating across multiple locations.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Private Ltd has commissioned a high-speed Kinley water production line at its Avinya manufacturing facility in Siddipet district, Telangana, as part of its ongoing capacity expansion. The plant, spread across 49 acres with a planned investment exceeding INR 2,000 crore, is among the company's most advanced facilities and currently operates seven production lines. The newly added line is capable of producing Kinley PET bottles at significantly higher speeds, enhancing output and operational efficiency. The development strengthens HCCB's manufacturing footprint in southern India and supports its packaged drinking water segment under the Kinley brand. The investment also reflects continued infrastructure scaling within the beverage manufacturing sector to meet growing consumption demand.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Swedish green steel developer Stegra has secured EUR 1.4 billion (USD 1.7 billion) in fresh funding from an investor consortium led by the Wallenberg group, providing financial support to complete its hydrogen-based steel plant in northern Sweden. The funding, which remains subject to lender approvals and documentation finalisation, comes amid delays and cost pressures affecting green hydrogen-based industrial projects across Europe. The consortium includes Temasek and IMAS Foundation, linked to the IKEA ecosystem. The project timeline remains under review, with production previously expected by 2027. As part of the transaction, investors plan to nominate Leif Johansson as chair of the board. The development highlights continued institutional interest in large-scale decarbonised industrial infrastructure despite execution and financing challenges.Read more

Delhi News Desk

15 Apr 2026

A double-decker flyover being developed along the Delhi Metro's Pink Line corridor is expected to be completed by the end of the year, forming part of the capital's integrated transport infrastructure strategy. The project combines a metro viaduct on the upper deck with a road flyover beneath, aimed at optimising land use in densely built urban areas. The structure is being constructed along key stretches of the Maujpur Majlis Park corridor under Phase IV of the Delhi Metro expansion. Once operational, the project is expected to ease congestion on arterial roads while supporting increased metro connectivity across north and north-east Delhi. The flyover is among several such integrated structures planned to improve multimodal transport efficiency and reduce pressure on existing road networks.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Mindspace Business Parks REIT has acquired a 51% stake in a Chennai-based commercial asset for around INR 1,500 crore, valuing the property at approximately INR 3,000 crore. The investment involves Radial IT Park Pvt Ltd, which owns a 2.6 million sq ft office development in the city. The remaining 49% stake will be acquired by 360 One Real Assets Advantage Fund and its affiliates. The seller is a subsidiary of CapitaLand Investment. The acquisition forms part of Mindspace REIT's portfolio expansion strategy and strengthens its presence in Chennai's office market. The asset is positioned within a key commercial corridor and is backed by long-term leases and established occupiers.Read more

15 Apr 2026

International Monetary Fund has projected India's GDP growth at 6.5% for both 2026 and 2027, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing major economy despite geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The estimate, published in its latest World Economic Outlook, reflects an upward revision driven by strong economic momentum from 2025 and a reduction in additional US tariffs on Indian goods. These factors are expected to offset the adverse impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Meanwhile, global growth is projected to moderate to 3.1% in 2026 and 3.2% in 2027, compared to 3.4% in 2025. The outlook indicates a stable growth trajectory for India within a gradually slowing global economy.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has introduced a revised fee framework for overloaded trucks on national highways, linking penalties to the percentage of excess load carried. The updated rules, notified under the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026, will come into effect from mid-April. Under the new structure, no penalty will apply for up to 10% excess load, while fees will be charged at twice the base rate for overloading between 10% and 40%, and four times the base rate beyond 40%. Overloading will be assessed using certified weighment systems at toll plazas, with exemptions in locations lacking such infrastructure. All penalties will be collected digitally through FASTag, aligning with broader efforts to standardise toll operations.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Shri Narendra Modi and Donald Trump held a discussion on the West Asia crisis, focusing on ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open amid rising global energy concerns. The conversation, held in the past week, also covered progress in India US bilateral ties. US officials indicated that several big-ticket agreements, particularly in the energy sector, are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks. The development comes against the backdrop of tensions involving Iran and disruptions to global shipping routes. Both countries are also preparing for upcoming diplomatic engagements, including a planned visit by senior US officials to India, signalling continued efforts to stabilise and strengthen bilateral relations.Read more

15 Apr 2026

At least 13 workers were killed and 21 injured following a boiler-linked explosion at a power plant operated by Vedanta Ltd in Sakti district, Chhattisgarh. The incident occurred at the Singhitarai facility and involved personnel from a subcontractor handling operations at the unit. The blast, caused by a high-pressure steam tube failure, led to severe burn injuries among workers. Multiple investigations have been ordered, including a magisterial probe, while the state government announced compensation for victims. The plant, part of a 1,200 MW thermal power project, has one operational unit and another under development. The incident has raised concerns around industrial safety compliance at large-scale energy infrastructure projects.Read more

15 Apr 2026

A Kerala murder convict who escaped custody last year has been arrested in Mumbai after months on the run. The accused, Vinish, had fled from a hospital where he was undergoing treatment and travelled across cities before reaching Mumbai. To avoid detection, he lived as a ragpicker, frequently changing locations and blending into crowded areas. Acting on a tip-off, the Railway Protection Force tracked and apprehended him near CSMT after a brief chase. Kerala Police have taken custody following legal formalities, bringing an end to a multi-agency search operation that lasted several months.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has approved a 1:1 bonus share issue, offering one additional share for every existing share held. The move will be funded by capitalising INR 6,325 crore from reserves and is aimed at improving stock liquidity and increasing investor participation. The development also comes as the government, which holds a 96.5% stake, looks at potential future stake sales under its disinvestment plans. LIC, which went public in 2022, continues to focus on strengthening its market presence through capital restructuring and enhanced accessibility for investors.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Gold ETFs saw strong inflows of INR 31,561 crore in the March 2026 quarter, nearly six times higher than last year, driven by global uncertainty and rising gold prices. Investor demand remained robust despite a moderation in monthly inflows after a strong start to the year. The category's assets under management surged to INR 1.71 lakh crore, with a sharp rise in investor participation. Gold ETFs continue to attract interest as they offer a simple, transparent and liquid way to invest in gold without physical ownership, making them a preferred option for diversification and risk management.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Efforts to regularise more than 450 unauthorised colonies in Indore have encountered significant administrative and regulatory challenges, with multiple government departments raising objections during the review process. While the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) has previously legalised over 200 colonies in earlier phases, the remaining settlements face issues related to land ownership, zoning restrictions, and lack of mandatory approvals. A substantial number of these colonies are situated on land falling under urban land ceiling provisions, green belts, or areas controlled by agencies such as the Indore Development Authority and Housing Board, making them ineligible under existing policy. The absence of approved layouts and pending development charges has further slowed progress, leaving residents without access to formal infrastructure, institutional finance, and civic services.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Bank of Baroda has partnered with Reliance Jio to expand mobile banking access for feature phone users through the bob World Lite app on JioPhone Prima 4G. Designed with a simple interface, low data usage and keypad navigation, the app enables secure access to essential banking services without a smartphone. Users can access UPI features such as money transfers, bill payments and recharges. The initiative supports financial inclusion by reaching underserved segments and aligns with government efforts to promote digital payments. It also allows both Bank of Baroda and other bank customers to access basic banking services easily.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The second phase of Amaravati's land pooling scheme has gathered pace following amendments to the Andhra Pradesh State Reorganisation Act (APSRA), which have reaffirmed Amaravati as the state's capital. The Andhra Pradesh government is seeking to pool an additional 16,666 acres across multiple villages in the capital region to support infrastructure projects, including a greenfield airport and industrial developments. Participation from landowners, initially limited due to concerns over political uncertainty and delays in earlier commitments, has shown signs of improvement. The Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) has undertaken outreach measures to rebuild confidence among farmers, while also initiating land acquisition in cases where voluntary pooling has not progressed. The scheme forms a key component of the state's strategy to advance capital region development.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Goa government has approved the conversion of more than 18,000 sq m of land in Bardez taluka into settlement zones under provisions of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Act. The approvals, granted in the recent past, form part of a broader set of applications processed under Section 39A, which allows changes to zoning classifications in the Regional Plan. The move reflects continued demand for land-use changes in North Goa, particularly in areas witnessing residential and tourism-led development. Bardez remains among the leading talukas in such applications, with multiple proposals involving agricultural and other land categories. The approvals come amid wider scrutiny of zoning changes and their implications for planning controls, environmental considerations, and urban expansion in the state.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Air India has received its first refurbished Boeing 787-8 aircraft, marking progress in its wide-body fleet upgrade programme. The aircraft, refurbished in the United States, features new cabin interiors, upgraded seating and enhanced in-flight entertainment systems. The airline is retrofitting 26 Boeing 787-8 planes as part of a broader modernisation plan covering both 787 and 777 fleets. Backed by a USD 400 million investment, the initiative aims to improve passenger experience on long-haul routes. Despite earlier delays due to supply chain challenges, the upgraded aircraft is set to enter service soon after regulatory approvals.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Building approval revenue in Telangana's expanded urban region recorded only a modest increase following the merger and restructuring of municipalities into larger civic bodies. Data presented in the past week showed that revenues rose to INR 1,172 crore in 2025-26, compared to INR 1,138 crore in the previous year, despite a significant volume of 15,536 building permissions issued. The restructuring created three corporations Greater Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Malkajgiri within the Core Urban Region. A majority of approvals were processed through instant clearance systems, primarily for smaller residential developments. The data indicates that while administrative integration has expanded jurisdiction and activity, revenue growth has remained constrained, reflecting structural changes in approval authority and shifting development patterns.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Private equity investments in India's real estate sector increased by 66% year-on-year to USD 1.2 billion during the January-March quarter of 2026, according to a report by Savills India. Office assets accounted for the largest share at 41%, with key inflows concentrated in Gurugram and Pune, while the hospitality segment contributed 17%. Domestic investors led activity, contributing USD 817 million, or 66% of total inflows, amid relatively cautious participation from foreign capital. The data reflects a recovery in institutional investment activity following earlier subdued trends, with diversified asset classes attracting capital. The report highlights shifting investment patterns and the growing role of domestic capital in sustaining deal activity across India's real estate market.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Maharashtra government is preparing to launch a digital portal that will enable citizens to access property valuation reports online, based on official ready reckoner rates. Developed by the Department of Registration and Stamps, the platform will allow users to generate indicative market valuations by entering property-specific details such as location, type, and age. The reports, expected to be digitally signed in subsequent phases, aim to provide clarity on property values and associated stamp duty liabilities before transactions are executed. The initiative is part of a broader push towards digitisation in land and property administration across the state, following earlier measures to grant legal validity to digital land records. The portal is also expected to ease pressure on sub-registrar offices and streamline transaction planning for buyers and sellers.Read more

Noida News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) has initiated the process to develop a 174-acre multi-modal logistics park in Dadri, aimed at strengthening industrial and warehousing infrastructure in the region. The project, announced in the past week, will be developed through a developer selected via e-auction, with a minimum investment commitment of around INR 1,000 crore. Located in Sector Kappa-II near the Inland Container Depot, the site benefits from proximity to the upcoming Noida International Airport and dedicated freight corridors. The facility is expected to integrate air, rail and road cargo movement, supporting logistics efficiency across north India. The development forms part of Uttar Pradesh's broader strategy to enhance supply chain infrastructure and attract large-scale industrial investments.Read more

15 Apr 2026

China Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan has pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including misuse of funds and fundraising fraud, in a Shenzhen court. The case follows Evergrande's 2021 default on over USD 300 billion in liabilities, highlighting ongoing challenges in China's property sector. Authorities had earlier fined Hui and barred him from the securities market for life over financial misconduct. Additional charges against him and the company include illegal lending, fraudulent securities issuance and bribery. Verdicts are pending, as the case continues to draw attention to the broader impact of the real estate crisis on China's economy.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) carried out search operations across Delhi and Gurugram in the past week in connection with a money laundering investigation involving Earth Infrastructures Ltd. and its group entities. The action, linked to multiple FIRs and a corporate fraud complaint, led to the seizure of cash, jewellery, bullion, luxury watches and property documents tied to more than 100 immovable assets, including suspected benami holdings. The probe centres on allegations that the developer mobilised over INR 2,024 crore from more than 19,000 homebuyers across several projects in Delhi-NCR and other cities, without delivering possession. Investigations indicate diversion of funds through associated companies and personal transactions, while insolvency proceedings had previously been initiated following buyer complaints over delayed or incomplete projects.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Prayagraj Municipal Corporation (PMC) has introduced a 25% rebate on property tax for newly constructed residential buildings, aimed at encouraging fresh housing development and easing the financial burden on property owners. The decision, taken in the past week, applies to the annual rental value assessment, effectively reducing overall house tax liability for eligible properties. The measure forms part of a broader set of fiscal interventions by the civic body, which has recently revised tax frameworks and introduced targeted incentives across property categories. The move is expected to support new residential supply in the city while improving compliance and expanding the municipal tax base through structured incentives.Read more

Chennai News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has announced a lake restoration initiative worth INR 35 crore aimed at rejuvenating three key urban waterbodies Nolambur, Ramanthangal and Subramaniya lakes. The project, planned in the past week, adopts a blue-green infrastructure approach combining ecological restoration with urban design improvements. Works will include desilting, strengthening of bunds, creation of wetlands and bio-filtration systems to enhance water quality and groundwater recharge. Public amenities such as walkways and viewing decks are also proposed. The initiative responds to persistent urban flooding, declining groundwater levels, and degradation of natural drainage systems due to rapid urbanisation. Authorities intend the project to serve as a model for future waterbody restoration efforts across Chennai.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Andhra Pradesh Township and Infrastructure Development Corporation (TIDCO) has introduced an integrated township model in Vijayawada, shifting from standalone housing to fully serviced residential clusters for economically weaker sections. The initiative, highlighted in recent updates, combines housing with physical infrastructure, social amenities, and livelihood support systems. Developments include internal road networks, underground drainage, water supply integration, and energy-efficient provisions. The model also incorporates livelihood centres to promote self-employment, particularly among women. The approach reflects a broader recalibration of state-led housing schemes, emphasising long-term habitability and economic sustainability alongside large-scale delivery of affordable housing units across urban areas.Read more

Mumbai News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Maharashtra government is advancing a slum cluster redevelopment scheme in Mumbai aimed at rehabilitating nearly seven lakh slum dwellers through integrated housing projects. The initiative, reviewed during a recent meeting of the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), seeks to address stalled and unviable redevelopment projects while improving living conditions in densely populated areas. Authorities are in the process of identifying eligible slum clusters for redevelopment under a structured framework aligned with the state housing policy. The scheme is designed to promote large-scale redevelopment by aggregating land parcels and enabling better infrastructure planning. Additional approvals, including funding allocations for select projects and administrative restructuring within the SRA, were also discussed as part of efforts to streamline implementation and accelerate execution.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has directed municipal bodies across all state and Union Territory capitals to conduct a nationwide survey of residential areas being used for commercial purposes without authorisation. The order, issued in the past week, requires civic authorities to identify violations of zoning and building norms and submit detailed affidavits within a stipulated timeline. The directive follows concerns over widespread conversion of residential properties into commercial establishments, affecting urban planning, infrastructure and quality of life. The court has emphasised strict enforcement of land-use regulations and accountability of local authorities. The exercise is expected to lead to identification of violations at scale and may trigger enforcement actions, including sealing or penalties, in non-compliant cases.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Over 1,000 workers protested in Haiti's capital, demanding a higher minimum wage amid rising fuel prices and living costs. Employees said wages have remained unchanged since 2023, while recent hikes in diesel and gasoline prices have sharply reduced purchasing power. Many workers are struggling to afford transport and basic necessities, with some forced to walk long distances to work. The protest also drew participation from informal workers facing unstable incomes. Ongoing inflation, transport challenges and economic pressures continue to impact daily life, with workers calling for urgent government action to address wages and working conditions.Read more

Delhi News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has initiated a mid-life refurbishment programme covering 70 trains operating on the Red and Blue Lines, targeting ageing rolling stock introduced between 2002 and 2007. The upgrade, announced in the past week, is being executed in phases and is scheduled for completion by November 2027. So far, 31 trains have been refurbished, with further units under various stages of upgrade. The programme includes improvements to train interiors, electrical systems, and safety mechanisms such as fire detection systems and CCTV surveillance. Passenger-facing enhancements such as real-time information systems and charging points are also being introduced. The initiative aims to align older trains with current operational standards while maintaining service reliability across two of the network's busiest corridors.Read more

Ghaziabad News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC) has approved a reduction of 35-40% in property tax rates after sustained protests by residents and intervention from the Uttar Pradesh government. The revised structure, cleared in the past week, lowers per square foot tax rates across categories and will come into effect shortly. The decision follows widespread opposition to earlier revisions that had significantly increased tax liabilities for property owners. Authorities have also revised the basis of tax calculation and introduced provisions to adjust excess payments made under previous rates. The move is expected to ease the financial burden on homeowners while maintaining municipal revenue through broader compliance and recalibrated valuation mechanisms.Read more

Ghaziabad News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has introduced mandatory tree plantation norms linked to plot approvals, requiring developers and landowners to earmark green areas and deposit security amounts to ensure compliance. The rules, implemented recently, specify minimum plantation requirements based on plot size across residential, commercial, and institutional developments. Deposits ranging from INR 5,000 for smaller residential plots to INR 2 lakh for institutional uses will be refunded upon verification of plantation. The measure responds to declining green cover and high pollution levels in the city, where rapid infrastructure expansion has led to large-scale tree loss. Authorities aim to integrate environmental safeguards into urban planning by embedding plantation obligations within the approval process.Read more

Lucknow News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) is set to introduce a new residential plot scheme, offering over 2,000 plots in its first phase as part of a broader expansion of housing supply in the city. The scheme, expected to be rolled out shortly, aims to address increasing demand for plotted developments driven by urban growth and infrastructure expansion. Authorities indicated that allotment will follow a transparent process, likely through a lottery system, with detailed information on plot sizes, pricing and application timelines to be released separately. The initiative forms part of LDA's wider strategy to develop new residential layouts and townships while improving access to organised housing across income segments in Lucknow.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Ministry of Railways has approved 100 infrastructure projects for FY 2025-26 with a total investment of INR 1.53 lakh crore, marking a substantial increase in capital allocation and project scale compared to the previous year. The sanctioned works will collectively add over 6,000 km to India's railway network and include new lines, doubling, and multi-tracking initiatives. Key states such as Maharashtra, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh account for a significant share of the projects. The expansion aims to address congestion on high-density routes, improve passenger services, and enhance freight movement under broader logistics initiatives. The programme also places emphasis on extending connectivity to remote and tribal regions, while supporting industrial corridors and port-linked infrastructure across the country.Read more

15 Apr 2026

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has announced a brownfield expansion of its Bokaro Steel Plant in Jharkhand with an investment of INR 20,000 crore, aimed at increasing production capacity from 5.25 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 7.55 MTPA. The plan, outlined recently, involves installation of new industrial infrastructure including a blast furnace, coke oven battery, and upgraded rolling facilities. The project is expected to generate around 2,500 direct jobs and up to 10,000 indirect employment opportunities. Positioned within India's broader objective of scaling domestic steel output to 300 MTPA by 2030, the expansion also incorporates modernisation and efficiency improvements to existing systems, supporting both industrial growth and regional economic activity in Jharkhand.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has recorded its highest-ever property tax collection of approximately INR 149.6 crore for the financial year 2025-26, surpassing its projected target and previous years performance. The achievement, reported in the past week, reflects improved compliance driven by field inspections, data verification and awareness campaigns. The civic body exceeded its target of around INR 112 crore, with collections rising steadily from INR 137 crore in the previous year. The increase has been attributed to targeted surveys across select wards, identification of unassessed properties and streamlined collection mechanisms. The development underscores the growing importance of property tax as a primary revenue source for urban local bodies, supporting infrastructure and civic service delivery.Read more

15 Apr 2026

The Jharkhand Real Estate Regulatory Authority (JRERA) has imposed penalties totalling INR 83.5 lakh on 77 builders for failing to submit mandatory quarterly progress reports and ignoring regulatory summons. The action, taken in the past week, forms part of an enforcement drive aimed at improving compliance and transparency in registered real estate projects across the state. Notices had initially been issued to 106 developers, with penalties calculated at INR 25,000 per delayed quarter. The authority has warned of further action, including freezing of bank accounts, in case of non-payment. The move comes amid wider compliance concerns, with more than half of the state's registered projects reportedly not filing required updates, highlighting gaps in regulatory adherence under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act framework.Read more

Delhi News Desk

15 Apr 2026

The Delhi High Court has allowed authorities to proceed with a demolition drive in Shalimar Bagh to facilitate road widening, prioritising public infrastructure over private occupation claims. The order, issued in the past week, grants residents time until the end of May to vacate the affected area. The case relates to encroachments on public land earmarked for expansion of Road No. 320, with the court observing that improved connectivity and access for emergency services outweigh individual claims. The ruling follows a petition by occupants seeking protection from eviction. Authorities have been directed to carry out the process in a structured manner, with consideration for relocation timelines, while ensuring that the project proceeds without further obstruction.Read more

Ghaziabad News Desk

14 Apr 2026

The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has introduced a regulatory requirement mandating tree plantation as a precondition for granting layout plan approvals across residential, commercial and industrial developments. The rule, implemented earlier this month, requires developers and landowners to earmark space for plantation within submitted plans and undertake planting in proportion to project size. The policy also introduces refundable security deposits to ensure compliance, alongside documentation such as photographic evidence. The move is aimed at addressing declining green cover amid rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion in the city. Additional provisions cover plantation ratios for different land uses and requirements for green space allocation in institutional developments, forming part of a broader effort to integrate environmental considerations into urban planning approvals.Read more

14 Apr 2026

Asian stock markets traded higher, tracking gains on Wall Street, as optimism grew over possible US-Iran talks to ease West Asia tensions. Key indices in Japan, South Korea, China and Hong Kong posted gains, reflecting improved investor sentiment. Oil prices declined after recent spikes, with Brent crude falling below USD 100 per barrel amid hopes of reduced supply risks. However, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to raise concerns around energy costs and inflation. Gold and silver prices edged higher, while the US dollar weakened slightly. Overall, markets remain sensitive to geopolitical developments and global economic signals.Read more

14 Apr 2026

Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale will launch its new Ranje Vision Park near Pune on April 16, inaugurated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Spread across 25 acres with an investment of around INR 250 crore, the facility includes advanced production units for sweets and savouries with a capacity of 40 tonnes per day. Built to global food safety standards, the plant also features customer viewing galleries showcasing automated processes. The expansion supports the brand's growth in domestic and international markets, with plans to scale its retail presence from 1.25 lakh to 5 lakh touchpoints over the next three years.Read more

14 Apr 2026

Poonawalla Fincorp has raised INR 2,500 crore through a Qualified Institutions Placement (QIP) to expand its lending business and strengthen its asset base. The issue saw strong participation from domestic and foreign institutional investors, reflecting confidence in the company's growth strategy. Shares were allotted at INR 370.75 each, a 5% discount to the floor price, with the QIP open from April 9 to April 13. The funds will be used to scale lending operations across key segments. Backed by the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, the NBFC manages assets worth INR 55,017 crore and aims to drive its next phase of growth.Read more