Current Affairs - Business

China has surpassed other nations to become India's largest import source between April and September 2024, with imports valued at USD 56.29 billion, marking an 11.5% increase from the previous year. This significant trade development underscores China's substantial presence in India's import market. India's import landscape is diversified, with Russia and the UAE also featuring among key import sources. Conversely, the US remains India's top export destination, highlighting the complexities of India's international trade relationships.

DigiLocker has integrated with the UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) app to simplify access to various government services. This partnership enables users to manage multiple services on a single platform, enhancing digital governance in India. The integration provides authenticated documents equivalent to originals, ensuring authenticity and reliability. Users can access a range of services by updating the DigiLocker app, installing the UMANG app, and exploring the available services. This collaboration marks a significant step in India's digital governance efforts, promoting convenience and efficiency.

RITES Limited, a leading transport infrastructure consultancy and engineering company, has entered into a strategic partnership with Etihad Rail to enhance cooperation in developing railway infrastructure and services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The MoU, signed by RITES CMD Rahul Mithal and Etihad Rail CEO Shadi Malak, encompasses various areas including supply and leasing of rolling stock, consultancy, project management, and operation. Additionally, it focuses on the capacity analysis of rail corridors to improve efficiency, demonstrating RITES' expertise in railway infrastructure development. This collaboration aims to support the growth of the UAE's rail network.

Adani Group launched India's largest hydrogen blending project, blending 2.2-2.3% green hydrogen in piped natural gas in Ahmedabad. This initiative aims to reduce emissions and align with net-zero goals. The hydrogen is produced using renewable energy through electrolysis, a process that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen. This blended hydrogen is then supplied to households, representing a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions and carbon reduction in India.

NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN) has partnered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to implement solar power solutions across 15 ICMR institutes. NVVN will install and maintain rooftop solar panels with a capacity of 4,559 KW, ensuring that the health research facilities benefit from clean, renewable energy. This initiative includes a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement, which guarantees stable solar energy tariffs, thereby contributing to both sustainability and cost-efficiency for ICMR's operations, reducing their reliance on conventional power sources.