Current Affairs - Business

Matrix Cellular has launched India’s first eSIM services, offering a seamless travel experience with no need for physical SIM cards. This eSIM, a software-based system embedded in devices, allows for easy activation of various cellular plans, reducing costs and simplifying connectivity for travellers. The global eSIM market is expected to reach 268 million users by 2028, driven by cost-effective international travel plans. Matrix Cellular aims to lead this market with its extensive global coverage and customer-focused plans, including unlimited data and 1GB of free international data on select plans.

Air India has partnered with Arrivia, enhancing its Flying Returns loyalty program, allowing members to earn Reward Points on cruise vacations with over 40 major cruise lines. Members earn points for spending on cruise bookings through flyingreturnsicruise.com, offering a wide range of cruise experiences. This collaboration aims to provide a seamless travel experience and reward points to customers who book cruises through Air India, further strengthening the airline's loyalty program.

Amazon India has partnered with Gentari Green Mobility India to expand its electric vehicle (EV) delivery fleet to 10,000 units by 2025. This collaboration will support Amazon’s last-mile delivery operations across more than 400 cities in India. Gentari will provide over 3,000 three-wheeler EVs along with fleet management services, aligning with Amazon's broader sustainability goals. This strategic move enhances Amazon’s commitment to increasing its EV adoption and reducing its carbon footprint in the delivery sector.

Bharti Global, through its subsidiary Bharti Televentures UK Ltd, is acquiring a 24.5% stake in the British telecom company BT Group for approximately $4 billion. This strategic acquisition not only marks a significant expansion of Bharti’s global telecom presence but also strengthens economic ties between India and the UK. The deal, involving an initial 9.99% stake followed by regulatory approval for the remaining 14.51%, highlights the deepening relationship between Bharti and BT, which has been evolving since 1997.

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is set to demonstrate India's first methanol-fired gas turbine at NTPC's Kayamkulam Combined Cycle Power Plant. This initiative aims to address the issue of unutilized gas turbine sets due to a lack of natural gas and naphtha. The project will proceed in two phases, with technology support and commissioning provided by BHEL’s Hyderabad units. This move represents a significant step in utilizing alternative fuels and advancing India's energy technology capabilities.