infolivedaily

Rajeev Jhawar, Usha Martin MD Usha Martin Limited, a global leader in wire rope manufacturing, has recently received a voluntary ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) rating of 66.8 from a SEBI-registered rating provider. This recognition underscores the company’s sustained commitment to responsible business practices, reflecting an increasing focus on ESG standards across India’s corporate landscape. At the helm of this initiative is Rajeev Jhawar , the Usha Martin MD , whose strategic vision has transformed the company into a forward-looking, sustainability-oriented organization. Under his leadership, Usha Martin is not only focusing on operational efficiency and global expansion but also on building a robust framework for environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and strong governance. Understanding ESG and Its Significance ESG ratings evaluate companies on three critical pillars: Environmental – Measures how a company manages its impact on natural resources, e...

India Inc may witness 9% salary rise in 2026: Report India Inc is expected to witness an average 9% salary increase in 2026 , with sectors such as automobiles and high technology leading the trend, according to a report by global HR consulting firm Mercer India . The projection comes amid a moderating economic environment, where salary hikes have largely remained in the high single-digit range. India Outpaces Global Salary Growth From a global perspective, India continues to emerge as one of the fastest-growing salary markets. Malathi KS, Rewards Consulting Leader at Mercer India, noted that India significantly outperforms developed economies such as the US, UK, Europe, and Japan , where salary growth typically ranges between 2% and 4% . This sustained momentum highlights India’s strong talent demand and evolving workforce dynamics, even as global economic conditions remain uncertain. Shift Towards Performance-Linked and Skills-Based Pay According to Mercer’s Total Remuneration Su...

iPhone chips to be made in India? Apple in talks with Indian chip manufacturers; why it's significant  Apple may be taking another major step in strengthening its India footprint, with early discussions underway to assemble and package iPhone chips within the country. If these talks progress, it could mark a significant milestone for India’s fast-growing semiconductor ecosystem and further diversify Apple’s global supply chain. Early Talks with Indian Semiconductor Players According to a report by The Economic Times , Apple has initiated preliminary discussions with Indian chip manufacturers for the assembly and packaging of iPhone components. Among the companies involved is CG Semi , part of the Murugappa Group, which is setting up an outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) facility in Sanand, Gujarat . While the discussions are still at an early stage, this is Apple’s first known evaluation of having specific chips assembled and packaged in India. CG Semi’s Gujarat ...

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated the Indian community in Oman as the Indian schooling system in the country completed 50 successful years. Addressing the Indian diaspora and students in Muscat during the Maitri Parv programme, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s cultural diversity as the foundation of its strength and global outlook. Diversity as India’s Cultural Strength Speaking to a vibrant gathering, Prime Minister Modi said that diversity is the soul of Indian culture. He noted that for Indians, every day brings new colours, every season turns into a festival, and every tradition carries a fresh idea. This cultural richness, he said, helps India connect naturally with societies across the world, including Oman. Maitri Parv: Celebrating Friendship and Shared Values The Maitri Parv programme marked five decades of the Indian schooling system in Oman, reflecting the deep-rooted educational and cultural ties between the two n...

  Rajeev Jhawar driving steady growth and investor confidence Rajeev Jhawar's robust growth path for Usha Martin continues to stand out in the current market landscape. Short-term sentiment frequently drives price movement in equity markets, but value is ultimately determined by steady financial performance over time. This idea explains why long-term investors are paying more attention to businesses that produce consistent earnings growth. These investors now favor Usha Martin, which is headed by Managing Director Rajeev Jhawar. Companies that exhibit both revenue growth and strong earnings are attracting more attention, according to recent market trends. This profile is consistently met by Rajeev Jhawar Usha Martin, which is reinforced by its steady demand position and prudent financial management. Over the previous three years, the company's earnings per share have increased at a remarkable annual rate of about 17%. Confidence that Usha Martin is structurally positioned for...

  Air India Pushes for Xinjiang Airspace Access as Financial Strain Deepens Air India is urging the Indian government to negotiate access to a restricted military airspace corridor over China’s Xinjiang region, as the carrier faces mounting financial pressure from Pakistan’s continued airspace restrictions. According to an internal company document, the airline believes that routing flights through Xinjiang could significantly shorten travel times and reduce operational costs. The request comes at a sensitive time, only weeks after direct flights between India and China resumed following a five-year suspension triggered by the Himalayan border confrontation. While the resumption marked a cautious thaw in relations, Air India’s push for special airspace access highlights the operational challenges the airline is currently confronting. Impact of Pakistan’s Airspace Closure Pakistan’s denial of overflight permissions has forced Air India to operate longer, fuel-intensive routes for se...

  A Delhi court on Wednesday remanded Jawed Ahmed Siddiqui , founder and chairman of the Al Falah Group, to 13 days of Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody in a significant money laundering probe. The order, issued by Additional Sessions Judge Sheetal Chaudhary Pradhan, underscores the gravity of the allegations and the necessity for custodial interrogation. Siddiqui was arrested late on November 18 under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), following searches across multiple premises linked to the Al Falah Group. The ED claims there is substantial evidence of “deception, misrepresentation, and movement of suspected proceeds of crime.” Financial Allegations and Misrepresentation The ED alleges that Al Falah University falsely claimed UGC recognition under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, despite never applying for it and being ineligible for grants. According to the University Grants Commission (UGC), the institution is recognized only under Section 2(f) as a s...

  BJP Appoints Central Observers for Bihar Legislature Party Meeting The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed a high-level team of senior leaders to oversee the election of the party’s legislature leader in Bihar, scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025. The move signals the party’s focused preparation as it works to strengthen its position in the State’s political landscape. According to an official party release, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has been named the central observer for the crucial meeting. Maurya, known for his organizational experience and political grounding, is expected to guide the internal election process with strategic oversight. Supporting him in the role are Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and former Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti , who have been appointed as co-observers. Their participation underscores the importance the BJP is placing on ensuring a smooth and transparent selection process within the Bihar legis...

Rajeev Jhawar is a pivotal figure in the success of Usha Martin, a leading manufacturing company renowned for its diverse range of wire rope products that serve critical applications worldwide. Established in 1960, Usha Martin has evolved into a multi-unit and multi-product organization under Jhawar’s stewardship. As the Managing Director, he leverages over three decades of experience to guide the company to new heights and secure its position as a global player in the wire rope industry. Rajeev Jhawar Leadership Journey Rajeev Jhawar, the son of Brij Kishore Jhawar, has been instrumental in shaping Usha Martin since he assumed the role of Managing Director on May 19, 2008. His leadership style prioritizes strategic growth and operational excellence. In addition to his responsibilities at Usha Martin, Jhawar also serves as a Director at Neutral Publishing House Ltd., reflecting his diverse business interests. Usha Martin’s Global Impact Usha Martin is celebrated for its high-quality w...

 Andri Gudjohnsen, now 22 and a striker for KAA Gent, is set to return to Stamford Bridge, the iconic stadium where his father, Eidur Gudjohnsen, made his mark in football history. As a child, Andri was captured in photos celebrating Chelsea's 2005 Premier League title win with his father, and now he’ll step onto the pitch himself, ready to take on the Blues. Eidur Gudjohnsen with his son Andri, who is set to take on Chelsea this Thursday. "It's quite typical, wasn’t it, to draw Chelsea?" Andri remarked ahead of the match. The Gudjohnsen name resonates deeply at Stamford Bridge, where Eidur helped the club secure its first title in 50 years under manager Jose Mourinho, a pivotal moment in the Roman Abramovich era. Reflecting on the connection, Andri shared, "The first thing I did was call my father. He already knew. It’s special for both of us. I was born while he played there; it's a unique draw." While Chelsea holds a significant place in the Gudjohnse...

 Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance by scoring twice in Inter Miami's thrilling 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew, securing the MLS Supporters' Shield for the first time in the club's history. The Argentine star kicked off the scoring with a close-range goal and followed up with a stunning free-kick just before halftime. Columbus Crew's Diego Rossi managed to narrow the gap, but Luis Suarez, a former Liverpool striker, restored Miami's two-goal lead. Although Cucho Hernandez scored a penalty for the Crew, Miami held on for the win. Lionel Messi (left) and Luis Suarez (right) each found the net in the 3-2 victory. This achievement marks a historic milestone for Inter Miami, as it finishes at the top of the table, having debuted in the league in 2020. For Messi, this victory adds to his illustrious career, bringing his total silverware count to 46. With this triumph, Miami gains home-field advantage in the upcoming post-season playoffs. Messi reflected on the team...

 OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has successfully raised $6.6 billion in its latest funding round, with investors like Microsoft reaffirming their strong commitment to artificial intelligence (AI). This funding elevates the company's valuation to $157 billion (£118 billion), positioning it alongside major financial institutions like Goldman Sachs and ranking it among the most valuable startups globally. The company indicated that this substantial influx of capital will enable it to enhance its AI research capabilities and maintain its leadership in the field. This funding comes at a time of heightened scrutiny surrounding OpenAI, particularly due to internal leadership changes and discussions about its future direction. CEO Sam Altman is reportedly restructuring the organization to transition into a for-profit model, which involves dismantling its non-profit board structure. While this shift has attracted significant investment, it has also led to dissatisfaction among some staff a...

 Toyota has announced a delay in its plans to manufacture electric vehicles (EVs) in the US, citing a decline in global demand for battery-powered cars. Originally aiming to commence production in late 2025 or early 2026, the company now anticipates launching its US EV operations at an unspecified time in 2026, according to a spokesperson. Despite the setback, Toyota remains committed to its global target of producing 1.5 million battery electric vehicles by 2026. The automaker plans to introduce "5 to 7 BEVs in the US market" within the next two years, emphasized spokesperson Scott Vazin. The Japanese automaker is the latest major player to reduce its electric vehicle ambitions. Earlier this year, Toyota revealed a $1.3 billion investment in its Kentucky factory to develop a new three-row electric SUV, with additional plans for another electric model at a plant in Indiana. To support these initiatives, Toyota is also ramping up lithium-ion battery production with a new facil...

 As American voters prepare for the November election, the choice is clear between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump. Here’s a breakdown of their key policies on various issues:  A graphic comparing key policy positions of Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump ahead of the November election Economy Harris prioritizes reducing food and housing costs for working families, promising to ban price-gouging on groceries and assist first-time homebuyers. Trump aims to “end inflation and make America affordable again,” proposing lower interest rates and suggesting that deporting undocumented immigrants will relieve housing pressures. Immigration Harris has focused on addressing the root causes of the southern border crisis, raising funds for regional investments. Despite recent increases in border crossings, she has toughened her stance, emphasizing her prosecutorial experience against human trafficking. Trump plans to com...

 In a surprisingly civil vice-presidential debate on Tuesday night, Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Walz addressed key issues facing American voters ahead of the November 5 election. Unlike the heated presidential debates earlier this year, this 90-minute conversation on CBS News in New York focused more on their opponents than on direct confrontations. While Walz initially struggled, he gained confidence discussing abortion and the January 6 Capitol riot. Vance, known for his polished speaking style, remained composed and offered a more approachable version of Trump's conservative messaging. He stated, "Donald Trump was president. Inflation was low. Take-home pay was higher," reinforcing his candidate's economic record. The debate featured moments of agreement, with both candidates acknowledging common ground on certain issues. When Walz shared a personal story about his son witnessing a shooting, Vance expressed genuine concern, highlighting a more human side t...

 For several years, Masato Kanda had a grueling schedule, often joking, “Three hours a night is an exaggeration.” Speaking to the BBC from Tokyo, the former vice finance minister for international affairs recounted his relentless routine, balancing crucial responsibilities that made sleep elusive. As Japan's top currency diplomat, Kanda faced the challenge of countering currency market speculators, particularly during his tenure when the yen's value plummeted, leading to a cost of living crisis. Historically, Japan's authorities have intervened to weaken the yen to benefit exporters like Toyota and Sony, but this time, the weakening yen raised the costs of essential imports, including food and fuel. Over his three years in the role, the yen depreciated by more than 45% against the U.S. dollar. To combat this decline, Kanda deployed an estimated 25 trillion yen (around $173 billion) to stabilize the currency—Japan's first intervention of this scale in nearly 25 years. Ma...

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have visited southeastern U.S. states impacted by Hurricane Helene, where the death toll has now reached 180. Biden conducted an aerial survey of North and South Carolina to gauge the extensive destruction caused by the storm. Search-and-rescue teams continue to face challenges, with hundreds of people still unaccounted for in remote areas. To bolster recovery efforts, Biden has deployed 1,000 active-duty soldiers alongside 6,000 National Guard members and 4,800 federal aid workers already engaged in six states affected by the hurricane. Aid is being delivered through airdrops and on horseback, with officials warning that recovery could take years. U.S. President Joe Biden speaks about the response to Hurricane Helene during remarks at the White House in Washington. Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, traveled to Georgia on Wednesday, another state heavily impacted by the storm. Both North Carolina and Georgia are crucial sw...

 U.S. President Joe Biden, accompanied by Vice President Kamala Harris, traveled to South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia on Wednesday to survey the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene, which has claimed over 160 lives in the Southeast. Biden arrived in Greer, South Carolina, where he was greeted by Governor Henry McMaster, Senator Lindsey Graham, and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. After an intense discussion on the tarmac, he took a helicopter for an aerial assessment of the affected areas. Before departing Washington, Biden ordered the immediate deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty troops to support response and recovery efforts. According to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, search-and-rescue teams have conducted nearly 1,500 structural evaluations and facilitated hundreds of rescues. Marine One transports U.S. President Joe Biden as he visits North and South Carolina to assess storm damage and meet with officials following Hurricane Helene. For...

Singapore’s former Minister for Transport and Minister-in-Charge of Trade Relations, S. Iswaran, arrives at the Supreme Court for his sentencing. On October 3, 2024, Singapore’s former Transport Minister S. Iswaran was sentenced to one year in prison after pleading guilty to five charges related to corruption and obstructing justice. This ruling follows his court appearance on September 24. The sentence exceeds the prosecution's request of six to seven months, which Justice Vincent Hoong deemed “manifestly inadequate.” The judge emphasized that higher-ranking public officials bear greater culpability for their actions. Iswaran is the first individual prosecuted under Section 165 in post-independence Singapore. While the defense cited his public service and voluntary return of benefits as mitigating factors, Justice Hoong noted that these were neutral considerations at best. The judge highlighted that the numerous similar charges against Iswaran demonstrated a pattern of misconduct ...

Hyderabad batter Tanmay Agarwal shattered records by slamming a triple century in just 147 deliveries during the Ranji Trophy match against Arunachal Pradesh on Friday. Hyderabad ended up scoring 529 runs in just 48 overs for the loss of one wicket with Agarwal breaking a plethora of records with his impressive knock. This was the first time ever that a batter slammed a triple century in under 150 balls in a first-class cricket match.   Tanmay Agarwal shattered records According to Wisden Almanack, the first 'first-class' cricket match was played in 1772 and as a result, this was the first time that this feat was achieved in around 252 years. This was the fastest triple-century in first-class cricket as Agarwal surpassed the previous record held by Marco Marais since 2017. Agarwal's innings had 33 fours and 21 sixes - another record in first-class cricket as it is now the highest number of sixes hit in an innings beating Ishan Kishan's previous record. The 28-year-old a...