Make in India

Cyient DLM and Deutsche Aircraft have expanded their partnership for the D328eco aircraft. Cyient DLM will design, develop, and manufacture the cabin management system (CMS) in India, supporting the 'Make in India' initiative. The CMS will feature a user-friendly touchscreen interface and advanced technology, enhancing the passenger experience and setting new standards for regional aviation.

Rajesh Kumar Singh and David Williams co-chaired the India-UK Defence Consultative Group meet in London. They discussed strengthening military cooperation and defence capabilities. Nirmala Sitharaman and Rachel Reeves held the India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue. The UK announced 400 million euros in export and investment deals with India. Both sides reaffirmed commitment to collaboration in financial services and digital economy.

India is considering zero-duty imports from the US across various sectors, including those under the PLI scheme, to expedite a bilateral trade agreement and reverse reciprocal tariffs. This offer is contingent on strict rules of origin, requiring 30-40% value addition.

The Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, in collaboration with the Zoological Survey of India, is striving to resurrect the extinct Indian cheetah. Scientists are in the final phase of whole genome sequencing and plan to use gene editing on African cheetah DNA to make it India-specific.

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Samsung Electronics' television business remains less impacted by the US tariffs due to most of its North American TV units being produced in Mexico, which largely escaped Trump's new tariff policies. However, they are cautious and plan to adjust production across their global bases, considering future tariff changes.

Congress has denounced the ED's National Herald case as a politically motivated attack orchestrated by the BJP, asserting that Young India, a not-for-profit entity, has not engaged in any financial impropriety. AICC leaders highlighted the absence of any crime under relevant laws, accusing the Modi government of diverting attention from critical issues like unemployment and economic decline.

Amidst US trade tensions, Chinese firms like Shanghai Highly and Haier are showing increased flexibility towards Indian regulations, now accepting minority ownership in joint ventures. This shift is driven by potential exclusion from the US market and India's attractive manufacturing incentives. India's stable environment and tariff advantages are drawing foreign investments, positioning it as a key alternative to China.

Airbus Helicopters has awarded Mahindra Aerostructures a contract to manufacture the main fuselage assembly of the H130 helicopter as part of India's "Make in India" initiative. The assembly will be shipped to Airbus' European facilities, with the first delivery scheduled for March 2027. This collaboration reflects India's growing aerospace capabilities and Airbus' commitment to strengthening its ties with India’s industrial ecosystem.

Amidst the trade tensions between the US and China, India emerges as a key player. Companies like Apple are shifting production to India. This shift is due to tariffs and India's conciliatory trade stance. The Indian government is providing incentives to boost manufacturing. While challenges remain, India is well-positioned to benefit from the global supply chain shifts.

The most viable option for India at this stage would be to conclude India-US trade agreement discussions and reach a consensus which would help both countries to align for respective economic growth.