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With normalcy gradually returning after several days of disruption that left masses of passengers puzzled and irked, IndiGo said it aims to operate over 1,950 flights on Thursday, December 11. The private sector airline faced a severe crisis last week, leading to thousands of flight cancellations and delays, massive congestion at major airports across the country and passengers waiting in long queues.

<h2>IndiGo's Network fully reconnected, operations stabilised</h2>

In a statement, an IndiGo spokesperson said all destinations in the airline's network were fully connected from December 8, and operations stabilised from December 9.

The carrier said it has been improving its services “day by day”, stating that it is operating more than 1,900 flights that connect all 138 destinations across its network.

The airline said it is expected to operate over 1,950 flights on December 11, carrying approximately 3,00,000 passengers.

<h2>Also Read: <a href="https://www.zeebiz.com/economy-infra/aviation/news-indigo-board-to-bring-external-experts-to-investigate-flight-disruptions-apologises-to-stranded-passengers-indigo-chairman-385436">IndiGo board to bring external experts to investigate flight disruptions, apologises to stranded passengers: IndiGo Chairman</a></h2>

<h2>Improved reliability and minimal cancellations</h2>

IndiGo said its schedule has remained “reliable” over the past three days, with same-day cancellations restricted to negligible numbers and occurring only due to weather, technical issues or other uncontrollable factors.

According to the airline’s day-wise operational data:

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:305px;" width="304">
	<colgroup>
		<col />
		<col />
		<col />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr data-end="194" data-start="123" height="77">
			<td class="rtecenter" height="77" style="height:77px;width:101px;">Date</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" style="width:107px;">Flights Operated</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" style="width:97px;">Same-Day Cancellations</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="19">
			<td class="rtecenter" height="19" style="height:19px;width:101px;">Dec 8</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="309" data-start="286" style="width:107px;">&gt;1,700</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="340" data-start="309" style="width:97px;">1</td>
		</tr>
		<tr data-end="413" data-start="341" height="19">
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="359" data-start="341" height="19" style="height:19px;width:101px;">Dec 9</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="382" data-start="359" style="width:107px;">&gt;1,800</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="413" data-start="382" style="width:97px;">0</td>
		</tr>
		<tr data-end="486" data-start="414" height="19">
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="432" data-start="414" height="19" style="height:19px;width:101px;">Dec&nbsp;10</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="455" data-start="432" style="width:107px;">&gt;1,900</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="486" data-start="455" style="width:97px;">2</td>
		</tr>
		<tr data-end="559" data-start="487" height="58">
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="505" data-start="487" height="58" style="height:58px;width:101px;">Dec&nbsp;11</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="528" data-start="505" style="width:107px;">&gt;1,950 (Expected)</td>
			<td class="rtecenter" data-col-size="sm" data-end="559" data-start="528" style="width:97px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

The airline added that the steady improvement reflects incremental gains across its operations.

<h2>Also Read: <a href="https://www.zeebiz.com/economy-infra/aviation/news-indigo-to-offer-rs-10000-vouchers-to-severely-impacted-customers-heres-how-to-claim-385463">IndiGo to offer Rs 10,000 vouchers to severely impacted customers — here's how to claim</a></h2>

<h2>IndiGo Crisis: On-time performance restored</h2>

IndiGo said its on-time performance has returned to its usual top-tier standards, driven by what it termed significant efficiency gains over the past few days.

“As the IndiGo team works hand-in-hand with authorities to further normalise our operations, we remain focused on safety, efficiency, and support to every customer,” a spokesperson said.

<h2>External review and accountability measures</h2>

Earlier, IndiGo Chairman Vikram Singh Mehta had said the airline’s board would appoint external technical experts to work with management to identify the root causes behind last week’s large-scale disruptions.

He said these experts would help strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent a repeat of the crisis. Mehta also apologised to passengers affected by the disruptions between December 3 and 5.

With normalcy gradually returning after several days of disruption, IndiGo said it aims to operate over 1,950 flights on Thursday, December 11. The airline spokesperson said it has shown gradual improvement and its flight schedule has been largely "reliable" for the past three days"


All hunky-dory at IndiGo? Airline nears full recovery, set to operate 1,950 flights after chaotic week

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) inspected Delhi Airport's runway 28/10&nbsp;today, May 5. The runway was closed from April 8, 2024, for an Instrument Landing System (ILS) upgrade.

The inspection is part of a larger project, and it will be shut down again on June 15 for further work. The runway will be fully operational by September 15.

The abrupt decision comes after days of significant delays brought on by the early Easterly winds, which are unusual at this time of year. In these circumstances, a plane may only land from the Dwarka side and take off in the direction of Vasant Vihar. Operations have slowed down as a result, especially regarding arrivals.

Replying to a&nbsp;Zee Business tweet, Delhi Airport said, "We would like to inform you that part upgrade work on Runway 28/10 at Delhi Airport was carried out as per agreement with key stakeholders. As per standard procedure, the DGCA will soon conduct a detailed inspection and regular flight operations are expected to resume."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We would like to inform you that part upgrade work on Runway 28/10 at Delhi Airport was carried out as per agreement with key stakeholders. As per standard procedure, the DGCA will soon conduct a detailed inspection, and regular flight operations are expected to resume (1/3)
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1919277344361242902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"As per approved plan, Runway 28/10 will be closed again from mid-June to mid-Sep' 25, following the peak tourist season, when wind direction is also expected to shift. Rest assured, we are working diligently with airlines and all stakeholders to minimize anym" it added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
soon. 
 
As per approved plan, Runway 28/10 will be closed again from mid-June to mid-Sep' 25, following the peak tourist season, when wind direction is also expected to shift. Rest assured, we are working diligently with airlines and all stakeholders to minimize any (2/3)
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1919277346252841192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
inconvenience. 
 
We appreciate the patience and cooperation during this period and remain committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency at Delhi Airport. (3/3)
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1919277348089917607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Delhi airport has three operational runways -- RW 09/27, RW 11R/29L, and RW 11L/29R.

The original plan was to close Runway 28/10 starting on April 1 in order to make improvements before the winter fog season. The absence of CAT III ILS on the Vasant Vihar end of the runway caused significant operational difficulties for IGIA in the winter of 2023–2024. The now-deferred renovation was supposed to include a CAT IIIB ILS for the other end (Dwarka side).

The inspection is part of a larger project, and it will be shut down again on June 15 for further work. The runway will be fully&nbsp;operational by September 15.


Delhi Airport runway 28/10 to remain closed from mid-June to mid-September

Giving a major push to the Digital UP Mission, the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has announced the replacement of traditional vehicle registration booklets with chip-enabled smart cards, making the administrative process more convenient for vehicle owners while ensuring greater transparency in government operations.

<h2>Here are key benefits for vehicle owners:&nbsp;</h2>

- More durable than paper-based booklets, which can be damaged by water or wear and tear. 
- Microchip-enabled security to prevent forgery.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
- Faster verification by police and transport authorities.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
- Digital records reduce bureaucratic delays and corruption.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>How does the smart card RC work?</h2>

As stated by Minister of State for Transport (Independent Charge) Dayashankar Singh, the smart card RC will have two types of data, visibly over the card and one that will be readable through a separate card reader.

Some physical details, visible to the human eye, and some machine-readabledetails, only interpretable by a card reader, will be present on the smart card. These physical details are the vehicle registration number, date, validity, chassis number, engine number, owner name and address. It will also specify the fuel type, emission standards, model and color of vehicle.

It will also log information for seating, standing, and sleeping capacity, weight capacity, horsepower, wheelbase, and financier information. The machine-readable data will comprise the complete registration and ownership records, challan history, permits, and financing details. It will also include information on trailer or semi-trailer attachments and any retrofitting modifications made to the vehicle.

<h2>Enhanced transparency and security</h2>

With this development, the Transportation&nbsp;Department and law enforcement agencies will be able to verify RC authenticity instantly using a card reader, reducing the risk of fraud and duplication. The digitalisation effort is also expected to cut down on paperwork and improve efficiency for vehicle owners across the state.

As stated by Minister of State for Transport (Independent Charge) Dayashankar Singh, the smart card RC will have two types of data, visibly over the card and one that will be readable through a separate card reader.


No more paper RCs? CM Yogi Adityanath announces vehicle registration via smart card in Uttar Pradesh

India's Consumer Affairs Minister, Pralhad Joshi, announced that the Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued a notice to Apple Inc. regarding performance issues with iPhones after the iOS 18+ software update.

This move comes after the National Consumer Helpline received complaints about problems with iPhones following the update.

The CCPA examined these grievances and is now looking forward to a response from Apple.

The notice asks Apple to explain the reported technical issues with the software update.

Many iPhone users have experienced problems such as battery drain, overheating, and glitches after updating to iOS 18. Some users have even reported issues with CarPlay, Safari, and YouTube Music not working properly.

This is not the first time Apple has faced regulatory scrutiny in India.

As an important growth market for smartphone manufacturers, Apple's operations in India are under close watch.

The CCPA's notice marks the latest effort to ensure that technology giants like Apple are held accountable for any issues with their products or services.

Apple will likely need to respond to the CCPA's notice and address the concerns of Indian iPhone users.

With the iOS 18 update, Apple aimed to provide new features and improvements, but it seems that the update has also brought some unintended problems.

Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi stated that the Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued a notice to Apple regarding performance issues with iPhones after the iOS 18+ software update.


CCPA issues notice to Apple over iPhone performance concerns post iOS 18+ software update

Severe fog conditions in the Delhi-NCR region have impacted rail services, causing widespread delays in train operations.

As of Friday, January 3, 2024, in the morning, 24 trains departing from or arriving at Delhi-NCR region railway stations, including Hazrat Nizamuddin and New Delhi, are running behind schedule due to reduced visibility caused by the heavy fog.

Here is a list of trains that are affected by the weather:

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:404px;" width="404">
	<colgroup>
		<col />
	</colgroup>
	<tbody>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;width:404px;">Gorakhdham Express (12555) - 172 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Farakka Express (15743) - 161 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Bihar Sharif Kranti Express (12565) - 198 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Mahabodhi Express (12397) - 255 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Kalindi Express (14117) - 181 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Brahmaputra Express (15658) - 229 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Shram Shakti Express (12451) - 199 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Baba Dham Express (22465) - 175 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">New Delhi Humsafar Express (12275) - 202 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Rewa Anand Vihar Terminal Express (12427) - 175 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">RJPB Tejas Rajdhani Express (12309) - 134 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Ayodhya Express (14205) - 245 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Dhauladhar Express (14036) - 104 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Malwa Express (12919) - 195 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Jabalpur-Nizamuddin SF Express (22181) - 169 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">ABKP-Nizamuddin Superfast Express (22407) - 164 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">AP Express (20805) - 134 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">UP Sampark Kranti (12447) - 187 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Mewar Express (12964) - 92 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Chhattisgarh Sampark Kranti Express (12823) - 90 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">LTT-Haridwar Superfast Express (12171) - 167 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">RKMP-Nizamuddin Superfast Express (12155) - 84 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Telangana Express (12723) - 109 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Sampark Kranti Express (12649) - 98 minutes late</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Passengers are advised to check the live status of their trains through official railway platforms before heading to the stations.

As of Friday, January 3, 2024, in the morning, 24 trains departing from or arriving in Delhi are running behind schedule due to reduced visibility caused by the heavy fog.


Dense fog disrupts rail services in Delhi-NCR, 24 trains running late

The Income Tax department issued a clarification today, December 30 denying the media reports suggesting that data from the DigiYatra app would be used to track tax evaders.

In a social media post on X, the I-T department wrote, "It is seen that news articles have appeared stating that Digiyatra data will be used to crack down on tax evaders. In this connection it is clarified that as on date there is no such move by the @IncomeTaxIndia department."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It is seen that news articles have appeared stating that Digiyatra data will be used to crack down on tax evaders. 
In this connection it is clarified that as on date there is no such move by the <a href="https://twitter.com/IncomeTaxIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IncomeTaxIndia</a> department.<a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharamanoffc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharamanoffc</a><a href="https://twitter.com/officeofPCM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@officeofPCM</a><a href="https://twitter.com/FinMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FinMinIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a>
— Income Tax India (@IncomeTaxIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/IncomeTaxIndia/status/1873676788485718179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a media report, it was stated citing sources, "the tax department has accessed the entire passenger data captured on the DigiYatra app, and the same is being reconciled with tax filings to check for discrepancies in declared income. The tax department would start issuing notices in 2025 based on the DigiYatra data."

According to the article, the tax agency would target those who do not submit tax returns first, followed by those who underreport their income. It implied that data from domestic and foreign travellers was being scrutinised, with frequent or high-value travel, particularly international excursions, potentially indicating persons whose claimed wages could not justify such expenditures.

Commenting on this, DigiYatra CEO Suresh Khadakabhavi posted on X and said, "No central storage of biometric or personal data exists. Data stays on users’ phones, and facial authentication is decentralized. 9M+ users &amp; 42M+ secure journeys. Privacy remains non-negotiable."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Digi Yatra CEO, Mr Suresh Khadakabhavi, responds to The New Indian Express's claims: no central storage of biometric, or personal data stays on users’ phones, and facial authentication is decentralized. 9M+ users &amp; 42M+ secure journeys. Privacy remains non-negotiable. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DigiYatra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DigiYatra</a> <a href="https://t.co/M4byGTHEgp">pic.twitter.com/M4byGTHEgp</a>
— Digi Yatra Official (@DigiYatraOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DigiYatraOffice/status/1873676160917447043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Based on Facial Recognition Technology (FRT), Digi Yatra provides for contactless, seamless movement of passengers at various check points at airports.

The data shared by a passenger for Digi Yatra is stored in an encrypted format. For availing the service, a passenger has to register his or her details on the Digi Yatra app using Aadhaar-based validation and a self-image capture. In the next step, the boarding pass has to be scanned and the credentials are shared with the airport.

Digi Yatra is managed by the Digi Yatra Foundation. Its shareholders are Airport Authority of India (AAI), Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL), Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL), Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (HIAL) and Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL).

With inputs from agencies

The data shared by a passenger for Digi Yatra is stored in an encrypted format. For availing the service, a passenger has to register his or her details on the Digi Yatra app using Aadhaar-based validation and a self-image capture. In the next step, the boarding pass has to be scanned and the credentials are shared with the airport.


I-T department denies plans to use DigiYatra data to crack down on tax evaders

FOPL rules: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) will soon release amended Front of Package Labelling (FOPL) rules, which will be implemented in a phased manner, according to an exclusive Zee Business report citing sources. FOPL is simplified nutrition information on the front of food packaging which aims to help consumers with their food choices.

The first phase will comprise a mandatory warning on the packaging of baby food products clearly mentioning the quantity of sugar on a yellow slip, according to the sources.&nbsp;Zee Business also learned from sources that the size of the yellow slip will be determined by the proportion of sugar content in the product. For instance, if a product contains 10 per cent sugar, the yellow slip will mandatorily cover 10 per cent of the front side of the packaging, they said.&nbsp;

Analysts say such a move will impact food manufacturers such as Nestle, Patanjali and Wockhardt.&nbsp;

Preparation for colour warning on packets of ready-to-eat products. The first phase will include a warning on baby food packets. Yellow strips will be made mandatory to indicate sugar level. The sugar quantity will be written on the strip. The size of the strip will be in the same proportion.

For all other news related to business, politics, tech and auto, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://zeebiz.com/" target="_blank">Zeebiz.com</a>.

FOPL rules:&nbsp;The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) will soon release amended Front of Package Labelling (FOPL) rules, which will be implemented in a phased manner, according to an exclusive Zee Business report citing sources.&nbsp;


Zee Business Exclusive | Regulator may amend baby food product labelling rules soon 

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced its tie-up with Swiggy Foods for the supply and delivery of pre-ordered meals to train passengers through the IRCTC's e-catering portal. The MoU is&nbsp;signed on Tuesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Swiggy will deliver at the same rate as restaurants with more delivery charges. This facility will be on AI and A2 railway stations, there are more than 350 stations.&nbsp;This facility will be launched soon at Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam railway stations as part of the first phase of the scheme later to 60 stations.&nbsp;

"The IRCTC has tied up with Bundl Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (Swiggy Foods) for the supply and delivery of pre-ordered meals through the IRCTC e-catering portal as a PoC (proof of concept) in the first phase at four railway stations: Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam. "The eCatering service through Bundl Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (Swiggy Foods) may be available soon," the IRCTC said in a stock exchange filing.

&nbsp;

<h2>IRCTC share price&nbsp; 
&nbsp;</h2>

At around 11:41 a.m., shares of IRCTC traded&nbsp;at Rs 930&nbsp;apiece.

<h2>IRCTC Swiggy Foods: How to order food on trains? 
&nbsp;</h2>

Passengers can order food after entering the PNR (Passenger Name Record) number to access a variety of restaurant options available for their journey. Once they have made their selections, they must proceed to place their order, choosing to pay online or give cash on delivery. The ordered meals will then be delivered directly to the passengers' seats.

This facility will be launched soon at Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam railway stations as part of the first phase of the scheme.&nbsp;


IRCTC partners with Swiggy to offer food delivery at railway stations - Check details here

Leading private airline Spicejet has received growing investor interest, evident from the fact that the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has reportedly acquired shares of the airline from the open market. Confirming the development, a SpiceJet spokesperson said, "Yes, ADIA has acquired shares of the airline from the open market."

SpiceJet's recent capital infusion of Rs 1,060 crore through a preferential issue, along with efforts to streamline its balance sheet and resolve outstanding issues with lessors, such as the Rs 250 crore settlement with Celestial Aviation, has garnered significant attention from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs). This positive trajectory has led to a notable surge in SpiceJet's stock price, doubling its value.

The ownership of Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) in SpiceJet has witnessed a remarkable surge, increasing by 5.88 per cent, from 0.33 per cent in December 2023 to 6.21 per cent in February 2024.

Key investors, including Aries Opportunities Fund Limited, Elara India Opportunities Fund Limited, and aircraft leasing giant Carlyle Aviation Partners, already have a substantial stake in SpiceJet.

As per sources close to the airline, part of the funds infusion will be allocated towards settling past liabilities.

On February 28, Spicejet had mutually settled their Rs 250 crore dispute through amicable negotiations with Celestial Aviation, a subsidiary of AerCap, one of the largest aircraft lessor groups.

More details awaited.

The ownership of Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) in SpiceJet has witnessed a remarkable surge, increasing by 5.88 per cent, from 0.33 per cent in December 2023 to 6.21 per cent in February 2024.


Abu Dhabi Investment Authority acquires SpiceJet shares from open market

IndiGo hikes air ticket price: Budget airline IndiGo has introduced a fuel charge on domestic and international routes on Thursday, September 5 — a move that will likely pinch the pockets of many who plan to travel in the festive season and year-end holidays in the coming months. As per the airline, the hike in ticket prices will be effective from midnight (00:01 hrs, October 06, 2023).&nbsp;

The airline, in its official release, stated that the move to introduce fuel charge (that will lead to an increase in ticket prices) comes after a significant increase in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices.

Indigo has said that ATF prices have surged in the last three months with consecutive price hikes every month.&nbsp;

The airline further informed that ATF accounts for a substantial portion of an airline's operating expenses — and the rise in fuel cost necessitated fare adjustment to address such a cost surge.

Under this pricing structure, the airline said that passengers booking IndiGo flights will incur a fuel charge, per sector, based on the sector distance.&nbsp;

The fuel charge based on the sector distance will be based on the below chart —&nbsp;

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As per the formula, for journeys upto 500 kms, Indigo will levy a fuel charge of Rs 300. And for flights ranging between 501 kms to 1000 kms, the airline will levy an addition Rs 400 as fuel charge.

Those traveling between 1001 kms to 1500 kms on Indigo flights will have to pay an addition Rs 550, and, going forward, a fuel charge of Rs 650 will be levied on passengers taking flights between 1501 kms to 2500 kms.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

An additional fuel charge of Rs 800 will have to be incurred by those flying between 2510 kms to 3500 kms, and the maximum fuel charge levy of Rs 1000 will have to be borne by those travelers flying for more than 3501&nbsp;kms on Indigo airlines.

<h2>IndiGo cancels 76 flights</h2>

Earlier, Indigo had said that due to&nbsp;the mega air show planned at&nbsp;Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh,&nbsp;on the occasion of Air Force Day (October 8), it has cancelled 76 of its flights.

<a href="https://www.zeebiz.com/economy-infra/aviation/news-flight-cancellation-76-flights-cancelled-till-october-8-check-the-status-of-your-flight-indigo-sangam-air-force-day-prayagraj-president-draupadi-murmu-257531">Also Read -&nbsp;Flight Cancellation: 76 flights cancelled till October 8, check the status of your flight</a>

&nbsp;

Alliance Air said that it had changed the schedule of its flights because of the mega air show, adding that it would delay its flights by one hour.

The airline further informed that ATF accounts for a substantial portion of an airline's operating expenses — and the rise in fuel cost necessitated fare adjustment to address such a cost surge.


IndiGo introduces fuel charge, hikes airfares by upto Rs 1000: Check revised airfare

The Uttar Pradesh government approved on Tuesday (September 12) the proposal to establish a new industrial city in Bundelkhand on the lines of Noida. In the first phase of the development to establish the city, 35,000 acres of land in 33 revenue villages in Jhansi will be acquired. The Yogi Adityanath-led government will sanction an amount of Rs 5,000 crore for the formation of the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority.&nbsp;

Because of the new city's projects, Jhansi and its surrounding districts will get a development boost, and new employment opportunities will also be created in those places.

The UP government said that the decision to establish a new industrial city had been taken 47 years after the formation of Noida in 1976.

<h2>Acquisition of 35,000 acres of land in first phase</h2>

After the UP government cabinet meeting, the state's Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Suresh Khanna, gave detailed information about the new city's proposals.

He said that in the first phase of the project, an industrial city will be established by acquiring 35,000 acres of land from 33 revenue villages in Jhansi.

He said the price of this land is estimated to be Rs 6,312 crore.

<h2>Provision of additional Rs 5,000 crore made</h2>

Khanna said that a provision of Rs 5,000 crore was made by the UP government in the financial year 2022-23 for the formation of the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority and this year (2023-24), Chief Minister Industrial Area Expansion and New Industrial Area Promotion Scheme.

A provision of Rs 5,000 crore has been made as a loan under the item. Of the land that will be acquired, 8,000 acres belong to the village society.

<h2>Connectivity between major cities</h2>

Khanna said the area around Jhansi would be developed on a large scale.

Through this, there is a plan to develop an industrial city on a total of 14,000 hectares of land.

This industrial city is proposed on the Jhansi-Gwalior route, which will also be connected to major cities in the country through the National Highway.

It will also be connected to other cities in the state through the Bundelkhand Expressway, passing through the Jalaun district from National Highway 27.

<h2>Employment opportunities&nbsp;</h2>

He said that under the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority, all the necessary facilities required for industrial establishments, including a township, will be included.

Its formation will lead to the overall development of the area and the generation of employment on a large scale.

Khanna said that the public will also get employment opportunities along with regional development, which will yield direct benefits.

He said that the step will also make a huge contribution to the development of the state.

In the first phase of the development to establish the city, 35,000 acres of land in 33 revenue villages in Jhansi will be acquired. The UP government will sanction an amount of Rs 5,000 crore for the formation of the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority.&nbsp;

&nbsp;


UP govt gives nod to establish industrial city in Bundelkhand on the lines of Noida

The Delhi High Court on Thursday rejected interim relief to low-cost airline SpiceJet and its Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Ajay Singh, who challenged a single-judge order upholding, in favour of Sun Group Chairman Kalanithi Maran and Kal Airways, an arbitral award passed by the tribunal comprising three retired Supreme Court judges.

A division bench of Justices Yashwant Varma and Dharmesh Sharma said that it cannot stay the order dated July 31 in view of the Supreme Court's direction of February 13 this year. The court, however, issued notice to Maran and Kal Airways.

After the judgement of the Delhi HC, SpiceJet spokesperson said in a statement, "The Division Bench of the Delhi High Court today admitted the appeal of SpiceJet and Ajay Singh and issued notice to Kalanithi Maran and Kal Airways. The Court also stated that they would grant an expedited hearing in the matter. We are hopeful for an expeditious resolution of the appeal. We are committed to presenting our matter diligently and respectfully, seeking a just and fair resolution."

The statement further said, "Also, in the enforcement petition filed by Kalanithi Maran and Kal Airways, the Court in consultation and with the consent of SpiceJet directed the Company to pay ₹100 Crore by 10 September, 2023. SpiceJet will honour the Delhi High Court’s order and make the specified payment within the prescribed timeframe."

On July 31, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh had pronounced the verdict in a section 34 petition filed by the parties in connection with the above-mentioned arbitral award dated July 20, 2018, wherein the decree holders -- Kal Airways and Kalanithi Maran -- were awarded a refund of Rs 308 crore towards the warrants, as well as a refund of Rs 270 crore towards Cumulative Redeemable Preference Shares (CRPS).

Additionally, they were also awarded an interest of 12 per cent towards pendente lite and an interest of 18 per cent from the last due date, in case the payments directed to be made by SpiceJet and its Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Ajay Singh are not completed within two months from the date of the award.

SpiceJet Singh had challenged the arbitral award by filing a Section 34 petition, seeking to set aside the refund of Rs 270 crore granted to Kal Airways and Maran. Furthermore, they requested the waiver of 12 per cent interest towards warrants and the setting aside of the 18 per cent interest granted under the award for both warrants and CRPS.

On the other hand, Kal Airways and Maran also filed a Section 34 petition, seeking the setting aside of the award to the extent no interest was granted in the amount of Rs 270 crore. They also claimed damages for non-issuance of warrants and CRPS. The high court had dismissed the Section 34 petitions filed by the parties.

After careful consideration and hearing all arguments, the judge found no valid reason to interfere with the arbitral award. On July 24, the high court issued notice to SpiceJet Ltd and Singh in Kal Airways and Maran's application seeking an urgent hearing of its enforcement petition in a case where the former is to pay approximately Rs 390 crore to it towards its interest liability under the arbitral award.

Allowing the application, a bench of Justice Yogesh Khanna had directed SpiceJet and its CMD to file an affidavit disclosing all their assets before the next date of hearing, September 5, and also mandated the physical presence of Singh before it.

The Supreme Court had, on February 13, directed SpiceJet to pay Rs 75 crore to decree holder (Kal Airways and Maran) within a period of three months towards its interest liability under the arbitral award, and had also clarified that in the event of failure to pay, the entire award would become executable in entirety in favour of decree holder.

On the applications seeking further time extension that were moved by SpiceJet for two more months as the three months time period had expired on May 13, and it failed in honouring the top court's order, senior advocate Maninder Singh, appearing for the decree holder, informed the court that the apex court order of February 13 has been now reaffirmed by another order dated July 7, whereby the time applications of SpiceJet are also dismissed.&nbsp;

The apex court, while dismissing the same, observed that SpiceJet's application is nothing but a delay tactic to not pay money even when there are court orders directing the same.

Singh told the high court that SpiceJet is not honouring the orders passed by any of the courts, and has earlier too failed to comply with the order passed by this court dated November 4, 2020, directing the airlines to file its affidavit of disclosure of its assets.

It was also reaffirmed by an order dated May 29 by this court and the same is not filed to date, he apprised the court. He submitted before Justice Khanna's bench that Order XXI Rule 41 (iii) of the Code of Civil Procedure clearly provides that the court may, for a period not exceeding three months, pass an order of arrest of the Judgement Debtor for not complying with the order to file an affidavit of assets.

Following the top court's order dated February 13, the high court had on May 29, directed SpiceJet and Ajay Singh to pay the entire executable amount under the award to the decree holder.

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&nbsp;

A division bench of Justices Yashwant Varma and Dharmesh Sharma said that it cannot stay the order dated July 31 in view of the Supreme Court's direction of February 13 this year. The court, however, issued notice to Maran and Kal Airways.


Kalanithi Maran vs SpiceJet: Delhi HC refuses to stay single-judge order upholding arbitral award against airline

TRAI has stated that it has been receiving several complaints from mobile subscribers&nbsp;regarding call drops and other network-related issues, especially after rollout of 5G services. Although telecom operators have rolled out 5G services in major cities across the country, users still complain of poor network coverage and slow and unreliable internet connectivity. Taking stock of these complaints, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a consultation paper on 'Review of Quality-of-Service Standards for Access Services (Wireless and Wireline) and Broadband (Wireless and Wireline) Services' on Friday, 18 August, with an aim to improve call quality and internet speed&nbsp;and coverage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Responding to complaints of frequent call drops and poor internet quality, TRAI said that it will review the Quality of service (QoS) and it has issued the consultation paper in this regard. The telecom regulator has sought consultation regarding broadband internet and wireless services, with September 20&nbsp;being the last date for suggestions and objections, and October 5&nbsp;being the last day for counter suggestions.&nbsp;The comments and counter-comments can be emailed to gos1@trai.gov.in.

As 4G and 5G networks are providing much wider coverage in the country (as&nbsp;compared to the 2G and 3G networks), the telecom regulator&nbsp;has preposed stringent performance benchmarks for 4G and 5G services, especially related to call drops, to improve consumer experience.

To simplify regulatory framework for QoS, TRAI has proposed to have a single regulation dealing with Quality of Service standards for all voice and data services for both wireline and wireless services. In this regard, it has proposed three regulations to be merged into a single regulation.

It has also porposed to monitor the service provider's performance against its network availability at both state and Union Territory&nbsp;level to ensure that consumers get uninterrupted services.

&nbsp;

<h2>TRAI releases consultation paper: Salient Points</h2>

1. TRAI Act, 1997 mandates the Authority to ensure the quality of Service to protect the interest of the consumers of telecommunication services. Accordingly, TRAI notified following regulations for Quality of Service (QoS) Standards for telecom services.

(i) "The Standards of Quality of Service of Basic Telephone Service (Wireline) and Cellular Mobile Telephone service regulations, 2009

(ii) Quality of Service of Broadband Service Regulations 2006, and,

(iii) The Standards of Quality of Service for Wireless Data Services Regulations 2012. These regulations have been amended from time to time based on induction of new technologies like 4G.

2. TRAI has been receiving number of complaints from the subscribers regarding call drops and other network related issues especially after rollout of 5G services. Upon detailed analysis of quarterly QoS performance reports, the Authority has noted that due to long performance assessment period of a quarter over a large area like LSA, there may be pockets or areas experiencing poor quality of service due to averaging effect while service providers are meeting overall QoS benchmark at LSA level.

3. Accordingly, to have a closer view of the status of QoS, the draft regulations propose monthly QoS performance reporting at State and UT level in addition to at LSA level.

4. The QoS parameters and benchmarks for voice and data services are technology agnostic in present regulations. The relevant terminology for 5G services has also been updated in draft regulations to monitor QoS performance of 5G.

5. As 4G and 5G networks are providing much wider coverage in the country compared to the 2G and 3G networks, the stringent performance benchmarks, especially related to call drops, are preposed for 4G and 5G services to improve consumer experience.

6. The network availability is important requirement for good QoS. Therefore, the performance against service provider's network availability is proposed to be monitored at State and UT level to ensure that consumer get uninterrupted services.

7. To simplify regulatory framework for QoS, it is proposed to have single regulation dealing with QoS standards for all voice and data services irrespective of their access medium i.e., for both wireline and wireless services. Accordingly, present three regulations are proposed to be merged into single regulation.

8. In above context and to address all relevant QoS related issues in a holistic manner, the Authority is issuing this consultation paper for seeking 'stakeholders' comments. Written comments on the consultation paper are invited from the stakeholders latest by 20th September 2023. Counter Comments, if any, may be submitted by 05th October 2023. The comments and counter-comments may be sent, preferably in electronic form on the email address adv- gos1@trai.gov.in.

 
The circular stated that the consultation paper has been uploaded to TRAI's website — www.trai.gov.in. Anyone seeking any clarification or information, can contact Tejpal Singh, Advisor (QoS- 1) TRAI, at 011-23236516.

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To simplify regulatory framework for QoS, TRAI has proposed to have a single regulation dealing with Quality of Service standards for all voice and data services for both wireline and wireless services. In this regard, it has proposed three regulations to be merged into a single regulation.


TRAI takes stock of call drops, network issues post 5G rollout; proposes one QoS regulation for voice and data services

The government on Wednesday announced a scheme for the promotion of research and innovation in the pharmaceutical medical technology (medtech) sector, with an aim to reduce the country’s dependence on imports of products such as orphan drugs — or drugs used in the treatment of rare diseases — and medical devices. As part of the scheme, estimated to cost the exchequer Rs 5,000 crore, nine manufacturers of drugs and medical devices will be selected to conduct research in six priority areas, according to an official notification.&nbsp;

The scheme includes research and development and production activities as well as the establishment of centres of excellence.&nbsp;

The government plans to establish centres of excellence in the seven existing National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education &amp; Research (NIPERs) located in Mohali, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Guwahati, Kolkata, Hajipur and Raebareli, at a tentative cost of Rs 700 crore over the five-year period, according to the notification by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers dated August 16.

The funding disbursed for the projects will be recovered through benefit sharing (excluding refunded funding, if any) either through royalty or equity, it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Here’s a list of six priority areas that have the clear potential to translate into commercial products or technology, under the scheme:&nbsp;</h2>

Area 1

<ul>
	<li>New chemical entities</li>
	<li>New biological entities&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Phyto-pharmaceuticals (natural product)</li>
</ul>

Area 2

<ul>
	<li>Complex generics</li>
	<li>Biosimilars</li>
</ul>

Area 3

<ul>
	<li>Precision medicine (targeted innovative therapeutics)</li>
</ul>

Area 4

<ul>
	<li>Medical devices</li>
</ul>

Area 5&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Orphan drugs — or medicine used in the treatment of rare diseases&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Area 6

<ul>
	<li>Drug development for antimicrobial resistance (AMR)</li>
</ul>

The beneficiaries will have to pick either of the two options at the time of signing the agreement:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>10 per cent royalty on net sale of the product/technology till the patent is effective</li>
	<li>Equity not less than 100 per cent of the DoP support provided</li>
</ul>

The government said there is a need to increase the R&amp;D expenditure in the country by further promoting research and innovation, and to shift the focus to new areas where the future trajectory of the pharma industry lies.&nbsp;

The Indian pharma industry has largely remained confined to generic drugs, it said.&nbsp;“The total amount spent on pharma R&amp;D is $50-60 billion in the US, $15-20 billion in China and around $3 billion in India. In the financial year 2021, the investments in R&amp;D by the top 10 Indian pharma companies amounted around 7.2 per cent of their sales,” according to the ministry.&nbsp;

Currently, India commands a market share of 3.4 per cent in the global pharmaceuticals industry. The country has about 450 recorded rare diseases.&nbsp;

The government said there is a need to increase the R&amp;D expenditure in the country by further promoting research and innovation, and to shift the focus to new areas where the future trajectory of the pharma industry lies.&nbsp;


Nine pharma companies to get Rs 5,000 crore government support in five years; here is why

In a bid to ensure the production of quality products, the government has issued a mandatory quality control order (QCO) for ceiling fans, aiming to restrict the import of poor-quality products and promote high-quality domestic production.

The Electric Ceiling Type Fans (Quality Control) Order, 2023 will come into force over a period of 6–12 months for businesses of different sizes, according to a notification by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The order will come into force six months after its release, according to the department's statement, dated August 9.

For small enterprises, as defined under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development Act, 2006 (27 of 2006), the order will come into effect in nine months, and for micro enterprises, it will come into force in 12 months, according to the department.

The order, which mandates the use of a standard mark under a licence from the Bureau of Indian Standards, is applicable to domestic enterprises registered under the MSME ministry's Udyam portal with plant and equipment costs up to Rs 25 lakh and annual turnover up to Rs 2 crore. It does not apply to domestically produced goods meant for export.

The DPIIT also said that non-compliance with the order will be punishable under the Bureau of Indian Standards laws.

In January, ceiling fans were brought under the Bureau of Energy Efficiency's (BEE) mandatory star labelling norms, comparatively softer guidelines than the stricter norms enforced on refrigerators.

Star labelling on electric appliances such as ceiling fans and refrigerators denotes energy savings to the tune of 30-50 per cent. Manufacturers are required to display star ratings —&nbsp; between one and five stars — on fans.

The domestic fan market is estimated to be worth around Rs 10,000 crore.

(With inputs from PTI)

The order is applicable to domestic-produced enterprises registered under the MSME ministry's Udyam portal with plant and equipment costs of up to Rs 25 lakh and annual turnover up to Rs 2 crore. It does not apply to domestically-produced goods meant for exports.


Ambarish Pandey