Business

CCI Chief: Trust-Based Regulations Essential to Prevent AI-Induced Collusion in Modern Markets

Published

1 year ago

March 17, 2025

Ravneet Kaur, Chairperson of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), emphasized the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in contemporary markets, acknowledging its potential to foster collusion and algorithmic discrimination through dynamic pricing strategies. During her keynote address at the 10th National Conference on Economics of Competition Law, she advocated for a proactive and trust-based regulatory framework.

“AI influences pricing strategies, decision-making processes, and operational efficiencies across various sectors, but it also poses significant risks,” Kaur stated. She pointed out that AI could facilitate new types of collusion, including situations where “cartels operate without human communication, price coordination happens without explicit agreements, and algorithmic discrimination is disguised as dynamic pricing.”

In the same event, Harsh Malhotra, Minister of State for Corporate Affairs, conveyed that the Indian government is taking a measured approach to the Digital Competition Bill. He clarified that instead of rushing the legislation, the government aims to ensure thorough discussions and evaluations before its introduction.

Malhotra highlighted the importance of studying successful digital competition laws from other regions, such as the European Union, Japan, and Australia, to determine their applicability within the Indian market. “While there is a clear need for a Digital Competition Bill, we are not in a hurry. The government seeks to facilitate the necessary discussions to safeguard Indian players in the digital landscape from being overshadowed by global competitors, as well as to protect smaller entities,” he remarked.

He also noted that while stringent measures are essential for enforcing the law, promoting self-regulation and compliance within the industry is equally vital.

Business

Fuel Prices Hiked by Rs.3 per Litre across India

Published

1 day ago

May 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices have been increased by Rs.3 per litre across the country from today. Oil marketing companies revised the rates due to the rise in global crude oil prices.

After the hike, petrol price in Bengaluru has reached Rs.106.17 per litre, while diesel now costs Rs.94.10 per litre.

The increase comes amid fluctuations in international crude oil prices and tensions in West Asia, including the Iran conflict. The fall in the value of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has also increased import costs.

The fuel price hike is expected to affect transportation and daily essentials. Transport charges for goods may rise, leading to higher prices of vegetables, fruits, milk, and other items. Bus, auto, and taxi fares may also increase.

Earlier, fuel prices were reduced before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In 2022, the Centre had also cut excise duty to control inflation after the Covid pandemic.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; Demand for Ornaments Remains Strong

Published

2 weeks ago

May 4, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been reported at high levels today. The rate for 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.14,962 per gram. The price for 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is Rs.13,715 per gram. Meanwhile, 18 karat gold (75% purity) is being sold at Rs.11,222 per gram.

Mangaluru is well known for its deep cultural connection with gold. The city has a long tradition of buying and wearing gold ornaments. This tradition continues strongly even today.

Local jewellers say that demand for gold remains steady despite high prices. Many people still prefer to invest in gold for safety and long-term value. Gold is also an important part of weddings and festivals in the region.

Apart from its love for seafood, Mangaluru is also famous for its gold market. The gold trade in the city has a long history and continues to grow.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making a purchase. They can also use a gold rate calculator to get exact pricing based on weight and purity.

Experts say that gold prices may change depending on global market trends. Customers should stay updated and make careful decisions while buying gold.

Business

Pune FDA Seizes 3,800 Kg of Adulterated Mango Pulp in Major Crackdown

Published

1 month ago

April 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

In a major action against food adulteration, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Pune has seized over 3,800 kilograms of mango pulp mixed with unsafe food colours.

The raid was carried out after officials received confidential information about illegal production activities in the district. Acting quickly, an FDA team traced the source to a manufacturing unit in Urse village in Maval taluka.

During the inspection, officers found that the mango pulp was being prepared using unauthorised food colours and other banned substances. These materials are not allowed under food safety rules and can be harmful to consumers.

The unit was reportedly operated by Mohammad Ekramul, also known as Akram Gulam. Authorities said the facility was violating multiple food safety regulations.

Officials immediately seized the adulterated stock and stopped further production at the site. The FDA has also begun investigating the supply chain to identify where the products were being distributed.

Authorities warned that strict action will be taken against those involved in food adulteration. They also urged the public to stay cautious while buying food products, especially during the mango season.

Further investigation into the case is currently underway.