Business

Government Intensifies Efforts to Promote Clean Energy Alternatives to Kerosene, Says Minister

Published

1 year ago

March 19, 2025

In its efforts to spearhead the clean energy transition, the government has implemented a comprehensive strategy to promote alternatives to kerosene, as announced on Monday. Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, highlighted in a written response in the Rajya Sabha that India has nearly achieved universal electricity access through initiatives such as the Saubhagya scheme (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana) and the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY), offering a cleaner solution for lighting needs.

The government’s initiatives aim to enhance the use of natural gas as fuel and feedstock across the nation, increasing its role in the economy and facilitating a shift towards a gas-based economy. This includes promoting renewable and alternative fuels such as ethanol, second-generation ethanol, compressed biogas, and biodiesel, while also improving refinery processes, enhancing energy efficiency and conservation, and boosting oil and natural gas production through various policy measures.

Additionally, the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative has been launched to encourage the adoption of Compressed Biogas (CBG) as an automotive fuel.

To ensure that underprivileged households have access to clean cooking fuel, the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) was introduced in May 2016. In a bid to make LPG more affordable for PMUY beneficiaries and promote its consistent use, the government initiated a targeted subsidy of Rs 200 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills annually (scaled for 5 kg connections) in May 2022.

This subsidy was increased to Rs 300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for the same number of refills in October 2023. Consequently, after accounting for the subsidy, PMUY consumers can now access 14.2 kg LPG cylinders at an effective price of Rs 503 per cylinder (in Delhi). This benefit extends to over 10.33 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries nationwide.

“Thanks to the government’s efforts, LPG access in India has risen from 62% in April 2016 to nearly universal coverage today,” the minister stated.

Business

Fuel Prices Hiked by Rs.3 per Litre across India

Published

2 days 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.