Business

More than 83,000 Tobacco Farmers to Gain from Centre’s Extension of License Validity to Three Years

Published

1 year ago

April 25, 2025

The Indian government has announced a new policy that extends the Certificate of Registration for Virginia tobacco growers and barn operation licenses from one year to three years. This change, aimed at easing the yearly renewal burden for over 83,000 tobacco farmers, was disclosed by the Commerce and Industry Ministry on Tuesday.

According to the ministry’s statement, the new three-year validity for registrations and licenses is part of a broader initiative to enhance the ease of doing business.

To implement this change, the Government of India has amended sub-rules (5), (6), and (7) of rule 33 and sub-rules (2) and (3) of rule 34N of the Tobacco Board Rules, 1976. The amendments, which were published in the Gazette of India by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, will take effect from the 2025-26 crop season in Andhra Pradesh.

This policy amendment is expected to significantly benefit around 83,500 farmers operating approximately 91,000 barns in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and Odisha, facilitating their registration and licensing processes more efficiently.

Virginia tobacco cultivation in India is regulated under the Tobacco Board Act of 1975 and the associated rules. Under this legislation, growers must obtain a registration certificate and a barn operation license from the Tobacco Board.

As the second-largest producer and fourth-largest exporter of unmanufactured tobacco globally, India generated $1,979 million (approximately ₹16,728 crore) from tobacco exports during the financial year 2024-25, as noted in the statement.

Business

Opendoor Shuts Down India Operations, 250 Employees Affected

Published

7 days ago

June 11, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: US-based real estate technology company Opendoor has decided to close its operations in India. The move will impact nearly 250 employees.

CEO Kaz Nejatian said the company is bringing operational roles closer to its customers in the United States. He explained that most of Opendoor’s customers are based in America.

The company said the decision is not related to the performance of its India team. Nejatian praised the employees for their hard work and contributions.

Affected workers will receive severance pay, job placement support, and other assistance. A small number of employees will stay temporarily to help with the transition.

Opendoor said it will continue focusing on simplifying operations and improving efficiency with new technology and AI.

Business

Domestic LPG Cylinder Price Increased by Rs 29

Published

2 weeks ago

June 7, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: The price of domestic LPG cooking gas cylinders has been increased by Rs 29 across India. This is the second price hike in the last three months.

The increase comes as global energy prices continue to rise due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

After the revision, a domestic LPG cylinder now costs Rs 942 in Delhi, Rs 941.40 in Mumbai, Rs 968 in Kolkata, and Rs 957.50 in Chennai. In Bengaluru, the new price is Rs 944.50 per cylinder.

The government said the cost of supplying LPG has increased significantly. However, subsidies under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana continue to help over 10 crore beneficiaries.

Petrol, diesel, and CNG prices have also increased in recent weeks as global fuel markets remain volatile.

Business

Honda Begins Delivery of 2026 City Hybrid

Published

2 weeks ago

June 3, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: Honda Cars India has started delivering the new 2026 Honda City Hybrid to customers. The first car was handed over at a dealership in Bengaluru.

Honda President and CEO Takashi Nakajima attended the special delivery event. Other senior company officials were also present.

The first customer received a Crystal Black Pearl Honda City Hybrid. The car was delivered with a symbolic key and a gift hamper.

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The updated City comes with new features such as ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera. It also offers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a sunroof.

The sedan is available with petrol and strong-hybrid powertrain options. Honda claims the hybrid version delivers a mileage of 27.26 kmpl.

The Honda City competes with the Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Hyundai Verna in India.