VOL XXVI, ISSUE 01

15 January 2025

Key Highlights:

A)  Consultation Mechanism (Para 1.07A):

a.    The government may solicit views, suggestions, and feedback from stakeholders on proposed changes to FTP.

b.    A 30-day window may be provided for submissions.

c.     The government retains the discretion to amend or formulate policy without consulting stakeholders if deemed necessary.

B)  Feedback Acknowledgment (Para 1.07B):

a.    The government may, on a best-effort basis, provide reasons for not incorporating stakeholder feedback.

b.    Exceptions include issues affecting national security, international relations, government policies, or confidentiality concerns.

C)  Caveats:

a.    The government is not obligated to accept all suggestions or disclose reasons in specific cases, including those related to strategic programs or broader public interest.

b.    No legal rights are conferred on stakeholders to demand explanations for their feedback being excluded.

This initiative reflects the government�s commitment to trade facilitation while balancing national priorities and international obligations.

For more details, members are advised to refer to the official DGFT website

2. MeitY notification dated 3rd January 2025: Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025 for Public Consultation

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has unveiled the draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, designed to facilitate the implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act). The rules aim to strengthen the legal framework for digital personal data protection by offering necessary details and an actionable framework for data protection. The Act, which received presidential assent on 11th August 2023, aims to create a strong framework for personal data protection in India.

Key Details:

• Objective: To operationalize the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, the draft rules provide essential guidelines and implementation procedures.

• Stakeholder Involvement: MeitY is requesting feedback/comments from stakeholders, including industry representatives, to refine the Rules and ensure they are practical and beneficial for both businesses and individuals.

• Confidentiality: All submissions will be kept confidential and handled with fiduciary responsibility. A consolidated summary of feedback will be published without identifying individual contributors.

Submission Details:

• Deadline for Submission: 18th February 2025.

• Feedback Submission Link: Submit Feedback on MyGov Portal.

• Draft Rules and Explanatory Notes: Available on MeitY�s website at www.meity.gov.in/data-protection-framework.

The DPDP Act establishes a balanced framework between individual privacy rights and the necessity for lawful data processing. Feedback from stakeholders is essential to refine these rules and ensure they meet the practical needs of businesses and individuals.

For more details, members are advised to refer to the official Meity website regarding Notification dated 3^rd January 2025.

3. Launch of PLI Scheme 1.1 for Specialty Steel dated 6th January 2025

The Ministry of Steel launched PLI Scheme 1.1 for Specialty Steel on January 6, 2025. The scheme, active from FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30, aims to enhance domestic production and reduce imports of value-added steel.

Key highlights:

• Covers 5 product categories: Coated Steel, High Strength Steel, Specialty Rails, Alloy Steel, and Electrical Steel.

• Industry-friendly changes: Reduced investment thresholds, carry forward of excess production, and eligibility for capacity augmentation projects.

• Operates within the original ₹6,322 crore budget.

• Focus on strategic products like CRGO Steel to support power transformers.

The application window is open from January 6-31, 2025, encouraging investments to strengthen India's steel industry and achieve Atmanirbhar Bharat.

For more details and to apply, visit the PLI Scheme 1.1 Portal, Ministry of Steel web site.

4. CBIC Notification No. 01/2025 � Central Tax dated 10th January 2025: Seeks to extend the due date for furnishing FORM GSTR-1 for the month of December 2024 and the quarter of October to December, 2024, as the case may be

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a notification to further amend Notification No. 83/2020 � Central Tax. This amendment pertains to the extension of the deadline for furnishing GSTR-1 details under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017.

Key Highlights:

• The time limit for furnishing details of outward supplies in FORM GSTR-1 for registered persons is extended as follows:

a)    For tax period December 2024, the deadline is extended to 13th January 2025.

b)    For registered persons required to furnish returns under a specific proviso, for the October to December 2024 tax period, the deadline is extended to 15th January 2025.

This extension aims to provide additional time for taxpayers to comply with the filing requirements under the CGST Act. For reference, Notification No. 83/2020 � Central Tax was initially published on 10th November 2020 and has been amended multiple times since.

For more details, members are advised to refer to the official CBIC website regarding CBIC Notification No. 01/2025 � Central Tax dated 10^th January 2025.

5.DGFT Notification No. 50/2024-25, Dated 13 January 2025: DGFT Updates Export Policy: Schedule-II (Export Policy) Synced with Finance Act 2024

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has amended Schedule-II (Export Policy) of ITC(HS) 2022 to align it with the Finance Act 2024 (No. 2 of 2024). The updated policy, effective immediately, reflects the latest export conditions and compliance requirements for ITC(HS) codes.

Key Highlights:

a)   Alignment with Finance Act 2024: The Schedule-II (Export Policy) is updated to ensure uniformity with the changes    introduced in the Finance Act 2024 (dated 16.08.2024).

b)    Comprehensive Export Guidance:

a.    The updated Schedule-II includes export policies for over 12,000 ITC(HS) codes, detailing conditions applicable to each.

b.    Only the policies outlined under Schedule-II will govern export operations, ensuring clarity and consistency.

c)    General Notes Updated: The General Notes to Export Policy, providing overarching guidelines, have been revised to align with the updated Schedule-II.

d)   Availability: The complete Schedule-II (Export Policy) and General Notes are available on the DGFT website: https://dgft.gov.in.

Effective Date: The revised export policy is effective immediately as per the notification.

This move ensures streamlined export procedures, reflecting India's trade priorities and compliance with global trade norms.

For more details, members are advised to refer to the official DGFT website regarding DGFT Notification No. 50/2024-25, Dated 13 January 2025.

6. GST Instruction No. 01/2025-GST dated 13th January 2025: Guidelines for Arrest and Bail under CGST Act, 2017 Updated (Amendment to Instruction No. 02/2022-23 GST (Investigation) dated 17.8.2022)

The Directorate General of GST Intelligence has issued updated guidelines for arrest and bail under the CGST Act, 2017, amending Instruction No. 02/2022-23 GST (Investigation) dated 17.08.2022. The changes align with recent judicial pronouncements to ensure compliance with procedural safeguards.

Key Highlights of the Amendment:

a)    Grounds of Arrest:  Para 4.2.1 has been revised to emphasize that the grounds of arrest must be:

                                        i.    Explained verbally to the arrested person.

                                       ii.    Provided in writing as an annexure to the Arrest Memo.

                                      iii.    Signed by the arrested individual as an acknowledgment.

b)    Judicial Basis for the Update:

a.    The amendment draws from key judgments, including:

                                        i.    Kshitij Ghildiyal vs. Director General of GST Intelligence, Delhi (Delhi High Court)

                                       ii.    Pankaj Bansal vs. Union of India (Supreme Court)

                                      iii.    Prabir Purkayastha vs. State (NCT of Delhi) (Supreme Court).

b.    A distinction is made between reasons for arrest (formal parameters) and grounds of arrest (case-specific details), ensuring greater procedural transparency.

c)    Purpose of the Amendment:

a.    To safeguard the rights of the accused by providing specific and case-related details for the arrest.

b.    To ensure the accused is informed of the grounds for arrest, enabling a fair opportunity to defend against custodial remand or seek bail.

Effective Date: This amendment is effective immediately.

For more details, members are advised to refer to the official CBIC website regarding GST Instruction No. 01/2025-GST dated 13^th January 2025 and File No. GST/INV/Instructions/21-22.

7. DGFT Public Notice No. 40/2024-2025, Dated 15th January 2025: DGFT Issues SOP for Voluntary Disclosure of Non-Compliance/Violations in SCOMET Exports

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has released the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Voluntary Disclosure of Non-Compliance/Violations related to the export of SCOMET (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies) items. The guidelines aim to encourage responsible exporters to report violations of export control regulations and mitigate penalties.

Key Highlights of the Voluntary Disclosure Procedure:

a)    Scope of the Guidelines:

a.    These guidelines apply to exporters who have failed to comply with export control provisions under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, Weapons of Mass Destruction Act, Customs Act, and other relevant laws.

b.    The DGFT encourages voluntary disclosures to raise awareness and avoid future violations, provided the disclosure is not related to post-facto authorization or communications from relevant government agencies like DGFT and Customs.

b)    Types of Violations Covered:

a.    Exporting SCOMET items without prior authorization.

b.    Exporting to UNSC-sanctioned entities or individuals without knowledge.

c.     Use of export authorization by a new entity after changes like mergers, de-mergers, or name changes.

d.    Failure to obtain permission for site visits or access to records from foreign organizations.

e.    Unauthorized access or provision of technical data and assistance.

f.      Other violations as per FTDR/FTP/HBP.

c)    Procedure for Voluntary Disclosure:

a.    Exporters must notify DGFT immediately after confirming a violation and conduct a thorough internal review.

b.    The disclosure must be submitted to the SCOMET Division via email at scomet-dgft@nic.in.

c.     If confirmed by enforcement agencies (e.g., Customs), a show cause notice will be issued by DGFT, and a full disclosure must be submitted within 30 days or the extended timeline.

d)    Documents Required:

a.    Disclosure Proforma (Appendix 10M)

b.    Application in ANF 1A proforma

c.     Licensing documents (e.g., export licenses, contracts)

d.    Shipping documents (e.g., shipping bills, invoices)

e.    Other relevant trade documents as required.

e)    Action by DGFT:

a.    The Inter-Ministerial Working Group (IMWG) will review the disclosure based on merit and make recommendations, including:

                                        i.    No action if no further violations are found.

                                       ii.    Show Cause Notice or Adjudication Order for non-compliance or missing documentation.

b.    The IMWG may recommend administrative actions, sanctions, or criminal prosecution depending on the case specifics.

The guidelines aim to foster a culture of compliance, reduce violations, and provide exporters with an opportunity to rectify mistakes without facing severe penalties, provided they cooperate fully in the disclosure process.

Effective Date: These guidelines come into force immediately.

For more details, members are advised to refer to the official DGFT website regarding DGFT Public Notice No. 40/2024-2025, Dated 15th January 2025 and exporters should refer to Appendix 10M and submit their disclosures as per the guidelines outlined.

 For any queries regarding this ELCINA Policy Capsule, please contact policy@elcina.com.

TOP

         INDUSTRY  SCAN                                                                             

General

In Letter to President Murmu, Karnataka Electronics Vendors Demand 'Mercy Killing' | Here's Why

The vendors associated with Karnataka�s electronics corporation have written to President Droupadi Murmu, seeking her permission for mercy killing or euthanasia. They claimed that they are being �harassed" since the �government has changed". The empanelled vendors of the Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (KEONICS) alleged that the non-payment of their due bills is making their lives miserable � a charge dismissed by Karnataka Information Technology and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge. They said more than 450 to 500 small entrepreneurs are registered as vendors in the corporation and are working with KEONICS. Along with providing electronic services, the corporation also works as a link between vendors and various departments of the state government for providing human resource services and other purchases.

Source: https://www.news18.com/, January 15, 2025

Minda partners Flash Electronics to develop EV platform

Minda Corporation has announced a strategic partnership with Flash Electronics to create the fastest-growing EV platform in the country. Both companies have a diversified, yet synergized, product portfolio where Minda Corporation is into Automotive body electronics and Flash is in automotive Engine and Powertrain electronics. This partnership going forward will create a synergetic and wide portfolio for both partners. Through its differentiated innovation, Flash has been at the forefront in electricals and electronics for two and three-wheeler ICE specialising in ignition electricals and electronics. Being among the early entrants in the field of EV powertrain, Flash is among the market leaders for motor, motor controllers, vehicle control units, etc. Flash has developed innovative solutions for the electric powertrain, and would be soon launching the same for passenger cars and commercial vehicles.

Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/, January 15, 2025

Beijing may be holding back critical equipment meant for Indian electronics manufacturers

He explained that the industry had expressed concern that import of capital goods, critical for electronics manufacturing, were being constrained. Industry players like Foxconn had raised concerns that capital equipment, which were being imported from China, were held up in multiple ports in China for several months. The industry had expressed concern that while the delays had not impacted production yet, any further disruptions could jeopardise future production and expansion plans. The MEITY Secy clarified, that there doesn�t appear to be any formal restriction announced by China. But, he also did no rule out that the disruptions may have been a result of an informal nudge by Beijing. The disruption in supply of critical equipment from China, comes amidst India taking adopting a tougher stance against Beijing�s economic interests. India initiated action, post the Galwan clashes, in the form of banning multiple apps, based out of China.

Source: https://startupnews.fyi/, January 15, 2025

Tata Electronics captures 26% share of India's iPhone production

Tata Electronics has cemented its position as a significant supplier for Apple Inc�s iPhone, pressing the pedal in 2024 on three critical fronts � production, exports, and direct employment � to meet the needs of the Cupertino-based technology giant. Tata Electronics � which acquired Wistron�s iPhone facility in Narsapura, Karnataka, for $125 million in October 2023 � has significantly ramped up operations since mid-2024. The plant�s annual production soared to over Rs 40,000 crore during the January�December 2024 period � a 180 per cent surge compared to Rs 14,300 crore in the previous year. This performance positions the Tatas as responsible for 26 per cent of the total iPhone production in India, where Apple�s other vendors include Foxconn and Pegatron.

Source: By Surajeet Das Gupta, January 14, 2025

TOP

Information Technology

Phone companies see red signal, start work on green line

Smartphone brands are working on removing the �green-line� fault cropping up on screens after software upgrades through stringent quality controls, advanced display technologies, and extended lifetime warranties. Leading smartphone brands are addressing the persistent 'green-line' screen fault by implementing stringent quality checks and sourcing advanced display technologies. The issue, prevalent in models from brands like Samsung, OnePlus, and Apple, stems from environmental factors like high temperature and humidity. Measures include improved adhesives, sealing techniques, and enhanced cooling solutions to prevent overheating.

Source: By Subhrojit Mallick, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, December 04, 2024

IT hardware PLI scheme generated output worth Rs 10,015 crore

The production linked incentive (PLI) scheme for IT Hardware and its 2.0 version have collectively generated a total production value of Rs 10,014.72 crore as of December 2024. As per the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the schemes, which incentivize the production of electronic items like smartphones, laptops, personal computers and desktops, have attracted Rs 522.17 crore in investment and created 3,879 direct jobs so far. Building on the success of the scheme for mobile phones, the government approved the PLI scheme 2.0 for IT hardware on May 17, 2023. This expanded scheme supports the manufacturing of laptops, tablets, all-in-one PCs, servers, and ultra-small form factor devices in India. A total of 27 IT hardware manufacturers, including leading brands like Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo, have been approved under the scheme.

Source: https://www.newindianexpress.com/ January 15, 2024

India Expands IT Hardware Manufacturing; Total Electronics Production rises to Rs. 9.80 lakh crore

India�s electronics manufacturing sector has reached a historic milestone with the inauguration of Syrma SGS Technology�s state-of-the-art laptop assembly line in Chennai, inaugurated by Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw. The new assembly line will initially produce 100,000 laptops annually, with production capacity expected to scale up to 1 million units within the next 1-2 years. This initiative is part of the government�s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) 2.0 scheme for IT hardware. PLI 2.0 is propelling India�s IT hardware revolution, having already driven ₹10,000 crore in production and the creation of 3,900 jobs in just 18 months. Syrma SGS operates four manufacturing units in Chennai, with laptop production now underway at Unit 3.

Source: https://ddnews.gov.in/, January 13, 2025

Govt likely to extend import regime for laptops, IT hardware products

The Union government may consider extending the import management system for laptops and other IT hardware products for a few months, people aware of the matter said. The current deadline for the system ends on September 30.

An extension, if agreed upon, would provide clarity and stability to the industry, particularly at a time when the domestic manufacturing ecosystem for these products is not yet robust. The system was introduced on November 1 last year to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports, particularly from China. It covers laptops, tablets, all-in-one personal computers (PCs), ultra-small form factor computers, and servers. The government also wanted to ensure a trusted supply chain for electronics in light of growing cybersecurity concerns. While announcing the end-to-end online system last year, the government had said it would study data before making a decision on how to take it forward.

Source: https://www.business-standard.com/, August 13, 2025

  TOP

Consumer Electronics

AI-powered devices dominate Consumer Electronics Show

The world�s biggest annual event showcasing the latest in personal technology this week was awash with devices from televisions, cars and even washing machines � all infused with generative artificial intelligence. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, tech companies including US giants Google and Amazon, as well as South Korea�s LG and China�s Hisense exhibited new AI-powered products and services in the latest sign of how the transformative technology is upending the global industry. The scene was set by Jensen Huang, chief executive of Nvidia, the $3.5tn chipmaker whose stock has risen more than 150 per cent over the past year on the back of huge sales of its market-leading graphics processing units needed to power advanced AI models. During a keynote address in which he unveiled an array of new products including a new mini AI supercomputer and a suite of foundational AI models on its new Cosmos platform, Huang told an audience of more than 6,000 delegates that AI was advancing at an �incredible pace�.

Source: Michael Acton, https://www.ft.com/content/, January 11, 2025

The PC Market Closed out 2024 with Slight Growth and Mixed Views on What 2025 Will Bring

PC shipments during the fourth quarter of 2024 grew 1.8% from the prior year with global volumes reaching 68.9 million shipments, according to preliminary results from the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Personal Computing Device Tracker. For the full year, PC vendors shipped 262.7 million PCs, up 1% from 2023. Looking ahead to 2025, the PC industry has several tailwinds and headwinds, which makes for a challenging outlook and difficult demand planning. Though the market has been experiencing a slower return to growth, there was some room for optimism in Q4 as government subsidies in China led to better-than-expected performance within the consumer segment. Beyond that, the US and some European countries also showed strong performance due to end-of-year sale promotions, as well as enterprises continuing on the path of upgrading hardware before the end of support for Windows 10 which is scheduled for October 2025.

Source: https://www.idc.com/, January 09, 2025

JVC re-enters Indian TV market through license pact with Super Plastronics

Japanese consumer electronics brand JVC is re-entering into the India TV market through a brand license agreement with Noida-based Super Plastronics Pvt Ltd (SPPL). Earlier, the Japanese brand had entered India's TV market in 2019 in partnership with Veira Group, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for consumer durables. Before that, JVC was having a technological partnership with Onida Electronics (formerly known as Mirc Electronics), which had launched colour televisions. In its latest innings, JVC has launched its range of premium smart QLED televisions through SPPL, which will be available exclusively on Amazon's e-commerce platform. SPPL, which already has a portfolio of five global brands, operating in the TV and appliances segment, which includes Thomson, Kodak, Blaupunkt, and White-Westinghouse (Trademark of Electrolux), will manufacture a JVC brand set for the Indian market.

Source: https://www.business-standard.com/, January 13, 2025

Smartphone Market Recovers In 2024 After Two Years Of Decline

The global smartphone market returned to growth in 2024 after two consecutive years of annual declines, according to preliminary results from Counterpoint Research�s Market Pulse. Global smartphone sales grew 4% YoY in 2024, as consumer sentiment fared better than in previous years following macroeconomic improvements. Smartphone sales in 2023 were the lowest in a decade. Samsung continued to lead the market in 2024, led by strong demand for its S24 series and A-series product lines. The S24 series, the first phone positioned as an AI device, outperformed its predecessors and was received especially well in Western Europe and the USA. Apple, with an 18% share took the #2 spot. Apple�s iPhone 16 series was met with a mixed response, partly due to a lack of availability of Apple Intelligence at launch. However, Apple continued to grow strongly in its non-core markets like Latin America, Africa and Asia-Pacific-Others.

Source: https://www.counterpointresearch.com/, January 13, 2025

TOP

Telecom

PMO Orders Mandatory Biometric Aadhaar Verification for SIM Sales: Report

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has reportedly directed the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to enforce mandatory biometric Aadhaar verification for all new mobile connections across India. The move is aimed at preventing misuse of telecom resources and ensuring stricter compliance among SIM card sellers, according to a report by ET. The directive, issued during a recent telecom sector review meeting, calls for stern action against vendors flouting the rules. The DoT, leveraging AI-based tools, is working with law enforcement agencies (LEAs) to identify and penalise offenders, according to the report. The DoT was told to ensure that no SIM card be issued without biometric Aadhaar verification and was also asked to closely collaborate with law enforcement agencies (LEAs) to penalise mobile fraudsters.

Source: By Kripa B, https://telecomtalk.info/, January 15, 2024

Good news for BSNL, Vi, Jio, Airtel users! TRAI mandates telcos to publish coverage maps

TRAI has kicked off the new year by providing a significant benefit to the country's 1.2 billion mobile users. The telecom regulator has directed telecom companies like Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea, and BSNL to publish network coverage maps on their websites. As a result of this directive, these companies will now be required to display geographical maps detailing their 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G coverage, enabling users to select their telecom operator based on the coverage available in their area. This TRAI order will greatly assist users looking to switch operators or obtain a new SIM card. Currently, only a handful of companies share their network coverage maps online. Consequently, when users are considering a new SIM or changing providers, they often lack crucial information about which operator offers better network service in their locality.

Source: By Om Gupta, https://www.indiatvnews.com/, January 14, 2024

Telecom spectrum in 6-Ghz band key to avoid 5G radio wave crunch: COAI

Non-allocation of telecom spectrum in 6-Ghz band could lead to a radio wave crunch for high-speed 5G services, a key growth driver for the country's digital economy and development of emerging technologies specially artificial intelligence, industry body COAI said on Tuesday. India needs an additional 2 giga hertz of mid-band spectrum to meet the international standard of 'IMT-2020' user experience to ensure data rates of 100 megabit per second (mbps) on downlink and 50 mbps on uplink in densely-populated cities, COAI Director General S P Kochhar told PTI, citing global telecom industry GSMA. While the government is considering vacating the spectrum in C-band, i.e., 3,670-4,000 MHz for 5G/6G use, it may not be enough to reach the required 2 GHz spectrum for IMT (5G/6G) in mid-band. Therefore, we want to stress on the fact that it is essential that the most optimal allocation of the 1,200 MHz available in the 6 GHz band is done for mobile communications in India, to get this critical 2 GHz of spectrum in mid-band.

Source: https://www.livemint.com/, January 14, 2024

Adani Group under DoT scanner on delayed 5G rollout, may surrender spectrum

The Adani Group may be facing scrutiny from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for its delay in rolling out 5G telecom services more than two years after acquiring a unified telecom licence. According to a report by Moneycontrol, the government has issued multiple notices to Adani Data Networks, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises, regarding its non-compliance with minimum rollout obligations (MRO) for 5G services. Adani Data Networks acquired 400 MHz in the 26 GHz band for Rs 212 crore during the July 2022 spectrum auctions, with allocations including 100 MHz each in Gujarat and Mumbai, and 50 MHz each in Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Although the company holds a unified licence for telecom and internet services, it initially intended the spectrum for building captive private 5G networks to enhance its business operations.

Source: Vasudha Mukherjee, https://www.business-standard.com/, January 14, 2024

 TOP

EV�s & Auto Electronics

Hyundai Motor India expects passenger EV market to double in 2 years

Hyundai Motor India, which is set to launch its Creta Electric SUV at the Bharat Mobility Global Auto Expo, expects the passenger electric vehicles� volume in India to double in the next two years from around 106,000 units, owing to a series of launches by major original equipment manufacturers in 2025. Hyundai India�s Chief Operating Officer Tarun Garg says an improving ecosystem may help passenger EV penetration touch 17 per cent by 2030 from the current 2.4 per cent. The company is planning to come out with three more EV products after the Creta EV. The carmaker also expects its production capacity to touch 1.1 million by 2028, from the current 824,000, as the Pune plant, with phase I capacity of 170,000 units, will be operational in the fourth quarter of 2025. The second phase of 80,000 units will begin after that. Creta Electric will be competing with the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara, Mahindra BE 6, Tata Curvv, MG ZS EV, and Toyota Urban Cruiser EV, among others.

Source: By Shine Jacob, https://www.business-standard.com/, January 13, 2025

TCS global study finds 64% of consumers likely to choose EV as next vehicle

More than 6 out of 10 consumers in different parts of the world, including India, are likely or very likely to consider an electric vehicle for their next purchase, although 60 per cent of them considered charging infrastructure as a major challenge, according to a study. The global study by Tata Consultancy Services surveyed over 1,300 anonymous respondents across USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, China, India, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, found that 56 per cent of them were ready to pay up to USD 40,000 (nearly Rs 35 lakh) for an electric vehicle (EV). The respondents for the study � TCS Future-Ready eMobility Study 2025 � included transport manufacturers, charging infrastructure players, fleet adopters, consumers and EV adoption influencers, TCS said in a statement. According to the survey, 90 per cent of manufacturers believed that improvements in battery technology will enhance range and charging speed and will significantly impact the design and performance of EVs in the near term compared to other technological advancements.

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/, January 14, 2025

Global electric vehicle sales up 25% in record 2024

Global sales of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles rose by a quarter last year to over 17 million cars, helped by a fourth consecutive month of record sales in December as China continued to grow and Europe stabilised, data showed on Tuesday. Incentives and emission targets pushed EV sales in China and aided Britain in overtaking Germany as Europe's biggest battery-electric market in 2024, research firm Rho Motion said. Electric car makers look into 2025 as a transformative year as China's sales growth slows, new emissions targets are setting off in Europe, and questions surround potential U.S. policy changes under the incoming Trump administration. Global sales of fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids rose 25.6% year-on-year to 1.9 million in December, albeit slowing for a second consecutive month, the Rho Motion data showed.

Source: By Alessandro Parodi, https://www.reuters.com/, January 14, 2025

Luxury electric vehicle retail sales in 2024 clock 6.7% growth: Fada

The luxury electric vehicle (EV) market grew by a modest 6.7 per cent in 2024, with most companies registering decline in sales. Overall, electric passenger vehicle retail sales in India grew by nearly 20 per cent to 99,165 units, according to Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (Fada). Tata Motors had the highest share at 61,496 units, followed by JSW MG Motors at 21,484 units. According to Fada, 2,809 EVs were sold by BMW, Mercedes Benz India, Volvo Cars India, Audi, and Porsche in 2024. This is up from 2,633 units sold in 2023. The data did not have a breakup for Tata Motors-owned luxury brand Jaguar Land Rover�s India EV sales. Among luxury original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Mercedes Benz India has seen the highest growth in EV sales �by over 82 per cent in 2024, the data showed. It was riding on four new EV launches during the year.

Source: By Sohini Das, https://www.business-standard.com/, January 12, 2025

 TOP

Defence & Solar

Naval combatants to strengthen India's defence leadership: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday said the commissioning of three frontline naval combatants will strengthen India's efforts towards being a global leader in defence and augment its quest towards self-reliance. Modi will dedicate the three combatants -- INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer -- to the nation on their commissioning at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on Wednesday. "Tomorrow, 15th January, is going to be a special day as far as our naval capacities are concerned," he said on X. INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, ranks among the largest and most sophisticated destroyers in the world, officials said. It has an indigenous content of 75 per cent and is equipped with the state-of-the-art weapon-sensor packages and advanced network-centric capabilities. INS Nilgiri, the first ship of the P17A Stealth Frigate Project, has been designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and incorporates advanced features for enhanced survivability, seakeeping, and stealth, reflecting the next generation of indigenous frigates, they said.

Source: https://www.business-standard.com/, January 14, 2025

Nitin Gadkari calls for strong, self-sufficient defence sector for India

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday pitched for a strong and self-sufficient defence sector and moving ahead of the world with research and development. Gadkari was addressing a gathering at the celebration of the ninth Armed Forces Veterans' Day at the Headquarters Maintenance Command, Indian Air Force, in Vayusena Nagar here. Tributes were paid to the unparalleled service and sacrifices of veterans on the occasion, which brought together the retired and serving personnel, their families and other dignitaries. Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command, Air Marshal Vijay Kumar Garg was also present at the event where the veterans were honoured for their service. The country needs to become powerful so that there is no injustice in the world and peace and harmony prevails across the globe. Hence, the role of all the three armed forces is important, he said.

Source: Source: https://www.business-standard.com/, January 14, 2025

'Will Collaborate With US State & Commerce Depts To Reassess India-US Ties': Pete Hegseth

Pete Hegseth, the nominee for Secretary of Defence, said that upon confirmation, he would collaborate with the US State and Commerce Departments to reassess the India-US partnership and advise President Donald Trump accordingly. The former combat veteran, a TV news show host and Donald Trump's pick for defence secretary was grilled on Tuesday by the Senate Armed Services Committee in a confirmation hearing to serve as Defence Secretary. Hegseth highlighted the importance of joint military exercises, defence sales, and strategic talks which have bolstered India-US ties significantly. "If confirmed, in coordination with the State and Commerce Departments, I would review our current relationship and agreements and then provide the Defence Department's recommendations to the President," Hegseth said in response to a written question submitted by the Senate Armed Services Committee ahead of his confirmation hearing.

Source: https://www.indiandefensenews.in/, January 15, 2025

TOP

MSME

(Special section of the MSME related news under ELCINA Micro & Small Industry Forum)

Centre begins talks for easing MSME compliance burden, financing woes

In a relief to the micro, small and medium business ecosystem in the country, the Centre began talks on reforms to reduce the compliance burden and provide regulatory relaxations for MSMEs in registration, mergers and acquisitions, as well as closures of business, along with a focus on addressing financing difficulties in the sector. Inter-ministerial consultations involving the ministries of MSME, corporate affairs, and law and justice have begun on the issue, with the talks also revolving around potential amendments to the Companies Act, 2013, to include MSMEs as defined under the MSME Development Act, 2006; decriminalize independent directors� conduct in MSMEs and ease financial results filing compliances, according to three people with direct knowledge of the development.

Source: By Manas Pimpalkhare, Dhirendra Kumar, https://www.livemint.com/, January 14, 2025

Larger credit cover for MSMEs likely under new scheme

The credit guarantee scheme for MSMEs, announced in July, will take form in the upcoming Budget, with a focus on facilitating capital investments by the manufacturing sector units. The scheme will be largely modelled on the successful Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) for small businesses that was unveiled in 2020 amid the pandemic, but will cover larger loans, with guarantee up to Rs 100 crore. It will be structured in a way that beneficiary units can use the credit for scaling up, sources said. The upper threshold for loan eligibility would be higher. The scheme, designed to provide guarantee to MSME loans for capital equipment purchase without collateral or third-party guarantee, will let pooling of credit risks of the firms.

Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/, January 14, 2025

MSMEs propel B2B insurance growth; tier 3 cities lead with 46% digital surge

India�s MSME sector, contributing 40% of exports and employing over 110 million people, is adopting digital B2B insurance. A report by Policybazaar For Business shows a shift from offline to online channels in this traditionally offline space. Surprisingly, tier 2 and tier 3 cities are driving this shift. Tier 3 cities recorded a 46% growth in digital insurance adoption, while tier 2 cities saw a 35% increase. In comparison, tier 1 cities grew by 27%. The demand for commercial lines insurance is leading this growth, with policies seeing a 37% year-on-year rise. Workmen compensation, property, marine, and liability insurance are the main drivers of this surge across all city tiers. Industries such as manufacturing and logistics, spurred by the "Make in India" initiative, are leading the demand for liability and marine insurance.

Source: By Anshul, https://www.cnbctv18.com/, January 13, 2025

  TOP

ELCINA EVENTS , ACTIVITIES & SERVICES 

For more information, please contact:

Rajesh Rawat � 9911445890 / rajesh@elcina.com 

TOP

ELCINA Publications

https://elcina.com/roadmap-for-developing-pcb-eco-system-in-india	Roadmap For Developing PCB Eco-System in India Key Findings Indian PCB market and industry size in terms of domestic production, exports, and imports Growth drivers and challenges (needs & gaps) in the Indian PCB industry Growth potential of PCB manufacturing in India and identify enablers for creating & strengthening the domestic value chain Key inputs required viz. investments, technology, and infra eco-system Details of key PCB value chain players � global and domestic, who can be invited to invest to establish a strong PCB industry
https://elcina.com/ems-task-force-report-on-market-industry-analysis-of-ems-sector-in-india	EMS Task Force Report Key Findings Currently EMS Industry (Contract Manufacturing Services) are valued 832 Bn $ and are projected to grow 1055 Bn by 2025. Domestic electronics manufacturing is estimated at USD 75 Bn of which 39 Bn constitutes EMS value. This is divided into 23.5 Bn domestic Mfg. and USD 15.5 Bn PCBS/Sub-Assembly imports. Further USD 53.5 Bn is finished Electronic Goods imports of which USD 17 Bn is EMS value. Thus total EMS opportunity loss is US$ 32.5 Bn (15.5 +17). The report estimates that EMS production can grow realistically from USD 23.5 Bn today to USD 152 Bn by 2025 at CAGR of 45%. This will meet 75% of the countries EMS requirement of US$ 203 Bn by 2025 against a total estimated market of 400 Bn.
https://elcina.com/elcina-task-force-report-on-electronic-components	ELCINA Task Force Report on Electronic Components Key Findings Current status of component manufacturing in India � Areas of competence vs Gaps and inadequacies Components which urgently require investments and growth in domestic manufacturing Emerging technology and new components for upcoming opportunities Constraints and bottlenecks to be addressed Overcoming Policy constraints, WTO (ITA-1) deadlock and Zero Duty issue Strategy for overcoming these constraints Eco-System requirements- Role of Central and State Governments
https://elcina.com/elcina-directory-of-indian-electronics-industry	ELCINA Directory of Indian Electronics Industry 2023-24 Description ELCINA Directory of Indian Electronics Industry � includes the updates on Indian Electronics Industry and a host of additional improved features covering business environment, statistical industry scan, company databases plus various projections. This handy compendium with its easy-to-read format attracts the attention of a growing number of users (within India and abroad) Apart from electronics industry, the users of this Directory range from financial institutions, commercial banks, FIIs, Consultancy organizations as well as industry promotion institutes across the world�.

TOP

FORTHCOMING EVENTS &  GENERAL INFORMATION 

International Events
	XPONENTIAL Euope 18th-20th February 2025 Germany https://www.xponential-europe.com/
	Intelligent Asia 6th- 8th March 2025 Thailand https://www.chanchao.com.tw/IntelligentAsia-Thailand/en/
	Embedded world 2025 11th  � 13th March 2025 Nuremberg, Germany https://www.embedded-world.de/en
	International Battery Seminar & Exhibit 2024 17th -20th March 2025 Orlando, Orlando, USA https://www.internationalbatteryseminar.com/
	IPC APEX EXPO 18th-20th March 2025 Anaheim Convention Center https://www.ipcapexexpo.org/
	Appliance & Electronics World Expo 2024 20 - 23 Mar 2025 Shanghai New International Expo Centre(SNIEC), Shanghai, China https://en.awe.com.cn/
	The International Electronic Circuits 24th -26th March China http://www.cpcashow.com/en/information.asp
	CPCA Show 2025 24- 26 March 2025 http://www.cpcashow.com/en/index.asp

Domestic Events
	EV Asia Expo 12th  � 14th February 2025 Gujarat https://www.evasia.in/
	ET Expo and Automotive Electronics & Testing Show 13th- 15th  February 2025 Pune https://et-automotive.com/
	14th Source India 18th-19th  February2025 Chennai https://event.sourceindia-electronics.com/
	16th ELECRAMA 2025 22nd- 26th February 2025 https://elecrama.com/
	Convergence Expo 19th- 21st 2025 March New Delhi https://www.convergenceindia.org/
	India Electronics Expo 2025 19th- 21st March 2025 Pragati Maidan Delhi https://www.indiaelectronicsexpo.com/

TOP