VOL XXV, ISSUE 19

15 October 2024

2. DGFT Trade Notice No. 20/2024-25 dated 7th October 2024: Import/Re-import of Exhibits and Samples

The DGFT has clarified the requirements for the import and re-import of "Exhibits and Samples" related to exhibitions.

Key point

• No Authorization Required: Import and re-import of exhibition goods of Indian origin sent abroad for display can be conducted without prior import authorization or registration under the Import Monitoring Systems.

• Compliance with HBP: These imports must comply with conditions outlined in Para 2.60 of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023, which includes submitting a bond/security to Customs or using an ATA Carnet.

• Purpose: This Trade notice aims to streamline the import process for goods used in demonstrations, displays, and exhibitions in India or abroad.

This clarification is intended to facilitate smoother operations for stakeholders in the electronics sector participating in global exhibitions, thereby enhancing their market visibility and opportunities for growth.

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

3. DGFT Public Notice No. 26/2024-2025 dated 7th July 2024: Amendment in Appendix 10M for GAICT of SCOMET Items

The DGFT has announced amendments to Appendix 10M of the Handbook of Procedures under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, expanding the scope of the Global Authorization for Intra-Company Transfer (GAICT) for SCOMET items, software, and technology.

Key point:

• Expansion of GAICT Coverage: The amended policy now includes additional items under SCOMET Category 8, facilitating easier export and re-export of these goods.

• Liberalized Policy: The changes are aimed at supporting intra-company transfers of SCOMET items to specific countries listed in the relevant guidelines, enhancing operational efficiency for companies dealing with sensitive technologies.

This amendment is expected to streamline processes and bolster the capabilities of Indian enterprises involved in high-tech sectors, including electronics, defense, and telecommunications.

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

4. RBI Circular No. DOR.STR.REC.45/04.02.001/2024-25 dated 9th October 2024: Interest Equalization Scheme (IES) Extension for Export Credit

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued an update regarding the Interest Equalization Scheme (IES) for Pre and Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit, following the extension announced by the Government of India.

Key Points:

• Extension of the Scheme: The IES for Pre and Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit has been extended for three months, now effective until December 31, 2024.

• Fiscal Benefits for MSMEs:

  • The total fiscal benefits available to each Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) manufacturer exporter is capped at ₹50 lakhs for the Financial Year 2024-25, valid until December 31, 2024.

  • MSMEs that have already availed benefits of ₹50 lakhs or more in this financial year (up to September 30, 2024) will not be eligible for further benefits during the extended period.

• Continuity of Provisions: All other terms and conditions related to the IES remain unchanged.

For further details, members are encouraged to refer to the existing RBI circular and DGFT Trade Notice No. 18/2024-2025 dated 20^th September 2024 and DOR.STR.REC.45/04.02.001/2024-25 dated 9^th October 2024.

5. GST Circular No. 236/30/2024-GST dated 11th October 2024: Clarification regarding the scope of “as is / as is, where is basis” mentioned in the GST Circulars issued on the basis of recommendation of the GST Council in its meetings

The Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue (Tax Research Unit) has issued Circular No. 236/30/2024-GST to clarify the application of the "as is / as is, where is" principle concerning GST payments. This clarification comes in response to ongoing confusion among taxpayers and tax authorities regarding GST regularization.

Key Points:

• Regularization Under “As Is / As Is, Where Is”: The Circular confirms that payments made at lower GST rates or claimed as nil due to doubts will be accepted as full discharge of tax liability. Taxpayers who paid higher rates will not be eligible for refunds.

• Guidance from the GST Council: The Council has clarified this approach, particularly in cases with competing GST rates, to ensure fair treatment for all taxpayers who acted in good faith.

• Examples for Clarity:

   

  • If some taxpayers paid 5% GST while others paid 12%, those who paid 5% will not need to cover the 7% difference if the Council retrospectively sets the rate to 5%.

  • In situations where some claimed nil duty due to genuine doubts, both groups will be treated as having fulfilled their tax obligations.

For further details, members are advised to refer to the official CBIC website regarding the GST Circular No. 236/30/2024-GST dated 11^th October 2024.

6. GST Circular No. 238/32/2024-GST dated 15th  October  2024 : Clarification of various doubts related to Section 128A of the CGST Act, 2017

The Government of India, Ministry of Finance has released Circular No. 238/32/2024-GST to provide clarifications regarding Section 128A of the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017, which allows for the waiver of interest or penalties for certain demands.

Key Points:

a)    Effective Date: Section 128A is effective from November 1, 2024. It pertains to demands issued under Section 73 for the financial years 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20, with specified conditions.

b)    New Rule Introduced: Rule 164 of the CGST Rules, effective November 1, 2024, outlines the procedures and conditions for closing proceedings under Section 128A.

c)    Payment Deadlines:

a.    Full payment of the tax demanded must be completed by March 31, 2025, to avail of the waiver benefits.

b.    For redetermination cases under Section 73, taxpayers must pay the demanded tax within six months of the issuance of the order.

The Circular addresses various doubts raised by the trade and field formations regarding the application of Section 128A, aiming to ensure uniformity in implementation across jurisdictions

For further details, members are advised to refer to the official CBIC website regarding the GST Update: Circular No. 238/32/2024-GST  dated 15^th  October  2024.

7. GST Circular No. 237/31/2024 dated 15th October 2024: Clarifying the issues regarding implementation of provisions of sub-section (5) and sub-section (6) in section 16 of CGST Act, 2017

The CBIC has issued Circular No. 237 to clarify the implementation of revised provisions under section 16 of the CGST Act, 2017, effective from July 1, 2017. The amendments, introduced via the Finance (No. 2) Act, 2024, retrospectively extend the time limit for availing Input Tax Credit (ITC) for specific financial years (2017-18 to 2020-21) until November 30, 2021.

Key Points:

• ITC Eligibility: Registered persons can claim ITC for invoices/debit notes from the specified financial years, subject to timely filing of returns.

• Cancellation and Revocation of Registration: Taxpayers whose registrations are revoked can reclaim ITC if it was not restricted on the cancellation date.

• No Refund Policy: Refunds for tax paid or ITC reversed will not be granted under the new provisions.

• Rectification Procedure: A special rectification process is available for those affected by demands for wrong ITC claims, allowing applications within six months.

These circular aims to ensure uniform implementation across the tax authorities and provide clarity on the amended provisions.

For further details, members are advised to refer to the official CBIC website regarding the GST Circular No. 237/31/2024 dated 15^th October 2024.

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         INDUSTRY  SCAN                                                                             

General

Tesla’s Optimus robots were remotely operated by humans at Cybercab event, raises questions over capabilities: Report

Tesla's much-touted 'Optimus' robots were remotely controlled by humans to display some capabilities at the recent Cybercab event, Bloomberg reported citing sources. The humanoid prototypes were used to "generate investor enthusiasm for forthcoming products", the sources added. The report added that employees "oversaw many interactions between the bots and attendees at the Cybercab's 'We, Robot' session in Los Angeles on October 10," citing sources who did not want to be named. The bots used AI to walk without human control, they added. Further, some attendees at the event also posted on social media that the Optimus bartender was "assisted by a human." Notably, CEO Elon Musk did not state or disclose the human control and assistance during the launch event, the report said.

Source: https://www.livemint.com/, October 15, 2024

With Focus on Semiconductors And Electric Vehicles, Tata Aims To Create 5 Lakh Manufacturing Jobs In Next Five Years

Tata Group plans to generate 5 lakh manufacturing jobs over the next five years in sectors including semiconductors, electric vehicles, batteries, and related industries, Chairman N Chandrasekaran announced on Tuesday (15 October). Speaking at a symposium of the Indian Foundation for Quality Management, the Tata Sons Chairman asserted that India cannot achieve the goals of being a developed nation if the country cannot create manufacturing jobs. Tata Group aims to achieve this ambitious target through massive investments in Semiconductor Plants, Assembly lines, units of Electric Vehicles and their batteries, etc. These jobs will have a significant multiplier effect which is necessary to meet the employment needs of the growing workforce from the setting up of numerous Small and Medium-sized companies.

Source: By Vansh Gupta, https://swarajyamag.com/, October 15, 2024

Ministry Asks ARAI To Submit Detailed Report On Ola Electric’s Malpractices

Ola Electric, which grabbed a 30 per cent market share in 2023, has again caught the attention of the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) for misconduct and malpractices. The MHI has now urged the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) to carefully investigate and provide reports on the company’s alleged violation of consumer rights, misleading advertisement and unfair trade practices. ARAI is the vehicle testing agency of India for the FAME and PM E-Drive schemes and provides eligibility certificates under the scheme. The MHI has ordered ARAI to conduct the investigation following a show cause notice to the company by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) on October 3, 2024. ARAI has appeared in the center stage as it is the agency that has provided eligibility certification to Ola for the FAME II and PM E-Drive schemes.

Source: https://www.electronicsforyou.biz/, October 10, 2024

Jacobs awarded CG Semi contract for engineering design of OSAT facility in Sanand

Engineering services company Jacobs on Thursday said it has been appointed by CG Semi for the engineering design of the company new Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility at Sanand, Gujarat in India. ET was the first to report on August 5 that Murugappa Group firm CG Power's semiconductor arm CG Semi had onboarded the leading global facilities management firm to build its upcoming chip assembly plant in Sanand. CG Semi is a joint venture between CG Power, Renesas Electronics Corporation, and Stars Microelectronics (Thailand). Jacobs said it will serve as the engineering, procurement and construction services (EPCS) partner on the Mini Line, and engineering partner on the Main Line.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, October 11, 2024

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Information Technology

Maharashtra government signs MOU with NIELIT to support technical education in India

In a significant move towards bolstering technical education in India a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology and Government of Maharashtra through its Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education, Mumbai on Friday. On this occasion, Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Railways and Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw said, "the collaboration between NIELIT and the Government of Maharashtra will ensure that students receive practical education, tailored to the current needs of the industry." This effort, beginning in Maharashtra, will be extended to other states, focusing particularly on Polytechnic institutions, ITIs, and the newly established university in the state. This is an exciting opportunity for our youth, especially in the IT industry.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/, October 13, 2024

Stakeholders see signs of Tiruchi emerging as an IT destination

Tiruchi, which is considered as an important education hub in the State, is slowly and steadily emerging as a destination for Information Technology (IT) and Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES), according to stakeholders. More than 20 years have passed since small IT or ITES companies made their footprints in Tiruchi. But the growth did not commensurate with the level of Tier-II cities such as Coimbatore and Madurai.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/, October 13, 2024

IT services' focus on building IP and platforms may trigger more lawsuits

Recently there has been a spurt in litigation by information-technology (IT) services players as the industry’s business model transitions towards platform and intellectual property-led deals. Unlike earlier litigation, which were related more to contract breaches and disputes on project-implementation timelines, this time it is about misappropriating trade secrets and infringing intellectual property (IP). Industry players and analysts say such cases are only going to increase as companies start deploying technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (GenAI) for coding and creating tools. In August this year, Nasdaq-listed Cognizant’s subsidiary TriZetto sued India’s second-largest IT services player, Infosys, in a Texas federal court for alleged misappropriation of trade secrets related to health care software.

Source: By Shivani Shinde, https://www.business-standard.com/, October 10, 2024

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Consumer Electronics

India set to source entire mobile phone needs locally by fiscal year-end as Apple, Google ramp up production

India is likely to start sourcing its entire mobile phone needs locally by the end of this fiscal year, with Apple starting manufacturing of iPhone Pro and Pro Max models last week and Alphabet’s Google producing its Pixel handsets in the country. The surge in local manufacturing, including premium handsets, has significantly reduced the need for imports, officials told ET. With Apple announcing production of iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models from India, the final steps which indicate the success of smartphone production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme are in place. Till FY24, imports comprised nearly 3% of smartphones sold in the domestic market by value, primarily the Pro models of iPhones, and Google’s Pixel.

Source: By Kiran Rathee, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, October 10, 2024

Rajasthan emerges as promising region in consumer electronics category on Amazon

Jaipur, Rajasthan has emerged as one of the most promising regions for the consumer electronics category on Amazon, a company official said. Amazon.in has reported a response from consumers in Jaipur and Rajasthan across the Consumer Electronics category during the festive season. Notably, the smartphone segment has experienced robust double-digit growth, with new smartphone buyers growing by 60 per cent, positioning Jaipur as one of the top-performing regions. As one of the biggest markets for music, Jaipur has also witnessed a growth of 25 per cent year-on-year for the consumer electronics segment. In addition, laptops and tablets surged by 25 per cent, while large-screen TVs saw a remarkable growth of over 50 per cent.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, October 12, 2024

Global Tablet Market Rises in Q2 2024 as Heavy Hitters Return

Global tablet shipments grew 15% YoY in Q2 2024, despite a slow period historically, according to Counterpoint Research’s latest Global Tablet Market Tracker. The market witnessed a return to form in Q2 2024 as Apple and Samsung both had new releases compared to none the previous year, while other market players also displayed strong numbers. The market leaders’ return to normal model release schedules signals an optimistic outlook for 2024 and is an indication of recovering consumer sentiment.” Lee added, “Other than Apple and Samsung, Chinese OEMs such as Huawei and Xiaomi also added to growth momentums offering an increasingly diverse range of model offerings in the tablet market, further stimulating demand. Xiaomi’s tablet shipments nearly doubled YoY, registering the biggest yearly growth among global tablet OEMs, as it found success in Europe and emerging markets regions such as APAC ex CH, IN, and MEA. This is parallel to the initial successes found in similar regions from its smartphone business.

Source: https://www.counterpointresearch.com/, October 07, 2024

Consumer Electronics Packaging Market: Expected CAGR of 8.02% from 2025 to 2032

The Consumer Electronics Packaging Market is evolving rapidly, driven by the increasing demand for protective, sustainable, and aesthetically appealing packaging solutions. With the expansion of the global electronics industry, particularly in devices like smartphones, laptops, wearables, and home appliances, the need for innovative packaging that protects delicate products during shipping and enhances brand image is critical. The Consumer Electronics Packaging Market was valued at approximately USD 32.24 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow from USD 34.83 billion in 2024 to USD 64.52 billion by 2032. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for this market is expected to be around 8.02% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2032.

Source: https://www.openpr.com/, October 14, 2024

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Telecom

India to allot satellite internet spectrum via administrative method

Spectrum for satellite services will be allocated administratively but this doesn't mean spectrum will come without a cost, Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said today. The cost of spectrum and the formula of allocation will be decided by telecom regulator TRAI. “There is a paper that has already been circulated by TRAI and that regulatory authority of telecom has been empowered by the constitution to decide what administrative prices are going to be. And I am very confident that they will come up with the best prices that should be adopted, provided they are under administrative demand,” the minister said during a press briefing in the India Mobile Congress. The Telecom Act 2023, passed in December last year, has very clearly stated that Satcom spectrum will be allocated via administrative route.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, October 15, 2024

India Mobile Congress 2024 | Bharti Airtel's Sunil Mittal calls for satellite companies to pay license fees and buy spectrum

Speaking at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024 inauguration, Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal pushed for satellite companies looking to serve urban markets to pay license fees and buy spectrum for their telecom services, just as traditional telecom firms do. Mittal, whose Bharti Airtel is India’s second-largest telecom company, said that existing telecom companies are already expanding satellite services to the remotest parts of the country. Satellite operators who want to provide services to urban areas and retail customers indeed need to go through the regular licensing process of any country, and in this case, India, to obtain a license; buy the spectrum; undertake all the obligations, including rollout and security; pay their license fees and taxes and they would be welcomed by the telecom fraternity.

Source: https://www.cnbctv18.com/, October 15, 2024

PM Modi On India’s Rapid Telecom Advancements And Global Impact

During the ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly in Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered an inspiring address highlighting India’s rapid advancements in the telecom sector. He emphasized that India has emerged as a dynamic hub for telecommunications and technology, boasting an impressive 1.2 billion mobile phone users and 950 million internet users. Modi noted that over 40% of the world's real-time digital transactions occur in India, showcasing the nation's growing significance in the global digital economy. He stated that digital connectivity is not only a vital tool for last-mile delivery but also a means to foster global collaboration and progress. By leveraging its extensive digital infrastructure, India is poised to contribute meaningfully to the future of global telecommunications. Modi’s vision underscores the country’s commitment to ensuring that discussions at the assembly translate into actionable strategies for enhancing connectivity, accessibility, and technology for the greater good of the global community.

Source: https://www.businesstoday.in/, October 15, 2024

BSNL 5G set to roll out in June 2025, Telecom Minister announces; 38,300 4G sites now live

BSNL users, who have long been waiting for 4G, will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of 5G service. Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently revealed the launch date for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited's 5G service. During an event held on Monday, October 14, the Union Minister stated that the preparations for BSNL's 5G service have been completed. The government-owned telecom company is in the process of installing thousands of mobile towers to upgrade the network infrastructure across the country. According to Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, the company is on track to launch the 5G network by June 2025. Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum ITUWTSA, he emphasised that India has been following the world's footsteps in 4G, is progressing alongside the global advancements in 5G, and aims to lead the world in 6G technology.

Source: https://www.indiatvnews.com/, October 15, 2024

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EV’s & Auto Electronics

SIAM President: Phase Out EV Subsidies At 20% Penetration

Shailesh Chandra, the new president of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, suggests that government subsidies for electric vehicle buyers should be phased out when penetration in a specific vehicle category reaches 20%. Chandra believes these subsidies should remain until a substantial number of consumers have adopted the technology, enhancing its acceptance through positive word-of-mouth. He anticipates that as production scales up and costs decrease, subsidies will no longer be necessary. Chandra, also the Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, observed that costs are declining due to cheaper cell technology, increased local production, and higher production volumes.

Source: By Aryaman Raghuvanshi, https://www.electronicsforyou.biz/, October 15, 2024

Global EV sales up 30.5% in September as China shines, Europe recuperates

Global sales of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles rose by an annual 30.5% in September, as China surpassed its record numbers recorded in August and Europe resumed growth, market research firm Rho Motion said on Tuesday. Gains in the U.S. market have been slow and steady in anticipation of the Nov. 5 election, which makes it difficult to predict future trends in the country, data manager Charles Lester told Reuters. Chinese carmakers are seeking to grow their sales in the EU despite import duties of up to 45% and amid cooling global demand for electric cars. Chinese and European automakers were going head-to-head at the Paris car show on Monday. Sales in China jumped 47.9% in September and reached 1.12 million vehicles, while in the United States and Canada they were up 4.3% to 0.15 million.

Source: https://www.livemint.com/, October 15, 2024

Hero Electric seeks to settle subsidy misappropriation case with Centre

Hero Electric has approached the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) seeking settlement of ongoing disputes and release of pending electric vehicle (EV) subsidies, officials told ET. The electric two-wheeler maker has agreed to cough up penalty for any violation or lack of compliance. "Hero Electric has approached us seeking a resolution of their pending issues...We are examining their request," a senior government official said. Hero Electric, led by Naveen Munjal, was a beneficiary of MHI's Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India Phase II (FAME India Phase II) scheme. It, along with five others, was later found to be in violation of mandatory localisation norms and faced a government clampdown after a probe. The government subsequently sought refund of subsidies from these EV makers, claiming it was wrongfully availed.

Source: By Twesh Mishra, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, October 14, 2024

Hyundai, Kia Outlines Strategy To Sell 1,20,000 EVs In India Before 2024 Ends

The South Korean global carmakers Kia and Hyundai seemed to have regained their strong momentum again with a plan to sell more than 100,000 electric vehicle units in the country by the end of this October. According to Yonhap news agency, both companies were reported to have sold around  91,348 units from January to September, which highlights an escalation of 30 percent compared to the previous year. Hyundai Motor Group owns a portion of Kia Motors, and Kia has a stake in some of Hyundai’s subsidiaries. together, they outline strategies to boost the growth of EVs globally. As per the report, sales of Hyundai’s EV units augmented by 4.5 percent year-on-year to 48,297 units, while Kia experienced a sharp 80.3 percent growth, reaching 43,051 units. Automobile research experts believe products that both companies together can surpass sales beyond 1,20,000 by the end of this year.

Source: https://www.electronicsforyou.biz/, October 14, 2024

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Defence & Solar

India signs deal with US to procure 31 Predator drones

India will procure 31 Predator drones from the US defense major, General Atomics, under a government-to-government framework, officials said on Tuesday. The two countries today signed the much-anticipated deal. The Indian Navy will get 15 Sea Guardian drones whereas the Indian Air Force and Army will receive eight Sky Guardian drones each. Under the ₹32000 crore deal, a maintenance, repair and overhaul facility will also be launched in India. The deal was signed by both sides in the presence of senior officials. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the acquisition of 31 Predator drones last week. The American team of military and corporate officials are in India for the inking of these contracts.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/, October 15, 2024

Gaganyaan Docking test likely before Dec 15

 The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is planning to conduct its Space Docking Experiment (Spadex) mission before December 15, 2024. This docking test is a crucial step in the preparations for the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send humans into space. The Gaganyaan mission is India’s ambitious human spaceflight program, aiming to send astronauts into low Earth orbit. A critical component of this mission is the ability to dock spacecraft in space, which is essential for future missions, including the planned Chandrayaan-4 lunar sample return mission. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been working on a precursor mission known as the Space Docking Experiment (Spadex), which is designed to demonstrate docking capabilities. According to ISRO chairman S Somanath, the Spadex mission involves launching satellites in two separate components that will rendezvous and dock in space to form a single operational unit. This capability is vital for India’s long-term goals, including constructing its own space station.

Source: https://www.indiandefensenews.in/, October 15, 2024

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MSME

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

43% New Applicants in MSME Sector for PLI White Goods

The 3rd Round of on-line application window for PLI Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED lights) has attracted 38 responses with a  net committed investment of Rs 4121 crore ended on 12th October 2024 after being open for 90 days from 15th July, 2024. 43% of the new applicants are in the MSME sector which shows the confidence among MSMEs to become part of the value chain of manufacturing of components of ACs and LED Lights. The PLI scheme was launched by the Department for  Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade(DPIIT). The applicants include 8 existing beneficiaries of the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for White Goods (PLIWG) committing net incremental investment of Rs 1,285 crore. 30 new applicants have committed investment of Rs 2,836 crore proposing to manufacture varieties of critical components of ACs and LED Lights across India.

Source: https://smestreet.in/limelight/, October 15, 2024

'MSMEs key to achieve USD Five trillion economy': MP Suresh Prabhu

The Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation (AP Chambers) hosted an interactive session in Vijayawada with former Union Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Suresh Prabhu, Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) President Ameya Prabhu, and ICC Director General Rajeev Singh. AP Chambers President Potluri Bhaskara Rao stressed that the MSME sector, the backbone of the economy, faces challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza wars, high production costs, expensive financing, poor market linkages, and delayed payments. MSME exports have declined, labor productivity is low, and many MSMEs have closed in the past five years. He urged Suresh Prabhu to address these issues with the Union government and expressed optimism about the potential for upskilling and technology adoption to boost the sector.

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

SBI plans to enhance threshold limit under instant loan scheme for MSME sector

To ensure easy and adequate credit availability to the MSME sector, the State Bank of India (SBI) is planning to enhance the threshold under the instant loan scheme from the existing Rs 5 crore. 'MSME Sahaj - End to End Digital Invoice Financing', provides solutions ranging from applying for the loan, documentation and disbursement of the sanctioned loan within 15 minutes, without any manual intervention. The bank also introduced a business rule engine based, data based assessment of the credit limits up to Rs 5 core. Anybody walking into our MSME branch has to give only their PAN and approval for sourcing GST data, we can give approval in 15-45 minutes. Simplification of the MSME credit is something that the bank is emphasising on and making lending cash flow based backed by the CGTMSE guarantee.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, October 13, 2024

FCRF and IEDUP Under MSME Department of Uttar Pradesh Sign MoU to Enhance Cybersecurity for Businesses

The Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF) and the Institute of Entrepreneurship Development, U.P. (IEDUP), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote research and collaboration in emerging technology sectors, focusing on cybersecurity, legal frameworks, and digital transformation for MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises). The MoU was signed by Harshvardhan Singh, Director of FCRF, and Arvind Kumar Singh, Associate Faculty and authorized signatory of IEDUP. Key figures present at the ceremony included Prof. Triveni Singh, Chief Mentor from FCRF, Mamta Chauhan, Senior Faculty at IEDUP, and Mr. Surjan Singh, Special Secretary (Retired). At present, Mr. Pawan Agarwal, Joint Commissioner, MSME & Export Promotion, GoUP is the Director of IEDUP. IEDUP, established by the Government of Uttar Pradesh in 1986, is a premier institution aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and human resource development.

Source: https://www.the420.in/, October 15, 2024

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ELCINA EVENTS , ACTIVITIES & SERVICES 

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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….

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS &  GENERAL INFORMATION 

International Events
	TPCA Show 23-25 October 2024 Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center https://tw.tpcashow.com/introtw/
	China (Guzhen) International Lighting Fair 2024 22nd -26th October 2024  https://shorturl.at/gsgQL
	Consumer Technology Association. ​7th -10th January 2025 LAS VEGAS, NV https://www.ces.tech/exhibitors.aspx
	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
	ELECTRONICS EXPO 12th -14th DEC 2024 CHENNAI https://shorturl.at/2VFcu
	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/

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