VOL XXV, ISSUE 04

29 February 2024

India�s presence will democratise electronics value chain: Josh Foulger

India�s presence in the electronics manufacturing ecosystem will democratise the global value chain and give customers across the world more options, said the incoming president of electronics at Zetwerk, Josh Foulger. He told ET that India is at the cusp of the next big revolution in electronics manufacturing and that the current situation is like the �Y2K moment� for the country as it leaps into the next level. India is going to be a full stack player. We can design, do manufacturing and also be a supply chain player. We can design, develop, test and market products in our home domain and then do an India plus. Foulger, who will assume charge formally on Friday, has joined the Bengaluru-based manufacturing unicorn from Bharat FIH, the India arm of Taiwanese contract manufacturing firm Foxconn.

Source: By Aashish Aryan, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 29, 2024

Domestic manufacturing of semiconductors is the next big space: MeitY Secy

Domestic manufacturing of semiconductors is the next big space and many companies are expected to venture into this segment, a senior MeitY official said on Wednesday adding that a USD 2 billion digital economy is what India seriously needs. S Krishnan, Secretary of Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), while speaking virtually at the India Digital Summit (IDS) 2024 said the digital economy is expected to grow at a faster pace in the next few years. "Semiconductors is another big space. More companies are likely to come into the space...Our interest in semiconductors is open," he said, adding that in the next 5-10 years semiconductor manufacturing in the country is expected to come up in a big way.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 28, 2024

India chip strategy makes progress with $21 billion in proposals

The Indian government, after years of watching from the sidelines of the chips race, now has to evaluate $21 billion of semiconductor proposals and divvy up taxpayer support between foreign chipmakers, local champions or some combination of the two. Israel�s Tower Semiconductor Ltd. is proposing a $9 billion plant, while India�s Tata Group has put forward an $8 billion chip fabrication unit, people familiar with the matter said. Both projects would be in Prime Minister Narendra Modi�s home state of Gujarat, the people said, declining to be named as the matter is not public. Israel�s Tower Semiconductor Ltd. is proposing a $9 billion plant, while India�s Tata Group has put forward an $8 billion chip fabrication unit, people familiar with the matter said. Both projects would be in Prime Minister Narendra Modi�s home state of Gujarat, the people said, declining to be named as the matter is not public.

Source: By Sankalp Phartiyal, Bloomberg, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 26, 2024

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   POLICY SCAN                                                                                    

1. DGFT Public Notice No. 62/2023 dated February 29, 2024 : Amendment in para 2.39 of the FTP, 2023

The DGFT, through Notification No. 62/2023 dated February 29, 2024, has amended the Foreign Trade Policy, 2023. The amendment allows merchanting trade within a single foreign country, excluding CITES and SCOMET listed goods/items, and subject to RBI guidelines.

The amendment to Para 2.39 of the Foreign Trade Policy is summarized as follows:

Existing Para: Merchanting trade involving shipment of goods from one foreign country to another foreign country without touching Indian ports, involving an Indian intermediary is allowed subject to compliance with RBI guidelines, except for goods/items in the CITES and SCOMET list.

Revised Para: Merchanting trade involving the shipment of goods from one foreign country to another foreign country without touching Indian ports, or shipment of goods within one specific foreign country, involving an Indian intermediary is allowed subject to compliance with RBI guidelines, except for goods in the CITES, or under SCOMET.

Effect of the Notification: Merchanting Trade carried out within one specific foreign country is permitted subject to compliance with RBI guidelines, except for goods listed in the CITES Appendices, or under SCOMET.

2. Implementation of Electronic Cash Ledger (ECL) for payment of Import duties for goods imported through Courier Mode from tomorrow, i.e. 1st March 2024

Starting March 1st, 2024, the implementation of the Electronic Cash Ledger (ECL) for the payment of import duties on goods imported through Courier Mode will come into effect.With the introduction of ECL, the Express Industry can now make payments through multiple banks using internet banking and NEFT/RTGS, offering greater convenience compared to the previous system where payments were limited to a single bank.

Previously, the ECL system was successfully implemented for import duties on cargo processed through EDI at Seaports, Airports, ICDs, and LCSs starting from April 1st, 2023. To ensure a smooth transition to the new payment system, extensive support was provided to stakeholders through registration melas and webinars conducted by DG Systems, CBIC, from October to December 2023.

A pilot phase commenced on January 15th, 2024, and was gradually expanded to cover locations including Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, as well as all other International Courier Terminal locations. Since February 12th, 2024, the pilot has been operating successfully across all locations without encountering any system glitches.

The implementation of the new ECL payment mode is aimed at facilitating ease of doing business for all EXIM stakeholders.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2010386

3. DGFT Public Notice No. 58/2015-2020-DGFT Dated: 24th February, 2023 : One time relaxation for furnishing additional fee to cover excess imports affected under the Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme to promote Ease of Doing Business

The Director General of Foreign Trade, under Paragraph 1.03 and 2.04 of the Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-2020, announces a one-time relaxation in the procedure for accepting fees related to excess duty utilization under the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme.

i. To promote Ease of Doing Business, Public Notice No. 03 dated 13.04.2022 amended para 5.16(a) of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP), 2015-20. This amendment allows EPCG authorization holders to submit additional fees covering excess duty utilized to the Regional Authority (RA) when applying for the Export Obligation Discharge Certificate (EODC).

ii. As a further initiative for Ease of Doing Business, RAs are now authorized to permit the submission of additional fees for excess duty utilized in EPCG authorizations issued under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2009-14 (extended up to 31.03.2015). This allowance is applicable during the application for the EODC, provided the excess duty utilized does not exceed 10% of the duty saved value of the authorization.

This one-time relaxation simplifies the process of submitting additional fees for excess duty utilization in EPCG authorizations issued under the FTP 2009-14 (extended up to 31.03.2015), thereby facilitating smoother trade and business activities.

4. Public Notice No. 13 /2024- JNCH Date: 23 .02.2024 : Procedure for Filing and Processing Bill of Entry Amendment Requests

The Office of the Pr. Commissioner of Customs (NS � I) at Jawahar Lal Nehru Custom House (JNCH) has released Public Notice No. 13/2024, presenting a detailed procedure for the filing and processing of Bill of Entry (BoE) amendments. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the amendment process, covering both self-approval and officer-approved amendments to ensure efficient customs clearance.

The notice categorizes amendments into two types:

i. Self-Approval/Auto Approval: Certain amendments, like supplementing Bill of Lading details, undergo auto-approval through the Common Portal. This automated process, facilitated by the Customs Automated System, expedites clearance without incurring additional fees.

ii. Approval by the Officer: Other amendments require approval from the designated officer, based on factors such as timing and impact on assessment. The notice delineates various scenarios, from pre-assessment amendments to post-Out of Charge (OOC) modifications, specifying the roles of different officers in processing each request.

Public Notice No. 13/2024 acts as a comprehensive guide for stakeholders engaged in the BoE amendment process at JNCH. With detailed insights into filing and processing procedures, the notice aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and compliance in customs operations. Importers, Customs Brokers, and other stakeholders are urged to follow the prescribed procedures for smooth customs clearance and trade facilitation.

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         INDUSTRY  SCAN                                                                             

General

L&T starts building team for semiconductor chip design

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is building a team for its semiconductor chip design business, as it looks to foray into fabless semiconductor chip design and product ownership. L&T set up a wholly-owned subsidiary L&T Semiconductor Technologies (LTST) in November 2023. JD Patil, Advisor to chairman and managing director, L&T, said LTST is building a 400-500-strong global team purely focused on chip design and scouting for talent from the US, Europe, Japan, ASEAN and India. Patil said the business can�t be solely for the domestic market. �Chip is not a business you can do domestically, so we are building an international team,� he said.

Source: By Geeta Nair, https://www.financialexpress.com/, February 28, 2024

Samsung Unveils Semiconductor R&D Unit In India

Samsung Semiconductor India Research (SSIR), the research arm of Samsung Electronics, has unveiled its new research and development (R&D) facility in India�s Bengaluru city. The facility is aimed at driving cutting-edge semiconductor research and development in India while addressing the company�s growing needs for advanced infrastructure, it said. This is SSIR�s second office in Bengaluru, with a capacity to accommodate close to 1,600 professionals. Located at Bagmane Capital Tech Park in the Angkor-West area, it spans 1.6 Lakh square feet across four floors, IANS reported. SSIR operates within Samsung Electronics� worldwide network to provide component solutions, showcasing technologies across System LSI, Memory, and Foundry sectors.

Source: https://inc42.com/, February 29, 2024

Intel Launches World�s First Systems Foundry Designed for the AI Era

Intel today launched Intel Foundry as a more sustainable systems foundry business designed for the AI era and announced an expanded process roadmap designed to establish leadership into the latter part of this decade. The company also highlighted customer momentum and support from ecosystem partners � including Synopsys, Cadence, Siemens and Ansys � who outlined their readiness to accelerate Intel Foundry customers� chip designs with tools, design flows and IP portfolios validated for Intel�s advanced packaging and Intel 18A process technologies. The announcements were made at Intel�s first foundry event, Intel Foundry Direct Connect, where the company gathered customers, ecosystem companies and leaders from across the industry. Among the participants and speakers were U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Arm CEO Rene Haas, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and others.

Source: Intel Newsroom, February 21, 2024

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Information Technology

Racial and other biases will not be tolerated: Ashwini Vaishnaw on Gemini AI issue

The government on Monday warned tech giant Google to train artificial intelligence (AI) against reflecting racial comments and biases. The development comes after Google�s AI tool Gemini allegedly gave a �biased� response to a question about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, triggering a debate on the programming of chatbots. The Centre also indicated it would take action against the company. When asked whether Prime Minister Modi was a �fascist,� the AI tool said he was �accused of implementing policies some experts have characterised as fascist.� The AI tool also added that �These accusations are based on a number of factors, including the BJP�s Hindu nationalist ideology, its crackdown on dissent, and its use of violence against religious minorities.�

Source: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/, February 26, 2024

BITS Pilani gets Rs 60 crore from DST to set up advanced research facility under SATHI scheme

 The Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani (BITS Pilani) has been awarded the SATHI project by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The institute will receive a sum of Rs 60 crore over the next four years, to establish an advanced research facility at the institute. The Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institute (SATHI) project aims to enhance research capabilities in Rajasthan by providing access to advanced equipment and resources. The new facility will be located in Pilani and will cater to various fields of engineering and sciences, including material sciences, device manufacturing and development, and biopharmaceuticals, the institute said.

Source: https://news.careers360.com/, Februry 29, 2024

Centre amends IT rules to issue orders for destroying interception records

The government has amended the Information Technology (IT) rules to allow for the Home Secretary or other bureaucrats in the Centre to issue directions to destroy digital records of interception or decrypt information. So far, the power lied with security agencies, such as law enforcement bodies. The change will broaden powers of the Centre to issue directions to destroy digital evidence.  In a gazette notification on Monday, the IT Ministry said that it was amending Section 23 of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information) Rules, 2009 by substituting �security agency� with the words �competent authority and the security agency�.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/, february 27, 2024

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Consumer Electronics

Acer to make home appliances in India, export too: MD Harish Kohli

Acer, known for its laptops and PCs, is expanding into home electronics, with plans to manufacture and export appliances such as water and air purifiers, refrigerators and vacuum cleaners from India, a market that last year became the Taiwanese IT hardware major�s second largest for its global operations after the US. Harish Kohli, managing director, Acer India, told ET that the company is already on track to meet the targets for the first year of the revised production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme that started from April 2023 on the back of strong shipments in the commercial space and exports. Under plans to diversify its business in one of the only markets that saw growth�revenue rose 19-20% on-year�in 2023, Kohli said a company named AcerPure is being formed under which the laptop-maker will be selling consumer appliances. AcerPure �will get registered in the next couple of weeks in India and we are going to be a very strong player�.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 26, 2024

Indian consumer electronics break boundaries, export surge to the US and Europe

Indian consumer electronics manufacturers have opened up new frontiers for exports of made-in-India products to the developed markets such as the US and Europe, which were hitherto only limited to the neighbouring countries, the Middle-East or African nations. Companies like Havells, Dixon, Voltas and Blue Star have said in their December quarter earnings call that they are forming a base for exports in developed nations like the US. Havells India chairman and managing director Anil Rai Gupta said last quarter, the company has formed a subsidiary in the US with plans to distribute air-conditioners in the US market. �It is one of the steps forward in forming a base for exports in the developed market,� he told analysts.

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

MWC 2024: Motorola unveils shape-shifting phone you can wear on your wrist

Foldable phones are all the rage at tech conferences these days. Motorola is aiming to stand out from the crowd with its new Adaptive Display concept phone, unveiled at MWC 2024. This Android device takes the foldable premise to new heights with its versatility and shape-shifting abilities. Rather than simply folding in half like a book, the Adaptive Display can bend into a variety of forms to suit different needs. Its most novel trick is the ability to wrap around the wrist as a 6.9-inch smartwatch. Motorola suggests this wrist mode could pair nicely with one of its AI-powered outfit-matching wallpapers for a fashionable look. We�ve seen similar smart accessorizing in Samsung�s ecosystem.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/, February 27, 2024

Global TV Shipments Fall 3% in 2023; China Drives Premium Segment Growth

Global TV shipments fell 3% in 2023 to reach 223 million units as the US market�s strength was not enough to offset market declines across China and Europe, according to Counterpoint Research�s Global TV Shipment Tracker. Samsung Electronics remained in the top spot while Chinese vendors Hisense and TCL grew by mid-single digits, riding the growth in North America. Counterpoint Research has initiated coverage of global TV shipments with the Global TV Shipment Tracker, a quarterly report split by region, screen size, resolution, average selling price (ASP) and other parameters. This tracker comes in collaboration with DSCC, which Counterpoint acquired recently. DSCC is providing enhanced details on premium segments, including advanced display technologies across OLED (includes QD-OLED), Mini/Micro LED and quantum dot LCD.

Source: https://www.counterpointresearch.com/, February 27, 2024

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Telecom

Mobile World Congress 2024: Tech Mahindra remains hopeful amid telecom sector downturn

Tech Mahindra isn't observing any signs of recovery in the telecom sector, but they remain optimistic that the worst may be over. Mohit Joshi, CEO and MD of Tech Mahindra, mentioned during the 2024 Mobile World Congress that their business faced contraction in the telecom domain. He emphasised the significance of the operators they are associated with and elaborated on the challenges within the telecom industry, while also discussing his future vision. He said, �We are not seeing green shoots just now, but hopefully the worst is behind us.� Discussing generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI), he emphasised AI's transformative potential and its substantial impact on client businesses. Particularly within the telecom sector, there is a notable shift in reshaping contact centres, increasing digital deflection, and reforming talent acquisition and training processes. Furthermore, there is a focus on enhancing developer productivity, implementing autonomous networks, and reducing network power consumption.

Source: https://www.cnbctv18.com/, February 29, 2024

Govt explores measures to make BSNL compete with private operators: Report

The government is reportedly considering several measures to improve operational efficiencies in Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and make the state-run telecom operator compete with private players. The measures being explored include network upgradation, employee cost realisation, improving channels for sales and distribution, and introducing more value-added services (VAS), according to the Economic Times story (behind paywall). While the government's move is expected to streamline expenses (particularly towards employee benefit costs), it is also deemed crucial for BSNL to level the playing field with its privately-owned competitors, the report stated, quoting sources.

Sources: https://www.hindustantimes.com/business/, February 27, 2024

In relief for Vi & Adani, DoT mulls waiving 5G minimum rollout fine

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is considering waiving off the penalty for not meeting minimum roll out obligations for the 26 GHz (millimeter wave band) 5G spectrum as the ecosystem is yet to be developed, officials aware of the details told ET. The department has already issued show cause notices to Vodafone Idea and Adani Data Networks for not meeting the minimum requirements of rolling out 5G network in the band. However, after being told by the companies about the lack of ecosystem, the DoT is believed to be deliberating the matter afresh. The DoT has also sought suggestions on the issue from its technical arm, Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC). If the penalty is not levied, it will benefit Adani and Vodafone Idea, which have not met the conditions. Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have already met the minimum targets.

Source: By Kiran Rathee, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 29, 2024

Relief for telcos: SC sets aside HC order on taxing sim card sale discounts

In a big relief to telecom companies, the Supreme Court on Wednesday set aside Delhi and Calcutta High Courts' orders and said that Section 194H of the Income Tax is not applicable to them in this case. The apex court allowed the appeals of Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea and others and dismissed the I-T department's appeals. The SC delivered its judgment on a batch of 40 appeals led by Bharti Airtel on applicability of TDS on discounts allowed to the pre-paid distributors on sale of SIM/ Recharge Vouchers. The issue involved is whether a telecom service provider is liable to deduct TDS u/s 194H of the Income Tax Act since the relationship between the assessee and a distributor is allegedly that of principal to agent and that the payments paid by the assessee is commission as envisaged u/s 194H of the Act.

Source: By Indu Bhan, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 28, 2024

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EV�s & Auto Electronics

Electric vehicles set to corner a third of Volvo Car India's 2024 sales

Volvo Car India estimates that electric vehicles (EVs) will constitute one-third of its total sales in 2024. In 2023, the luxury car manufacturer recorded overall sales of 2,423 units. Electric vehicles accounted for 28 per cent of its total sales in 2023. Electric models XC40 and C40 reported sales of 510 and 180 units, respectively. The shift towards electric mobility aligns with Volvo's aim to become a fully electric car company by 2030. In the luxury segment of EVs, Volvo holds a 24 per cent market share, securing the second position in India. BMW is the top player in this segment in the country. The year 2023 saw Volvo Car India selling 690 EV units out of the total 2,423 sales, with a 31 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth.

Source: By Anjali Singh, https://www.business-standard.com/, February 28, 2024

Ford may return to Indian market with a focus on EVs: Report

With a focus on hybrid and electric vehicles, global auto major Ford Motor is working on a return to the Indian market by using its manufacturing facility in Chennai for the production of these cars, sources told The Hindu Businessline. Ford is recalibrating its electric vehicle strategy with EV sales slowing sharply as mainstream consumers balk at high prices and spotty charging infrastructure. The automaker has also cut production and prices of its battery-powered Mustang Mach-E, while it pivots to boost the output of gas-electric hybrid models. The company has recently halted shipments of its F-150 Lightning plug-in pickup for an undisclosed quality issue just weeks after cutting production of the battery-powered model due to slowing sales, Bloomberg reported.

Source: By Alka Jain, https://www.livemint.com/, February 27, 2024

VinFast echoes Tesla's demand for India to cut import duty on electric cars

Vietnamese electric vehicle maker VinFast has asked India to reduce import duties on its cars for about two years so customers can get familiar with its products while a local manufacturing plant comes on stream, an executive said on Sunday. VinFast has started building a factory in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and hopes to start production by the middle of next year, for domestic sales first and then exports, its India CEO Pham Sanh Chau told Reuters. VinFast and Tamil Nadu said last month they have agreed to work toward an investment of up to $2 billion, with an intended commitment of $500 million for the first five years of the project.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 26, 2024

India's three-wheelers segment charged up with electric transition

Rajesh M, a three-wheeler driver in New Delhi, is preoccupied with paperwork for a change, and for good reason. Instead of chasing passengers, he�s busy planning to buy a new three-wheeler, but an electric one. Rajesh was persuaded to bet on electric after friends vouched for lower fuel cost. �They were making more than me just because of cheaper fuel,� he explains. On an average, drivers spend Rs 450 per day on compressed natural gas (CNG), which fuels three-wheelers in the national capital. Electric vehicle drivers, on the other hand, spend Rs 200 daily, according to industry estimates. According to data from the Vahan dashboard of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), approximately 54 per cent of the 986,797 three-wheelers sold in the country in FY24 so far are running on electricity. In FY19, the share of these categories was 15 per cent.

Source: https://www.business-standard.com/, February 26, 2024

Plan to enter mass market EV segment in India: Skoda Auto

Czech carmaker Skoda Auto plans to enter the mass market of electric vehicles segment in India, for which it is exploring all options, including partnerships with local companies for economies of scale, company's management board member Martin Jahn said on Wednesday. The company is gearing up to enter the electric vehicles segment in India this year and is currently testing its premium electric SUV Enyaq. On how important is it to have a local partner, Jahn said, "From a strategy point of view, it's important to determine what is the best way which we're exploring at the moment. The options are (whether) doing it alone (or) doing it with a partner in various kinds of partnerships..."

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 28, 2024

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Defence & Solar

India's Adani unveils defence complex, $362 mln investment plan

Billionaire Gautam Adani's group plans to invest more than 30 billion rupees ($362.1 million) in the manufacturing of ammunition and missiles, the conglomerate's defence arm said on Monday, as it unveiled two sprawling production facilities in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The plans highlight the ports-to-power conglomerate's ambitions in the lucrative defence sector where manufacturing is largely dominated by government-owned companies. Adani Defence & Aerospace will manufacture a "full spectrum of ammunition" for India's armed forces, paramilitary forces and police at the facilities spread over 500 acres, creating more than 4,000 jobs, it said in a press release.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/, february 26, 2024

UP to help India become self-reliant in defence production: Adityanath

CHIEF MINISTER Yogi Adityanath on Monday said that while country-made pistols used to be flashed in Uttar Pradesh before 2017, the state now has a defence corridor helping India become �self-reliant in defence manufacturing.� Adityanath was speaking during the inaugural function of the Ammunition Manufacturing Complex of Adani Group in the Defence Corridor at Sadh in Kanpur. He pointed out that all six nodes of the defence corridor are actively contributing to India�s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Highlighting the Prime Minister�s announcement of six nodes in Uttar Pradesh � Aligarh, Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, and Chitrakoot � the CM noted the commencement of operations by Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Ltd in the Kanpur node, said a press release issued by the state government on Monday.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/, February 28, 2024

New Tamil nadu spaceport will launch small satellites within two years: ISRO chairman

 The Kulasekarapattinam spaceport will be ready in two years to launch small satellites, Indian Space Research Organisation chairman S. Somanath has said. During an informal chat with reporters after Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Kulasekarapattinam spaceport on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, Mr. Somanath said the construction of ISRO�s second satellite launch facility would be completed within two years to launch SSLVs, (Small Satellite Launch Vehicles) in order to inject small satellites into a predetermined orbit. The upcoming facility would have the capacity to launch 24 satellites per year. On the launch of the Rohini Sounding Rocket from the mobile launch pad on Wednesday to mark the commencement of physical work on the spaceport, Mr. Somanath said it would reach an altitude of up to 60 km.

Source: https://www.indiandefensenews.in/, February 29, 2024

PM Modi launches india's first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the country's first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel under the Harit Nauka initiative in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi. Talking about India's first hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel, PM Modi called it a gift from the people of Tamil Nadu for Kashi. The hydrogen-fuelled electric vessel project is part of India's transformative efforts on the innovative and new technology fronts on green energy and sustainable cost-effective alternate fuel front. Hydrogen fuel cells can be used in a wide range of applications, including transportation, material handling, stationary, portable, and emergency backup power applications.

Source: https://www.indiandefensenews.in/, February 29, 2024

India blocks china's ifd in wto, it's unlikely to feature in final outcome: sources

India on Wednesday blocked the China-led Investment Facilitation Development Agreement (IFD) in the World Trade Organization (WTO), so the proposal is unlikely to be mentioned in the outcome document of the ministerial conference. Along with India, South Africa also joined the WTO to block the Investment Facilitation Development Agreement. The 123-member group led by China tried to forward a proposal in the working group meeting on development. Earlier, India maintained IFD as a non-trade issue in the forum. Official sources said the IFD is an agreement among the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries and is led by vested interests.

Source: https://www.indiandefensenews.in/, February 29, 2024

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EMSIF

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

45-day payment rule to MSMEs: FinMin looking at a possible tweak

The finance ministry is looking into a proposal to tweak the new income tax rule under which business enterprises will be required to make payments to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within 45 days. Some businesses have sought deferment of the provision by a full financial year while others have requested that the 45-day time limit be extended. The concern stems from multiple issues. A section of MSMEs, such as those in the textile industry, are worried that this new rule could impact their relations with suppliers and buyers, who often work with these small businesses on a credit system. Others are worried that their systems are not ready for this provision.

Source: By Surbhi, https://www.businesstoday.in/, February 28, 2024

SIDBI ET MSME Conclave in Rajkot sees stellar turnout, focuses on building financially resilient MSMEs

After successful sessions in four cities � Indore, Bhubaneswar, Ludhiana and Belagavi � the fifth session of the SIDBI ET MSME Conclave held in Rajkot saw a stellar turnout. From conversations around building financially resilient and competitive MSMEs to the challenges that need immediate solutions, the Rajkot edition aimed to understand the role of Gujarat in shaping a viable ecosystem for the MSME sector. Small and medium industries in the city are dominated by foundries, engineering & automobile works, and units that manufacture textiles, gold & silver jewellery, handicrafts, spices, medicines and wall clocks.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/, February 27, 2024

Unused land will be made available for MSME sector

The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) Commissioner Shekhar Singh on Monday stressed the need to increase the livability index in the PCMC area with a special focus on developing civic amenities in the area. Singh was addressing a gathering of businessmen during the Pune International Business Summit organised by the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (MCCIA). Singh further said that the administration aims to boost the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector in the area and would ensure that more land would be made available for the specific purpose.  Several steps are being taken for the betterment of infrastructure of industries as per the futuristic vision of holistic development of the industrial area.

Source: By Nadeem Inamdar, https://www.hindustantimes.com/, February 27, 2024

PM participates in �Creating the Future � Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs� program in Madurai, Tamil Nadu

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi participated in the program �Creating the Future � Digital Mobility for Automotive MSME Entrepreneurs� in Madurai, Tamil Nadu today and addressed thousands of Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs) entrepreneurs working in the automotive sector. The Prime Minister also interacted with Gandhigram-trained women entrepreneurs and schoolchildren. Addressing the occasion, the Prime Minister said that it is a delightful experience to be present among minds of the technology and innovation sector and remarked that the feeling is similar to visiting a laboratory that crafts the future. He underlined that Tamil Nadu has proved its mettle on the global stage when it comes to technology, especially in the automotive sector.

Source: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/, February 27, 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 2022-23 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
	International Battery Seminar & Exhibit 2024  12 - 15 Mar 2024 Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando, Orlando, USA https://www.internationalbatteryseminar.com/
	Appliance & Electronics World Expo 2024 14 - 17 Mar 2024 Shanghai New International Expo Centre(SNIEC), Shanghai, China https://www.awe.com.cn/
	Seoul International Electric Fair & Power Generation Korea 2024 03 - 05 Apr 2024 Coex Halls A & B, Seoul, South Korea https://sief.co.kr/fairDash.do?hl=ENG
	Hong Kong Electronics Fair 2024 13-16 Apr 2024 - Physical     Fair 6-23 Apr 2024 - Click2Match (Online)  13 Mar-12 May 2024 - hktdc.com Sourcing  Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre               https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkelectronicsfairse
	Wire Dusseldorf 2024      Messe D�sseldorf GmbH 15 - 19 Apr 2024 Messe D�sseldorf,Am Staad, D�sseldorf, D-40474 Germany https://www.wire-tradefair.com/
	Automotive World Korea 2024 24 - 26 Apr 2024 COEX, Seoul, South Korea  https://www.automotiveworld.kr/
	The International Electronic Circuits 13-15 May 2024 Shanghai, China http://www.cpcashow.com/en/information.asp
	The Total Solution Exhibition for Electronics Equipment 12- 14 June 2024 Tokyo, Japan  https://www.jpcashow.com/show2024/en/
	China (Guzhen) International Lighting Fair 2024 MESSE FRANKFURT 9-12 JUNE,2024 Guzhen Convention and Exhibition Center, Zhongshan, CHINA https://guangzhou-international-lighting-exhibition.hk.messefrankfurt.com/guangzhou/en.html
	KPCA Show 2024 (Int�l Electronic Circuits and Packaging Show) 4 - 6 September 2024 Songdo Convensia, Incheon http://www.kpcashow.com/m/eng/about.asp
	TPCA Show 23-25 October 2024 Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center https://tw.tpcashow.com/introtw/
	International Electronics Circuit Exhibition 4-6 December 2024 Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center (Bao�an), China https://www.hkpcashow.org/en/show/information

Domestic Events
	4th Electronics Summit 2024 26, April 2024 Radisson Hotel, Sector 18, Noida https://elcina.com/forthcoming-activities
	Electronics for You Expo 2024 Thu, May 16, 2024 - Sat, May 18, 2024 Auto Cluster Exhibition Center, Pune, India, Pune, India https://www.efyexpo.com/pun
	13th Strategic Electronic supply Chain July, Bangalore https://ses-india.in/
	Electronica India 11th -13th September 2024 India Expo Mart, Greater Noida https://electronica-india.com/en/trade-fair/
	Semicon India 2024 11th -13th September 2024 India Expo Mart, Greater Noida SEMICON India 2024 - Shaping the Semiconductor Future | SEMI
	14th Source India Electronics Supply Chain February, Chennai Trade Centre Sourceindia - Electronics Supply Chain

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