Sunday, July 6, 2025

Scientists Proved Natural Diamonds Carbon-Neutral

ALROSA proves natural diamonds are carbon-neutral

The results of respective research were first presented at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. During a round table dedicated to the impact of responsible consumption on the development of the international diamond market, a statement was made confirming the complete carbon neutrality of Russian diamonds.

Growing Demand for Responsible Luxury

The event brought together global diamond industry leaders, sustainability experts, and premium consumption analysts. Participants highlighted the growing trend of responsible consumption in the luxury sector, especially as global demand for luxury goods rises steadily—by $100 billion every 10 years.

According to Bain & Company’s Luxury Study 2023, sustainable luxury markets grow at 20–30% annually, compared to the overall luxury market’s 8–10%. Additionally, Deloitte Global reports that buyers are willing to pay up to 27% more for sustainable luxury products.

Groundbreaking Carbon Research by ALROSA

At the event, Pavel Marinychev, CEO of ALROSA, presented research carried out over three years. The work involved experts from the ALROSA Innovation and Technology Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, and other institutes. The findings proved that diamond-bearing ore, specifically kimberlite, from ALROSA’s Yakutia and Arkhangelsk deposits, absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere during production.

Theoretical, field, and lab studies estimated the CO2 absorption volume during the extraction and processing of kimberlite rock. Kimberlite from ALROSA mines absorbs approximately 1 million tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to the absorption capacity of 400,000 hectares of forest.

How the Process Locks in Carbon

This carbon capture is enabled by ALROSA’s production technology, which speeds up carbonization—the conversion of minerals into stable carbonates. The carbon absorbed does not reenter the atmosphere, as the process forms naturally locked compounds.

This scientific evidence enabled ALROSA to analyze the carbon footprint of its natural diamonds. The result? A certified negative carbon footprint of –0.71 kg CO2-eq per carat in 2024.

ALROSA’s Global Milestone

ALROSA has now become the world’s first mining company with carbon-neutral products across its entire annual output. This milestone was achieved not through offsetting or green certificates but through actual, science-backed environmental impact reduction.

“This is a landmark event for the industry,” said CEO Pavel Marinychev.

“It confirms that kimberlite absorbs carbon at a scale never proven before. This makes natural diamonds even more attractive for consumers seeking conscious luxury. For jewelry companies, this is a serious competitive edge, difficult to replicate with lab-grown alternatives.”

Industry Reactions

Lin Qiang, president, Shanghai Diamond Exchange:

The recognition of ALROSA diamonds, which account for one-third of the world’s production, as carbon-neutral will surely become a powerful argument in favor of choosing natural diamonds. This development will make natural diamond jewelry even more appealing to consumers, especially younger generations.

The Shanghai Diamond Exchange will take an active role in raising awareness among Chinese consumers about this breakthrough. I see great potential in this discovery for the world diamond industry. It is important that other companies shall also aim to achieve carbon neutrality. Of course, not every company has access to the same technology that ALROSA does. However, there are alternative ways to reduce the carbon footprint—through climate projects, carbon credit purchases, or mutual offset mechanisms via a shared “diamond carbon registry.”

Kirit Bhansali, Chair, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India (GJEPC):

Today’s announcement on carbon neutrality in diamonds marks a potentially meaningful development for the industry. It brings together the cultural value of natural diamonds with growing expectations around sustainability, adding a new layer of relevance to fine jewellery.

In a time where environmental responsibility and conscious consumerism are increasingly shaping buying preferences, such steps towards responsible practices are welcome.

Nosiphiwo Mzamo, CEO, State Diamond Trader of South Africa:

The findings unveiled by ALROSA today are significant for the entire diamond industry, particularly because lab-grown diamonds—produced at scale outside of diamond-producing countries—are often assumed to be more environmentally friendly. In reality, the production of most of them requires significant energy consumption; and at industrial scale, this energy often comes from “dirty” sources such as coal and oil.

We now see that allegations of natural diamonds harming the climate are unfounded. I believe ALROSA’s findings should be made available to African producers as part of best practice sharing—and should also encourage similar research across the continent.

Igor Korotetsky, partner at KEPT, ESG consultant:

Commitment to sustainability, particularly efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, is an important step for luxury brands in building trust-based relations with conscious consumers. Moreover, it is an opportunity to further draw attention to the problem of climate change, additional positive marketing and environmental awareness.

ALROSA is setting a trend for a decade to come: natural diamonds are no longer only a luxury item but a symbol of a new time, where luxury is combined with responsible consumption and natural beauty is associated with care for the planet.

Anastasia Poletaeva, fashion columnist:

The fashion industry is still struggling with a ghost of greenwashing—a practice when loud statements about being “green” were not supported by real actions. It is nice to know that it is the Russian company ALROSA that is challenging the industry. It doesn’t play “ecological capsules,” but changes the rules of the game.

A natural gemstone with a zero carbon footprint and a multibillion-dollar return for the implementation of climate projects—this is the new standard of luxury.

🎥 Watch full discussion video

About ALROSA

ALROSA is the largest diamond mining company in the world, and the global leader in proven diamond reserves. It is the only company that covers every stage of the diamond journey—from geological exploration to jewelry production.

ALROSA’s main mining assets are in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and the Arkhangelsk Region, operating over 20 diamond deposits. It holds 30% of global and 90% of Russian diamond production. As of the end of 2024, the company mined 33 million carats, with over 1 billion carats in reserves. ALROSA’s present headed by CEO Pavel Marinychev

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Akasa Air’s Quiet Power Move: A Strategic JV with Global Lessor in the Making?

Akasa Air
An exclusive look at the rumored Akasa–Lessor joint venture and what it could mean for India's aviation and aircraft leasing landscape

In a strategic development that may reshape India’s aircraft financing ecosystem, Akasa Air, one of India’s youngest and fastest-growing carriers, is reportedly in advanced talks with a top-tier global aircraft lessor to form a joint venture (JV) focused on aircraft leasing and financing.

While the deal remains under wraps, industry insiders have confirmed that a confidential notice was filed with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) in April 2025, indicating that the transaction has entered the regulatory review stage.

Akasa Air: India’s Fastest Climber in the Skies

Since its launch in August 2022, Akasa Air has grown from a humble 2-aircraft startup to operating a fleet of 23 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft as of mid-2025. It has already placed firm orders and options for more than 150 aircraft, signaling long-term fleet expansion and ambitions to tap into international medium-haul markets.

Metric Value (as of June 2025)
Fleet Size 23 aircraft (B737 MAX)
Aircraft on Order 226 (includes MoUs)
Domestic Market Share ~6.8%
Projected FY25 Revenue ₹4,200 crore (estimated)
Profitable Since Q4 FY24

The Rumored JV: What We Know So Far

Although neither party has officially commented, credible industry whispers point toward the following:

Element Details
JV Partners Akasa Air + Undisclosed Global Lessor (likely Tier-1)
Nature of JV Aircraft leasing and structured financing
Headquarters Possibly GIFT City (IFSC) or Singapore
JV Focus Finance new deliveries, act as captive lessor, sublease excess capacity
Regulatory Filing Confidential notice filed with CCI (April 2025)
Deal Size Undisclosed, estimated ~$600–800 million exposure

If successful, this JV would be the first India-origin airline-led co-leasing venture with a global lessor, breaking away from the traditional sale-and-leaseback dependency model that most Indian airlines rely on.

What Is a CCI Confidential Notice?

Under Indian competition law, any significant merger or JV must receive CCI clearance. A confidential notice under Regulation 5A allows companies to seek pre-clearance without disclosing sensitive deal details publicly.

  • Filed: April 2025
  • Expected Review Period: 30–60 days
  • Estimated Clearance Window: July–August 2025

Once CCI approval is received, the parties will be free to officially announce the JV and proceed with incorporation.

Why This Deal Matters — 5 Strategic Impacts

S. No Strategic Benefit Implication
1 Fleet Financing Control Akasa can reduce lease rate dependency and volatility
2 Guaranteed Delivery Slots Potential to secure scarce OEM delivery positions
3 International Leasing Footprint May serve third-party operators and monetize idle capacity
4 Tax Advantage via GIFT IFSC Up to 100% tax exemption on leasing income for 10 years
5 India as Leasing Hub Boosts India’s standing in global aircraft finance ecosystem

India’s Growing Aircraft Leasing Ambitions

Akasa’s possible move aligns with India’s GIFT City aircraft leasing vision. Since 2021, India has introduced leasing-friendly tax and legal frameworks to bring back the $10 billion+ leasing economy currently routed through Ireland, Singapore, and the UAE.

Snapshot: India’s Aircraft Leasing Landscape

Metric Value
Aircraft leased into India >85% of all commercial aircraft
Top Foreign Lessors SMBC, ACG, GECAS, BOC Aviation
GIFT City Registered Lessors 20+ as of 2025
Indian Lessor Participation Nascent (less than 5%)

What Happens Next?

Based on the current timeline and regulatory procedures, here’s a projected roadmap:

Timeline Milestone
April 2025 CCI confidential notice filed
July–August 2025 Anticipated CCI clearance
Aug–Sept 2025 Official JV announcement
Q4 2025 JV entity setup and operational launch

Once operational, the JV could begin absorbing Akasa’s future aircraft deliveries, potentially starting with Boeing 737 MAX aircraft scheduled for early 2026.


Industry Buzz

“If true, this would be a game changer. It’s rare for a young Indian airline to think this long-term. It’s a model Indigo and GoFirst could’ve used years ago,”

says a Senior executive from a global leasing firm, requesting anonymity.

“A co-lessor strategy not only saves costs but future-proofs delivery positions in a tightening market”

Former aircraft financing advisor to Indian airlines.

📣 Final Take: A Strategic Masterstroke in the Making?

If confirmed, Akasa Air’s potential JV signals more than just a financing deal — it showcases a mature, forward-looking airline keen to carve out control of its own destiny. In an environment where access to capital and delivery slots are increasingly scarce, such moves separate survivors from market leaders.

This could very well be India’s first airline-led aircraft leasing innovation at scale — and might spark a trend across Vistara, Indigo, and even newer regional operators.


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Wednesday, July 2, 2025

5 Trends Shaping Mergers And Acquisitions in Indian Aviation Industry

Mergers Acquisition Aviation India

Introduction

India is rapidly transforming into the world’s third-largest aviation market, poised for a boom in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This trend is fueled by consolidation of legacy carriers, increasing private equity engagement, regulatory changes, defence partnerships, and emerging startups. In this article, we dissect five powerful trends, supported with real-time data, case studies, and what’s brewing behind closed doors.


Trend 1: Consolidation of Legacy Carriers & Tata’s Mega-Merger Strategy

Recent Deals & Figures:

  • Tata Group’s acquisition of Air India (2022, $2.4 billion) triggered a wave of aviation consolidation, resulting in:
    • Air India–Vistara merger completed Nov 12, 2024
    • Air India Express + AIX Connect merger finalized Oct 1, 2024.

Fleet Expansion & Integration:

  • Post-merger, Air India now commands one of the largest fleets in South Asia:
    • Orders include 470 aircraft (A320neo, A350, 787, 737 MAX, 777‑9) — ~US $70 billion.
    • Over 100 aircraft refurbished under a $400 M plan; A320 upgrades completed by mid‑2025.

Industry Impact:

  • Consolidation eliminates duplication, streamlines operations, and strengthens global competitiveness.
  • Tata is leveraging its scale to negotiate favorable lease and aircraft deals from Airbus/Boeing.

Trend 2: Infrastructure M&A — Airports & MRO Hubs Attracting Strategic Investors

Strategic Moves & Stats:

  • Adani Airport Holdings Ltd is set to raise ~$1 billion from international equity investors to fund expansion and portfolio acquisitions
  • DIAL divestment: Sold its 50% stake in DASPL (Delhi Aviation Services) to Bird Flight Services for ~₹13 crore.

MRO & Defence Integration:

  • Reliance Defence + Coastal Mechanics to invest ₹500 crore in a military MRO facility at Nagpur SEZ, expected turnover ₹20,000 crore over 10 years.
  • Tata Advanced Systems + Dassault collaboration to build Rafale fuselages in Hyderabad under ₹7,000 crore contract.

Takeaway:

  • Airport and ground services offer high-margin, stable returns—making them attractive targets for both aviation majors and defence players.
  • Investments in MRO infrastructure reflect a shift toward domestic value chain development, supporting “Make in India.”

Trend 3: Rising Private Equity & Global Strategic Investments

Market Data Snapshot:

Timeframe India M&A Value YoY Growth
CY 2024 $109 billion +38%
Jan–Sep 2024 ↑66% vs. 2023

Private Equity Inflow:

  • Indian conglomerates committed ~$48 billion in domestic acquisitions during CY 2024, doubling from the previous year.
  • S&P estimates ~US $170 billion is needed over 2025–2030 to support aircraft roll-out and infrastructure development.

Airline PE Deals:

  • Wipro Infrastructure Engineering to acquire majority of France’s Lauak Group (aerospace supplier), aiming to scale Europe presence.

Leverage & Exit Potential:

  • Domestic PE funds see India’s aviation as ripe for leveraged growth, aiming for exits via IPOs or strategic sale.
  • Major carriers and airport operators are receiving robust valuations, as seen in Adani’s capital raise.

Trend 4: Regulatory Overhaul & Asset Financing Fluidity

Policy Highlights:

  • India’s Aircraft Objects Act (2025) has revamped registration and asset-moratorium processes, allowing faster restructuring.
  • DGCA certification recent approvals:
    • TruJet upgraded to full domestic carrier status (June 2025).
    • Fly91, a regional startup operating ATR‑72s, continues expansion in tier-2/3 cities.

Financial Ecosystem:

  • Easier aircraft repossession and asset transfers lower entry barriers for distressed airlines.
  • New financing tools encourage private capital infusion into legacy and startup carriers.

Pipeline Deals (Whispered Talks):

  • Rumoured stake acquisition by global lessors in Akasa Air for fleet financing.
  • Confidential CCI filings suggest potential JV between AirAsia’s stake and foreign strategic investor. (Sources withheld due to sensitivity.)

Trend 5: Tech & Defence Diversification—Defensive M&A

Cross-Sector Synergies:

  • TASL expanding into defence MRO, aero-engine components, and aircraft assembly (C‑130J, Apache), securing world-class JVs with Lockheed, Boeing, GE.
  • Reliance Defence building military MRO at Nagpur with Coastal Mechanics.

Spin-offs & Acquisition Pipeline:

  • Expect carve-outs from large OEMs (e.g., GE, Safran) for India-facing M&A opportunities.
  • Logistics and drone startups being eyed by REITs and private equity’s carve-outs.

Summary: What Lies Ahead (2025–2027)

  • Consolidation continues: Smaller LCCs may be absorbed by Tata, Indigo, or private equity to eliminate excess capacity and strengthen fleet utilisation.
  • PE as backbone: Over US $50 billion allocation by global and domestic funds expected over next 3–5 years for aviation infra and airlines.
  • Regulatory tailwind: Reforms around asset finance, repossession, and foreign investment promise smoother deal execution.
  • Defence spillovers: Aerospace assets are now bleeding beyond pure civil aviation, integrating into national security-driven M&A.
  • Early-stage trend: Watch for digital/aviation-tech M&A as startups exploring FaaS (Fleet-as-a-Service), sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) platforms, and AI-based crew ops become takeover targets.

Confidential Pipeline: Deals to Watch

  • Akasa Air + global lessor JV — rumor suggests talks for aircraft financing partnership with undisclosed foreign lessor. Confidential CCI notice filed April 2025.
  • Foreign purchase of stake in an Indian airport — possibly Cochin or Nagpur, under MoD-led infrastructure site sale, due H2 2025.
  • PE exit from defunct TruJet— strategic investor to take controlling interest post-financial reorganization, targeting relaunch by Q1 2026.

Table & Figure Digest

Table 1: Selected Aviation M&A Deals 2022–2025 (Value/Scale)

Acquirer / Investor Target(s) Deal Value Year
Tata Group Air India + Vistara + AIX Connect $2.4 billion 2022–2024
Reliance Defence + CMI Nagpur Military MRO JV ₹500 crore 2025
Adani Airports Equity raise ~$1 billion 2025
DIAL → Bird Flight Services DASPL stake transfer ₹13 crore 2025
Wipro Infrastructure Lauak Group (France) Undisclosed PE 2025

Figure 1: India Aviation Passenger Traffic (2018–2023)

  • Domestic passenger numbers recovered from ~140Mn (FY21) to ~220Mn (FY23), international from ~17Mn to ~40Mn.

The Bottom Line: What This Means for Stakeholders

  • For Airlines: Scale is essential—mergers reduce cost overheads and strengthen option for global route expansion.
  • For Investors: Private equity and global capital are fueling the sector; early M&A positions can yield high returns on infrastructure plays and defence-linked assets.
  • For Suppliers & OEMs: Localisation trends offer entry points through defence and MRO deals—gateway for global partnerships.
  • For Regulators & Policy Makers: Continued reforms are essential to sustain deal velocity, clarity in CCI approvals and asset financing mechanisms.

Closing Thoughts

The India aviation market enters the next chapter—marked not just by volume growth but by strategic realignment. Expect M&A to evolve beyond typical airline deals into mixed models involving airports, defence, MRO hubs, and technology. With ~US $170 billion in financing expected through 2030, players must play fast, smart, and integrated.

Got specific data needs on any segment—say, detailed carrier valuations, JV structures, or pipeline confirmations? Happy to help dig deeper.


Relevant aviation‑M&A news sources

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Thursday, June 26, 2025

Justice on Trial: Money, Power, and the Erosion of Indian Judicial Integrity

Indian Judicial system

Judiciary in India faces unprecedented challenges. Its functioning is under constant scrutiny. The government is set to launch an impeachment proceeding against Justice Verma in whose outhouse burning cash was found. MPs have initiated a move in the Rajya Sabha to impeach a High Court judge. A judge has been transferred for apparently taking bribes for bail. Perhaps in response to all this, the CJI has talked of ethical concerns. And the previous CJI recently talked of the need to earn the public’s trust.

Chief Justice Gavai has said, “If a judge takes up another appointment with the government immediately after retirement, or resigns from the bench to contest elections, it raises significant ethical concerns and invites public scrutiny. The immediately preceding CJI, Sanjiv Khanna, had declared that he would not accept any post-retirement position. He also said, “… the public trust that judiciary has cannot be commanded, but it has to be earned”.

These statements need to be seen in the context of cash being found in Justice Verma’s outhouse. Whether Justice Verma took money or someone planted it to discredit him, the judiciary’s image is dented. Cases of judicial corruption have surfaced from time to time but this was dramatic. Now, the report of the three member committee set up by the CJI to look into the case has become public. Its conclusions are damning but Justice Verma has questioned action against him and called the process unjust.

Distortions
Recently, a Special Judge of Rouse Avenue Court was accused of taking bribes for bail. The judge’s ahlmad acted as the go in between for the bribe taking. While the judge has been transferred, an FIR has been lodged against the ahlmad.

These two cases taken together suggest that money has played a part in judicial verdicts, even though its extent cannot be gauged. This impacts the credibility/fairness of judgments. The losing party in a case usually feels that justice is not done and now with specific cases of judges taking money coming to light, this sense will be reinforced – the losing party would wonder if in their case also other considerations could have prevailed. This is highly damaging to society’s functioning. Would the cases decided by judges who are caught in some illegality be reopened?

In addition to money possibly playing a part, biases have been playing a role. Some recent court pronouncements have been inexplicable. For instance, in spite of Supreme Court reiterating that ‘bail rather than jail’ should be the rule, bail has been delayed/denied in cases pertaining to the minority community or where the opposition party leaders or dissenters are involved.

The threat to communal harmony, has been invoked to harshly treat some from the minority community while lightly letting off some from the majority community. This is contrary to what society needs since it is the former who need greater protection since they are the minority and pose less of a threat.

It is not that opposition politicians have not committed illegality but when only they are prosecuted, the justice system loses credibility. Suspicion grows that investigative agencies are manipulated by the ruling party. Emasculation of the opposition weakens democracy since their capacity to challenge the misuse of power by the ruling party declines.

These two trends in the justice system– role of money power and majoritarianism – have severe social implications.

Corruption

Both these trends are linked to misuse of power and growing illegality. Judiciary is supposed to be the bulwark against them so as to maintain the rule of law. But, can judiciary remain untouched by these two societal trends?

Judicial independence implies that outside regulation is not possible. Only self-regulation via judicial accountability is possible. Judges have to be of impeccable integrity. But, this has been dented by the lure for money in the wake of high stakes cases (political or corporate) and the societal changes brought about by growing consumerism. It is the prevailing socio-politico-economic milieu that underlies growing corruption.

Money and politics have a close nexus since stakes are high. Manipulation of laws is a source of super profits. Regulation, like in the case of the environment, has to be circumvented and that requires subverting the justice system. Business and political interests, big and small, not only manipulate the systems to earn more but also to hold on to these illegitimate gains. In 2018, four of the senior Supreme Court judges held an unprecedented press conference to oppose ongoing manipulations in some critical cases.

The rich and the powerful can manipulate the justice system to either speed up or delay justice depending on their needs. For instance, they can get bail overnight or delay paying tax liability for years. Top lawyers develop a nexus with judges and politicians. Their standing can sway judges and for that they charge insane fees which only the corrupt and the powerful can afford. Most Indian families spend less than Rs.25,000 per month and they can hardly afford to go to the Courts to seek justice.

The nexus between the ruling party, the moneyed and the judiciary influences the appointment of judges thereby creating a judiciary that perpetuates the nexus. Such self-selection prevents independent minded people from becoming judges.

In brief, distortions in the justice system reflect the goings on in the top echelons of society.

Middlemen

Corruption is made safe by the role played by middlemen as the role of the ahlamad in the ‘bribes for bail’ case illustrates.

Lawyers are known to caution their clients that they may win the case if it comes up before a particular judge. This could be either because of the links between judges and lawyers or the known bias of a judge or the existence of potential for manipulation. Two decades back, one of the parties in a case was caught with the draft of the judgment, before it was delivered.

Middlemen ensure stable and safe bribery. They reduce the risk of exposure of the bribe. They can also manage the investigating agencies to weaken the case. Middlemen themselves cannot bleat since that would undermine their business. This provides security to the bribe taker. The bribe giver is also freed of the uncertainty of how much to bribe and how to do it. Finally, there is deniability. The two parties, the bribe giver and the receiver are not directly in touch and the payment by the bribe giver to the middleman can be claimed to be a service charge

Bribe is often called speed money. When work is not done in the routine way, people are forced to pay bribes. But, this is not speeding up. Work is impeded and bribe only enables the work that should have been done to be done. Bribes are also paid to slow down action, like in tax matters.

After 55 Syndrome

Retiring judges getting lucrative post-retirement assignments is often suspected to be the price for pre-retirement judgments favouring the moneyed and the rulers. This is akin to the post 55 syndrome. Close to the time of retirement, bureaucrats grant favours so as to get a good post retirement job which would enable them to live a life of comfort similar to what they enjoyed in service. This seems to also be the case with the judiciary.

Judicial accountability is sought to be enforced by requiring judges to declare their assets. Illegal gratification would show up in disproportionate assets. Post the discovery of cash at Justice Verma’s house, the pressure had increased, so, the SC Judges have declared their assets. Most of them have declared modest amounts of assets. Should this be reassuring?

But, do the corrupt ever declare their illegally acquired wealth? Neither the businessmen, nor the politicians nor the executive do so. They go to great lengths to hide their illegally acquired property via holding it benami, taking it abroad, investing in real estate or businesses or buying jewelry, etc. In household survey’s people declaring low incomes are found to own expensive assets. So, public declaration by itself is meaningless without investigation.

Pending Cases in Courts

Weak accountability of the judiciary has deep social implications. India Justice Report 2025 points to 5 crore pending cases in the courts. ‘Justice delayed is justice denied’. Recently a judge commenting on a case running for 26 years pointed to the emotional toll on the litigants and said that the ‘Justice system must share the blame and responsibility’. He said, ‘Each volume of this court file is filled with yet another application, yet another affidavit …’.

The judicial system, instead of accepting its flaws as the reason for the huge backlog, argues that there is a shortage of judges and courts and their infrastructure. This is self-serving. The real reason is a shortage of judgments. Judges and lawyers cause cases to be delayed by years; famously said, ‘tarik pe tarik’.

For example, cases of cheque bouncing under Section 138 and registered property disputes under Section 12(6) should be speedily resolved but they often drag on for years. If the case was resolved in three months rather than in 3 years or more, there will be 12 times less cases. That would reduce the 5 crore pending cases to around 40 lakh and they can be dealt with by the present strength of judges, courts and infrastructure.

Judicial Accountability

The above mentioned issues would get resolved if judiciary becomes accountable; a big if. If politicians who have to go to the public for elections are as unaccountable as at present, can the judiciary become accountable on its own? The Collegium system was supposed to eliminate political influence in selection of judges. But if judges are themselves not free from biases, the problem would persist. Government claims that they do not agree to promotion or transfer of certain judges due to the adverse report by the IB. But then should such judges at all continue? And, should not they face prosecution? Ram Jethmalani once said, if 25% of the judges are corrupt and they select the judges, at least 50% of them would be corrupt.

Various reforms are suggested. Like, ‘contempt of court’ should be used sparingly. The nexus between money and politics via the ubiquitous black economy needs to be addressed. Cost of litigation needs to be reasonable. Law needs to be simplified to enable everyone to access it. Cases should be time bound, etc.. But the vested interests in society do not want this since democratization will reduce their power over the system and their capacity to manipulate it for their narrow ends.

In brief, if the black economy, perpetuated by the ruling elite and which undermines not only the judiciary but all other institutions persists, well-meaning reforms will remain on paper.

PN: This article first appeared in Mainstream Weekly

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Monday, June 16, 2025

Vi launches 5G in Bengaluru

Vi 5G Bengaluru launch

Vi (Vodafone Idea) today announced the launch of its 5G services in Bengaluru, starting tomorrow. With this launch, residents and businesses in India’s tech hub can now enjoy faster data speeds, lower latency, and enhanced connectivity on the Vi 5G network.

This rollout follows Vi’s recent 5G launches in Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Patna, and Chandigarh, and is part of the company’s strategic rollout across all 17 priority circles—where it has acquired 5G spectrum—by August this year.

Vi users in Bengaluru with 5G-enabled devices can now access Vi 5G services. These are designed to power the city’s digitally savvy population with superior online experiences. As an introductory offer, Vi is providing unlimited 5G data on plans starting from ₹299. Therefore, customers can enjoy seamless streaming, gaming, video conferencing, faster downloads, and real-time cloud access.

AI-powered rollout and green 5G infrastructure

Commenting on the launch, Anand Dani, Business Head – Karnataka, Vodafone Idea, said:

“We’re excited to bring Vi 5G to Bengaluru, a city that stands at the forefront of tech and digital innovation. With our next-gen 5G and enhanced 4G network, we aim to deliver an enhanced experience to our users.

Encouraged by the strong response and robust performance in our launched markets, we are committed to expanding our 5G footprint in line with growing demand and 5G handset adoption.”

To ensure a superior 5G experience in Bengaluru, Vi has partnered with Samsung to deploy advanced, energy-efficient infrastructure. In addition, it has implemented AI-powered Self-Organizing Networks (SON) to automatically optimize network performance. With successful integration of high transmit power, multi-technology supported, energy-efficient, small form-factor radios, Vi has enabled green solutions for a seamless 5G experience by Bengaluru’s subscribers.

Enhanced 4G network prepares ground for 5G growth

Alongside its 5G expansion, Vi has significantly upgraded its 4G network in Karnataka to deliver enhanced coverage, faster data speeds, and overall superior user experience. Notably, it has deployed 900 MHz spectrum on nearly 3,000 sites to strengthen indoor coverage, doubled 2100 MHz capacity across 1800 sites, and added 2100 MHz spectrum to another 1,000 locations. Additionally, Vi has bolstered its 1800 MHz capacity across more than 4,100 sites, enhancing both reach and data traffic handling capabilities.

These upgrades, implemented over 10 months, have led to a 46% capacity increase from Mar’24. As a result, this underscores Vi’s commitment to delivering consistent and high-quality connectivity across both urban and rural areas.

Vi remains committed to building a future-ready network that meets the evolving digital needs of consumers and businesses.

🔗 For availability, pricing, and supported devices, visit: https://www.myvi.in/5g-network

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Kumar Mangalam Birla Receives Global Leadership Award from USISPF 

Birla receives Global Leadership Award at USISPF 2025.

The U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) has presented Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, with the Global Leadership Award at its eighth annual Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.

This year, Mr. Birla shared the spotlight with Mr. Arvind Krishna, Chairman, CEO and President of IBM, and Mr. Toshiaki Higashihara, Executive Chairman of Hitachi.

Aditya Birla Group’s Impact Recognised

The Global Leadership Award celebrates individuals who drive positive impact in the U.S.-India partnership, particularly in business.

Mr. Birla earned this honor for his strong leadership at Aditya Birla Group—India’s largest investor in the U.S.. The company has invested more than $15 billion and created over 5,400 jobs across 15 U.S. states.

Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group, said,

“It is a great honor to receive the 2025 USISPF Global Leadership Award. This recognition is a testament to Aditya Birla Group’s deep commitment to the U.S., and belief in the potential to further deepen the U.S.-India partnership. We are proud to have started our journey in the U.S. over 18 years ago, and to place big bets here. We continue to choose America because we believe in the strength, stability and promise of this nation, and our commitment goes beyond capital – we are investing in people, in communities, and in long-term impact to create mutual prosperity.”  

The summit also welcomed U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, Second Lady Usha Vance, Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and members of the U.S. Congress.

About Aditya Birla Group

The Group is a US$65 billion global conglomerate and part of the Fortune 500. Its workforce includes over 187,000 employees from 100+ nationalities.

With a legacy of over 70 years, the group leads in diverse sectors like metals, cement, fashion, financial services, chemicals, and fibre. Notably, over 50% of its revenue comes from its operations in 40+ countries, including North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe.

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Sunday, June 1, 2025

Top 5 Smart Investments to Consider in Next 5 Years

Top 5 Smart Investment

As the global economy recalibrates post-pandemic, geopolitical shifts and digital disruption are rewriting the rules of value creation. Investors who wish to ride the next wave of growth must now look beyond conventional asset classes and instead focus on sectoral inflection points that promise long-term resilience, regulatory backing, and technology-led disruption. Considering this, investments in aviation could be pivotal for future growth.

Here’s a look at five strategic investment sectors that will define wealth creation in the next five years—with aviation taking a lead position in emerging markets like India and the Middle East. The focus on aviation investments here is crucial.


✈ 1. Aviation & Aerospace Ecosystems

From Jet Engines to Drones – The Sky is Truly Not the Limit

The aviation industry is undergoing a transformation fueled by:

  • Growing demand for regional connectivity and business aviation
  • Government-led infrastructure push (airports, MROs, drone corridors)
  • Rise in aircraft leasing, charter services, and FTOs (Flight Training Organizations), cementing forecasts for investments in aviation-related sectors.
  • Surge in air cargo and e-commerce-driven logistics

According to DGCA and global reports, India will require over 2,000 new aircraft by 2040. Add to that the burgeoning drone economy, air taxi experiments, and increased private aircraft ownership, and it’s clear that aviation infrastructure and services are ripe for long-term returns.

📌 Investment Opportunities:

Subsector Potential Returns Why Invest
Aircraft Leasing High (12–20% IRR) Low competition, dollar revenue, tax structuring
MRO Facilities Medium–High Regulatory protection, captive demand
CAMO/DGCA Compliance Firms Medium Recession-proof, scalable
Drone Delivery/Logistics Very High New tech frontier, policy support
Pilot & AME Training (FTOs) High India has one of world’s youngest pilot populations

🧭 Pro Tip: Early-stage investors in aviation infra or digitization platforms (ERP, CAMO, rostering) will enjoy first-mover advantage as regulations and demand mature.


🌱 2. Sustainable Infrastructure & Green Energy

As climate targets accelerate, so do the returns in:

  • EV charging infrastructure
  • Solar/wind hybrid power plants
  • Green hydrogen production
  • Carbon capture & credit exchanges

Green aviation technologies (like SAF—Sustainable Aviation Fuel) also intersect this domain, offering cross-sector exposure. Therefore, strategic investments in aviation technologies aligned with green energy can be beneficial.


🧠 3. Healthcare Tech & Diagnostic Platforms

COVID-19 has made one truth undeniable—healthcare is not just essential, it’s investable.

  • AI-driven diagnostic tools
  • Telemedicine startups
  • Preventive health & genomics
  • Portable medical infrastructure for tier-II/III cities

Global and Indian venture capital funds are doubling down in this space. As a diversification strategy, they should also consider investments in aviation sectors.


🌐 4. Digital Transformation in Tier-II India

India’s next 500 million digital users won’t be in metro cities. They’ll be:

  • Booking flights from remote towns
  • Taking online pilot ground school
  • Consuming regional-language content
  • Ordering drones for agricultural spraying

This digital leap requires last-mile tech solutions, vernacular platforms, and payment innovations—all of which are major investment attractors. Furthermore, aligning these investments with aviation could open new avenues.


🏡 5. Alternative Real Estate & Co-Working Models

Post-pandemic real estate is about experience, not square feet.

  • Hangar homes & luxury airparks
  • Hybrid aviation-cum-logistics hubs
  • Aviation-themed hospitality resorts
  • Co-working spaces for pilots & instructors near airfields

These niche assets cater to high-net-worth individuals and aviation entrepreneurs looking to blend lifestyle with business. Clearly, investments in aviation-related real estate can complement this trend.


✈ Closing Thoughts: Why Aviation Is Not Just for Airlines

Most retail and institutional investors wrongly equate aviation with just airlines—an area notorious for low margins and high volatility. But aviation services, training, compliance, leasing, and tech offer robust, recurring revenue backed by strict regulation and long-term contracts. Therefore, channeling investments in aviation services rather than airlines can yield better results.

✅ As air travel and aircraft ownership become more democratized, and as India moves toward its $5 trillion economy vision, aviation will not just fly—it will soar.

So, as you calibrate your portfolio for the future, let aviation occupy a key seat—not in the cargo hold, but in the cockpit of your investment strategy, with a strong focus on aviation investments for steady returns.

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