Economy

The milestone, achieved using indigenous technology developed by QNu Labs—a startup supported under the mission and focused on quantum-safe cybersecurity solutions—represents one of the longest quantum key distribution (QKD) deployments globally since the mission’s launch in October 2024. Secretary, DST, Dr. Abhay Karandikar described it as “a landmark advancement in secure quantum communication,” noting that it reflects progress ahead of envisaged timelines.

The order involves the construction of four bulk carriers, each with a capacity of around 92,500 deadweight tonnes (DWT)—placing them among the largest commercial vessels ever to be built in India. Each vessel will measure approximately 229.5 metres in length with a beam of 37 metres, and will be equipped with advanced ammonia-based dual-fuel propulsion systems, positioning them at the forefront of low-emission maritime transport.

India’s present upgrade cycle is being led by both telecom operators and hyperscalers. The government told Parliament in March 2026 that four submarine cable systems are currently under commissioning at Indian cable landing stations: India Europe Xpress (IEX) in Mumbai, SEA-ME-WE-6 in Mumbai and Chennai, 2Africa in Mumbai, and Raman Cable in Mumbai

India is emerging as a major beneficiary of that shift. Based on an analysis of more than 1,263 Indian AI startups, the report says roughly 75 per cent of the country’s AI startups are focused on applications, and nearly 80 per cent of funding is going into this segment. It also says many Indian startups are reaching the revenue stage early, reflecting a market that is increasingly oriented toward practical deployment rather than speculative experimentation.

A major component of the package is the installation of on-board Kavach Version 4.0 equipment on 232 locomotives in Southern Railway at a cost of ₹208.81 crore. The sanction falls under the umbrella programme for provision of Kavach with LTE-based communication backbone on balance routes of Indian Railways, included in the Works Programme 2024–25. PIB said Southern Railway has been earmarked a sub-umbrella allocation of ₹2,950 crore under this larger programme.

The growth was driven in particular by strong movement of fertiliser and pig iron and finished steel, both of which recorded gains of over 13%, while iron ore traffic rose 6.74% and cement movement also increased.