Development Watch – Week #1 June’26

Development News

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NGT action on Rural heat waves

The National Green Tribunal has sought responses from the Centre and several states regarding extreme heat conditions across India. Citing a newspaper report, the NGT highlighted the severe impact of rising temperatures on health, productivity, and the economy, emphasizing the need for region-specific adaptation strategies. After distinguishing between urban and rural heatwave conditions, a policy with region-specific strategies and adaptation planning is required. There is an urgent need for a dedicated research program on heat risk, a stronger support system, ground observations, high-resolution thermal mapping, mobile temperature surveys, open-access data, environmental impacts and climate adaptations.

Increase in Indian Shipping Services

Shipping routes East of Hormuz and in the Red Sea have seen a significant increase in services. The Indian government is also processing a large number of applications for the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme 5.0. This comes as tensions in West Asia have impacted maritime trade and insurance. India has launched a maritime insurance pool to support its vessels. India has introduced the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for FY 2024-25. It is a major step towards improving the efficiency, transparency & global competitiveness of Indian ports. By promoting continuous improvement & global benchmarking, it will strengthen India’s position as a leading maritime power.

No petrol, diesel vehicles for new cabs in Haryana

Haryana’s Cabinet has approved new rules for vehicle aggregators. From January 1, 2026, all new vehicles joining fleets in NCR areas must be electric, CNG, or use cleaner fuels. This aims to reduce pollution and promote green mobility. The rules also introduce licensing, safety measures, and insurance for drivers and passengers. only CNG or Electric 3-wheeler auto-rickshaws will be allowed to be additionally inducted into existing fleets in the National Capital Region.

T&D Orders worth Rs. 575 Crores

Transrail Lighting has secured new orders totaling Rs 575 crore. These orders are primarily in transmission and distribution, civil construction, and pole business. The company’s unexecuted order book now stands at Rs 16,361 crore. This growth highlights Transrail Lighting’s diverse capabilities. The company also reported strong financial performance for FY26.

Rs. 20,000 Cr investment in Haryana Data Centres

Anant Raj Limited will invest Rs 20,000 crore in Haryana for data center development. This significant investment will boost digital infrastructure and create jobs. The project aligns with Haryana’s ‘Make in Haryana’ policy. Anant Raj is expanding its data center capacity across India, with plans for 307 MW by FY32. The project is expected to generate approximately 6,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities while contributing significantly to the state’s digital economy and supporting the growing demand for data storage, cloud services and digital connectivity.

India’s Data Centre Capacity to cross 3 GW

India’s data centre capacity is set to surpass 3 gigawatts by 2028. This growth is driven by strong demand from hyperscalers and the increasing use of artificial intelligence. The country offers a development-friendly market. Major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Delhi NCR are key hubs. This expansion will support India’s digital economy and enterprise needs.

Atmospheric Water Generators for Railways

Indian Railways has renewed its push to deploy Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) in water-scarce areas, asking zones, production units and PSUs to identify locations where clean drinking water supply remains a challenge. AWGs generate potable water from moisture in the air and can be installed at railway stations, hospitals, staff colonies, offices, level crossings and other service areas.