Latest news with #Jal
Hans India
6 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
Indian mining and construction industry sees 2-5 pc growth in Q1: Report
New Delhi: The Indian mining and construction (MCE) industry experienced a year-on-year (YoY) volume growth of 2 to 5 per cent in the first quarter of FY26, according to a report released on Tuesday. The volumes are expected to range between 1.43-1.47 lakh units, which is a marginal decline of 1 per cent YoY in Q1 FY2026 as per the initial data released by the Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers Association (ICEMA), an ICRA report said. While the domestic volumes contracted by 4 per cent YoY, a strong 31 per cent YoY growth in exports supported the overall sales during this period, the report noted. ICRA anticipates an acceleration of new award activity in the second quarter of FY2026, especially by the government. Going forward, industries will witness continued industrial and warehousing construction demand, which will support the growth in MCE volumes, the report said. Similarly, higher costs engendered by the construction equipment vehicles (CEV)-V norms are likely to dampen demand and squeeze OEM margins. 'Early onset of monsoons and unseasonal rains in some regions of the country disrupted the construction and mining activities in Q1 FY2026, which is also reflected in the flattish production data reported by Coal India Limited during this period," said Ritu Goswami, Sector Head, Corporate Ratings, ICRA. The tepid new award activity and slowdown in road construction and Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) projects have also hampered demand for the earthmover segment, which constitutes a bulk of the Indian MCE sector demand, Goswami added. In Q1 FY2026, the growth of 31 per cent in exports was led by backhoe loaders, excavators and skid steer loaders, which cumulatively accounted for 76 per cent of the total exported volumes and saw a 34 per cent YoY growth, the report added. The United States is one of the top two MCE markets globally and ranks among the top five export destinations for India-manufactured MCEs and related components. The government has allocated Rs. 11.2 lakh crore for capital expenditure in FY2025-26, with major initiatives such as the JJM, PM Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY), and PM Awas Yojna-Gramin (PMAYG) receiving renewed focus, which will accelerate activities in upcoming quarters, the report said.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
MCE sector growth seen at 2–5% in FY26, Q1 domestic volumes down 4%: Report
New Delhi: The Indian mining and construction equipment (MCE) industry is expected to post a subdued year-on-year volume growth of 2–5 per cent in FY2026, translating to total sales of 1.43–1.47 lakh units, rating agency ICRA said on Tuesday. In the first quarter of FY2026, industry volumes declined marginally by 1 per cent, as per initial data from the Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers Association (ICEMA). Domestic sales fell 4 per cent year-on-year during the quarter, while exports surged by 31 per cent, driven by strong demand for backhoe loaders, excavators and skid steer loaders. Monsoon onset, weak project pipeline affect early FY26 performance 'Early onset of monsoons and unseasonal rains in some regions of the country disrupted the construction and mining activities in Q1 FY2026, which is also reflected in the flattish production data reported by Coal India Limited during this period vis-à-vis a year ago,' said Ritu Goswami, Sector Head, Corporate Ratings, ICRA. According to Goswami, muted new project awards and a slowdown in road and Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) construction have weighed on earthmoving equipment demand, a key segment of the MCE industry. 'Given the observed weakness in domestic demand during Q1 FY2026—which is expected to persist into Q2 as monsoon conditions impact the construction sector—industry recovery hinges on the improved traction in H2 FY2026,' she said. Government capex, public schemes to drive recovery in H2 The Government of India has allocated ₹11.2 lakh crore for capital expenditure in FY2025-26. Flagship infrastructure schemes such as the JJM, PM Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and PM Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) are expected to support new project awards. 'Continued emphasis on sectors including transportation, water supply and sanitation, and irrigation is anticipated to result in an increase in new project awards and execution, thereby supporting domestic MCE demand. While certain private sector capital expenditure decisions may be deferred due to global headwinds, most industries are expected to experience continued industrial and warehousing construction demand because of domestic market focus,' Goswami said. ICRA has retained its volume growth forecast for FY2026 at 2–5 per cent, corresponding to 1.43–1.47 lakh units. New norms, rising steel prices exert cost pressure on OEMs From January 1, 2025, the transition to Construction Equipment Vehicle (CEV) Stage V emission norms and mandatory safety feature compliance for wheeled equipment has increased machine prices. ICRA expects these costs to be passed on to customers partly or fully over the next few quarters. 'This, coupled with seasonality in sales (generally slow during rainy season) and subdued awarding activity for infrastructure projects, will weigh on the domestic demand sentiments for the MCE industry during H1,' Goswami added. On the cost front, compliance-related cost hikes and the Government of India's safeguard duty on flat steel products (announced in April 2025) are expected to impact margins, with most OEMs expected to take staggered price hikes. Revenue growth for the sector is projected to have moderated to single digits in Q1 FY2026, due to flattish volumes. However, the credit profiles of OEMs are expected to remain stable, supported by low leverage and comfortable liquidity. Exports grow 31% in Q1; US tariff concerns not expected to hurt Exports in Q1 FY2026 were led by backhoe loaders, excavators, and skid steer loaders, which together accounted for 76 per cent of total export volumes and grew by 34 per cent year-on-year. The United States is among the top five export destinations for Indian MCEs and related components. Although uncertainty surrounds a proposed 26 per cent reciprocal tariff by the US on Indian MCE exports, ICRA said the impact is not likely to be material as OEMs continue to tap alternate markets with strong diversification potential.>
FACT
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
FACT Chats: Atif Aslam talks fame, faith, and finding himself through music
From humble beginnings to legendary status, the Pakistani singer has amassed a global following of millions. It's 2004. I'm living my best life in Riyadh, but the closest I've gotten to Pakistani music is a few cassette tapes of Junoon and Vital Signs. And then, one evening, while lazily flipping through TV channels, I stumbled across a song that sounded different. It's raw and gripping in a way that feels personal, even though I don't know what the lyrics mean yet. It was Aadat by a new band called Jal, fronted by Atif Aslam. Within seconds, I'm hooked and so is my best friend. We can't stop talking about it. Our schoolbooks turn into pages of doodles and lyrics, passed between classes like secret letters. The obsession was real. So real that after browsing fan pages and forums on dial-up internet, I managed to find Atif Aslam's manager's number. Called him from a landline at 2am in Riyadh and whispered into the receiver like I was smuggling state secrets. 'Please, can I speak to Atif Aslam?' is what I asked his manager, and after some convincing, he handed over the phone to the icon himself, who was heading down from the stage fresh off a college or university performance. I don't remember what I spoke to Atif Aslam about, but I had told myself that if I ever got the chance to talk to him again, I'd ask him. It took me two decades, pursuing a career in journalism, and a last-minute schedule shuffle to finally make it happen. When I got the call that my slot with Atif Aslam was confirmed, I knew that this was my shot. An anxious 30-minute drive later, I was face-to-face with the voice that shaped my teenage years, my friendships, my first heartbreak – my wedding entrance even. I wore my grandfather's shirt to the interview, a man who never quite understood my Atif Aslam obsession. He passed away earlier this year and would probably shake his head if he knew, but he'd also understand because this wasn't just an interview. It was a full-circle moment. From a silly teenager making secret, international midnight calls from Riyadh, to a grown woman with a press pass and a voice recorder. And while the fangirl in me wanted to squeal, the journalist — and Capricorn — kept her cool. We exchanged pleasantries and got into the music, memories, and magic. From humble beginnings to a household name, Atif Aslam has witnessed the full arc of transformation. And yet, there's a steady humility in how he recalls it all — not as trophies, but as turning points. With over 20 years in the spotlight, he has remained both elusive and ever-present. In this chat, he reflects on the defining moments of his journey, the burden and blessing of fame, and the power of rediscovering joy in his craft. Looking back, it isn't the standing ovations or chart-topping records that Atif Aslam highlights first, but the quiet milestones such as his first paycheck and the moment his parents accepted his passion for music. Aadat turned his tide, launching him into the spotlight. But behind this rise was a young man watching his dreams unfold, armed with a voice that refused to be ignored. For a career that began with a soft rock ballad recorded on a modest budget, the trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From underground stardom to Bollywood's Tere Bin, and Sufi tunes like Tajdar-e-Haram, Atif Aslam has always resisted being boxed into a single genre. 'The sound has always evolved,' he reflects. But it's the environment around him that inspires his music. 'It's the people around me, a sudden thought or an unexpected emotion,' he explained. 'I'm lazy when it comes to capturing the moment, but when it hits, it's often because of the energy in the room.' Over the years, that energy has travelled with him through massive performances, from Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena to the Royal Albert Hall in London. Among the many memorable shows, one that stands out took place at the O2 Arena. 'We had to cover for another artist who didn't show up, and we ended up performing for three and a half hours,' he laughs. 'Someone from the crowd said, 'We came for — I don't want to name the artist — but we're leaving as your fans.' That was a beautiful twist of fate.' It's easy to think of Atif Aslam as a larger-than-life figure, but he remains surprisingly grounded. Had music not found him, he might have pursued a career in aviation or cricket. But giving up never felt like a real option — even during moments of doubt. Though the industry came with its share of pressures, including moral dilemmas about lyrics he didn't align with, he always found a way to return to himself. 'There were songs I didn't feel right singing,' he admitted. 'I had to change lyrics, but I had a family to take care of, a career to keep.' However, those tensions also prompted him to shift toward more spiritually rooted pieces that resonated with his soul, such as Wohi Khuda Hai, which showcased both his musical prowess and passion. There were also times when even fame felt like a burden. Being called the 'number one singer' everywhere, Atif Aslam began questioning it. 'Do I want to be number one? Do I even believe it?' he shared. 'But then I realised it's not for me to decide. If God gives you that position, be grateful and stay humble. Because nothing lasts forever.' That's also something he'd tell his younger self: 'So enjoy it while it lasts.' And fame, he's learned, is a double-edged sword. It's 'having the power to misuse fame but choosing not to'. Atif Aslam believes, 'Treating people like humans, regardless of what they've done to you, is the real measure of success.' Becoming a father also shifted his worldview. 'It didn't hit me in the first two years, but then I saw my son growing up and realised I wanted to take a back seat,' he chimes. 'He became my centre. But Atif Aslam still needs to sing to function, but there's a deeper intent behind each note. 'Music is spirituality,' he added. 'It's how I communicate with God. I found Him through it.' Lately, fans have been seeing a candid side of Atif Aslam — one that embraces goofy moments and connects with fans in surprising ways. The man who once projected mystery now posts reels. But this isn't a reinvention, it's a revelation. 'I've always been like this! I just never showed it publicly,' he laughs. 'It helps me connect. I don't want to be that untouchable 'legend'. I'm still here. I see you. I hear you.' But he also draws a line wherein his home life, for example, remains off-screen. 'Some things are sacred,' he adds. For UAE fans, Atif Aslam is more than a touring artist, he's practically a regular with Dubai being a 'second home'. And when he's not on stage, he's often spotted attending concerts and events, slipping into the crowd. 'When I'm in the audience myself, I see things differently,' he shared. 'The real connection isn't always in the views or streams, it's in how people respond when you're in front of them.' After all that he's achieved, Atif Aslam is still searching — but not for stardom. 'I'm not seeking Atif, the star,' he says. 'As Atif, the human being, I still need to look within, ask myself tough questions, fall, regroup, fall again, and rise again.' The search is inward now. And if he had to describe his journey in one word, it would be 'water', translating to 'jal' — ever-flowing, ever-changing, and always finding its way. As for the call that I made to him over 20 years ago, he didn't remember. Which, honestly, was a bit of a relief. But he laughed and said, 'You should include that in the interview.' So here it is, as a gentle reminder that sometimes the moments we hold onto are often the ones that shape us the most, moving us forward — just like water. GO: Follow @atifaslam on Instagram for more information.
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Civic body thirsts for 1cr switch to alkaline water in glass bottles
1 2 3 4 Ahmedabad: Only alkaline water, please! Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) officials and councillors apparently want to ditch the plain old purified bottled water the corporation currently manufactures at its Kotarpur plant, and upgrade to alkaline water in glass bottles. This has been made evident from AMC water production department's May 29 tender for the upgrade and modification of the 3,000 LPH (litres per hour) packaged drinking water plant in Kotarpur, setting up a 1,200 BPH glass bottle water packaging plant and its operation and maintenance (production, storage, sale, distribution, logistics) for three years. The tender is for Rs 1 crore. There are also plans to market this alkaline water under AMC's existing drinking water brand, Jal. Sources in AMC said that a decade ago, officials, dignitaries and councillors at events such as inaugurations, seminars and meetings were served bottled water sourced externally, which cost the corporation Rs 40-50 lakh annually. To save this cost, AMC set up the plastic bottling plant in Kotarpur, and even launched the Jal brand. This plan to save citizens' money failed to work as intended. Other private brands still are roped in to supply drinking water, sometimes in glass bottles due to reasons including protocols on serving VVIPs. This costs the civic body Rs 20 to 25 lakh annually. Sources add that officials and councillors themselves are avoiding AMC's water brand, leading to 200 ml bottles being discontinued. On April 30 this year, a proposal to spend approximately Rs 1.50 crore annually on tea, snacks, meals and drinking water at govt events in the city was put up for approval. The proposal to award a rate contract for Rs 1 crore annually for tea, snacks, and meal packets at various AMC events was approved, while a proposal to spend Rs 50 lakh annually on bottled water was rejected, with instructions to retender. Now, AMC is processing the tender, rendering the current bottling plant ineffective. Caught in its own 'Jal jaal' Sources in AMC's health department said that a decade ago, as serving bottled water at events cost the civic body Rs 40 to 50 lakh a year, the then municipal commissioner, D Thara, approved a plan to set up a bottling plant for Rs 1.25 crore in Kotarpur. The plant, ready by 2014, remained non-operational for two years and in 2016, was activated under the brand name 'Jal', producing 200 ml, 500 ml, and 1,000 ml water bottles. These were sold at Amul parlours outside AMC gardens and served at corporation events. In 2019, when the central govt began implementing a phased ban on single-use plastics, the then civic chief, Vijay Nehra banned the 200 ml bottles of 'Jal'. After the responsibility for water arrangements at all AMC events was handed over to its health department, it went back to serving 200ml bottles, procured from private companies, defeating all environmental and cost-saving purposes, the sources said. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes , messages , and quotes !
Express Tribune
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Saeed proud of weightlifter Sybil Sohail's gold medal
Farhan Saeed, former frontman of the renowned Pakistani band Jal and now a singer-songwriter and actor, took to Instagram to publicly express his pride after Sybil Sohail became the first Pakistani woman to win the gold medal at the Asian Weightlifting Masters Championship in Doha, Qatar. In a simple Instagram Story, Saeed tagged Sohail herself and wrote, "Proud moment. Congratulations." Adding a Pakistani flag emoji at the end of his short but sweet message to lock in his national pride, Saeed's simple message captured the essence of the country's joy and pride in Sohail's achievement. This was not the first time Saeed has used his social media platform to highlight Pakistani sporting excellence. When javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem clinched gold at the Asian Athletics Championship by defeating a strong Indian contender in the men's javelin final in May, Saeed took to Instagram Story to extend his congratulations on the historic victory. Sohail, 31, competed in the 59kg weight category in Doha. She lifted a total of 95kg — 40kg in the snatch and 55kg in the clean and jerk — to secure her place at the top of the podium. This gold medal marked not only her debut in international weightlifting but also a significant milestone for Pakistani women in strength sports. Previously a decorated powerlifter, Sohail holds titles such as Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion and Asian Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion. Transitioning to weightlifting, she set out with a clear ambition: to raise Pakistan's flag at major Asian events. "I aim to make my country proud, make my family proud. We have sacrificed a lot for the sport, but I need to make sure that all of that effort and dedication pays off," Sohail told The Express Tribune in Doha.
