DECEMBER, 20259TOP STORIESCABINET CLEARS RS 7,280 CR SCHEME FOR RARE EARTH MAGNETSRecently, the Indian Cabinet has approved a landmark initiative to strengthen the country's supply chain for rare earth magnets by providing funding of 7,280 crores to encourage the domestic production of REPMs.This initiative, which is called "The Scheme to Encourage Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets," comes soon after India's Commerce Minister highlighted the significance of rare earth minerals in future partnerships with Canada during discussions regarding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Canada and India.The government stated, "This first-of-its-kind initiative aims to establish 6,000 metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) of integrated Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM) manufacturing in India, thereby enhancing self-reliance and positioning India as a key player in the global REPM market". REPMs are critical parts of the manufacturing chain for all types of electric vehicles, renewable energy solutions, consumer electronics, aerospace products, and defence systems. This new scheme additionally supports manufacturers of REPMs by establishing integrated manufacturing plants that would allow businesses to convert rare earth oxides into metals; alloys into finished magnets, etc.Shailesh Chandra, President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) said, "This initiative is a significant step toward building a resilient and stable supply chain, particularly for components and sub-assemblies essential for the production of electrified vehicles". He added, "The scheme is expected to accelerate adoption of clean mobility solutions and support India's broader sustainability goals. By strengthening indigenous manufacturing capabilities, it will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and lowering dependence on crude oil imports, further enhancing the nation's energy security".The total expenditure of 7,280 crore comprises 6,450 crore for sales-linked incentives over a period of five years and 750 crore for capital subsidies to develop a total of 6,000 metric tons per annum (MTPA) production capacity for Renewable Energy Policy (REPM). The capacity will be divided among five participants through global competition, with each participant eligible for up to 1,200 MTPA. IMRIndia Global Forum (IGF) announced that they have established a $250 million fund to support the international growth of India's premier consumer and industrial brands.The money will be provided through the Ved Family Office and Ananta Capital, and was launched at IGF Middle East 2025: NXT Frontiers, which took place in Dubai and included leaders from business, government, and innovation who are creating the India-UAE corridor.The India Global Forum fund, a $250 million fund India, aims to support Indian brands global expansion, drive India brand international growth, enable global market India brands, and promote India export promotion fund initiatives while providing Indian startups global funding.India Global Forum stated, "India is producing brands that are ready for the world, and Dubai is the natural launchpad for their global ambitions. Through this $250 million fund, we are unlocking a new era of opportunity, where Indian entrepreneurship meets world-class infrastructure, global capital and international demand".The fund is meant to combine growth capital with world class logistics, market access, and IGF's large network. The IGF will be providing support to Indian companies through an Accelerator Programme, which will offer tailored assistance as these companies grow into the key markets of the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and elsewhere. Indian companies that participate will receive curated introductions to investors, partners, and customers, as well as assistance developing their market entry strategies.The investment fund and incubator will primarily target high-growth companies across industries such as food and drink, consumer goods, chemicals, automotive, advanced manufacturing, and industrial products. The IGF will collaborate with partners to identify companies with established brands, the potential for worldwide expansion, and a powerful customer proposition."The UAE has long been a bridge between India and global markets. As anchor investors in this fund, we see a tremendous opportunity to back the next generation of Indian brands that can go global from Dubai. This initiative will give founders the confidence, capability and connectivity they need to scale internationally", stated Nilesh Ved, Chairman, Ved Family Office and Apparel Group."India is at an inflection point where homegrown brands are ready to compete and win globally. By anchoring this fund, we aim to provide patient, strategic capital and partner with entrepreneurs who are building durable, category-defining businesses", added Ashutosh Taparia, Founder & Managing Partner, Ananta Capital."We welcome initiatives that empower Indian businesses to scale globally through the UAE. With one of the most advanced trade ecosystems in the world, Indian businesses can use Dubai's connectivity to reach more than 3 billion consumers in fast-growing regional markets", said Abdulla Al Hashmi, COO Parks & Zones, DP World GCC. IMRINDIA GLOBAL FORUM LAUNCHES $250M FUND TO TAKE BRANDS GLOBAL
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