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Narendra Modi's 2.5-hour trip to UAE brings Big Returns for India May 16, 2026 11:49

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a short visit to the United Arab Emirates on Friday, which brought significant advantages for New Delhi. This trip led to several important strategic and economic benefits for India, as both nations declared agreements in defense, energy, and infrastructure, along with investment promises totaling billions of dollars. The PM's trip to Abu Dhabi took place during a time of political changes in West Asia and ongoing uncertainty in global energy markets. With the backdrop of regional conflict and worries about disruptions to critical shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz, both countries emphasized the importance of stability, connectivity, and economic strength. One of the key results was the signing of a Strategic Defence Partnership Agreement between India and the UAE. This agreement goes beyond typical military drills and focuses on the joint creation and production of advanced defense technologies, improved intelligence sharing, and increased cooperation on counter-terrorism efforts. In the energy field, India and the UAE agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding on Strategic Petroleum Reserves to enhance India's energy independence amid fluctuating crude prices and supply issues related to regional conflicts. Building on their existing collaboration, where Abu Dhabi National Oil Company serves as the sole foreign entity that stores oil in India's underground reserves, this new agreement strengthens strategic ties, ensuring a dependable energy source for India while giving the UAE a steady, long-term market for its increased crude output. They also finalized a deal regarding the supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas, which aims to guarantee stable and long-term energy supplies to India as it seeks to secure and diversify imports and reduce the effects of global price fluctuations on local consumers. This deal between Indian Oil Corporation and ADNOC guarantees a long-term, prioritized supply of fuel from the UAE, which meets about 40 percent of India's domestic LPG needs. During the visit, an MoU was signed to create a Ship Repair Cluster in Vadinar, Gujarat, a project expected to enhance India's maritime infrastructure and strengthen its status as a regional center for ship maintenance and repairs. Furthermore, the UAE announced investments totaling USD 5 billion, aimed at improving Indian infrastructure projects, increasing credit availability at RBL Bank, and adding liquidity to housing financier Sammaan Capital. Officials noted that these agreements demonstrate how the relationship between India and the UAE is growing beyond traditional trade and energy collaborations into areas like defense, logistics, infrastructure, and finance. In recent years, India and the UAE have become significant economic partners, particularly after signing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which helped their bilateral trade exceed USD 100 billion. Now, both countries are aiming for USD 200 billion in trade in the near future.

Virat Kohli breaks Silence on Retirement Plans May 16, 2026 11:24

Former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli has finally spoken up about the ongoing rumors regarding his future in international cricket and the chance of playing in the 2027 ODI World Cup. He expressed that he doesn’t wish to be in a setting where he's constantly pushed to demonstrate his abilities, despite his dedication and training for the sport. Kohli shared his thoughts during a talk on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru podcast, where he openly discussed his mindset, his connection with the sport, and the frequent inquiries about his future with the Indian team. At 37 years old, he now solely participates in ODI cricket for India after stepping back from T20 matches following India’s victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup and leaving Test cricket before the England tour last year. He mentioned that his viewpoint on cricket has become very straightforward. “My viewpoint is very straightforward. If I can contribute positively to the team I am a member of and if the team believes I can help, I will be recognized. If I feel pressured to prove my abilities and worth, I don’t belong in that situation. Because I am true to my preparation,” Kohli stated. “I am truthful about how I tackle the game. I focus on my work. I am extremely grateful to God for all the gifts I have received throughout my cricket career. I feel very fortunate and appreciative for being given this opportunity. And when I come to play, I focus entirely on my game. ” Kohli emphasized that his dedication to Indian cricket has always remained constant, and he continues to train with the same commitment and intensity that has characterized his career for years. “I put in as much effort, if not more, than anyone else. And I play the game correctly. If you want me to sprint from one boundary to the other for all 40 overs in an ODI match? I will do it without any complaints. That’s because I train accordingly. I prepare for the fact that I’ll view every ball in a 50-over match as if it could be the last ball of my career. I will bat and run between the wickets with that mindset. I will do everything I can for the team. ” The experienced batter mentioned that after working with such commitment, he sees no reason to continuously justify his position. “After contributing in this way, if I have to be in a situation where I must prove my worth and value, that is not the right place for me,” he added. With ODI matches now limited on the international schedule, discussions about Kohli’s involvement in the 2027 World Cup have grown more intense. However, the former captain made it clear that he is already aware of his stance on the subject. “I understand what I can achieve because I genuinely live my life that way. I don’t prepare just a few weeks before a tournament to work hard. I maintain that lifestyle all year. So if you ask me to participate, and mention an upcoming series, I am already set.” “I am consistently prepared because that is how I live each day. I exercise, and we eat healthy at home. It's because I enjoy living like that. It's not just for playing cricket. So, this talk about the 2027 World Cup feels like we are already in the middle of 2026 for me. However, people keep asking if I want to play in 2027,” he explained. “I have my thoughts on that. I wouldn't leave my home and gather my things if I wasn't sure about what I wanted. Of course, if I am playing, I would like to continue playing cricket. Competing in a World Cup for India is an incredible experience. But as I mentioned, there should be value on both sides,” he continued. Kohli also shared his feelings about returning to domestic cricket for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy earlier this year, where he scored 208 runs in just two games, including a century and a half-century. He mentioned that this experience helped him reconnect with the simple joy of batting. “There wasn't a single spectator at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru during the matches. After playing for many years, I wondered if it would be motivating enough. But once I shifted my mindset to wanting to play because I love it, everything changed. I just enjoy batting and my focus was solely on that. I didn’t let anything else bother me,” he stated. Virat expressed that the tournament made him feel like a young player rediscovering his passion for the game. “I thought, this is not about anyone else. This is about me and the sport. That’s how I want to approach it. Whenever I sense that people are trying to make it complicated for me by adding unnecessary pressures, I prefer them to be honest or just let me play,” he added. The batting star also likened the uncertainty surrounding players' futures to a typical job setting, where opinions can change widely depending on the outcomes. “It’s like, why can’t you just be straightforward? Tell me from the start if I am not good enough or needed. If you believe I am good and not considering any changes, then don’t say anything further. Just let it be,” he remarked. “If you react by going up and down based on results, you won't be able to maintain a steady stance. I do not act that way. Like I mentioned, when I step up to play, I understand what I can offer in terms of my effort and performance,” he said. Kohli is still considered one of the best ODI batsmen in the history of cricket. In 311 One Day Internationals, he has made 14,797 runs with an average of 58.71 and a strike rate of 93.82, including 54 centuries and 77 half-centuries. Although he played less ODI cricket last year because the international schedule was busy, Kohli still ended up being India’s top run-scorer in this format with 651 runs in 13 innings, averaging 65.10, which included three centuries and four fifties. This year, he has already accumulated 240 runs in three ODIs with an average of 80, featuring both a century and a fifty. After the IPL, Kohli is likely to join the Indian team again for the ODI series against Afghanistan that starts on June 14.

Google Testing to Reduce Free Storage Limit for New Gmail Accounts May 16, 2026 10:50

At present, Google provides a fair amount of free space for personal Gmail accounts, which is divided among Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos, but this may change in the near future. Several Gmail users have noticed that Google is experimenting with a lower storage allowance for new accounts, rather than the typical 15GB limit. For a long time, the tech company has offered 15GB of online storage for individuals who create a Google account. If the firm reduces the free Gmail storage for newcomers, it could compel those who need additional space to purchase a Google One subscription. As shared by various users on Reddit and X, it seems Google is restricting free storage access to 5GB for new Gmail accounts unless individuals associate a phone number with their account. Users who confirm their phone numbers receive the regular 15GB of free storage. There is still the option for users to not link a phone number, but this choice reportedly limits their available storage to 5GB. However, many users are critical of this decision, claiming it allows the company to gather more of their data. Some believe that this shift will assist the tech giant in cutting down on spam. Right now, Google gives 15GB of free online storage for people who register for a Gmail account. Many individuals create numerous Gmail accounts to avoid storage restrictions instead of paying for more space. The company may be trying to put an end to this habit by limiting free storage for certain new accounts. Posts on Reddit indicate that the trial is currently restricted to a few users in African nations like Kenya and Nigeria. Nonetheless, it might be just an A/B test before a wider implementation. As of now, Gmail's official support webpages still indicate that new accounts get 15GB of free storage. Those needing more space can subscribe to the Google One plan. "We're trying out a new storage system for new accounts made in specific regions that will help us keep providing quality storage services to our users, while also encouraging them to enhance their account security and data recovery," a representative for the company stated to Android Authority. The Google One Lite plan offering 30GB is available for Rs. 59 a month in India. The plans for Google One that provide 100GB (Basic) and 2TB (Premium) storage limits cost Rs. 130 and Rs. 650 monthly, respectively.

Tesla Strengthens Presence in India May 16, 2026 10:31

Tesla has broadened its presence in India by launching a new Experience Center in the Whitefield area of Bengaluru, which enhances its foothold in the high-end electric vehicle sector of the nation. This new venue, situated at VR Bengaluru in Mahadevapura, welcomed its first visitors on May 14, 2026, and also introduces the just launched three-row six-seater Model Y L in the city. The company announced that customers who come to the new Experience Center will have the opportunity to explore both the regular Model Y and the fresh Model Y L, which has come to India with a starting cost of Rs 61.99 lakh (excluding taxes). Tesla asserts that the Model Y was the top-selling vehicle globally from 2023 to 2025, and the new Model Y L has been designed to cater more to families by providing added space and practicality. In addition to the store opening, Tesla has initiated after-sales service operations in Whitefield to enhance support for customers in Bengaluru. This step is part of the company’s strategy to expand its retail and service systems across key cities in India. Marketed as a high-end electric family SUV, the new Model Y L comes with a three-row layout accommodating six seats, aimed at improving cabin space, headroom, and comfort for passengers. Tesla states that this SUV offers a WLTP-certified driving distance of up to 681km on a single charge and can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in only 5 seconds. The company highlighted the Model Y series’ safety credentials, stating that both the Model Y and Model Y L have achieved excellent safety assessments from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS in the U. S., Euro NCAP in Europe, ANCAP in Australia and New Zealand, and CIASI in China. Tesla also focused on its Supercharging technology, claiming that the Model Y L can regain up to 288km of driving range in just 15 minutes with suitable fast-charging conditions. Furthermore, Tesla mentioned that it would provide home charging options in India to make owning an EV more hassle-free. With the launch of the Whitefield facility, Tesla now has customer service points in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram, as it slowly grows its operations in the Indian market.

Kia Carens Clavis EV to have a Battery-as-a-Service May 15, 2026 21:02

Kia India has introduced a new Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) finance option for the Kia Carens Clavis EV, intending to make owning an electric vehicle easier and cheaper for Indian buyers. This program features a two-loan system where the battery and the vehicle's body are financed separately, greatly lowering the upfront cost of the EV. The BaaS model is available for both battery options in the Carens Clavis EV — the 42kWh and 51.4kWh versions. Under this program, customers will pay a battery subscription charge of Rs 3.3 for every kilometre driven, while the car can be financed through partner banks. By separating the battery cost from the car's price, the starting price of the Carens Clavis EV is significantly reduced. The 42kWh model starts at Rs 12.84 lakh with the BaaS plan, while the larger 51.4kWh model begins at Rs 15.94 lakh. In contrast, the traditional showroom prices without the battery subscription range from Rs 17.99 lakh to Rs 24.99 lakh. Prices are ex-showroom. Kia indicates that this program aims to provide more options and clarity for EV ownership. Separate loan accounts will be set up for the car's body and the battery, enabling customers to handle their repayments separately. The loan period for the chassis can last up to 60 months, while the battery subscription can go up to 96 months. The company asserts that this structure will help lessen the financial strain of owning an EV and motivate more people to think about electric vehicles. The BaaS finance model is being introduced in collaboration with major banks like ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Bajaj Finserv. Kia says that ownership options for the Carens Clavis EV can start from Rs 51,520, in addition to the battery usage fees based on the distance driven. Regarding this plan, Kia India mentioned that the BaaS model is part of a larger goal to make electric vehicles more accessible in India and to create a broader electric mobility network. The automaker has also been working on enhancing its EV infrastructure throughout the country. With the K-Charge platform connected to the MyKia app, customers can access over 15,000 charging locations across the country, along with features like route planning, updates on charger availability, and integrated payment options. Furthermore, more than 100 Kia dealerships in India now have DC fast chargers, and over 267 service centers across the nation have been upgraded to provide service and maintenance for EVs. The Kia Carens Clavis EV remains unchanged mechanically with the rollout of the BaaS model. The 42kWh variant boasts a claimed driving range of 404km, while the larger 51.4kWh battery offers a claimed range of 490km on a full charge. Earlier this year, Kia launched the MY2026 update for the electric MPV, which includes cosmetic changes like redesigned bumpers, new alloy wheels, and extra variants.

Xiaomi 17T Series Launch Date Tipped May 15, 2026 20:48

The Xiaomi 17T series is set to be released in certain global markets later this month, according to a source. After their global release, it is believed that the Xiaomi 17T and Xiaomi 17T Pro will also be introduced in India as the third and fourth devices in the company's top-tier range, joining the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra. Additionally, reports suggest that the smartphone company is looking to bring the Xiaomi 17 Max to India and other global regions, which would increase the lineup to five models, including the two Xiaomi 17T devices. This news follows the company's recent hints about the Xiaomi 17 Max's launch in China. A post on X by tipster Yogesh Brar (@heyitsyogesh) indicates that the expected Xiaomi 17T and Xiaomi 17T Pro will be unveiled in specific global markets on May 28. The source also mentions that these two models will be available in India soon after the launch of the Redmi Turbo 5, which is confirmed for release in the country shortly. However, the company has not yet started promoting the global release of the Xiaomi 17T series, as the expected launch is only a few weeks away. In addition to the Xiaomi 17T and Xiaomi 17T Pro, there are discussions regarding the launch of the Xiaomi 17 Max in India, which is confirmed for a debut in China in the next weeks. If the three models become available in India, they will be added to the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra, bringing the total number of flagship phones in the country to five. Key details and prices of the Xiaomi 17T and Xiaomi 17T Pro have recently appeared online. The base model is expected to be priced at EUR 749 (approximately Rs. 83,000) for the 12GB+256GB RAM and storage option. Meanwhile, the Pro version may be priced at EUR 999 (around Rs. 1,11,000). Regarding specifications, the Xiaomi 17T will reportedly feature a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz and a pixel density of 460 ppi. Conversely, the Xiaomi 17T Pro is likely to come with a 6.83-inch 1.5K (1,280x2,772 pixels) AMOLED touchscreen that supports a refresh rate of up to 144Hz and has a pixel density of 447 ppi. The standard model is expected to be equipped with a 4nm octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra processor, while the Xiaomi 17T Pro is rumored to utilize a 3nm octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset. The two devices are anticipated to provide 12GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 512GB of UFS 4.1 internal storage.

Apple-OpenAI Partnership Reportedly Strained May 15, 2026 20:35

Apple's relationship with OpenAI is reportedly under pressure and becoming increasingly tense. A recent report indicates that the creator of ChatGPT is considering possible legal steps against Apple, claiming it has not sufficiently supported or promoted the integration of ChatGPT into iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. This collaboration was first introduced at WWDC 2024 and was thought to be a significant move in integrating generative AI into the iPhone ecosystem. As reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, attorneys for OpenAI are collaborating with an outside law firm to explore various legal actions against Apple. This could potentially involve sending a formal notice regarding a contract violation. Nonetheless, it appears OpenAI has not made a conclusive decision yet and still hopes to settle the issue privately without resorting to a lawsuit. The conflict seems to stem from OpenAI's unhappiness with how Apple has integrated ChatGPT into its systems. The report mentions that OpenAI leaders initially felt confident that the partnership would greatly enhance ChatGPT subscriptions and improve its visibility through more integration with Siri and Apple applications. However, the actual integration is still quite limited and challenging for many users to access. The report suggests that for users to get OpenAI responses, they often need to specifically state “ChatGPT” when using Siri. Furthermore, the responses are shown in a smaller interface and provide fewer functions than the independent ChatGPT application. Gurman highlighted that OpenAI leaders think Apple has not put enough effort into promoting the integration on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. An unidentified OpenAI executive reportedly stated that the ChatGPT creator has done “everything from a product perspective,” while Apple “hasn't even made a genuine attempt. ” The connection is likely further strained by Apple’s growing partnerships with competing AI companies. The tech giant from Cupertino has been frequently rumored to be planning more extensive AI integrations within iOS 27, which would enable users to choose third-party AI models directly through Siri. Notably, Apple and Google announced a multi-year partnership earlier this year, which will allow Gemini and Google's cloud technology to support the next generation of Apple Foundation Models. Additionally, the report notes that OpenAI's increasing interest in hardware has also led to tensions between the two companies. The creator of ChatGPT is developing an AI wearable device, with former Apple Design chief Jony Ive leading the project. On the other hand, Apple has reportedly had concerns regarding privacy related to ChatGPT, even during the initial negotiations in 2024. However, it seems the company moved forward with the partnership due to its own AI features still being under development at that time.

HCLTech bets on Sarvam AI: To invest $150 Million May 15, 2026 20:23

The Indian IT industry has been careful when it comes to AI. Major companies like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro have worried about a possible crisis every time a firm like Anthropic introduces new features. However, now HCLTech, another big player in the Indian IT scene, is said to be looking to invest in the Indian AI startup Sarvam AI. According to a report from Moneycontrol, HCLTech is set to lead a new funding round for Sarvam AI, potentially putting in $150 million with a company value of $1.5 billion. Sarvam is also aiming to gather another $150 million during this round, with rumors suggesting that Nvidia might also be interested. This funding will be significant as it will be the first one for Sarvam in more than two years. The last time it raised money was $41 million in a Series A round back in December 2023. If this round happens, it would be a big change in the Indian tech landscape, as a traditional Indian IT firm decides to support a local AI startup. It would also rank among the largest fundraising by an Indian AI startup. It’s important to note that Sarvam has been creating its own AI models for a while now. The startup, based in Bengaluru, has previously outperformed ChatGPT and Google Gemini in some tasks with its Vision and Bulbul models. This investment arrives when the Indian IT sector is facing fast changes brought on by AI-focused companies like Anthropic and OpenAI. This has caused worries about the future of SaaS because of tools like Claude Cowork. Meanwhile, HCLTech has partnered with OpenAI to help bring AI solutions into client systems, which appears to be increasingly essential right now, especially as OpenAI and Anthropic have their own AI service offerings. Similarly, TCS and Infosys also have similar agreements. Remember that Indian service companies have previously been criticized for not putting money into AI. Now, Anthropic, which was established in 2021, has a higher valuation than the top four Indian IT firms. Sarvam AI was started in July 2023 by Vivek Raghavan and Pratyush Kumar. The goal of the startup is to be a complete sovereign AI company that focuses on creating foundational models, or essential AI systems that can be used in many ways, specifically for India. Sarvam AI is working on AI for Indian languages and voice applications for users and businesses, along with a platform for developing and implementing AI applications. At the IndiaAI Impact Summit earlier this year, it revealed two large language models, which are AI systems that learn from vast amounts of data to create and understand text, with one having 30 billion parameters and another with 105 billion parameters trained entirely in India. Sarvam also presented AI-powered smart glasses at this event, which were worn by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In February, the company launched the Sarvam Indus mobile app for Indian users, though it is still in the testing phase.

Satya Nadella reveals Microsoft's $25 Billion Plan May 15, 2026 20:05

Following the unexpected removal of Sam Altman from OpenAI on November 17, 2023, Microsoft was quick to position itself to take in OpenAI's key leaders and talent into an organization under its control, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella disclosed during court statements on Monday. Nadella’s remarks emphasized how critical OpenAI was to Microsoft’s artificial intelligence plans and how swiftly Microsoft acted to safeguard its interests amid the leadership crisis. Nadella testified on the last day of the Elon Musk versus OpenAI trial in federal court in Oakland, California. He shared that Microsoft almost instantly made a backup strategy. Within merely a day, Microsoft had finalized the legal documents to establish a new subsidiary that could hire Altman, Greg Brockman, and possibly several other OpenAI staff if they opted to leave the organization. In the technology field, especially in artificial intelligence, salary packages are greatly linked to equity and the future worth of the company. To persuade OpenAI employees to join them, Microsoft would have to propose extremely costly packages. Nadella revealed that Microsoft anticipated it would take about $25 billion to fully integrate Sam Altman, his leadership group, and a significant number of OpenAI staff into Microsoft while providing salaries, stock options, and equity in line with what they already had or expected at OpenAI. However, this proposal was never executed because Altman was reinstated as CEO of OpenAI afterward. When he came back and most employees remained at OpenAI, Microsoft found that the alternative plan was no longer necessary. Nadella also pointed out how puzzling and sudden the dismissal seemed, even to Microsoft, despite its close ties with OpenAI. He described Altman's firing as “amateurish. ” During his testimony, Nadella mentioned that even with Microsoft being OpenAI’s primary investor and closest business associate, the board failed to provide a clear reason for Altman’s removal. Nadella expressed that his immediate worry was to determine if there were serious issues involved, such as financial misconduct, fraud, security problems, or ethical breaches. However, as he stated in his testimony, no one from OpenAI provided Microsoft with a clear response. The only public justification from OpenAI’s board was that Altman had not been “consistently candid” in his communications, a vague statement that many at the time felt didn't warrant such a drastic action. Nadella’s testimony also clarified the power struggle that emerged after Sam Altman rejoined OpenAI following the leadership crisis in November 2023. After Altman’s return, OpenAI aimed to rebuild or “reconstitute” its board of directors, and Microsoft—being OpenAI's largest investor and closest business partner—suggested 13 to 14 individuals they thought could serve on the new board. However, none of the candidates proposed by Microsoft were chosen initially. During his testimony, Nadella recognized that Microsoft lacked the official authority to compel the nonprofit OpenAI board to follow its advice. When he was asked about Microsoft's options if the board chose to disregard its recommendations, he simply stated, “None,” indicating that even with Microsoft's significant financial investment, it did not have direct control over the management of OpenAI. Simultaneously, Nadella disclosed that Microsoft attempted to sway the board's composition by voicing objections to certain individuals. He mentioned he was against Diane Greene due to her associations with Google and also disapproved of Bing Gordon because of his connections to Amazon. This implied that Microsoft was worried about rivals having too much power within OpenAI. Elon Musk’s legal representatives asserted that Microsoft was trying to influence OpenAI's governance in ways that would help Microsoft's business goals and increase its control over the organization. Ilya Sutskever, a co-founder and former chief scientist at OpenAI, also gave evidence during cross-examination. He mentioned that OpenAI's board considered serious backup plans to bring stability to the organization amid the crisis. One of these plans reportedly included conversations with Anthropic, a significant competitor in the AI field, regarding the potential for a merger or collaboration. Sutskever expressed his disapproval of the idea of OpenAI merging with Anthropic, stating that he was “not excited” about this suggestion. In addition to Satya Nadella’s testimony, numerous other Microsoft leaders also took the stand to discuss Microsoft's financial involvement in OpenAI.

Indian Government Bans Sugar exports till September May 15, 2026 19:47

The government has prohibited the export of sugar until the end of September in order to keep local prices steady during a time when there are concerns about reduced sugar stocks and a potential decline in sugar production for the 2026-27 season, which runs from October to September. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade updated the export rules for raw sugar late on Wednesday, changing the category of white sugar and refined sugar from ‘restricted’ to ‘forbidden’ until September 30, 2026, or until further notice, whichever comes first. The Indian Sugar and Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) referred to the government’s decision to limit sweetener exports as a reaction to changing domestic supply situations and climate uncertainties for the upcoming season (2026-27). According to ICRA, the total sugar production, after accounting for ethanol usage, is expected to be about 28 million tonnes, which is less than what was initially predicted. The organization mentioned that with domestic consumption at 28.3 million tonnes and exports of 0.7 million tonnes, the ending sugar stock is forecasted to be around 4.3 million tonnes by September 2026. This amounts to nearly two months of usage, suggesting inventory levels are a bit lower compared to previous years. “The government’s decision will help prevent significant rises in local prices while ensuring that sugar remains available domestically, considering the expected decrease in sugar stock and next year’s production,” said Rachit Mehta, vice president of ICRA. The government allowed sugar exports in November 2025 based on the production forecasts available at that time. Industry insiders noted that as the season went on, sugar output in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh was negatively affected by weather challenges. According to ISMA, approximately 0.65 million tonnes of sugar has been exported so far, while an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 tonnes are being sent out under previously signed contracts. For the 2025-26 sugar marketing season (from October to September), the food ministry allowed 1.5 million tonnes of exports in November 2025, and in February 2026, it approved an extra shipment of 500,000 tonnes of sweetener. "Although the sector was looking forward to a measured assessment of the export situation, the quick implementation of the current restrictions could lead to real difficulties in meeting some export agreements already made with international partners," stated Deepak Ballani, the general director of ISMA. The organization recommended that allowing the fulfillment of existing contracts might assist in ensuring smooth trade settlements and enhance the reliability of Indian suppliers in the worldwide market. As of the end of April 2026, ISMA reported total sugar output of 27.52 MT, which is 7% greater than the previous season, even though only 5 out of 539 factories were functioning. On Thursday, shares of significant sugar firms – Triveni Engineering, Balram Chini, Shree Renuka Sugar, and Mawana Sugar – fell following the government's announcement regarding the ban on sugar exports. On Thursday, shares of Balrampur Chini and Triveni Engineering dropped by 1.63% and 1.57%, reaching Rs 545 and Rs 383 respectively on the BSE compared to the previous trading day, while Shree Renuka Sugar saw a decrease of 2.41% to Rs 24. Shares of Mawana Sugar went down by 4.18% to Rs 104 on Thursday.