Latest news with #InfrastructureFund
Scoop
29-04-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Government Exploring Northern ‘Energy Bridge'
Press Release – New Zealand Government The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will use up to $2m from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to investigate the feasibility of upgrading Northlands electricity infrastructure to act as an energy bridge between Northland and … Hon Shane Jones Minister for Regional Development The Regional Infrastructure Fund will invest up to $2 million to investigate building additional electricity transmission and distribution capacity in Northland, which could also have benefits further afield, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. 'New Zealand needs significantly more electricity generation as the economy grows and demand for power increases. Northland is rich in natural renewable resources, such as wind and solar which are suitable for generating renewable energy,' Mr Jones says. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will use up to $2m from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to investigate the feasibility of upgrading Northland's electricity infrastructure to act as an 'energy bridge' between Northland and Auckland. MBIE will also carry out an economic analysis of the potential benefits in conjunction with local stakeholders. 'This project has the potential to unlock $1 billion of private investment in new renewable energy. If this is feasible, Northland could become a significant electricity generator and supplier of power which might have flow-on benefits for Auckland and the rest of the country,' Mr Jones says. 'This investment could increase electricity self-sufficiency in the region and improve the power generation capacity and resilience of the Northland network which will benefit local people. It could also reduce power prices for Auckland and nationally if wholesale prices can be brought down. 'More detailed work needs to be done into the feasibility of expanding Northland's power generation before further government funding can be considered but if the outcome is positive, the payoff could be massive. 'This is a long-term project and there is a lot of water to pass under the bridge yet, but if it goes ahead some new power generation could come online as components are completed, with full commissioning by 2029,' Mr Jones says. The project aligns with the Coalition Government's goals of building infrastructure and doubling renewable energy generation for New Zealand by 2035 to reduce emissions and enable economic growth.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
24-04-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Motilal Oswal MF launches Infrastructure Fund: Here's all you need to know
Motilal Oswal Infrastructure Fund: Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund has launched its Motilal Oswal Infrastructure Fund, an open-ended scheme following the infrastructure theme. The scheme opened for subscription on April 23 2025 and will close on May 7, 2025. The scheme's performance is measured against the Nifty Infrastructure Total Return Index. The index is designed to reflect the market behaviour and performance of companies that represent the infrastructure sector such as power, port, air, roads, railways, shipping and other utility services providers According to the riskometer, the principal invested in the scheme will be at very high risk. The investment objective of Motilal Oswal Infrastructure Fund is to achieve long-term capital appreciation by predominantly investing in equity and equity-related instruments of companies that are engaged directly or indirectly or are expected to benefit from the growth and development of the infrastructure sector in India. However, there can be no assurance that the investment objective of the scheme will be realized, according to the Scheme Information Document (SID). Investors can invest a minimum amount of ₹500 and in multiples of ₹1 thereafter. The minimum additional investment amount will be ₹500 and in multiples of ₹1 thereafter. According to the SID, if the units are redeemed within three months from the day of allotment, an exit load of 1 per cent will be charged. However, no exit load will be charged if units are redeemed after three months from the date of allotment. Ajay Khandelwal, Bhalchandra Shinde, Rakesh Shetty and Sunil Sawant serve as the designated fund managers for the scheme. Prateek Agrawal, managing director and chief executive officer at Motilal Oswal Asset Management Company said, India's infrastructure growth is gaining momentum. Motilal Oswal Infrastructure Fund provides investors an opportunity to participate directly in this transformation across the infrastructure sector, aiming for long-term value. "As capital expenditure picks up across sectors like roads, railways, energy, urban, social and digital infrastructure, we believe this fund offers a compelling opportunity to participate in India's infrastructure development journey," he added. Motilal Oswal Infrastructure Fund: Who should invest? According to the SID, the scheme is suitable for investors who are seeking capital appreciation over the long term and investing predominantly in equity or equity-related schemes of companies that are engaged directly or indirectly or expected to benefit from the growth and development of the Infrastructure sector in India. However, there can be no assurance that the investment objective of the scheme will be realized.
Time of India
22-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Lucknow Municipal Corporation moots big infra upgrade with Rs400cr projects
1 2 3 Lucknow: Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) is set to give the state capital an infrastructural upgrade through development projects worth over Rs 400 crore. The comprehensive proposal — which includes the construction of new roads, repair of drains, solid waste management, and enhancement of green cover to tackle air pollution — is expected to gain momentum in the coming weeks. The projects will be executed under the Infrastructure Fund, Solid Waste Management Scheme, and the Air Quality Improvement Scheme. The govt has sanctioned Rs 160 crore under the Infrastructure Fund, Rs 173 crore for waste management, and Rs 74 crore for improving air quality. Rs 100 crore will go into strengthening waste management system by construction of transfer stations for sorting and processing garbage. The road construction projects will account for Rs 134 crore. "A wide range of development initiatives are lined up to not only modernise the city's infrastructure but also tackle pollution and improve cleanliness. LMC is committed to maintaining city's aesthetic appeal and development with sustainable eco-friendly approach," said Inderjit Singh, outgoing municipal commissioner. The proposed expenditure includes Rs 60 crore for road repairs, Rs 30 crore for main road improvements, Rs 60 crore for construction and repair of drains, Rs 39.44 crore for upgrading street lighting, and Rs 23.32 crore for installing street lights in 88 villages under Marg Prakash Yojana. Additionally, Rs 19.19 crore is allocated for the construction of 28 new tube wells, Rs 26.64 crore for reboring 46 tube wells, Rs 6 crore for a new municipal corporation workshop in Hariharpur, Rs 3 crore for a flood pumping station in the zoo, and Rs 4.60 crore for a flood pumping station on the Faizullaganj drain. Rs 10.12 crore is earmarked for cleaning Kathauta Lake, Rs 2 crore for constructing water fountains at key intersections, Rs 1.7 crore for building welcome gates at city entry points, Rs 8 crore for beautification of neglected parks, Rs 6.71 crore for the development of a "Nagar Van" under the Nagar Van Yojana, Rs 16.2 crore for developing Miyawaki forests, Rs 14 crore for pollution control under the environment section, Rs 2.5 crore for procuring anti-smog guns, and Rs 50 lakh for setting up a special cell focused on air quality improvement. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Google Brain Co-Founder Andrew Ng, Recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Efforts to enhance greenery and reduce air pollution will include large-scale plantation drives, development of green belts, and installation of smog towers under the Rs 74 crore air quality initiative. "An important meeting to finalise these plans scheduled for April 21 was postponed in view of mayor Sushma Kharkwal getting a leg injury," said an official.
Times of Oman
10-02-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
India's union budget 2025-26 unveils a 'package of hope' for rural region
New Delhi: The Union Budget 2025-26 has emerged as a beacon of hope for rural India, offering a transformative roadmap aimed at inclusive growth, sustainable development, and economic resilience. With a dedicated focus on agrarian reforms, digital connectivity, infrastructure, and employment generation, the government has unveiled a "Package of Hope" that is poised to bridge the rural-urban divide and uplift millions from poverty. Agriculture Recognising the pivotal role of agriculture in India's economy, the budget has introduced several farmer-centric initiatives. A significant increase in the allocation to the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme will ensure timely financial assistance to small and marginal farmers. Additionally, the government has expanded the scope of the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund to modernise cold storage, warehouses, and food processing units, thereby reducing post-harvest losses. The budget also places a strong emphasis on precision farming and sustainable agricultural practices. The promotion of climate-resilient crops, soil health management, and organic farming initiatives will enhance productivity while mitigating environmental concerns. Furthermore, a new digital agriculture mission aims to integrate AI-driven solutions, drone technology, and blockchain-based farm-to-market linkages, empowering farmers with real-time data and predictive insights. Rural infrastructure and connectivity The "Package of Hope" underscores the importance of rural infrastructure in catalysing economic growth. A substantial budgetary allocation has been earmarked for the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) to accelerate rural road construction, ensuring last-mile connectivity. Enhanced funding for rural electrification under the Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana will illuminate more villages, fostering entrepreneurship and industrial activity. In a bid to bridge the digital divide, the budget has prioritised broadband connectivity under the BharatNet initiative. With an ambitious goal to connect all gram panchayats by 2026, this measure will revolutionise e-governance, digital education, and telemedicine services, bringing essential services closer to rural populations. Employment generation and skill development With an increasing need for employment opportunities in rural areas, the government has expanded the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) programme to provide more workdays and better wages. Simultaneously, skill development initiatives such as the Skill India Mission and the Rural Livelihood Mission have received a boost to equip youth with vocational training and entrepreneurial skills. The establishment of Rural Start-up Hubs and Agri-Tech Innovation Centres will nurture rural entrepreneurs and provide funding support through interest-free loans. These initiatives aim to create self-sustaining rural enterprises, promoting indigenous industries like handicrafts, dairy farming, and agro-processing units. Health and education The Union Budget 2025-26 envisions a robust healthcare and education system for rural India. The expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme will ensure quality healthcare access in remote villages. Additionally, mobile health units and telemedicine services will cater to regions with inadequate healthcare facilities. On the education front, the launch of the 'Rural Digital Learning Initiative' will provide smart classrooms, affordable tablets, and digital content in regional languages. Increased investment in rural higher education and vocational training institutes will further enhance skill development, improving employability among the rural youth. Sustainable development and renewable energy The budget significantly emphasises sustainability and green energy adoption in rural India. Expansion of solar microgrids, biogas plants, and incentives for renewable energy startups will facilitate a shift towards a cleaner and greener rural economy. The government has also launched a 'Waste-to-Wealth' initiative to promote waste management and sustainable agriculture practices in villages. The Union Budget has outlined several key initiatives to accelerate rural development, focusing on infrastructure, digital connectivity, economic empowerment, and resilience-building measures — Jal Jeevan Mission: Expanding rural water supply The Jal Jeevan Mission has been extended until 2028, emphasising enhancing infrastructure quality and ensuring sustainable operation and maintenance of rural piped water supply systems. A citizen-driven approach, "Jan Bhagidhari," will play a pivotal role in achieving universal coverage. Additionally, state-level agreements will be implemented to ensure financial sustainability and long-term success. Bharatnet Project The Bharatnet Project will further expand internet connectivity in rural India, ensuring that all government secondary schools and primary health centres gain access to broadband services. This initiative is expected to enhance educational resources and healthcare facilities, bridging the digital divide in remote areas. India Post: A key driver of rural economy India Post, with its extensive network of 1.5 lakh rural post offices and 2.4 lakh DakSevaks, will be leveraged to boost economic growth in rural areas. Through India Post Payments Bank, it will offer micro-enterprise credit, digital services, and institutional financial solutions. Additionally, India Post will transform into a major logistics provider, supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses (MSMEs), and self-help groups. Rural Prosperity and Resilience Programme A multi-sectoral "Rural Prosperity and Resilience" initiative will be launched in partnership with states to address underemployment in agriculture. By promoting skill development, adopting modern technology, and facilitating targeted investments, this programme aims to strengthen the rural economy. Special attention will be given to empowering women, young farmers, marginalised communities, and landless households, ensuring that migration is an option rather than a necessity. The Union Budget 2025-26 truly heralds a new dawn for rural India. By addressing critical areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, employment, healthcare, education, and sustainability, the Indian government's "Package of Hope" aims to create a self-reliant and prosperous rural landscape.
