PNB Commits ₹21,000 Crore to Drive Rajasthan’s Socio-Economic Growth

Jaipur, Rajasthan – In a significant move to accelerate the state’s development, Punjab National Bank (PNB) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Rajasthan. This strategic partnership, part of the “Rising Rajasthan” initiative, will see PNB provide a substantial financial commitment of ₹21,000 crore to support various eligible projects across the state.

The agreement, formalized in the presence of key officials, aims to create a dedicated framework for financing key infrastructure and social welfare projects. PNB’s extensive branch network and digital capabilities are expected to be instrumental in driving financial inclusion and socio-economic progress in the region.

As a testament to its commitment, PNB’s leadership also distributed 2,000 loan sanction letters to women entrepreneurs at a self-help group loan ceremony. The bank is also encouraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to leverage its digital platforms to access government schemes, further solidifying its role as a key partner in Rajasthan’s ambitious growth agenda.

JK Cement Commences Construction of ₹3,000 Crore Greenfield Plant in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan – Cement giant JK Cement Ltd. has officially begun work on a new greenfield cement plant in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, marking a significant strategic expansion with a proposed capital investment of approximately ₹3,000 crore (approximately US$340 million). The project is a key step in strengthening the company’s pan-India presence and boosting its overall production capacity.

The state-of-the-art facility, spanning a 525-acre land parcel, is scheduled for commissioning by early 2027. Its strategic location provides easy access to abundant limestone reserves, ensuring long-term raw material security and supporting sustainable operations. The plant will also serve high-demand regional markets in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana.

In line with a commitment to corporate sustainability, the project will incorporate cutting-edge technology, including a waste heat recovery system, designed to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the company’s carbon footprint. The initiative is also poised to be a major catalyst for regional economic development, creating both direct and indirect employment opportunities and fostering skill development for the local community.

The new facility underscores JK Cement’s long-term vision to meet India’s growing infrastructure development needs, fueled by government initiatives, housing projects, and industrial expansion.

Assam govt. grants approval to Rs 3,875 crore road project for Dima Hasao

The Assam government has granted approval to an infrastructure project worth Rs 3,875 crore to enhance road connectivity in Dima Hasao district.

“In Dima Hasao, there are five roads identified with the potential to be upgraded to national highway specifications. If executed, this will significantly strengthen the district’s connectivity and unlock its tourism potential,” Chief Minister Sarma stated.

The project entails the construction and upgradation of 348 km of roads across five key routes, which are to be developed to national highway standards. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the decision following the Cabinet meeting on 04 June.

He confirmed that the funding will be jointly shared, with the Central Government contributing 80 percent and the Assam Government covering the remaining 20 percent. Work will commence once flood conditions improve.

In parallel, the Cabinet sanctioned Rs 1,450 crore to the Mega Mission Society under the Chief Minister Samagra Gramya Unnayan Yojana, supporting flagship initiatives like CMAAA, MMMUA, and dairy infrastructure projects.

Additionally, Rs 843 crore was allocated to the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) for FY 2025–26, and 35 SP posts were upgraded to SSP to improve police administration across districts.

Pune’s Rs 42,711 crore ring road project moves to the next stage

The Pune Ring Road project, costing Rs 42,711 crore and stretching 172 km, has officially moved from planning to construction phase.

According to tweet of MLA Mahesh Landge, construction has already started in nine key areas: Khadakwasla, Mulshi, Chakan, Hinjewadi, Wadebolhai, Sinhagad, Urse, and Sortapwadi. Early work includes soil filling, bridge building, and leveling the ground.

So far, nearly 1,740 hectares of land have been acquired. Land acquisition is 99% complete in the western part and 98% in the eastern part, removing major hurdles for construction. Work has been given to nine construction companies, and each has been given a deadline of 30 months. If they delay the work, they will have to pay penalties.

The massive project aims to reduce traffic inside the city and boost development around the outskirts.

Work has been given to nine construction companies, and each has been given a deadline of 30 months. If they delay the work, they will have to pay penalties. Tweet has confirmed that work will continue during the monsoon season in most parts of the project.

DEE Development Engineers to venture into Hydrogen production sector

DEE Development Engineers (DDEL) has signed a MoU with clean-tech firm to advance green hydrogen projects in India and Thailand. The memorandum of understanding (MoU), aims to co-develop, bid for, and execute modular green hydrogen production system Projects in both countries.

Chairman & Managing Director, DDEL, Krishan Lalit Bansal, said, “Hydrogen is poised to become a cornerstone of global decarbonization, and we are proud to lead the way alongside such a capable and visionary partner.”

DDEL has recently driven its green energy portfolio by acquiring a majority stake in Molsieve Designs, a hydrogen purification specialist with over 22 years of experience. This acquisition enhances DDEL’s technological depth and clean energy production capabilities.

The alliance will integrate International Clean-Tech Partner’s advanced hydrogen technologies—including electrolysers, separators, and hydrogen purification systems—with DDEL’s manufacturing and execution expertise. DDEL brings proven capabilities in delivering ultra-pure hydrogen purification systems with up to 99.9999 percent purity, along with deep industry experience and a strong customer base.

IOCL Announces Rs 61,000 Crore Naphtha Cracker Project in Odisha with Major Investments Ahead

“Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) plans to set up a Rs 61,000 crore naphtha cracker project at Paradip, Odisha, with an MoU expected in January. This project is part of a larger Rs 1 lakh crore investment, which includes expanding IOCL’s Paradip refinery. Additionally, a Rs 4,382 crore yarn project will be launched in Bhadrak, Odisha, in collaboration with MCPI Pvt Ltd.