NIFTEM Kundli Recognized as National Reference Laboratory for Fortified Foods
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has officially recognized the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) in Kundli, Haryana, as a National Reference Laboratory (NRL) for fortified foods. NIFTEM Kundli, located in Sector 56, Sonipat, Haryana, will now serve as a key national reference point for all matters related to the testing and analysis of fortified foods.
Four Food Testing Labs Suspended by FSSAI for Six Months
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken strict action against four food testing laboratories, suspending their operations for a period of six months with immediate effect. This decision comes as per Regulation 10(2) read with clause (iii) of Regulation 10(1) of the Food Safety and Standards (Recognition and Notification of Laboratories) Regulations, 2018.
India Strengthens Consumer Rights with Modernized Protection Framework
To protect consumers from unfair practices in the burgeoning e-commerce sector, the Department of Consumer Affairs notified the Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules, 2020. Recognizing the deceptive tactics used in the digital space, the CCPA has issued “Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023.” Further strengthening consumer protection, the CCPA has introduced guidelines to combat “greenwashing” and misleading environmental claims, effective from October 15, 2024. Additionally, guidelines addressing false claims and unfair practices in the coaching sector came into effect on November 13, 2024. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has notified a framework for “Online Consumer Reviews” to safeguard consumers from deceptive reviews in the e-commerce space.
UP Enforces New Provisions of Employees State Insurance Act
The Ministry of Labour announces the enforcement of provisions of the ESI Act in selected districts of Uttar Pradesh, expanding social security benefits.
New Hinges Quality Control Order Issued by MOCI
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry issues the Hinges (Quality Control) Order, 2025, enforcing quality standards and certification for hinges
India’s Efforts to Stabilize Fuel Prices and Energy Security
Government takes proactive steps to stabilize fuel prices, boost domestic energy production, and promote cleaner alternatives for a sustainable energy future.
Funding support for startup ecosystem: Government initiatives
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) provides much-needed financial support to eligible startups, assisting them in areas such as proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, and commercialization.
Promotion of Export & E-commerce: Assistance to SHGs
In collaboration with Government e-Marketplace (GeM) a “SARAS Collection” has been created as a Store Front in GeM for marketing of SHG products.
CERC Announces Monthly Escalation Rates for Power Procurement Payments in February 2025
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has issued a notification detailing the monthly escalation rates applicable for February 2025 for the purpose of payments related to the procurement of power by distribution licensees. These escalation rates are used to adjust the payment amounts in power purchase agreements to account for fluctuations in the costs of key components, such as imported coal and its transportation and handling.
India Emphasizes Nuclear Safety and Private Sector Involvement
The Minister also emphasized a shift towards greater private sector involvement in the nuclear power sector. This move aligns with global best practices and aims to bolster India’s nuclear power capabilities while reducing reliance on public funds. He further elaborated that nuclear power generation capacity has surged from 22,480 MW in 2014 to the current 35,333 MW, while installed capacity has doubled from 4,780 MW to 8,880 MW.
