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Ahmedabad: After an 18-month-long bull run, Gujarat's equity mutual fund (MF) assets under management (AUM) hit a speed bump in Oct and dropped marginally by Rs 2,027.4 crore (0.65%) against Sep. According to the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), equity AUM stood at Rs 3.10 lakh crore last month, down from a peak of Rs 3.12 lakh crore in Sep. IPL 2025 mega auction IPL Auction 2025: Who went where and for how much IPL 2025: Complete list of players of each franchise The total AUM for mutual funds in Gujarat was Rs 4.82 lakh crore. The last time equity MFs AUM in Gujarat fell month-on-month was in March 2023. From April 2023 to Sept 2023, equity MFs AUM in Gujarat grew from Rs 1.56 lakh crore to Rs 3.10 lakh crore, according to AMFI data . According to financial consultants and analysts, the correction in the Indian equity markets, with indices weighed down by domestic and geopolitical factors, was a key reason for the decline. However, given the fall in markets, the proportion of decline in equity MF AUM is marginal, thanks to the resilience of Gujarat's equity investors. "The market correction, triggered by a large-scale outflow of foreign institutional investors (FII), left investors on the edge. However, this did not deter them from investing either in SIPs or in lump-sum in mutual funds," said Jaydevsinh Chudasama, an Ahmedabad-based MF distributor. Experts attribute Oct's AUM decline primarily to mark-to-market losses rather than any significant exodus of funds. "Lured by lucrative returns, a number of young investors began investing in the Indian equity markets as well as mutual funds. The recent market correction led many direct stock investors towards MFs to secure their returns but not away from investments and savings. This kept the inflows into equity MFs sustained," Chudasama further added. Known for its appetite for equity-linked investments, Gujarat leads in equity AUM contributions in India, second only to Maharashtra, where the equity AUM book size is Rs 10.76 lakh crore as of Oct 2024. "The addition of new investors with the opening of more demat accounts, new fund offers being rolled out by asset management companies, and the rising interest of retail investors towards mutual funds due to better returns are two key factors that have led to an increase in investments in mutual funds. The long-term potential of mutual funds remains attractive, especially after a year that delivered over 30% returns across multiple categories," said a financial consultant from Ahmedabad, requesting anonymity.

Chipotle Mexican Grill CMG has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 15.31% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 27.16%. Currently, Chipotle Mexican Grill has a market capitalization of $84.76 billion. Buying $100 In CMG: If an investor had bought $100 of CMG stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $3,727.08 today based on a price of $62.20 for CMG at the time of writing. Chipotle Mexican Grill's Performance Over Last 15 Years Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time. This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Former short-term Mets GM Jared Porter breaks silence on podcast: ‘It was an inappropriate relationship for a lot of reasons’

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Looking for hard-to-find bottles of Kentucky bourbon to toast the holidays or add to a collection? Get your bids ready as the Bluegrass State launches its first online auction of confiscated alcohol. Whiskeys up for sale include two bottles of Old Rip Van Winkle, a Blanton’s Single Barrel Gold in box with Japanese markings and a bottle of Four Roses Small Batch Barrel Strength 2011. The sale is the result of a new Kentucky law, which allows alcohol confiscated from closed criminal investigations by the state's alcoholic beverage control agency to be auctioned. Online bidding opens Wednesday and closes at midnight on Dec. 11. Proceeds will support programs promoting responsible alcohol use by adults and awareness programs for youths. “This is a really good auction,” Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, said by phone Tuesday. “There are some hard-to-find and rare bottles on there.” No estimate has been given on how much the auction might raise. “We look forward to seeing the response to this auction and have started planning additional auctions for 2025,” said Allyson Taylor, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. The auction features 32 bottles of alcohol and includes a “stock the bar” bundle with bottles of wine, vodka, rum and whiskey, the agency said. But the stars are the hard-to-find and rare bourbons up for sale. “It’s not every day you go to a liquor store and find a bottle of Blanton’s Gold," Gregory said. “You never go to a liquor store and find a bottle of Four Roses 2011.” The lineup includes bottles of E.H. Taylor bourbon, Blanton’s Single Barrel, Eagle Rare 10 yr., Weller Antique 107, Willett Family Estate Single Barrel Rye, Michter’s, an Old Forester gift set and more. A link to the online auction is available at ABC.ky.gov . Auction items cannot be shipped, so winning bidders must pick up items in Frankfort, the state said. The auctions will become a “can't miss opportunity” for bourbon connoisseurs, Gregory said. Previously, confiscated bourbon or other spirits could end up being destroyed, he said. “We don't like to see good bourbon poured down the drain,” Gregory said. Kentucky distillers produce 95% of the global bourbon supply, the Kentucky distillers’ group says.

MANILA, Philippines – It’s unfortunate that business and entrepreneurship awards don’t get as much attention as beauty contest winners in the Philippines. Builders, including leaders of conglomerates that employ thousands of people, play a key role in driving the country’s socio-economic growth and progress. Two Filipino corporate leaders were recognized by two regional award-giving bodies this week, a testament to how they have influenced not just the Philippines but the Asian region as well. Lance Gokongwei, president and CEO of Philippine conglomerate JG Summit Holdings, received the honorary Ernst & Young (EY)-Bank of Singapore ASEAN Entrepreneurial Excellence Award on November 18, Monday, in Singapore. Congratulations to Mr. Lance Y. Gokongwei, President and CEO of JG Summit Holdings, Inc., who is named the winner of this year’s EY-Bank of Singapore Asean Entrepreneurial Excellence award. #EYEOYSG #Entrepreneurship pic.twitter.com/PCNQUXW2GH — EY Singapore (@EY_Singapore) September 25, 2024 The 58-year-old son of the late Filipino industrialist John Gokongwei, who has Bachelor degrees in Finance and Applied Science from University of Pennsylvania, was cited for his contributions to the Southeast Asian business and economic landscape. “As a second-generation entrepreneur, Lance started with the company as a junior salesperson and worked his way up to eventually steer his father’s company into a flourishing new phase of growth and success. JG Summit Holdings now has a dynamic portfolio in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, spanning sectors including food and retail, aviation, real estate, energy, financial services and telecommunications. His impact can be seen in his contributions to national progress by advancing quality education for the future workforce while transforming the lives of fellow countrymen,” said Liew Nam Soon, EY Asean Regional Managing Partner and Singapore and Brunei Managing Partner, Ernst & Young Solutions LLP. JG Summit, in a press release, said Gokongwei was recognized for his role in advancing the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), an overarching goal of the regional organization seeking to integrate all 10 economies of its member-states. The regional operations of JG Summit’s subsidiaries — Universal Robina Corporation (URC) and Cebu Pacific (CEB) — were keys to Gokongwei getting the recognition. “JG Summit has successfully broadened its presence throughout ASEAN. URC has established operations in major markets including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar, and Vietnam, providing products that cater to the diverse needs of consumers across the region. Similarly, Cebu Pacific, one of the Philippines’ leading airlines, contributed to regional connectivity, with flights spanning Southeast Asia, driving tourism, trade, and mobility,” JG Summit said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cebu Pacific Air (@cebupacificair) “His focus on innovation, inclusive growth, and sustainability has helped position the company as a key driver of economic progress across Southeast Asia,” EY-Bank of Singapore said in a release. In his speech accepting the award, Gokongwei said: “I am grateful and honored to receive this year’s EY Asean Entrepreneurial Excellence Award. This recognition inspires me to continue leading with a deep sense of purpose, and to be a good steward of the business that has been entrusted to me. This award wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my Gokongwei Group colleagues who bring to life our purpose — an unrelenting commitment to provide our customers with better choices, creating shared success with our stakeholders — every single day.” Must Read ‘He had to give back to society’: Why John Gokongwei donated billions to education The Gokongwei Group is one of the Philippines’ largest and most diversified conglomerates. It has interests in food (URC), air transport (Cebu Pacific), real estate (Robinsons Land), petrochemicals (JG Summit Petrochemical), retail (Robinsons Retail), financial services (GoTyme Bank), media (Summit Media), among others. The EY Asean Entrepreneurial Excellence (AEE) award was established in 2015. It honors business leaders who inspire excellence across industries. It is presented by professional services organization EY and the Bank of Singapore. Eminent leader in Asia SM Prime Holdings Corporation president Jeffrey Lim received the Eminent Leader in Asia Award at the 2024 Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) Awards held in Bangkok, Thailand on November 14. EMINENT. SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim (2nd left) receives the Eminent Leader in Asia Award in Bangkok, Thailand, November 14, 2024 Lim, a Certified Public Accountant who finished his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of the East, took the helm of SM Prime in October 2016 as president. He has been with SM Prime since it was founded in 1994 or 30 years ago. He was appointed SM Prime president in 2016, the first non-member of the Sy family to hold the top post. He played a key role in the consolidation in 2013 of all property units of the SM Group into SM Prime, creating the largest property company in the Philippines. “For Lim, true leadership is rooted in a steadfast commitment to collective success rather than personal recognition. He believes the best leaders elevate those around them, fostering collaboration and driving the organization forward with a shared sense of purpose. Lim views leadership as less about commanding and more about listening, understanding and empowering. He strives to create a work environment where each employee feels valued and respected. While focused on achieving outstanding business results, he equally prioritizes a culture that supports well-being and self-care for his team,” the ACES citation said. “Lim’s approach to sustainability extends well beyond regulatory compliance, embedding environmental stewardship at the core of SM Prime’s operations. He advocates for responsible business practices that maximize resource efficiency while carefully managing the ecological balance,” it added. The ACES Awards is organized by the MORS Group, a research-based consulting and training organization. Its goal is to “understand the dynamics of Asia” and to help “propel Asia towards sustainable growth.” It operates the think tank ACES Institute, which produces research seeking to influence government policies. The MORS Group says the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability Awards, which started in 2014, is the “longest-running and most recognised Corporate Leadership and Sustainability awards in Southeast Asia.” It says the ACES presents “the stellar leadership abilities of key management personnel over a range of industries, market sectors and nations, as well as presenting non-biased audits on the environmental and social initiatives undertaken by corporations.” The ACES awards also serve as a “platform” for knowledge sharing, mentoring, networking, and showcasing best practices. “This recognition belongs to the entire SM Prime team,” Lim said in his acceptance speech. “Their dedication and hard work have built the company into the success story it is today.” SM Prime said Lim has been instrumental in the company’s transformation from a Philippine mall operator to one of Southeast Asia’s leading integrated property developers. “His focus on sustainable development has enabled the company to create thriving spaces that contribute to the economic and social well-being of communities across the Philippines,” SM Prime said. At least two other Filipinos have also been recognized by ACES: Dr. Andrew Tan, chair and president of Megaworld, won ACES Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2022, and Vivian Que-Azcona, president of Mercury Drug Corporation, was Woman Entrepreneur of the Year in 2021 Corporate governance award Meantime, in the local scene, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans Sy, one of the sons of the late SM founder Henry Sy Sr., was conferred the title of Honorary Fellow by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) Philippines on November 18, Monday. ICD Philippines is a non-stock, non-profit association that promotes good corporate governance via in person and online courses. It was founded by former Finance Secretary Jesus Estanislao, now its chairman emeritus. “Good corporate governance is critical to a country’s global competitiveness and has been shown to have a direct correlation with corporate profitability and growth. Government and regulators require it. Companies of all sizes need it,” says ICD Philippines of its advocacy. The ICD’s Honorary Fellow title is the highest distinction given by the group. It is awarded after a rigorous selection process of individuals who have made exceptional contributions to promoting good corporate governance. “Mr. Sy’s journey is a testament to the impact that visionary leadership and unwavering commitment can have on industries and communities alike,” said ICD Trustee Tomasa Lipana. “His work inspires not only success but also defines purpose — reminding us that true leadership is about leaving a meaningful legacy to the country and to the world.” In accepting the title, Sy said: “As public companies, our responsibilities extend beyond profit. We owe it to our stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability and ethical leadership.” He also stressed the Sy family’s adherence to values not just as obligations but as guiding principles. “This ensures we lead with purpose, grow responsibly and create a positive social impact,” he added. SM Prime, in a press release, said: “The recognition highlights his significant contributions to corporate governance, sustainability, disaster resilience and education, alongside his efforts to advance best practices within the private sector.” – Rappler.com

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LILONGWE, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- Huawei Malawi says it is committed to investing more in Malawian youth to ensure that the country's future workforce is equipped with the skills to lead in the digital age. Gu Mu, Huawei Malawi managing director, made the remarks in a written interview with Xinhua Monday, following the Malawian team's victory in the Regional Tech4Good Challenge that was recently held in China, under Huawei's Leadership, Employability, Advancement, Possibility (LEAP) Program. This year's LEAP took place in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, from Nov. 18-23, and a team of five undergraduate Malawian students scooped the first position, beating contestants from more than 20 countries who competed in the Sub-Sahara Africa regional competition. The Malawian team, comprising science students from the University of Malawi, Mzuzu University, Malawi University of Business and Applied Science, and Malawi University of Science and Technology, came home on the weekend. Gu also expressed happiness with the Malawi team's outstanding performance, pledging Huawei's support to the team as they prepare for the Global Competition in China next year when the team will compete with other winning teams from other regions across the globe. "We are so proud of the five students from Malawi who put the country on the map by being crowned the Regional Champions of this year's Sub-Sahara Tech4Good Challenge," said Gu. "Huawei's commitment to Malawi's digital future aligns with the country's Vision 2063, which recognizes that the youth is one of Malawi's greatest assets." The managing director also described the LEAP program as the company's way of supporting Malawi's vision by "giving young people the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel in the digital economy."Expert Ratings For BILL HoldingsLOS ANGELES (AP) — The Biden administration plans on reducing part of Intel's $8.5 billion in federal funding for computer chip plants around the country, according to three people familiar with the grant who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private conversations. The reduction is largely a byproduct of the $3 billion that Intel is also receiving to provide computer chips to the military. President announced the agreement to provide with up to $8.5 billion in direct funding and $11 billion in loans in March. The changes to Intel’s funding are not related to the company’s financial record or milestones, the people familiar with the grant told The Associated Press. In August, the chipmaker announced that it would cut 15% of its workforce — about 15,000 jobs — in an attempt to turn its business around to compete with more successful rivals like Nvidia and AMD. Unlike some of its rivals, Intel manufactures chips in addition to designing them. Two years ago, President Biden hailed Intel as a job creator with its plans to open a new plant near Columbus, Ohio. The president praised the company for plans to “build a workforce of the future” for the $20 billion project, which he said would generate 7,000 construction jobs and 3,000 full-time jobs set to pay an average of $135,000 a year. The California-based tech giant's funding is tied to that President has celebrated and which is designed to revive U.S. semiconductor manufacturing. Known as the , the $280 billion package is aimed at sharpening the U.S. edge in military technology and manufacturing while minimizing the kinds of supply disruptions that occurred in 2021, after the start of the coronavirus pandemic, when stalled factory assembly lines and . The Biden administration helped shepherd the legislation following pandemic-era concerns that the loss of access to chips made in Asia could plunge the U.S. economy into recession. When pushing for the investment, lawmakers expressed concern about efforts by China to control Taiwan, which accounts for of advanced computer chip production. In August, the administration pledged to provide up to $6.6 billion so that a Taiwanese semiconductor giant could expand the facilities it is and better ensure that the most advanced microchips are produced domestically for the first time. The Commerce Department said the funding for meant the company could expand on its existing plans for two facilities in Phoenix and add a third, newly announced production hub. The administration has promised to support foundries and reduce reliance on Asian suppliers, which Washington sees as a security weakness. Boak reported from Washington.

3D Printing in Automotive Manufacturing Market 2024 - 2031: Trends, Growth, and Opportunities | Exactitude ConsultancyTORONTO (AP) — Hannah Miller scored a power-play goal with 1:38 remaining in the game, lifting the Toronto Sceptres to a 3-1 victory over the Boston Fleet in the Professional Women’s Hockey League season opener on Saturday. With Boston standout Hilary Knight in the penalty box for a vicious boarding penalty on Sceptres defender Renata Fast, Miller made good on her rebound attempt on a shot by Daryl Watts with a half-open net. Fast recovered for an assist on the winner before 8,089 fans at Coca-Cola Coliseum. The Fleet challenged the goal, but video review deemed Miller’s shot was good. Sarah Nurse got Toronto on the board with a short-handed tally 11:50 into the first period and Emma Maltais added an empty-net strike with 12 seconds left. Boston’s Hilary Knight opened the scoring 3 minutes in, sending a slap shot past Toronto goalie Kristen Campbell, who registered 18 stops on the night. Toronto outshot Boston 41-19. Boston goalie Aerin Frankel, a big reason why her team advanced to the Walter Cup final last spring, had 38 saves. Sceptres: Billie Jean King MVP Natalie Spooner missed the season opener. The PWHL scoring champion underwent left knee surgery in June after getting injured in Game 3 of Toronto’s first-round series against Minnesota. Fleet: Defender Emma Greco played her first game for Boston. She was part of the Walter Cup-winning Minnesota team that defeated Boston in a three-game series last spring. With the game tied 1-1, the Sceptres failed to score during a 59-second 5-on-3 advantage midway through the second period. Boston blocked five shots during the span. Last year, Toronto enjoyed an 11-game win streak en route to its regular-season championship, including three wins against Boston. Boston will play its home opener on Wednesday, a rematch with the Walter Cup-champion Minnesota. Toronto visits Ottawa on Tuesday. AP women’s hockey: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-hockey

NoneEdmonton Global and Ulsan Free Economic Zone partner to accelerate hydrogen use and innovation November 25, 2024 [ ]— Today, in recognition of the significant role that hydrogen will play in global decarbonization, Edmonton Global and (UFEZ) announced a new memorandum of understanding (MOU). This agreement will foster economic collaboration, innovation, and mutual development in clean energy between Ulsan, South Korea, and the Edmonton Region. UFEZ and Edmonton Global agreed to collaboratively promote the advancement of their respective hydrogen value chains, particularly in decarbonization technologies within the transportation sector. By working together, the regions aim to advance research, development, and commercialization of hydrogen technologies and increase trade between the two regions. This MOU provides a framework for sharing best practices and knowledge to strengthen economic ties and accelerate the adoption of hydrogen technologies. Areas of collaboration include international hydrogen projects, initiatives, and advocacy efforts to strengthen the global hydrogen economy and address common challenges. Together, they will explore opportunities to increase trade and investment between the Edmonton Region and Ulsan and facilitate participation in conferences, trade shows and workshops within each region. This agreement highlights the importance of the role hydrogen will play within future energy systems and will position both the Edmonton Region and Ulsan as leaders in hydrogen adoption, setting a model for other regions to follow. CEO, Edmonton Global, said: “The Edmonton Region has been a leader in hydrogen production for decades — we produce over 60% of Canada’s hydrogen. Through the , we’re decarbonizing one of Western Canada’s busiest transportation corridors and rapidly expanding refueling infrastructure in our Region. This partnership allows us to share our innovations in technology while learning from Ulsan’s expertise as a leading hydrogen hub, and we look forward to collaborating with UFEZ to rapidly accelerate this sector.” Commissioner of Ulsan Free Economic Zone Authority, said: “We are eager to establish meaningful partnerships in hydrogen application and end use, facilitate technology transfer and knowledge exchange, and explore opportunities to boost trade and investment. Together, we aim to advance the hydrogen economy through joint initiatives, and global advocacy efforts.” the latest news shaping the hydrogen market at Edmonton Global and Ulsan Free Economic Zone partner to accelerate hydrogen use and innovation, Syensqo launches its first fluoro-ionomer based on non-fluorosurfactant technology Syensqo, a science company focused on developing groundbreaking solutions that support the sustainability ambitions of its customers... Nuclear sector pins hopes on 2026 for ‘low-carbon’ hydrogen label Nuclear energy advocates are pushing for the European Commission to label nuclear-derived hydrogen as ‘low-carbon’, but several industry... Cavendish Hydrogen ASA: Invitation to Q3 2024 results and live Q&A session The quarterly report and a pre-recording of the third quarter presentation will be made available on the company’s...

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The NFL removed New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers from the commissioner exempt list on Monday, making him eligible to participate in practice and play in the team’s games. Peppers missed seven games since being placed on the list on Oct. 9 after he was arrested and charged with shoving his girlfriend’s head into a wall and choking her. The league said its review is ongoing and is not affected by the change in Peppers’ roster status. Braintree, Massachusetts, police said they were called to a home for an altercation between two people on Oct. 7, and a woman told them Peppers choked her. Police said they found at the home a clear plastic bag containing a white powder, which later tested positive for cocaine. Peppers, 29, pleaded not guilty in Quincy District Court to charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and possession of a Class “B” substance believed to be cocaine. At a court appearance last week a trial date was set for Jan. 22. “Any act of domestic violence is unacceptable for us,” Patriots coach Jerod Mayo said after the arrest. “With that being said, I do think that Jabrill has to go through the system, has to continue to go through due process. We’ll see how that works out.” A 2017 first-round draft choice by Cleveland, Peppers spent two seasons with the Browns and three with the New York Giants before coming to New England in 2022. He was signed to an extension this summer. He played in the first four games of the season and missed one with a shoulder injury before going on the exempt list, which allows NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to place a player on paid leave while reviewing his case. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

TORONTO (AP) — Hannah Miller scored a power-play goal with 1:38 remaining in the game, lifting the Toronto Sceptres to a 3-1 victory over the Boston Fleet in the Professional Women’s Hockey League season opener on Saturday. With Boston standout Hilary Knight in the penalty box for a vicious boarding penalty on Sceptres defender Renata Fast, Miller made good on her rebound attempt on a shot by Daryl Watts with a half-open net. Fast recovered for an assist on the winner before 8,089 fans at Coca-Cola Coliseum. The Fleet challenged the goal, but video review deemed Miller’s shot was good. Sarah Nurse got Toronto on the board with a short-handed tally 11:50 into the first period and Emma Maltais added an empty-net strike with 12 seconds left. Boston’s Hilary Knight opened the scoring 3 minutes in, sending a slap shot past Toronto goalie Kristen Campbell, who registered 18 stops on the night. Toronto outshot Boston 41-19. Boston goalie Aerin Frankel, a big reason why her team advanced to the Walter Cup final last spring, had 38 saves. Sceptres: Billie Jean King MVP Natalie Spooner missed the season opener. The PWHL scoring champion underwent left knee surgery in June after getting injured in Game 3 of Toronto’s first-round series against Minnesota. Fleet: Defender Emma Greco played her first game for Boston. She was part of the Walter Cup-winning Minnesota team that defeated Boston in a three-game series last spring. With the game tied 1-1, the Sceptres failed to score during a 59-second 5-on-3 advantage midway through the second period. Boston blocked five shots during the span. Last year, Toronto enjoyed an 11-game win streak en route to its regular-season championship, including three wins against Boston. Boston will play its home opener on Wednesday, a rematch with the Walter Cup-champion Minnesota. Toronto visits Ottawa on Tuesday. AP women’s hockey: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-hockey

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Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], November 26 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Tuesday announced the government's decision to remove gutkha and liquor advertisements from state buses. The decision was taken during the recent Board of Directors (BOD) meeting of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). Addressing a press conference in Shimla, Deputy CM Agnihotri said HRTC plans to modernise its fleet by replacing nearly 1,000 old buses. This includes the addition of 327 electric buses, 250 small buses, and 100 mini-tempo buses. He also revealed that tenders for 24 Volvo buses had been rejected due to a single bidder, and fresh advertisements would be issued. Agnihotri reiterated the government's commitment to reducing emissions and expanding the electric bus fleet. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: BJP, AAP Leaders Woo Slum Dwellers in Jhuggi Clusters Ahead of State Polls. Highlighting social concerns, Agnihotri said, "The decision to remove gutkha and liquor advertisements from buses is part of the government's larger effort to curb drug addiction and promote a healthier society." He added that the changes are aimed at prioritising public welfare, improving services, and strengthening the state's transport infrastructure. In a significant relief for farmers, the Deputy CM announced an exemption from luggage charges for transporting milk and vegetables. "This move is designed to support the rural economy and uplift the agricultural sector," he said. Also Read | Bangladesh: Lawyer Killed in Chittagong After Clashes Over Hindu Priest Chinmoy Krishna Das’ Arrest, Muhammad Yunus Orders Probe. "HRTC is dedicated to public welfare," Agnihotri stated. "We have introduced this exemption to help farmers bring their produce to markets, thereby strengthening the state's economy," he added. Agnihotri also addressed the ongoing legal challenges faced by HRTC, revealing that the corporation is involved in over 3,000 court cases. "HRTC has recorded a 14% revenue increase from April to October, reaching Rs66 crore. We are focusing on modernising and expanding our fleet, introducing new electric and diesel buses, and ensuring better services for the people of Himachal," he said. The Deputy CM highlighted the introduction of advanced technologies, including credit, debit, UPI, and National Mobility Card systems in HRTC buses. "Himachal Pradesh is the first state in India to implement such measures, benefitting the nearly five lakh passengers HRTC serves daily," he added. "HRTC cannot be run as a purely commercial entity," Agnihotri remarked. "We operate on loss-making routes to serve remote areas and provide essential services. Additionally, we offer significant concessions, including 50% discounts for women and rebates across 28 categories. These efforts require substantial financial assistance from the government," he explained. On infrastructure development, Agnihotri announced plans to establish automatic vehicle testing centres in Hamirpur and Una. He also mentioned redesigning 148 surrendered routes and reassessing the ISBT Shimla allotment under the BOT model. Responding to opposition criticism, Agnihotri dismissed claims about a "toilet tax" as baseless. "The BJP is spreading misinformation. If they want, they can sit in toilets all day to confirm no such tax exists. The sewerage tax, levied at 30% nationally, was introduced during BJP's tenure. Our government has merely amended it to ensure fairness for large commercial establishments using government sewerage lines," he said. The Deputy CM also highlighted reforms in HRTC to ensure timely payment of pensions, salaries, and allowances to employees. "HRTC is not just a transport corporation; it's a lifeline for the people of Himachal Pradesh," he emphasised. "With such progressive measures, the state government is setting an example of how public welfare and infrastructure development can go hand in hand," he concluded. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)