Updated - June 26, 2026 at 07:55 AM.
From Amazon’s $13-billion AI and cloud investment in India and higher passport fees from July 1, to fresh biofuel trials, proposed changes to foodgrain allocation under the National Food Security Act, here are the key developments shaping business, technology and policy today.
Amazon has announced an additional $13 billion investment in India, taking its total planned investment to $48 billion by 2030. CEO Andy Jassy said the funds will expand AI and cloud infrastructure, including AWS data centres in Mumbai and Hyderabad, while supporting jobs, exports and the company’s growing e-commerce network across the country.
Govt increases passport fees across categories from July 1
The government has increased passport fees across all categories, with the revised rates taking effect from July 1. A standard 36-page adult passport will now cost ₹2,500, while Tatkaal and replacement charges have also been raised. Fees for police clearance certificates and other passport-related services have been revised, though the existing 10 per cent discount for young children and senior citizens will continue.
India to begin 2% isobutanol-diesel trials to kickstart diesel biofuel push
India has begun trials of a 2 per cent isobutanol-diesel blend in commercial vehicles, marking the first step towards a potential diesel biofuel programme. Backed by the government, HPCL, ARAI, Praj Industries and automakers including Tata Motors, the pilot will evaluate engine performance and durability as policymakers explore reducing diesel imports with a viable alternative to failed ethanol-diesel blending.
Indian government may change Food Security Act to cut foodgrain allocation quota
The government has proposed amending the National Food Security Act to change foodgrain entitlements under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana from a fixed 35 kilograms per household to 7 kilograms per person per month, with a maximum cap of 35 kilograms per family. The Food Ministry has invited public feedback until July 13, saying the move aims to make foodgrain distribution more equitable while retaining support for larger households.
Script and VO: Rowan Barnett
Published on June 26, 2026
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