MUMBAI: Corporate India is stepping up investments in the country’s sports ecosystem, with capital flowing into infrastructure, leagues and athlete development, as the sector emerges as a high-growth business opportunity backed by rising returns and policy support.Industry experts say the trend has accelerated over the past few years, with both govt spending and private participation pushing India’s sports economy into what they describe as a ‘sweet spot’ of expansion. The increased funding is also reinforcing confidence in India’s global sporting ambitions, including hosting the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030 and pursuing a bid for the Summer Olympics in 2036.According to KPMG’s report, ‘Sportlight — The business of sports in India’, the investments come at a time when the broader sports industry, currently estimated at around $19 billion, is projected to nearly double to $40 billion in the coming years, driven by growth across media rights, sponsorships, grassroots development and sports infrastructure.

For companies, the real game lies in returns — and the numbers are compelling. Leagues have transformed into high-impact marketing arenas, delivering unmatched visibility and audience engagement. Sponsorships, franchise ownership, and athlete partnerships now offer measurable ROI, brand loyalty, and deep emotional connect with millions — often outperforming conventional advertising channels.The inflow of corporate capital is also beginning to impact athletes directly, with increased access to sponsorships, better training facilities and exposure to professional ecosystems. Stakeholders say this is helping unlock talent across disciplines beyond cricket, contributing to a more diversified sports culture in the country.At the same time, improved infrastructure and a more structured sports economy are strengthening India’s position as a potential global sporting hub. With large-scale events on the horizon and continued investor interest, the sector is seeing rapid changes across its value chain, from grassroots to elite competition.Companies, meanwhile, continue to evaluate newer opportunities across emerging leagues and untapped sports segments.

MUMBAI: Former HDFC Bank chairman Atanu Chakraborty, who quit the bank’s board on March 18, citing “incongruence” between his values and certain internal practices, has disputed managing director Sashidhar Jagdishan’s claim that action against staff over the sale of high-risk bonds to Gulf customers was unrelated to the boardroom dispute.In an interview to CNBC, Chakraborty said, “The incentive structures and the oversight of the management and the board should ensure that they are aligned with the interests of depositors, shareholders, and the public at large.”

‘Letter mentions larger governance issue’

Jagadishan, in an interview to TOI, had said that the action against employees over the AT-1 bond issue in the Gulf coincidentally took place at the same time as the boardroom dispute and had nothing to do with the chairman’s exit.HDFC Bank had responded to Chakraborty’s resignation letter by appointing law firms to look into the issues. “Appointing law firms is more of a compliance requirement; my letter mentions a larger governance issue,” said Chakraborty, indicating that the bank has not acted upon his letter.Expressing dissatisfaction over the action taken by the bank, he said, “Something went on for eight years, and suddenly we take action.”“If you are addressing concerns like a five-page post-audit report, why should those things arise in the first place? Who will ensure that it will never happen again? The rest otherwise becomes ticking the box. What I am saying is improve the thinking level and root your ethics and values. I find it strange that people are asking me to describe my concern on values and ethics,” he said.“We do not dig wells after the fire has taken place. There needs to be avoidance of risky practices. There has been share underperformance, low CASA, and a low-income ratio,” he added.Chakraborty denied there was any issue over the reappointment of Jagdishan. “The matter of Sashidhar Jagdishan’s reappointment had not even come to the board for us to look into performance or any issues; how could there be differences about something that had not even been discussed?” He also indicated that the issue of relationships had been overblown. “Personality issues have been overblown,” he said.The former chairman rejected suggestions that his letter had resulted in a loss of value for HDFC Bank. “I completely refute that there was value erosion on account of my resignation,” he said. He added that the sensex had declined due to the Iran conflict and disappointment over the Fed’s statement.Chakraborty said there were no insinuations in the letter. “I have only referred to what is in the public domain; if someone is using the word insinuation for my letter, they need to read the dictionary.” In the interview, the retired civil servant reiterated that he had resigned due to a lack of alignment on ethics and values.“Addressing underperformance is part of the duty of independent directors,” he said.“The benefits of the merger with parent HDFC, the biggest of its kind, are yet to fully fructify,” he added.

NEW DELHI: In a big boost to India’s maritime strength amid the increasing presence of China in the Indian Ocean Region, the Indian Navy on Monday received deliveries of two warships, including a stealth frigate, and one large survey ship from Garden Reach Shipbuilding and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) in Kolkata in just one day.While Dunagiri is the fifth warship of Nilgiri class made under the Project 17A and delivered to the Navy in the last 16 months, Agray is the fourth of eight Arnala class anti-submarine warfare shallow water warships that will augment the Navy’s anti-submarine and mine-warfare and coastal surveillance capabilities (ASW-SWCs). Sanshodhak, on the other hand, is a large survey vessel that is capable of full-scale coastal and deep-water hydrographic survey of port and harbour approaches and determination of navigational channels and routes.Defence minister Rajnath Singh had launched the Dunagiri project at GRSE in Kolkata on July 15, 2022. It is a 149-metre-long, 6,670-tonne guided-missile frigate that is equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, enabling multi-dimensional operations across air, surface and sub-surface domains, an official said. “Equipped with BrahMos anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles, along with advanced defence systems, Dunagiri represents a significant leap in naval strike and defensive capabilities,” an official said.Designed by Warship Design Bureau and overseen by the warship overseeing team (Kolkata), P17A frigates reflect a generational leap in indigenous ship design, stealth, survivability, and combat capability. The experiences gained from the construction of the first four P17A ships have enabled compressing the build period of Dunagiri to 80 months, in comparison to 93 months taken for the first of class (Nilgiri). With an indigenisation content of 75%, the project has involved over 200 MSMEs.Agray is one of the largest naval warships (77 m in length) propelled by waterjets and is equipped with state-of-the-art lightweight torpedoes, indigenous rocket launchers and shallow water SONAR, enabling effective detection and engagement of underwater threats. Agray, built in line with the govt’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, has over 80% indigenous content.With a displacement of about 3400 tonnes and overall length 110 m, Sanshodhak is fitted with state-of-the-art hydrographic equipment such as data acquisition and processing system, autonomous underwater vehicle, remotely operated vehicle, differential GPS long-range positioning systems and digital side scan sonar.Sanshodhak is part of a contract for four survey vessel (large) that was signed on Oct 30, 2018. The previous ships of the same class, INS Sandhayak, INS Nirdeshak and INS Ikshak were commissioned in Feb 2024, Dec 2024 and Nov 2025, respectively. Besides coastal and deep-water hydrographic survey, the ship’s role also includes collecting oceanographic and geophysical data for defence and civil applications. Sanshodhak has an indigenous content in excess of 80% by cost.GRSE is currently constructing multiple warships, including one project 17A advanced stealth frigate, four ASW-SWCs, and four next-generation offshore patrol vessels. In addition, the shipyard is building 30 other vessels, of which 13 are export platforms. GRSE is also in the advanced stages of concluding a prestigious contract for the construction of five next-generation corvettes.

Donald Trump (Screengrab)

United States President Donald Trump on Monday shared his 1987 interview amid the ongoing war against Iran, resurfacing decades-old comments in which he advocated seizing Iranian oil installations in response to attacks.The video, originally from a December 1987 segment on ABC’s 20/20 with journalist Barbara Walters, shows a 41-year-old Trump discussing US strategy in the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq War era, when Iran was targeting oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.In the clip, Trump argued against American weakness and proposed taking control of Iranian oil assets along the sea as a direct response.”Why couldn’t we go in and take over some of their oil, which is along the sea?” Trump said.When pressed on the method and risks, including potential involvement of Marines or escalation to war, he replied: “You go in… you take the oil… Let Iran fight their own war. You take their oil.”He added: “You get in trouble with weakness.”Dismissing concerns about Soviet intervention at the time, Trump stated: “I don’t think they would [intervene].”“The next time Iran attacks this country, go in and grab one of their big oil installations, and I mean grab it and keep it, and get back your losses, because this country has lost plenty because of Iran.”VIDEOOn Sunday, Trump said he would prefer to “take the oil in Iran” and indicated that Washington could move to seize Kharg Island, Tehran’s main oil export hub, as the US ramps up its military presence in the Middle East.In an interview with the Financial Times on Sunday, Trump said his “preference would be to take the oil”, drawing a comparison with Venezuela, where the US plans to retain control over the oil sector “indefinitely” after capturing strongman leader Nicolás Maduro earlier this year.His remarks come at a time when the US-Israel war with Iran has pushed the region deeper into crisis and driven a sharp surge in global oil prices. Brent crude climbed above $116 per barrel on Monday in Asian trading, nearing its highest level since the conflict began.Trump said: “To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran but some stupid people back in the US say: ‘why are you doing that?’ But they’re stupid people.”Any such move would likely involve capturing Kharg Island, through which the bulk of Iran’s oil exports are routed.The US has already been reinforcing its troop presence in the region. The Pentagon has ordered the deployment of around 10,000 personnel trained for ground operations, including seizing and holding territory. Roughly 3,500 troops arrived on Friday, among them about 2,200 Marines. Another 2,200 Marines are on the way, along with thousands more from the 82nd Airborne Division.

Horoscope Today: Read daily horoscope predictions for March 31, 2026. Know all about the astrological events and influences that will be affecting each of the 12 zodiac signs. Our astrologer has analyzed the movements of the planets and the alignment of the stars to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date horoscope predictions for the day ahead. Get ready to discover what the stars have in store for you today.Aries:Today, projects that were previously stalled without reason may start automatically. You may feel satisfied at work and may plan a short work-related trip. You might also visit a religious place to maintain your inner strength. Your elders may guide you on the right path to achieve your goals.Taurus:Today, you may feel dull and could face some health issues. It is advised to keep your mind calm. Read documents carefully before signing. You may face difficulty recovering your money. You are also advised to avoid adventure trips. Students should focus on in-depth study to achieve success. Those involved in exploration, occult sciences, and research may perform their best.See More: Taurus Horoscope Today, March 31, 2026: You’ll feel pulled towards improving your spaceGeminiToday, you may be busy at home. You may buy artefacts or creative items to renovate your house, which may enhance your social status. You may also invest in property or other fixed assets. You are likely to enjoy romantic moments with your spouse, strengthening your emotional bond. Singles may hear good news regarding marriage.Cancer:Today, you may feel happy. Old health issues related to elders in the family may be resolved. Money that was stuck may now be recovered, improving business liquidity. Working professionals may change jobs in search of promotion. Job seekers may find opportunities through a friend’s reference. Those working in government-related roles may receive benefits.Leo:Today, you may focus on gaining knowledge and understand the value of intellectual assets. Controlling your short temper will help you perform tasks smoothly. There may be steady income, bringing comfort in your workflow. You are advised to be cautious before making new investments and avoid speculation. You may spend money on your loved ones. Love birds may enjoy happy moments.Virgo:Today, you may feel dull and may struggle to handle the current situation. You might make small mistakes, which could affect your confidence. Your work efficiency may slow down, impacting your daily tasks. Projects may be delayed, affecting your professional life. It is advised to seek guidance from your elders before making important decisions.Libra:Today, you may feel energetic and focused, which will help speed up your current tasks. Your subordinates may assist you in starting new projects that could bring profits in the near future. You may plan short trips related to family matters. Job seekers may hear good news regarding employment.Scorpio:Today, you may use your creativity at work or home, which may enhance your social status. You may be able to control unnecessary expenses, increasing your savings. Love birds may receive support from family members regarding marriage. Students may hear positive news related to academics.Sagittarius:Today, you may feel relaxed after a challenging situation. Your inner strength may help you implement difficult decisions in your family business, leading to growth. You may help those in need, increasing your social respect. Students may gain clarity in choosing their career paths.Capricorn:Today, you may feel dull, and your health may not be at its best. You may experience anxiety and restlessness. It is advised to postpone important investments in business or real estate. Avoid rash driving and long-distance travel. Practicing meditation may help you achieve better sleep.Aquarius:Today, blessings from elders may make you happy. Your investments may bring profits, and previous losses may turn into gains. Your savings may improve your financial stability. You may plan investments for your child’s future. You may also enjoy delicious food at home. Health issues related to the throat, teeth, ears, or nose may be resolved.Pisces:Today, you may enjoy your work and could receive a promotion due to your hard work. You may help someone in need, which will increase your social respect. Mental overwork may make you tired, and due to workload, you may miss a family gathering. Your parents’ health may improve.

In response to disruptions in cargo movement linked to the Middle East crisis, the government has allowed an additional 30 days for the gems and jewellery sector to fulfil specific export and import timelines.The relaxation comes as exporters face delays in consignments to key markets in the region, which accounts for nearly 30 per cent of India’s gems and jewellery exports worth $26.2 billion during April-February this fiscal.Announcing the measure, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said the extension covers select categories under Chapter 4 of the Handbook of Procedures (HBP-2023), which deals with duty exemption and remission schemes.“Facilitative provisions for the gems and jewellery sector under Chapter 4 of HBP-2023 have been incorporated in response to recent geopolitical developments in West Asia, and the export/import (as applicable) period for specific categories is being extended by 30 days without any requirement for fees or an application,” the DGFT said in a public notice.Among the key changes, the re-export window for diamonds imported for certification or grading has been extended from 90 days to 120 days. A similar extension has been provided for exports involving precious metals supplied by foreign buyers.Timelines have also been relaxed for re-import of jewellery sent abroad for exhibitions, as well as for exports linked to gold sourced from nominated agencies, outright purchases, loans and replenishment schemes.Officials said the one-time relief is intended to help exporters complete transactions smoothly amid logistical delays, while maintaining continuity in trade flows.Exporters will not be required to file fresh applications or pay any additional fees to avail of the extension, and customs authorities have been instructed to process transactions after necessary verification.Industry participants said the disruptions stem from recent geopolitical tensions following a joint US-Israel attack on Iran, which has affected air and sea routes across the Middle East.Welcoming the move, former Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council chairman Colin Shah said the extension provides timely support to exporters facing challenges in shipments to the region.“We hope the situation will improve soon,” he said, adding that India’s exports to the UAE are around $10 billion