The Indian economy is expected to grow by 7% in the second half of the current financial year, leading to a full-year growth rate of at least 6.5%. The chief economic advisor urges India Inc. to invest and create employment, citing their high profitability in the post-Covid environment. Nageswaran believes a growth rate of 6.5-7% is achievable, with the government's support.
India's exports dropped by 7.4% in March due to the US-Israel war and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Exports to West Asia fell by 58%, leading to a trade deficit of $20.7 billion. However, the government is optimistic about future trade with the help of Free Trade Agreements. Imports also decreased by 6.5%, with only the engineering sector showing growth in exports.
The government's wheat procurement for the 2026-27 season has been hindered by reduced purchases from Punjab and Haryana due to unseasonal rains. Only 1.53 million tonnes have been bought at MSP, 70% lower than last year. Late harvesting and relaxed procurement norms for damaged crops are contributing to the slow drive.
The unemployment rate for people aged 15-29 years reached a nine-month high of 15.2% in March, while the overall unemployment rate for those aged 15 years and above increased to 5.1%. Urban areas had a higher joblessness rate, while rural areas saw a decline in labor force participation and worker population ratio. External factors, such as events in West Asia, may have influenced the job market.
Mutual fund houses were net buyers for over 50% of the stocks in large, mid and small cap segments. The Nifty 50, Midcap 100 and Smallcap 100 stocks saw significant net buying, with top stocks including Adani Enterprises, Shriram Finance, and Bharti Airtel.
LinkedIn's Grads' Guide 2026 report shows a surge in demand for AI and digital content roles for fresh graduates in India. These opportunities are not limited to technology, with smaller cities and various industries also hiring for roles like AI specialist and digital content creator. The report also emphasizes the growing use of AI tools and the rise of non-metro hiring hubs.
Vietnam's VinFast launched its first electric MPV, the VinFast VF MPV 7, in India for ₹24.49 lakh. It will compete with Mahindra XEV9S, BYD eMax 7, and Kia Carens Clavis EV. The model is aimed at personal buyers seeking a spacious seven-seater EV. VinFast plans to introduce two new products every year and expand its retail and service network.
Global markets saw a strong start as benchmark indices surged over 1.5% on optimism about a potential Middle East deal. The stabilisation of crude oil prices and the Indian rupee also boosted investor sentiment. Midcaps and smallcaps fully recovered their war-driven losses, leading to a regain of most of the market capitalisation lost during the conflict. All sectoral indices ended in the green.
CAE Simulation Training Private Limited (CSTPL) has launched a new pilot training centre in Mumbai, India, with advanced simulation capabilities. The facility can expand up to six simulators based on market demand. CSTPL now has a total of 16 full-flight simulators across various cities and aims to reach 23 in the future to address the aviation talent shortage.
State-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) are struggling with losses caused by high global crude prices and increased taxes. Diesel has been hit the hardest with a 158% increase in export taxes. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and limited storage capacity are expected to continue the losses, with OMCs facing daily losses of about ₹1,600 crore.
A study by OpenAI shows a disparity in how people utilize AI tools, with ChatGPT power users extracting more value. This exposes the gap between AI capabilities and user engagement, as advanced users leverage AI for coding and problem-solving. It stresses the need for organizations to integrate AI into workflows for a competitive edge.
Indian negotiators will travel to the US from April 20-22 to finalize a legal agreement, focusing on maintaining their tariff advantage in the American market. Discussions will address reciprocal tariffs and excess capacities in 16 economies. The interim trade deal is seen as a stepping stone to a wider Bilateral Trade Agreement.
The unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and older rose to 5.1% in March 2026, with urban areas experiencing higher joblessness. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO) provides monthly and quarterly estimates of labour force indicators. The LFPR and WPR remained stable, while the female LFPR in rural areas was higher than in urban areas.
India's gems and jewellery exports in March this year declined by 35.23% due to the West Asia conflict, leading to a decrease in shipments and an increase in insurance premiums. However, with government support, this conflict could turn into an opportunity for India to become a rough-diamond trading hub. Despite challenges, the industry has
India's imports of Russian crude oil doubled in March 2026, reaching a total of €5.8 billion. This was driven by rising prices and sanctions-driven shifts in trade flows. Crude oil dominated India's imports, accounting for 91% of total purchases. Despite a 4% decline in overall crude imports, state-owned refiners resumed Russian purchases after halting imports in November 2025.
Tata Motors achieved a major milestone at its Lucknow plant with the rollout of its 10th lakh commercial vehicle. CM Yogi Adityanath and Tata Chairperson N Chandrasekaran attended the event, marking 34 years of the company's operations in Uttar Pradesh.
Tata Motors celebrates 35 years in Uttar Pradesh with the rollout of their 1 millionth commercial vehicle, an electric bus. The Lucknow facility supports over 8,000 jobs and exports to global markets. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran attended the event, showcasing the state's sustainable growth and development. The plant runs on renewable energy.
India's wholesale price inflation reached a 38-month high of 3.88% in March, driven by a rise in crude petroleum and natural gas prices. The West Asia crisis and fuel and power inflation also played a role. The Wholesale Price Index has been increasing for the past five months and is expected to continue rising due to base effects and price hikes across all sectors.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah presented an 18-point memorandum to PM Modi, emphasising the state's contributions to India's economy and requesting central support for infrastructure, water projects and regional development. The memorandum also includes demands for special grants, finance commission grants and clearance for water projects, with a focus on cooperative federalism.
Nomura turns positive on Nuvoco Vistas Corporation, with a potential 53% upside from current levels. The company's strong earnings beat, driven by better pricing, is one of the key triggers for the bullish stance. Stable demand trends and ongoing expansion plans also support the investment case. However, near-term risks from rising input costs and global uncertainties must be considered.
New Delhi celebrates Freedom 250 with 'Happy Birthday America' autorickshaws ahead of US Independence Day. US Embassy in India joins in, highlighting strong US-India partnership. PM Modi and President Trump's positive call sets the tone for the celebrations.
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids on AAP MP Ashok Mittal's premises, including his home and university, in a FEMA probe. AAP leaders accuse BJP of using agencies for political gain before Punjab elections and vow to retaliate. Other leaders warn BJP to not cross boundaries and call ED PM Modi's "election army."
A major immigration debate is building in Australia after Opposition leader Angus Taylor announced a tough new plan targeting visa overstayers, including students and asylum seekers.
Motilal Oswal is positive about certain stocks in the financial and automobile industries, with one stock potentially having a 24% increase. They attribute this to improved business visibility, strong earnings, and growth triggers. Their top picks include ICICI Prudential AMC, Hero MotoCorp, Indostar Capital Finance, and ICICI Prudential Life Insurance.
Congress leaders are against the proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, which aims to increase Lok Sabha seats to 850 and implement women's reservation from 2029. They believe this will harm southern states and favor populous northern states.
Southern Railways has launched a summer special train service between Nagercoil and Shalimar to ease congestion and provide a smoother travel experience for passengers. The train will consist of different coaches, including Divyangjan-friendly ones, and will make stops at various stations along the route. This service will benefit commuters by reducing rush and providing confirmed tickets.
Samrat Choudhary, a senior BJP leader, has been sworn in as Bihar's 24th Chief Minister, with the support of Nitish Kumar. The ceremony was attended by prominent leaders from the alliance. This marks a historic moment as Bihar gets its first BJP Chief.
Natasha Cochrane de la Rosa, a British-Spanish dual national, was stranded in Spain due to a new passport rule. The UK Home Office is facing backlash for not properly communicating the changes, causing trouble for dual nationals like Natasha. She now faces a complicated and lengthy process to return home and fears being stuck in Europe for months.
Bob Iger, former CEO of Walt Disney and a leading figure in the entertainment industry, leads a disciplined life. Starting his day with coffee and a workout in the dark, he likes to maintain his health and stay focused and creative at work. His motto is "The early bird catches the worm."
US Vice President JD Vance was interrupted mid-speech on Tuesday as anger over America’s Gaza policy spilled into the room. He was speaking at the University of Georgia when someone in the audience suddenly shouted, “Jesus Christ does not support genocide!”
The United States, according to Reuters, has decided not to extend a short-term relief it had quietly granted on Iranian oil, further tightening the squeeze on Tehran as tensions run high.
A question from an Indian student on H-1B visas put Vice President JD Vance on the spot, and his response is now going viral. Speaking at the University of Mississippi during a Turning Point USA event on April 14, Vance acknowledged problems in the visa system but also brought up his own family to make a broader point about immigration and identity.
Travel trends 2026: As the summer travel season returns amid an ongoing global crisis, choosing the perfect destination is no longer just about the itinerary.
The RBI has issued new draft guidelines for upper-layer NBFCs, but Tata Sons' request to surrender its CIC registration in 2024 is still pending. Deregistration may not be possible, and experts believe Tata Sons may have to go public due to a lack of exemption in the guidelines.
Wipro's fourth-quarter results are expected to show a decline in revenue due to delays in deals and pricing pressure. However, analysts predict the company will outperform Infosys and HCL Technologies, thanks to its acquisition of Harman's DTS business unit. There is also speculation about a potential share buyback. The performance is scheduled to be announced on April 16.
MoRTH has amended national highways fee rules to rationalise collection from overloaded vehicles. Revised fee structure charges vehicles based on percentage of overloading, with no fee for up to 10% excess load. Overloading determined using weight measurement devices at fee plazas.
The Indian automobile industry had a successful FY26 with a 10.4% increase in sales. Passenger vehicle sales reached a record high of 4.6 million units due to a strong recovery in the second half. FY27 is expected to see continued growth, but concerns about global geopolitical developments remain. The industry is also focusing on electric vehicle sales and reviewing new norms and policies.
Adani Electricity Mumbai Infrastructure (AEMIL), a subsidiary of Adani Energy Solutions Ltd (AESL), has commissioned a 1,000 MW HVDC transmission link between Kudus and Aarey. The project, including a 30-km overhead line and 50-km underground corridor, improves grid resilience in the densely built urban environment.
Experts raise concerns about employee protection at TCS Nashik office after sexual harassment allegations. HR involvement raises questions about institutional responsibility and internal safeguards. Lack of independent escalation mechanisms and employee awareness highlighted.
The Wealth Company has launched two new schemes, WSIF Equity Long-Short Fund and WSIF Equity Ex-Top 100 Long-Short Fund, under their specialized investment fund offering. These aim to generate long-term capital appreciation through a diverse portfolio of equities and selective short positions, with a focus on companies beyond the top 100.
Audi India is experiencing a surge in repeat customers, making up one-third of their buyers. This loyalty-driven demand is vital in the competitive luxury car market, where SUVs account for 60% of sales. To maintain customer retention and increase lifecycle value, Audi is implementing buyback programs and incentives. As prices rise, first-time buyers are turning to certified pre-owned vehicles.
Volkswagen India launched the new Taigun midsize SUV with a segment-first 75% assured buyback programme. The SUV guarantees a residual value of 75% of the ex-showroom price, with up to 40 updates and advanced safety features. The new Taigun also features a new voice assistant, a 25.65-cm infotainment system, and a refreshed exterior design.
Rani Kapur, the matriarch of the Kapur family behind Sona Comstar, holds significant influence over the company's promoter holding through veto powers granted by the 2017 private family trust. The trust, designed as a founder-protection mechanism, has now become the center of a high-stakes battle for control between Rani and her daughter-in-law, Priya.
Bill Gates' Xanadu 2.0, named after the fictional mansion in Citizen Kane, is a 66,000 sq ft estate built from 500 Douglas fir trees and seven types of stone. The $130 million property features advanced technology, personalized guest experiences, and sustainable design elements. With a private tunnel, 475 feet of waterfront, and luxurious amenities, it remains Gates' most ambitious project.
Hong Kong is an affordable destination with luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants. Indians can now visit without a traditional visa through a Pre-Arrival Registration process. Flights from India are reasonably priced, and the city offers iconic landmarks, fast-paced energy, and Indian-friendly amenities.
In the 1960s, Lata Mangeshkar demanded a fair share of royalties for playback singers, but her friend and collaborator Mohammed Rafi did not support her. This led to a rift between them and a split in the industry. It took decades for singers to receive royalties, and the truce was finally brokered by music director Jaikishen.
Aishbagh Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh is being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with a focus on improving basic facilities, safety, and overall passenger convenience. The upgrade includes a modern station building, improved waiting areas and toilets, a foot overbridge for easier movement, better parking and circulation.
South Western Railway has launched special trains from Bengaluru to Odisha to ease overcrowding and improve ticket availability during the peak summer holiday season. The trains will run from SMVT Bengaluru to Rupsa and offer a convenient travel option for long-distance commuters.
Amancio Ortega, founder of Zara and owner of Inditex, has a €20 billion real estate portfolio in 11 countries through his investment firm, Pontegadea Inversiones SL. Using Inditex dividends, Pontegadea buys prime commercial properties globally. Despite his wealth, Ortega lives modestly in a simple Spanish apartment. Pontegadea's strategy is to invest in properties with long-term value.
UK-born Junead Khan, a startup founder, faced a tough decision between working at JPMorgan in London or Microsoft in the US. Despite being offered a $184,000 salary gap, he chose Microsoft, citing the higher pay in the American tech market. Khan's Instagram post sparked a debate on the salary differences between the two countries, with some noting the challenges faced by immigrants in the US.
Oprah Winfrey's inspiring story of rising from poverty in rural Mississippi to becoming the first Black female billionaire in US history is a testament to her determination and love for learning. Despite facing adversity, she built an empire through media ownership, amassing a net worth of $3.2 billion and earning numerous accolades.