Chief Economic Advisor of India, V Anantha Nageswaran, is not concerned about the falling rupee against the dollar as it is not affecting inflation or exports. The rupee is expected to improve next year. The reasons for the rupee's decline include reduced intervention by the RBI and high tariffs on Indian exports to the US. The RBI's meeting today will determine if they will intervene
The Siachen Base Camp is India's highest battlefield where soldiers sacrifice their lives for independence. The treacherous road is made possible by the Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey. Operation Meghdoot in 1984 marked the start of the longest military operation. The soldiers' journey is tough, but they draw strength from the legend of OP Baba.
Government's ethanol blending programme has helped pay cane arrears to farmers and made sugar industry financially viable. Blending 20% ethanol with petrol has saved Rs 1.9 lakh crore in foreign exchange. Sugarcane arrears have reached a record low, with no subsidy for sugar exports since 2021.
In June, the mutual fund industry saw a surge in SIP participation, with 5.55 million new SIPs registered and a record high monthly contribution of Rs 31,781 crore. Equity funds rebounded by 26%, with mid-cap and small-cap funds receiving the highest inflows. Gold ETFs gained popularity, while debt funds faced outflows due to institutional redemptions.
The Indian government supports the use of E20 petrol, a blend of 80% petrol and 20% ethanol, as a means of reducing reliance on imported oil and promoting energy security. While there may be concerns for older vehicles, the government emphasizes the advantages of higher octane, lower emissions, and a reduced carbon footprint.
An account aggregator can assist investors in identifying and capitalizing on key opportunities to increase retirement savings, such as salary increases, bonuses, and the end of EMIs. Technology can help prompt timely retirement decisions and make building a stronger retirement fund more integrated with everyday financial choices, ultimately leading to greater long-term financial security.
The Assam government has allocated a budget of Rs 55,000 crore for infrastructure development in partnership with the Government of India. Major projects include a metro rail system, new high-speed roads, and a greenfield airport. Other road projects and a feasibility study for the metro rail project are also included in the budget.
India has introduced RAINMUMBAI, the country's first exchange-traded weather derivative on NCDEX, to mitigate climate risks. This financial contract is based on Mumbai's rainfall data and helps businesses transfer risks associated with abnormal weather. Mumbai's reliable rainfall record makes it an ideal location for this initiative.
A new report shows that extreme heat is a growing danger in India, causing income loss and higher medical expenses for workers. By 2030, agriculture and construction laborers could lose 22.5 working days per year due to heat stress. India must take action to protect its vulnerable workers and households, especially those in informal employment without social safety nets.
India is expanding its emergency crude buffer by adding a 1.75-million-tonne reserve at Mangaluru and approving the second phase of the Strategic Petroleum Reserves programme. This will increase emergency coverage to over 20 days of consumption and the government is making efforts to make the reserves financially viable.
State-run oil marketing companies are expected to report a combined loss of ₹60,000-62,000 crore in Q1FY27 due to factors such as the West Asia supply shock, elevated crude prices, weaker rupee, and high retail fuel under-recoveries. Refining margins were strong, but retail fuel losses led to a decline of 301% YoY and 251% QoQ in EBITDA.
Benchmark equity indices, including Sensex and Nifty, saw a surge on Friday due to strong buying in PSU banks and IT stocks. TCS and Indian Bank's positive quarterly results also contributed to the rally. Geopolitical tensions and falling crude oil prices added to the positive sentiment.
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Work, an AI agent that can handle complex tasks in enterprise applications and files. This signals a move towards autonomous AI and is expected to increase its use in businesses. They also introduced GPT-5.6 and a redesigned desktop app, which will have a big impact on India's IT services industry by expanding use cases and changing opportunities.
Gujarat is actively developing a robust semiconductor ecosystem, with 10 ancillary units seeking land and discussions with 15 more underway. The state is also prioritizing the establishment of a strong network of suppliers, service providers, and skilled manufacturers to support major chip projects.
The DGFT has implemented the automotive import provisions of the India-UK CETA, allowing for concessional-duty imports of UK-built passenger cars. The notification outlines quota allocation, eligibility, customs procedures, and utilisation conditions for importers. Only authorized OEMs or dealers can apply for TRQ allocations, and under-utilisation may affect future allocations.
KMRL, with support from SCMS Water Institute, aims to extend Water Metro service from Aluva Metro Station to CIAL via Periyar River. A feasibility study will be conducted to assess flood conditions, water flow patterns, and technical factors. The new route will offer a seamless airport commute for Kochi residents.
Assam government presents ambitious Budget for 2026-27, prioritizing infrastructure, connectivity, and support for farmers, tea garden workers, and small entrepreneurs. Heavy investments in connectivity and transformational projects, as well as measures for agriculture, tea sector, and households. Focus on job creation, education, entrepreneurship, and urban-rural connectivity.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. has emerged as a top wealth creator in India's public sector defence companies in the last five years. Despite a dip in stock price, the company's focus is now on execution pipeline, manufacturing capacity, and India's naval modernisation programme for future growth.
Gujarat has launched a 'Data Centre Policy' to attract Rs 6 lakh crore of investment and become a national hub for cloud, AI, and digital services. The policy offers incentives and streamlined approvals to enable 7.5 GW of data centre capacity.
India's government has launched pilot trials on ten routes to test the viability of hydrogen as a future fuel for transportation. These routes cover long-distance and regional corridors and aim to evaluate the performance, safety, and cost of using hydrogen for buses, trucks, and other commercial vehicles.
Microsoft's Building 87 in Redmond, Washington boasts the world's quietest place, an anechoic chamber that holds a Guinness World Record. Its "onion-like" design and soundproof surfaces provide a near-total absence of external noise, making even the slightest human sounds audible. Visitors are left with a strange sensation in this unique and isolated space.
Vedanta Aluminum, India's largest pure-play aluminium company, is expected to enter its next growth phase according to brokerage house Motilal Oswal. With a 'Buy' rating and a target price of Rs 540 per share, the company has emerged as a compelling structural story in the global aluminium space.
Indian Railways has upgraded the Brahmapur-Surat Amrit Bharat Express to a daily service, improving travel options for passengers between Odisha and Gujarat. The train will now offer more flexibility and better connectivity between eastern and western India. The new schedule and route have been announced, bringing relief to those who had to plan around its limited operating days.
Indian stock market extends winning streak, led by IT stocks. TCS' strong earnings and hiring boost sector. Sensex and Nifty record strong gains, crude oil prices ease and rupee strengthens. Broad-based buying seen across sectors, with analysts predicting improved domestic outlook and FIIs investing in select sectors. Top gainers on Sensex include Adani Ports, IndiGo, Tech Mahindra.
The Solapur Division of Central Railway has installed the Standard KAVACH system on the 149 km Solapur-Wadi section, which uses advanced technology to enhance safety and reliability. The system underwent successful trials and is equipped with 1,254 RFID tags to prevent collisions and generate emergency alerts for passenger and freight trains.
The government has given the green light for Dixon Technologies and Vivo Mobile India to form a joint venture to produce smartphones and other electronic devices in India. Dixon will have a majority stake of 51%, while Vivo will hold 49%. This venture is expected to boost Dixon's growth and revenue, with the brokerage firm predicting strong potential.
The countdown has begun for SBI Funds Management's Rs 11,692.91 crore IPO, set to open on July 14. The company's two promoters - SBI and Amundi India Holding - will earn a substantial amount through the Offer for Sale (OFS) structure. SBI, with a weighted average acquisition cost of only Rs 0.15 per share, could gain between Rs 6,992-7,364 crore.
East Coast Railway has announced special trains connecting Jagdalpur and Rayagada with Puri for the Rath Yatra festival. These trains will operate on select dates in July 2026, providing better connectivity for pilgrims from Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh.
A landslide in the South East Ghat section has led to cancellations of several summer Special and regular train services on Central Railway. The landslide, caused by heavy monsoon rain, also blocked vehicular movement to Rajmachi Fort. Passengers are advised to check revised train timings and use NTES for updates. IMD predicts more rain, potentially affecting train operations in the coming days.
Just a day after US President Donald Trump claimed he is on Iran’s number one kill list, suggesting an assassination plot due to the targeting of top Iranian leaders, a report from the Wall Street Journal indicated that Israel’s intelligence had warned the US about this threat.
Football fans in Central London caused chaos after France's 2-0 win over Morocco, leading to clashes and police intervention on Edgware Road. Similar unrest was seen in London and Paris, resulting in injuries and arrests. A Met Police officer was attacked, emphasizing the dangers faced by law enforcement.
Fidji Simo, OpenAI's Chief of Product and Business, has announced that she is stepping down from her full-time role after her chronic illness became much worse. She said the past few months made her realise that recovering will take much longer than she had expected, and she now needs to put her health first.
India and Australia have signed a deal to ensure a steady supply of uranium for India's nuclear power plants, supporting its goal of reaching 100 GW nuclear energy capacity by 2047. The agreement covers critical areas such as defence, maritime cooperation, and education, while also reaffirming their commitment to open markets and rules-based trade.
Icra report warns that India's renewable energy goals are being hindered by delays in land acquisition, right-of-way clearances, and regulatory approvals. A third of newly commissioned clean energy capacity is facing curtailment due to temporary transmission access, highlighting the need for faster grid expansion. \
The Asian Development Bank has reduced India's GDP growth forecast for FY27 to 6.6% due to increasing energy costs. However, policy interventions and improved global conditions are expected to support growth. FY28 forecast remains at 7.3%, but risks of geopolitical tensions and agriculture weakness due to weather persist.
India, a top market for Formula 1, has not hosted a race since 2013. However, with a fan base of 78.9 million, there is hope for a successful revival. The government has set up a task force and Adani Group has taken over the Buddha International Circuit. Experts recommend a shift in the lone-promoter model and government partnership, along with monetization strategies, for sustained growth.
The Ministry of Heavy Industries plans to provide an interest subvention scheme to aid private bus operators in switching to electric buses. However, banks are hesitant to provide funding. The industry is also seeking common charging infrastructure, financial assistance, and longer-term funding from banks.
The Indian rupee strengthened with support from the Reserve Bank of India and a drop in oil prices, closing at 95.38 against the dollar. The central bank's interventions and lower importer demand also aided its performance. Despite being the top-performing Asian currency, the rupee may face challenges from geopolitical tensions and rising crude prices.
IMD reports that the southwest monsoon has finally covered the entire country after a delay of 36 days, the slowest in five years. Heavy rainfall is expected due to a low-pressure area in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The overall deficit has reduced to 14.3%, benefiting kharif crops.
Indian benchmark equity indices rebounded by more than 1% on Thursday, with the Sensex rising 823.05 points and the Nifty reclaiming the 24,000 mark. The broader market outperformed the benchmarks, with the BSE MidCap and SmallCap indices advancing by 1.35% and 1.77% respectively.
PM Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in Melbourne, highlighting India's economic, technological and strategic ambitions. He mentioned Operation Sindoor, defence capabilities, Make in India, space ambitions, startup ecosystem, India-Australia partnership, and humanitarian outreach. He emphasized India's goal of becoming a top three economy and hosting major international events.
MeitY to review Meta's AI tool, Muse, for compliance with India's legal framework amid privacy concerns. Meta faces regulatory notices for child safety record on Instagram and WhatsApp username feature. The government will also assess if AI is impacting the growth of global capability centers in India. GCCs contribute to 2% of GDP, while IT and IT-enabled services remain the largest export sector.
The Indian ministry of heavy industries is ramping up support for battery recycling and advanced chemistry cells (ACC) to meet the country's growing storage demands. Collaborating with the EU, pilot projects for battery recycling are being developed. India's battery ecosystem is expanding beyond electric vehicles, with targeted policies and support for niche battery technologies being considered.
In June, electric bus registrations in India rose by 28.5%, making up 4.6% of total bus registrations. PMI Electro was the top performer with 24% of registrations, followed by Switch Mobility and Olectra Greentech. The government's encouragement for electrification and plans to deploy 24,000 electric buses in cities are driving this growth, which is expected to continue with state-level policies.
The Finance Ministry has removed basic customs duty on goods used in the production of lithium-ion cells, display assemblies, and inductor coil modules until 2029. This decision supports the Production Linked Incentive scheme to decrease import reliance and increase domestic value addition in the electronics sector.
India's data centre market is booming, with Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh driving growth. Maharashtra is the leading market, followed by Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh is positioning itself as a key player with a new investment-friendly policy. Data centres are vital for the digital economy, providing essential services like cloud computing, banking, and e-commerce.
HMSI, India's second-largest two-wheeler company, plans to boost growth in FY27 through a focus on EVs and alternative fuels. Utilizing its global technological expertise, including high-blend ethanol technology, it will introduce flex-fuel products in India. To catch up in the EV market, HMSI is developing more competitive models.
Nissan has launched the all-new Tekton in India's midsize SUV market, with prices starting at Rs 10,49,000. The SUV is offered in 12 variants with two turbo-petrol engine options and is E20-compliant. Nissan aims to achieve 100,000 wholesale sales with the Magnite, Gravite, and Tekton. The Tekton is manufactured at the Renault-Nissan Alliance plant in Chennai and will be exported to 50 countries.
The Ghaziabad-Jewar Namo Bharat Corridor will improve connectivity between Ghaziabad, Noida, Greater Noida, and Jewar Airport, reducing travel time to 40-50 minutes. The project will cost Rs 20,640 crore and will have 12 stations and two depots. It will also provide easy connectivity with existing transport networks, including the Aqua Line of Noida Metro and the Delhi Metro's Red Line.
A satirical Twitter account pokes fun at Trump's confusion between Japan and Iran at the NATO summit, while also shedding light on the Iranian attack on a US carrier. The account, pretending to be a Republican congressman, fooled CNN with fake news about Senator McConnell's health. Despite Trump's error, Japan remains a strong ally with a growing Muslim community.
India's depository business is controlled by NSDL and CDSL, both facilitating electronic holding of securities. CDSL's ties with discount brokers give it an advantage over NSDL. Its faster growth in new demat accounts and strong association with discount brokers make it the preferred pick according to market experts, leading to its premium valuation.