Jindal Stainless to Invest ₹40,000 Crore in Maharashtra for Stainless Steel Plant

Jindal Stainless has announced a significant investment of ₹40,000 crore to establish a stainless steel manufacturing facility in Maharashtra. The project, which has received approval from the state cabinet subcommittee, marks a major step in expanding the company’s domestic presence and supporting India’s drive for self-reliance in key industrial sectors.

Investment Plan and Government Approval

Responding to a query from PTI, JSL confirmed that the Maharashtra government has approved its investment proposal. The greenfield project will be developed over a 10-year period, with the first phase expected to be completed and operational within four years. The approval was granted during a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, alongside other senior cabinet members.

Project Scope and Employment Generation

The proposed stainless steel plant will have a total melting capacity of 4 million tonnes per annum. It will be constructed in phases and is expected to create over 15,000 jobs, providing a significant boost to employment in the region.

The plant will produce a wide range of stainless steel flat products with varied grades, finishes, and thicknesses. The facility is also designed to cater to specialised requirements of industries such as hydrogen, nuclear energy, defence, mobility, infrastructure, and process industries.

Strategic Vision and National Significance

JSL Chairman Ratan Jindal said, “Our proposal to invest in Maharashtra reflects our commitment towards making India Atmanirbhar in stainless steel production and reducing our dependence on imports.”

He added that the new facility would set benchmarks in sustainability, advanced manufacturing technologies, and product excellence. The project is expected to contribute meaningfully to India’s industrial ambitions and position JSL as a key player both domestically and internationally.

Conclusion

Jindal Stainless’ ₹40,000 crore investment in Maharashtra underscores the company’s long-term growth vision and support for India’s manufacturing and infrastructure development. With a focus on high-grade stainless steel for critical sectors, the new facility is poised to enhance India’s capabilities and reduce reliance on imports while creating thousands of job opportunities.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Trump’s 25% Auto Tariff to Have Minimal Impact on India’s Car Exports, but Auto Parts Face Exposure

US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a 25% tariff on completely built vehicles and auto parts, effective April 3, has triggered concern across the global automobile industry. However, a new report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) suggests that India’s auto exports, particularly in cars and trucks, are largely insulated from the impact of the new US tariffs.

Minimal Impact on India’s Car and Truck Exports

India’s passenger car exports to the US in 2024 stood at just $8.9 million, a small share of its total $6.98 billion worth of car exports. Similarly, truck exports to the US amounted to $12.5 million, representing just 0.89% of India’s global truck shipments. As such, GTRI concludes that the new US tariffs are unlikely to significantly affect India’s automobile export momentum.

The report cautions, however, against India reducing its own auto import tariffs in response to US pressure. Drawing a comparison with Australia’s auto sector collapse after cutting tariffs in the 1980s, GTRI founder Ajay Srivastava warned that any such move would undermine India’s manufacturing base, which contributes nearly a third of the country’s overall manufacturing GDP.

Auto Components Sector More Vulnerable

The auto parts segment presents a different picture. In 2024, India exported $2.2 billion worth of auto components to the US, accounting for 29.1% of its global auto parts exports. Although this figure signals exposure, Srivastava pointed out that the US imports a much larger volume of parts from countries like Mexico ($36 billion) and China ($10.1 billion), which gives India room to stay competitive.

One area of concern is the export of car chassis fitted with engines, where the US represents 11.4% of India’s global exports in that segment. While the share is notable, the segment remains relatively small within the broader export portfolio.

Since the 25% US tariff is applicable to all countries, India’s relative competitive advantage may still hold, the report said. India’s import tariffs for parts range between 0% and 7.5%, making its manufacturing landscape cost-effective and potentially attractive for global suppliers seeking alternatives to China or Mexico.

Motorcycle Components Show Growth Potential

GTRI also highlighted a positive trend in India’s motorcycle parts and accessories sector. Exports rose from $558.05 million in April-January FY22 to $709.22 million in the same period of FY24, registering a 27.09% growth. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has played a key role in bolstering domestic manufacturing and global competitiveness.

Meanwhile, imports of motorcycle parts fell from $408.59 million to $371.82 million over the same period, indicating stronger self-reliance in domestic sourcing.

Conclusion

While Trump’s new auto tariff is unlikely to shake India’s car or truck exports, the auto parts sector, especially components with high export concentration to the US, could face some short-term headwinds. However, with strong government incentives and a competitive manufacturing base, India is well-positioned to navigate the new trade landscape—and may even emerge stronger in certain product categories.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Dixon Technologies, Signify Form 50:50 JV as Govt Finalises ₹25,000 Cr PLI for Electronics Components

Dixon Technologies has entered into a joint venture with Signify Innovations India to manufacture lighting products in India, marking a strategic move to strengthen domestic OEM capabilities, as reported by CNBC-TV18. The announcement coincides with the government’s finalisation of a new ₹25,000 crore Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to promote electronics component manufacturing.

Dixon and Signify Launch Equal-Ownership JV

On March 27, Dixon Technologies confirmed that it has formed a 50:50 joint venture with Signify Innovations India Limited. The venture will focus on the original equipment manufacturing (OEM) of lighting products and accessories.

As per the agreement, neither Dixon nor Signify will hold a stake in each other’s core businesses. The JV will handle a portion of Signify’s existing OEM lighting orders in India and is also expected to serve other brands under the OEM model, further expanding Dixon’s footprint in the lighting segment.

PLI Scheme to Boost Electronics Components Manufacturing

On the same day, CNBC-TV18 reported that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has finalised a cabinet note for a ₹25,000 crore PLI scheme. The proposal is set to be submitted to the Cabinet for approval shortly.

The new scheme will cover critical components such as batteries, displays, camera modules, and printed circuit boards (PCBs). This is part of India’s effort to strengthen its domestic electronics ecosystem and reduce dependence on imports.

The move comes after the closure of the earlier Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) in March 2024.

Expected Impact of the PLI Scheme

The PLI scheme is expected to attract investments worth ₹40,000–₹45,000 crore, according to industry estimates. It aims to:

  • Encourage value addition in India’s electronics manufacturing
  • Create employment opportunities
  • Support India’s ambitions to become a global hub for electronics production

The plan aligns with earlier successful PLI initiatives in mobile phones, IT hardware, and semiconductors, which have contributed to significant growth in domestic production capacities.

Shares of Dixon Technologies closed 1.58% higher at ₹13,470.00 on March 27,

Conclusion

Dixon Technologies’ partnership with Signify and the government’s upcoming PLI scheme signal strong momentum in India’s manufacturing ambitions. As the country focuses on self-reliance and supply chain localisation, these developments are set to play a key role in boosting India’s electronics and lighting manufacturing sectors.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

UPI Users Risk Losing Access If Mobile Numbers Aren’t Updated by March 31, 2025

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has instructed banks and payment service providers (PSPs) to update customer mobile number records before March 31, 2025. The move is aimed at addressing technical issues and growing fraud risks arising from recycled or surrendered mobile numbers.

NPCI’s Directive to Banks and UPI Apps

NPCI has made it mandatory for all banks and UPI platforms, including GPay and PhonePe, to validate and update mobile number records at least once a week. This process must be carried out using the Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) available on the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP). The aim is to identify and remove outdated or reassigned numbers from their systems.

Revoked or churned numbers, once reassigned to new users, pose a major risk. They could allow unintended access to someone else’s bank or UPI account, triggering both technical errors and potential fraud.

What Happens If Your Number Has Been Revoked?

If your mobile number has been revoked or surrendered in line with Department of Telecommunications (DoT) guidelines, and is still linked to your UPI account, banks and UPI apps may remove it from their records. This action will be based on validation using the MNRL database.

As a result, UPI services associated with such numbers may be deactivated without notice.

Who Could Be Affected?

You could lose access to UPI services if:

  • You use UPI with a reassigned number that once belonged to someone else.
  • You surrendered your mobile number but did not update the new number with your bank or UPI provider.

How to Avoid Losing UPI Access

To avoid disruptions:

  • Ensure your bank account and UPI apps are linked to your currently active mobile number.
  • If you’ve changed your number, update it across all banking and payment platforms before March 31, 2025.

Conclusion

With the March 31 deadline approaching, it’s crucial for UPI users to check if their mobile numbers are current and active. NPCI’s initiative is a proactive step to enhance user security and reduce fraud risks. Updating your details in time can help ensure uninterrupted access to digital payments.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Tilaknagar Industries Expands Its Diverse Liquor Portfolio

Tilaknagar Industries, one of India’s oldest liquor companies, continues to evolve with the times by expanding its premium offerings in the Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) segment. From its humble beginnings as a sugar mill in pre-independence India to becoming a recognised name in the spirits market, the company has successfully built a broad and diverse product portfolio. Its latest move to distribute AMARA Artisanal Vodka highlights its growing ambition in the premium spirits category.

Tilaknagar to Distribute AMARA Vodka Across India and Abroad

Tilaknagar Industries has partnered with Spaceman Spirits Lab to distribute AMARA Artisanal Pink Vodka, expanding its footprint in the premium vodka space. The distribution will be managed through a royalty arrangement covering Spaceman’s brands in India and international markets.

AMARA is priced between ₹2,500 and ₹4,500, depending on state taxes. The product will be available in select premium stores and bars across Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka in its first phase. Markets like Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan will follow. International distribution will begin in the second half of FY26, targeting Global Travel Retail, UAE, UK, and Singapore.

Spaceman Spirits Lab is also known for SAMSARA Gin, another high-end product gaining ground in India’s craft spirits scene.

From Sugar to Spirits: A Legacy Reimagined

Founded in 1933 as The Maharashtra Sugar Mills Limited by Shri Mahadev L. Dahanukar, Tilaknagar Industries played a transformative role in Maharashtra’s sugar and alcohol sectors. The company was later renamed to honour freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, who inspired the founder.

Over the decades, Tilaknagar transitioned into the alcoholic beverages space, leveraging its existing assets and industry expertise. This strategic pivot positioned it as a key player in India’s evolving liquor landscape.

A Dive Into Tilaknagar’s Liquor Portfolio

Tilaknagar Industries boasts one of the most extensive liquor portfolios among Indian IMFL manufacturers. Here’s a look at its wide range of offerings:

Brandy

  • Mansion House French Brandy
  • Monarch Legacy Edition
  • Courrier Napoleon Brandy Green
  • Courrier Napoleon Finest Pure Grape French Brandy
  • Mansion House Chambers Brandy

Flandy (Flavoured Brandy)

  • Mansion House Cherry Flandy
  • Mansion House Peach Flandy
  • Mansion House Orange Flandy
  • Mansion House Green Apple Flandy

Whisky

  • Mansion House Gold Barrel Whisky

Rum

  • Madiraa Gold Dark XXX Rum

Gin

  • Blue Lagoon Gin
  • Blue Lagoon Gin Orange
  • Blue Lagoon Gin Lemon

Conclusion

Tilaknagar Industries has come a long way from its origins in sugar production to becoming a leading name in India’s liquor industry. Its ever-growing and diversified portfolio of brandy, whisky, gin, rum, and now vodka with AMARA, underscores its strategic focus on premiumisation and market expansion. With roots in legacy and eyes on global trends, TI continues to adapt, innovate, and lead in the Indian IMFL space.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

March 31 Tax Deadline Round-Up: Key Tax Moves to Make Before FY 2024-25 Ends

As the financial year 2024-25 comes to a close, taxpayers in India must stay alert to a series of critical tax deadlines. Failing to act before March 31, 2025, could result in penalties, interest payments, or missed tax benefits. From updated returns to advance tax payments, here’s a quick guide to everything that must be done before the clock runs out.

Filing Updated ITR (ITR-U) for FY 2022-23

Taxpayers who have any previously unreported income for FY 2022-23 (AY 2023-24) must file their updated Income Tax Return (ITR-U) by March 31, 2025. Filing by this deadline will attract an additional 25% tax on the undisclosed income. If filed after March 31 but within the next 1 year, the penalty rises to 50% plus interest.

The government has proposed extending the time limit for filing updated returns to four years from April 1, 2025. However, the penalty for late filing will be higher under the revised window.

Tax-Saving Investments Under the Old Regime

Taxpayers opting for the old tax regime must make eligible investments before March 31 to claim deductions for FY 2024-25. Key deductions include:

  • Section 80C: ELSS, PPF, NSC, life insurance premiums, tuition fees
  • Section 80D: Health insurance premiums
  • Section 80G: Donations to specified charitable institutions

Investments made after March 31 will not qualify for tax relief in the current financial year.

Advance Tax Payment for Additional Income

Salaried individuals who have earned additional income (like interest, capital gains, or freelance work) should pay any pending advance tax before March 31. Options include:

  • Requesting the employer to deduct additional TDS, subject to the payroll cut-off
  • Making a direct advance tax payment through the income tax portal

Failure to pay advance tax may attract interest under Sections 234B and 234C.

Submission of Form 67 for Foreign Tax Credit

Taxpayers who have earned income abroad and want to claim credit for taxes paid outside India must submit Form 67 by March 31, 2025. This applies to FY 2022-23.

Foreign tax credit is only allowed if the return is filed under Section 139(1) (original return) or 139(4) (belated return). Missing the deadline will result in the denial of the credit.

Conclusion

March 31, 2025, marks an important compliance deadline for several tax-related actions. Whether it’s updating past returns, completing deductions under the old regime, paying advance tax, or reporting foreign income, timely action can help avoid penalties and preserve your tax benefits.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Salaried vs Consultant: How Tax Benefits and Deductions Differ in India

In India, both salaried employment and consultancy offer distinct career paths, each with its own structure, benefits, and tax implications. While income tax slabs remain the same for both, the treatment of deductions, benefits, and compliance can vary significantly. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand how taxes work differently for salaried employees and consultants.

The Nature of Income

A salaried employee earns a fixed monthly income structured around components like basic pay, HRA, and allowances. This income is subject to tax deducted at source (TDS) by the employer.

A consultant or freelancer receives income for services rendered and typically raises invoices to clients. This income is more flexible, but the responsibility of managing taxes, including advance tax and deductions, rests with the individual.

Tax Benefits and Deductions

Standard Deduction

  • Salaried Employee: Eligible for a flat ₹50,000 standard deduction annually.
  • Consultant: Not eligible, but can claim business-related expenses such as travel, phone bills, and internet costs.

House Rent Allowance (HRA)

  • Salaried Employee: May receive HRA as part of salary and claim tax exemption based on rent paid and the city of residence.
  • Consultant: Cannot claim HRA, but can deduct actual rent paid as a business expense, subject to documentation.

Professional Tax

  • Salaried Employee: Deducted by the employer in applicable states.
  • Consultant: Needs to pay this tax directly and can claim it as an expense.

Provident Fund (PF)

  • Salaried Employee: Both employer and employee contribute; employee contribution qualifies for Section 80C benefits.
  • Consultant: Not eligible for EPF, but can invest in instruments like PPF independently.

Medical Insurance

  • Salaried Employee: Often covered by employer-provided health plans.
  • Consultant: Must buy their own insurance, and the premium is deductible under Section 80D.

Other Allowances and Expenses

  • Salaried Employee: Can claim exemptions like Leave Travel Allowance (LTA), food coupons, and other employer-specific benefits.
  • Consultant: Can deduct a wider range of business expenses, including stationery, software, and even partial rent and utilities if working from home.

Filing Tax Returns

For salaried individuals, the tax filing process is generally simpler. They use Form 16 issued by the employer and typically file ITR-1 or ITR-2.

Consultants must maintain books of accounts and file using ITR-3 or ITR-4. If income exceeds prescribed limits, a tax audit may be required.

Tax Slabs and Additional Taxes

Both types of income are taxed according to the same income tax slabs. However, consultants may be liable to pay Alternate Minimum Tax (AMT) at 18.5% if they claim certain deductions under Chapter VI-A.

Conclusion

While salaried employees benefit from simplicity and fixed exemptions, consultants enjoy flexibility and the ability to deduct a broader range of expenses. Choosing between the two should not just depend on the role or income, but also on your willingness and ability to manage tax compliance and planning. Understanding these taxation nuances helps ensure you make the most of your income, whichever route you choose.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Income Tax vs Income Tax Return: What’s the Difference and How to File ITR Online

Income Tax and Income Tax Return (ITR) are often used interchangeably in everyday conversations about personal finance. However, they serve two very different purposes in India’s taxation framework. Understanding the distinction is vital to avoid errors during tax filing and to ensure compliance with income tax laws.

What is Income Tax?

Income tax is a direct tax levied by the central government on the income earned by individuals and entities above a specified threshold. The authority to levy and collect this tax is provided by the Income Tax Act of 1961.

Income under this Act is not limited to salary. It includes:

  • Professional gains such as bonuses
  • Rent received from properties
  • Profits from a business
  • Capital gains from investments
  • Other sources like dividends, royalties, or lottery winnings

Entities required to pay income tax include individuals, Hindu Undivided Families, partnerships, LLPs, companies, AOPs, and BOIs.

What is an Income Tax Return (ITR)?

An Income Tax Return is a formal record submitted annually to the Income Tax Department detailing a taxpayer’s income, tax liability, and tax paid in a given financial year. Filing an ITR helps calculate tax dues or refunds, if any.

Every taxpayer must file the ITR within the due date notified by the department. For individuals, the due date for FY 2022-23 was July 31. Missing this deadline may attract penalties.

Difference Between Income Tax and Income Tax Return

Income tax is the amount payable on earnings in a financial year, based on applicable slabs and deductions. ITR, on the other hand, is the annual submission of income details and taxes paid.

Here’s how they differ:

Criteria Income Tax Income Tax Return
Purpose Payment to the government Record submitted to the tax department
Definition Tax on income earned Statement of income and taxes paid
Frequency Paid during the year (quarterly or TDS) Filed once after the financial year ends
Use Revenue for government Assessment of taxpayer’s compliance

How to File ITR Online

Only ITR-1 and ITR-4 can be filed completely online. Here are the steps:

  1. Visit the Income Tax Department website
  2. Log in using your PAN and password
  3. Choose the assessment year
  4. Select the applicable ITR form
  5. Click ‘Prepare and Submit Online’
  6. Enter all relevant income and deduction details
  7. Preview and validate the data
  8. Submit the form
  9. Verify using Aadhaar OTP or EVC

Old vs New Tax Regimes

As of FY 2024-25, the new regime is the default, but taxpayers can opt for either. Here’s a comparison of the tax slabs:

New Tax Regime

Income Range Tax Rate
₹0–3 Lakhs Nil
₹3–7 Lakhs 5%
₹7–10 Lakhs 10%
₹10–12 Lakhs 15%
₹12–15 Lakhs 20%
Above ₹15 Lakhs 30%

Note: Rebate available for income up to ₹7 Lakhs

Old Tax Regime

Income Range Tax Rate
₹0–2.5 Lakhs Nil
₹2.5–5 Lakhs 5%
₹5–10 Lakhs 20%
Above ₹10 Lakhs 30%

Note: Rebate available up to ₹5 Lakhs

Conclusion

Income tax is the amount paid on income, whereas ITR is the record submitted to report that income and the taxes paid. Filing your ITR correctly ensures you stay compliant and can claim refunds where applicable. With e-filing now available, the process is more accessible than ever. Understanding these basic concepts is key to navigating the tax system effectively.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Women Make Up Over 21.5% of Mutual Fund Distributors, Contributing 33.2% of Individual AUM

Women are steadily emerging as significant contributors to India’s mutual fund ecosystem. A recent joint study by the Association of Mutual Funds in India and Crisil shows that not only are more women becoming distributors, but they are also making smarter, long-term investment choices, backed by data that highlights their growing preference for equity, SIPs and direct plans.

More Women Join Mutual Fund Distribution

As of December 2024, 37,376 women were registered as mutual fund distributors, accounting for 21.5% of the total. This growing representation is driven by rising financial awareness and a growing number of women building careers in financial services.

Growing Focus on Long-Term Wealth Creation

The study found that women investors are increasingly focused on long-term investing. The share of women’s AUM held for over 5 years rose from 8.8% in March 2019 to 21.3% in March 2024. Meanwhile, investments held for under a year fell from 40.5% to 25.4%, suggesting greater patience and commitment to wealth building.

Increased SIP Participation and Equity Exposure

Women’s SIP AUM rose 319.3% between March 2019 and March 2024 and now accounts for over 30.5% of total SIP assets. Equity exposure also increased significantly, with equity’s share in women’s portfolios rising from 43.3% to 63.7%.

There has also been a shift in preference within equity funds. Allocation to small-cap funds rose from 6.2% to 10.2%, while large-cap fund allocation declined from 19.2% to 13.3%. Passive investing also saw momentum, with AUM in passive strategies increasing from 2.5% to 4.1%. In passive gold funds, women’s share rose from 5.2% in 2019 to 24.9% in 2024.

In contrast, investments in debt funds fell from 22.6% to 10.7% of women’s total AUM, a trend seen across all age groups.

Direct Plans Gain Popularity

The share of AUM held in regular plans by women declined from 85.8% in March 2019 to 79.67% in March 2024, with a corresponding increase in direct plan investments. The adoption of direct plans rose from 14.2% to 20.33%, led by younger investors. The 25–44 age group saw their share of direct plan AUM rise from 16.0% to 27.3%, while older investors above 58 showed a more modest increase from 13.9% to 17.6%.

Assets, Reach, and Investor Behaviour

Women investors held ₹11.25 lakh crore in AUM as of March 2024, up from ₹4.59 lakh crore in 2019. They now contribute ₹33 of every ₹100 invested by individual investors.

Women in the top 30 cities account for 74.8% of total women AUM. However, their participation in smaller towns has also increased, with their share rising from 20.1% in March 2019 to 25.2% in March 2024. Notably, women under 35 years in smaller cities hold 15.1% of the AUM, compared to 9.4% in the top 30 cities.

Conclusion

The data reflects a structural shift in how women engage with mutual funds in India. With rising participation, preference for equity and SIPs, and growing adoption of direct investing, women are asserting themselves as confident, long-term investors across geographies and age groups.

Want to plan regular withdrawals? Our SWP Calculator helps you calculate how much you can withdraw while keeping your investments intact. Try it now!

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Zen Technologies Secures ₹152 Crore Defence Order for Air Defence Combat Simulator

Zen Technologies has secured a fresh order worth ₹152 crore from the Ministry of Defence for the supply of an integrated air defence combat simulator for the L70 gun. The announcement, made on March 27, marks a significant addition to the company’s growing defence portfolio.

Order Details and Strategic Importance

The ₹152 crore contract involves the supply of advanced simulators to train defence personnel on the L70 anti-aircraft gun system. These simulators are designed to enhance combat preparedness and reduce training costs while ensuring operational efficiency.

Zen Technologies continues to strengthen its position as an important player in India’s defence simulation and training equipment sector. The order adds to its order book, which stood at ₹816.91 crore as of December 31, 2024.

Growth in Defence Contracts

The company has seen a steady rise in defence-related orders over the past year. The continued government focus on indigenising defence manufacturing through initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat is driving demand for home-grown defence tech solutions like those offered by Zen Technologies.

Financial Highlights for Q3 FY25

In the December 2024 quarter, Zen Technologies reported strong financial performance:

  • Net profit rose to ₹40 crore, compared to ₹30.58 crore in the same period last year.
  • Revenue surged 53% year-on-year to ₹152 crore.
  • EBITDA grew 42% to ₹66 crore, although margins narrowed slightly to 38.01% due to cost factors.

These results underscore the company’s operational growth and continued order inflows, especially from defence contracts. Zen Technologies’ shares ended the day 0.99% higher at ₹1,457.20 apiece on March 27.

Conclusion

The ₹152 crore order from the Defence Ministry reinforces Zen Technologies’ growing footprint in India’s defence modernisation drive. Backed by a strong order book and consistent financial growth, the company remains well-positioned to support the country’s evolving defence infrastructure through simulation and training technologies.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.