Since 2019, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) have collectively generated ₹12,984.86 crore by monetising non-core assets, including land, buildings, telecom towers, and fibre infrastructure.

This initiative follows government-approved policies aimed at optimising asset utilisation while ensuring minimal disruption to operations.

Telecom Firms’ Asset Monetisation Details

As per data shared by Minister of State for Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in the Lok Sabha, up to January 2025:

• BSNL earned ₹2,387.82 crore, while MTNL garnered ₹2,134.61 crore from the sale of land and buildings.
• From telecom towers and fibre infrastructure, BSNL secured ₹8,204.18 crore, while MTNL received ₹258.25 crore.

The government is actively monitoring the impact of these asset sales on the companies, ensuring that monetisation aligns with the broader goal of strengthening their financial health and operational efficiency.

No Plans for BSNL and MTNL Privatisation

Addressing concerns over potential privatisation, Minister Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar reassured Parliament that the government has no plans to privatise BSNL or MTNL. Instead, significant investments are being directed towards modernising their infrastructure and expanding network capabilities.

Recently, the government approved ₹69.82 billion ($800 million) in additional capital expenditure for BSNL. Furthermore, a dedicated ₹60 billion package has been sanctioned for the 4G network expansion of both BSNL and MTNL. This investment aims to strengthen their market presence and enhance connectivity across India.

MTNL Share Price Performance

Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) share price gained 14.69%, rising ₹6.35 to reach ₹49.59 at 9:50 AM on the NSE, compared to its previous close of ₹43.24. MTNL opened at ₹46.30, hit a high of ₹51.18, and recorded a low of ₹46.30 during the session.

Conclusion

The monetisation of non-essential assets has provided BSNL and MTNL with a significant financial boost while ensuring efficient resource utilisation. With government backing and fresh investments, these state-owned telecom firms are poised for a revival, focusing on network expansion and improved service quality.

By ruling out privatisation, India is reinforcing its commitment to retaining BSNL and MTNL as key players in the telecom sector, ensuring competition and affordable services for millions of users.

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.

India is set to take a monumental step in securing its mineral future with the launch of its first-ever auction for exploration licenses of critical minerals.

The Ministry of Mines has announced that the auction will commence on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to reduce its dependence on imports and boost domestic exploration.

13 Exploration Blocks Up for Bidding

In this initial phase, the government will auction 13 exploration blocks, covering key minerals such as:

• Rare Earth Elements (REE)
• Zinc
• Diamond
• Copper
• Platinum Group Elements (PGE)

These minerals are crucial for India’s industrial expansion, infrastructure growth, and clean energy transition. With increasing global competition for these essential resources, India’s move to tap into its domestic reserves is a step toward self-reliance.

India’s $1.87 Billion Push for Mineral Independence

The auction comes at a time when India is aggressively pushing for an energy transition and reducing its reliance on critical mineral imports. In 2023, India classified over 20 minerals, including lithium, as “critical” due to their importance in the country’s future economic and energy needs.

Moreover, in January 2025, the government approved ₹163 billion ($1.87 billion) for developing the critical minerals sector. This investment aims to accelerate exploration and attract private sector participation through a transparent online bidding process.

MSTC Auction Platform to Host Bidding

The tender documents for Tranche I of the auction will be available on the MSTC auction platform starting March 20, 2025. This initiative aims to increase exploration efficiency, unlock deep-seated mineral deposits, and encourage foreign and domestic investments in India’s mining sector.

India’s Mineral Security and Global Role

By launching these auctions, India is not only securing its own mineral needs but also positioning itself as a key player in the global mineral supply chain. The move will:

• Enhance domestic mineral exploration
• Reduce import dependency
• Strengthen India’s industrial base
• Support renewable energy growth

Conclusion

India’s first-ever auction for critical mineral exploration is a transformative step toward self-reliance and industrial growth. By encouraging private participation and fostering a transparent bidding process, the country is set to unlock vast untapped mineral resources, ensuring a more secure and sustainable future.

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.

The BSE Sensex closed at 74,029.76 down 72.56 points (-0.10%), while the Nifty 50 ended at 22,470.50, falling 27.40 points (0.12%).

US President Donald Trump initially announced a plan to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium imports but later reversed his decision within hours, as per news reports.

Sectoral Performance

NIFTY IT index experienced a notable decline, dropping 2.91% to 36,310.65, reflecting weakness in the technology sector.

In contrast, the NIFTY Financial Services index showed resilience, gaining 0.54% to 23,327.90.

Top Gainers and Losers

IndusInd Bank’s stock rose by 4.38%, reaching ₹684.7. Tata Motors followed with a 3.12% increase, closing at ₹668.3.

On the other hand, Infosys and Wipro were among the top losers. Infosys fell by 4.26% to ₹1,590.85, while Wipro declined 3.31% to ₹268.55.

Oil Prices

As of March 12, 2025, at 03:30 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $69.93, up by 0.53%.

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.

Tata Technologies, the IT-enabled services subsidiary of the Tata Group, has announced key leadership restructuring to align with its strategic vision of supporting clients across various industries, including automotive, industrial heavy machinery, and aerospace.

As reported by PTI, these leadership changes aim to enhance efficiency, drive transformation, and accelerate innovation for the company’s global client base.

Key Leadership Appointments

According to the official announcement, Nachiket Paranjpe will take on an expanded leadership role beyond Tata Motors, focusing on transformation in embedded software and software-defined vehicle (SDV) businesses.

In the aerospace segment, Keith Matthews has been promoted to Head of Sales, where he will focus on expanding opportunities in airframe, propulsion, manufacturing, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), as well as digital transformation.

His role will also include strengthening partnerships with leading aerospace clients such as Airbus, as reported by PTI.

For the industrial heavy machinery business, Komal Chhabra has been appointed as the Head of Sales, aiming to drive growth in the sector.

Another significant appointment includes Anish Raghunandan as President and Client Partner at Tata Motors. Raghunandan will oversee Tata Technologies’ collaboration with Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), ensuring strategic alignment with the broader Tata Group vision.

CEO’s Vision for Future Growth

Commenting on the restructuring, Warren Harris, CEO and Managing Director of Tata Technologies, stated that strengthening leadership and enhancing focus on embedded software, SDVs, aerospace, and industrial heavy machinery will drive the next phase of growth for both the company and its customers.

“Our shift towards an IP-led, value-driven approach will enhance customer outcomes, accelerate premiumisation, and engineer a better future for all our stakeholders, including shareholders,” Harris added, as cited by PTI.

Conclusion

Tata Technologies’ leadership restructuring marks a strategic shift aimed at strengthening its position across key industries, including automotive, aerospace, and industrial heavy machinery.

By appointing experienced leaders to drive transformation in embedded software, software-defined vehicles, and digital innovation, the company is aligning itself with evolving market demands. CEO Warren Harris emphasised that the move will enhance customer outcomes and accelerate Tata Technologies’ growth.

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 13 marks Holika Dahan, a significant festival in India, leading to bank holidays in select states. As per RBI regulations under the Negotiable Instruments Act, banks observe holidays based on regional customs. If you have banking tasks, check if your state observes a holiday. Meanwhile, stock markets (BSE and NSE) will operate as usual without any closures.

Bank Holiday on March 13, 2025, for Holika Dahan

Banks in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand will remain closed on March 13, 2025, in observance of Holika Dahan, a significant Hindu festival.

Holika Dahan, also known as Chhoti Holi or Holika Deepak, is a traditional bonfire ritual held on the eve of Holi, the festival of colors. This ritual symbolises the triumph of good over evil, marking the burning of negativity and the welcoming of prosperity.

Ensure Smooth Banking: Check Holiday Schedule and Plan Ahead

If you have pending banking transactions, it is essential to check whether banks in your state will be closed on March 13, 2025, for Holika Dahan.

Visit your bank’s official website or check RBI’s state-wise holiday list to confirm whether your local branch will be operational. If you have urgent withdrawals, deposits, or other banking tasks, complete them before March 13 to prevent delays.

Even if physical branches are closed, most banks offer online banking, UPI, and mobile banking services, allowing customers to carry out transactions like fund transfers, bill payments, and account management without disruption.

Conclusion

While banks in certain states will observe a holiday for Holika Dahan, stock market operations will continue without interruption. It is recommended that individuals check their state’s specific bank holiday list and plan their financial activities accordingly.

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.

India’s telecom sector witnessed a shift in December 2024, as Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel added mobile subscribers, while Vodafone Idea (VIL) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. (BSNL) saw a decline, according to data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

Reliance Jio and Airtel Lead Subscriber Growth

The overall wireless subscriber base in the country rose by 20.1 lakh during the month, marking a recovery from November’s 17.7 lakh net loss.

Reliance Jio saw the highest growth, adding 39.1 lakh subscribers in December, a significant increase from 12.1 lakh additions in November. Airtel also saw a net gain of 10.3 lakh users, reversing its previous month’s loss of 11.4 lakh subscribers.

Vodafone Idea and BSNL See Declines

Meanwhile, Vodafone Idea’s subscriber loss widened to 17.2 lakh in December, compared to a 15 lakh decline in November. BSNL also experienced a decline, with its subscriber base falling to 3.11 crore from 3.26 crore in November.

Wireless Broadband Market Share

As of December 31, 2024, Jio continued to dominate the wireless broadband market, followed by Airtel, VIL, BSNL, and Intech Online.

• Jio’s subscriber base remained steady at 46.51 crore, maintaining its leadership position.
• Airtel’s subscriber base also held firm at 28.08 crore.
• VIL saw a slight increase to 12.64 crore from 12.48 crore in November.
• BSNL, however, saw its subscriber base fall further.
• Intech Online’s subscriber base remained unchanged at 2.5 lakh.

Share Price Performance

Vodafone Idea’s stock fell 4.50% to ₹7.01, at 10:25 AM on the NSE while Bharti Airtel’s share price traded 0.62% down at ₹1,652.65 on March 12.

Conclusion

The December telecom data underscores Jio and Airtel’s continued dominance, while Vodafone Idea and BSNL struggle to retain customers. With an overall increase in subscribers, the telecom sector appears to be stabilising after November’s decline.

However, the challenge for state-run operators and Vodafone Idea remains in retaining and attracting new users amid stiff competition from private players. The evolving trends in market share could shape future strategies and investments within the industry.

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.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has taken a significant step towards expediting the capital-raising process for companies by reducing the timeline for completing rights issues to 23 days.

This move is aimed at making rights issues a faster and more efficient alternative to preferential issues, which typically take around 40 days. The new rule will come into effect from April 7, 2025.

Key Changes and Implications

In a circular issued on Tuesday, SEBI outlined the revised timelines for the various activities involved in the rights issue process. These changes span from the date of board approval to the closure of the issue.

This restructuring of the process will allow companies to access funds more quickly, providing much-needed flexibility in times of financial need.

A major highlight of the new rule is the reduction of the subscription period for rights issues. Under the revised guidelines:

• Rights issues must remain open for a minimum of 7 days and can be kept open for a maximum of 30 days.
• The validation of application bids for subscribing to shares in the rights issue and the finalisation of the basis of allotment will now be carried out by stock exchanges, depositories, and the registrar to the issue.
• SEBI has also provided flexibility for allotment to specific investors, making the process more adaptable to the needs of companies and investors alike.

Impact on Companies and Investors

The revised framework is expected to significantly benefit companies looking to raise funds efficiently. With the shorter timeline:

• Companies can secure capital faster, ensuring quicker access to funds for expansion, debt repayment, or other financial needs.
• Investors will benefit from a streamlined application and allotment process, reducing uncertainties and improving liquidity.
• Stock exchanges and depositories will play a more integrated role in ensuring smooth execution, enhancing market efficiency.

Conclusion

SEBI’s decision to cut the timeline for rights issues to just 23 days marks a significant reform in India’s capital markets. This regulatory shift aligns with global best practices and will enhance the attractiveness of rights issues as a viable fundraising mechanism.

By making the process faster and more efficient, SEBI is fostering a more dynamic and investor-friendly market.

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.