Google, Paytm, PhonePe Now Charging for UPI—Here’s How Much

Google Pay has introduced a convenience fee for credit/debit card bill payments, ranging from 0.5% to 1% plus GST. This mirrors similar charges by PhonePe and Paytm. Meanwhile, direct UPI bank transfers remain fee-free.

Google Pay’s Convenience Fee Limited to Card Transactions

Google Pay has started imposing a convenience fee for payments made via credit and debit cards, affecting transactions such as electricity and cooking gas bills.

Previously, these payments were free for low-value transactions, but now the platform charges between 0.5% and 1% plus GST.

According to Google Pay’s website, this new fee applies only to payments made using credit and debit cards.

UPI-Linked Bank Account Transactions Remain Free

Despite these changes, users can continue making payments without any extra charges if they use UPI directly linked to their bank account. This ensures that regular users making bill payments or money transfers via bank accounts do not have to pay any additional fees.

Other UPI Platforms Also Charge Fees

Google Pay is not the only platform implementing additional charges. PhonePe also imposes convenience fees on card transactions for certain bill payments, such as water, piped gas, and electricity.

Meanwhile, Paytm has a broader structure, applying platform fees between ₹1 and ₹40 for various UPI transactions, including recharges, gas bills, water bills, and credit card payments.

UPI Transactions Continue to Grow

Despite these challenges, UPI continues to see robust growth. In January 2025 alone, UPI recorded 16.99 billion transactions, totalling ₹23.48 lakh crore.

This represents a 1.55% increase in transaction volume and a 1% rise in value compared to December 2024, reflecting a strong 39% year-on-year growth.

Conclusion

Google Pay’s introduction of convenience fees for credit and debit card transactions aligns it with platforms like PhonePe and Paytm, signalling a broader shift in UPI-based digital payments.

While direct UPI bank transfers remain free, users relying on card payments for bills may need to account for additional costs. Despite these changes, UPI transaction volumes continue to grow, reflecting strong adoption and government-backed support for 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.

Gold ETFs Shine: ₹10,000 Monthly SIP Grows to ₹9 Lakh in 5 Years

Gold prices have been rising, leading to higher participation in Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). According to the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), Gold ETFs saw an inflow of ₹3,751.4 crore in January 2025, a 486% jump from the previous month. This indicates a significant increase in investments in gold-backed assets.

With this, let’s take a look at how a ₹10,000 monthly SIP in Gold ETFs over 5 years would have performed.

Gold ETFs Performance: SIP Growth Over 5 Years

Fund Name NAV (₹) Investment Amount (₹) SIP Value in 5 Years (₹) XIRR (%)
LIC MF Gold Exchange Traded Fund 7880.1808 6,10,000 9,51,093 18.01%
Invesco India Gold ETF 7621.6837 6,10,000 9,45,211 17.75%
Axis Gold ETF 72.928 6,10,000 9,41,597 17.60%
ABSL Gold ETF 76.723 6,10,000 9,39,904 17.52%
ICICI Pru Gold ETF 73.9095 6,00,000 9,20,626 17.13%
SBI Gold ETF 73.8182 6,00,000 9,17,387 16.99%

Note: This table presents the investment performance of Gold ETFs over 5 years, year-to-date as of February 20, 2025.

Top Performing Gold ETFs Over 5 Years- ₹10,000 SIP

  • LIC MF Gold Exchange Traded Fund

The LIC MF Gold ETF emerged as the best-performing Gold ETF, delivering an XIRR of 18.01% over the past five years. With its steady asset allocation and strong correlation to gold price movements, it has provided investors with higher returns compared to other Gold ETFs.

  • Invesco India Gold ETF

The Invesco India Gold ETF has delivered an XIRR of 17.75%, making it the second-best performer in this category. Launched in 2010, this fund has maintained consistent performance, benefiting from gold price appreciation and stable demand.

  • Axis Gold ETF

The Axis Gold ETF secured its position among the top three Gold ETFs, generating an XIRR of 17.60% over five years. This fund has capitalised on gold price fluctuations, ensuring stable returns for investors.

Conclusion

Gold ETFs have seen significant growth over the past five years, with a ₹10,000 monthly SIP accumulating over ₹9 lakh. The rise in gold prices and higher inflows into Gold ETFs, as reported in January 2025, indicate increased participation in this asset class.

 

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.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully.

Closing Bell: Sensex Down 424 Points, Nifty Down at 22,795 on February 21, 2025

The BSE Sensex dropped 424.90 points (-0.56%) to settle at 75,311.06, while the Nifty 50 declined 117.25 points (-0.51%) to close at 22,795.90.

India’s benchmark indices opened weaker on Friday, tracking declines in Asian markets. The drop extended this month’s losses, fueled by worries over possible US retaliatory tariffs and persistent foreign outflows, weighing on investor confidence.

Top Gainers and Losers

Hindalco and Tata Steel emerged as the top gainers, with Hindalco rising 2.09% to ₹652.15 and Tata Steel gaining 1.85% to ₹140.60. Strong trading volumes, particularly for Tata Steel, which saw over 4.19 crore shares exchanged, contributed to their upward momentum.

On the flip side, M&M and Adani Ports were among the top losers, with M&M falling 6.20% to ₹2,663.50 and Adani Ports slipping 2.67% to ₹1,082. Weak investor sentiment and sectoral pressures likely contributed to their declines.

Broader Market Indices Performance

The Nifty Midcap Select index fell 1.69% to 11,198.90, while the Nifty Microcap 250 slipped 0.51% to 20,758.10, reflecting cautious investor sentiment in smaller stocks.

The Nifty Pharma index dropped 1.92% to 20,385.65, likely due to profit booking and sectoral weakness. On the other hand, Nifty Metal rose 1.02% to 8,609.70, driven by strong demand and positive global cues.

Oil Prices

As of February 21, 2025, at 04:10 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $75.87, down by 0.80%.

Conclusion

The Indian stock market ended on a weaker note on February 21, 2025, with both Sensex and Nifty extending their recent losses amid global uncertainties and foreign outflows.

Broader market indices also reflected caution, with midcaps and microcaps seeing declines, while the metal sector remained a bright spot. Moving forward, investors will closely watch global developments, particularly trade policies and foreign investment trends, for market direction.

 

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.

 

Investing Made Easier: AMFI Introduces Chhoti SIP, Tarun Yojana and MITRA

The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) has rolled out three new initiatives Chhoti SIP, Tarun Yojana, and MITRA aimed at increasing financial inclusion, raising investor awareness, and assisting in the recovery of unclaimed investments.

These initiatives are in line with SEBI and AMFI’s vision to make mutual fund investments more accessible across different sections of society.

Key Initiatives Explained

  • Chhoti SIP – Making Mutual Funds Accessible

The Chhoti SIP initiative introduces a ₹250 Systematic Investment Plan (SIP), allowing individuals—especially first-time investors and those from underprivileged segments—to begin investing in mutual funds with a lower entry barrier.

  • Tarun Yojana – Integrating Financial Education

Tarun Yojana focuses on incorporating financial literacy into school curriculums, ensuring young students develop early knowledge about investments and money management.

  • MITRA – Recovering Lost Investments

MITRA (Mutual Fund Investment Tracing and Retrieval Assistant) helps investors and their legal heirs track and reclaim inactive or forgotten mutual fund holdings, ensuring rightful asset ownership.

The Growing Mutual Fund Industry and Challenges

India’s mutual fund industry has seen remarkable growth, with assets under management (AUM) surpassing ₹65 lakh crore, reflecting a growing preference for systematic, long-term investments.

However, many potential investors still face barriers like lack of awareness and accessibility constraints, keeping them outside the formal investment ecosystem.

AMFI has been actively working to bridge this gap through educational initiatives, regulatory collaborations, and innovative solutions. The latest initiatives reinforce AMFI’s mission to make mutual funds a widely available and trusted investment tool for every Indian.

By enhancing financial literacy, simplifying investments, and ensuring easier retrieval of lost assets, AMFI is taking another step toward expanding financial inclusion and securing long-term financial stability for investors across all demographics.

Conclusion

AMFI’s latest initiatives—Chhoti SIP, Tarun Yojana, and MITRA—mark a significant step toward increasing financial inclusion and investor participation in mutual funds. By making investments more accessible, integrating financial literacy at an early stage, and helping investors retrieve unclaimed assets, these initiatives address key challenges in India’s investment landscape.

As the mutual fund industry continues to grow, such efforts will play a crucial role in empowering individuals with better financial security and wealth-building 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.

HPCL Plans Major Refinery Upgrades and Green Energy Investments

Hindustan Petroleum plans to invest ₹90,000 crore by 2030, focusing on refinery expansions and clean energy. The company is also securing crude supply deals, including potential partnerships with US firms.

HPCL’s Expansion Plans and Future Strategies

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) is set to invest ₹90,000 crore by 2030, with a significant portion of 30%-35% allocated to clean energy projects, as per news reports. 

This move aligns with its broader strategy of increasing refinery capacity, diversifying crude sourcing, and strengthening its green energy portfolio.

Managing Crude Supply Amid Geopolitical Shifts

HPCL had relied on Russian crude for 35%-40% of its total imports. However, with US sanctions affecting supply and Russian discounts narrowing, the company has adjusted its procurement strategy. 

HPCL has already secured its crude requirements until May 2025 and will continue evaluating opportunities, including potential long-term deals with US entities, as per news reports.

Investment and Expansion Plans

For FY26, HPCL has earmarked ₹12,000-14,000 crore in capital expenditure. Its broader ₹90,000 crore investment plan includes major refinery expansions. 

The Mumbai refinery now operates at 9.8 million tonnes, while the Vizag refinery has been expanded from 8.3 million to 15 million tonnes, with plans for a further 20% capacity increase.

HPCL is also setting up a ₹4,700 crore lube expansion project at its Mumbai refinery and a deasphalting plant to boost bitumen production, reducing imports and increasing margins by approximately $3 per barrel.

Renewable Energy Goals

HPCL aims to scale up its renewable energy capacity significantly. From 200 MW in FY24, the company targets 400 MW by FY25 and expects to cross 1 GW in FY26. 

By 2030, it plans to establish 10 GW of renewable energy capacity and expand its biofuels production to 1 million tonnes. With a total refining capacity reaching nearly 50 million tonnes.

Conclusion

HPCL’s ambitious ₹90,000 crore investment plan underscores its commitment to strengthening India’s energy sector through refinery expansions and a significant push toward clean energy. 

By diversifying crude sourcing and securing strategic partnerships, including potential US deals, the company is ensuring a stable supply chain despite geopolitical uncertainties.

 

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.

Adani Enterprises Share Price in Focus as Arm Adani Road Transport Expands Operations

Adani Road Transport Limited (ARTL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises, has established Indore Gujarat Road Limited (IGRL) with a paid-up capital of ₹1 lakh. IGRL will focus on road infrastructure projects, the company said in a press release on the stock exchanges.

Infrastructure Subsidiary Details

Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) is making headlines after its wholly owned subsidiary, Adani Road Transport Limited (ARTL), incorporated a new step-down subsidiary, Indore Gujarat Road Limited (IGRL). This move reinforces Adani’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the road infrastructure sector.

According to the official filing, IGRL was incorporated on February 15, 2025, with an authorised and paid-up share capital of ₹1,00,000 (10,000 equity shares). The company has yet to commence business operations, and its primary objective will be to undertake infrastructure-related projects and associated activities.

Strategic Expansion in Infrastructure

The incorporation of IGRL aligns with Adani Enterprises’ broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the transportation sector. ARTL holds a 100% stake in IGRL, making it a wholly owned subsidiary. The company aims to develop road infrastructure and support India’s growing transportation needs.

No regulatory approvals were required for this move, and the transaction does not involve any related-party considerations. The acquisition was made without any cash consideration or share swap, as ARTL established IGRL as a new entity rather than acquiring an existing business.

Adani Enterprises Share Price Performance

Adani Enterprises Limited’s share price traded at ₹2,147.80 as of February 21, 2025, at 2:17 PM, reflecting a decline of ₹31.20 (-1.43%) from its previous close of ₹2,179.00. The stock opened at ₹2,190.45 and reached an intraday high of ₹2,199.60, while the lowest point of the session was ₹2,140.

Conclusion

Adani Enterprises remains in focus as its subsidiary, Adani Road Transport, expands with the incorporation of Indore Gujarat Road Limited. This move strengthens Adani’s presence in infrastructure development, aligning with its long-term growth strategy. The newly formed entity is yet to commence operations but is expected to play a key role in road infrastructure.

 

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.

Nifty Total Market Index Spotlight: Which Industries Are Driving India’s Growth?

The Nifty Total Market Index provides a broad overview of India’s stock market by tracking 750 companies across large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and micro-cap segments.

This index, which includes all stocks from the Nifty 500 and Nifty Microcap 250, offers exposure to various industries that drive India’s economic growth.

Key sectors such as financial services, information technology, oil & gas, FMCG, and healthcare play a major role in shaping market trends.

Let’s take a look at the weightage of different industries in the Nifty Total Market Index fund and how they have performed over the last 2 years.

Top 10 Sectors by Weightage in Nifty Total Market Index

Sector Weight (%)
Financial Services 28.55%
Information Technology 10.12%
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels 7.39%
Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) 6.94%
Automobile and Auto Components 6.87%
Healthcare 6.50%
Capital Goods 5.94%
Consumer Services 3.67%
Metals & Mining 3.21%
Power 3.13%

Note: The data is as of January 31, 2025.

Performance of the Top 5 Sectors in the Nifty Total Market Index

Sector Return in 2024 (%) Return in 2023 (%)
Nifty Financial Services 9.60% 18.70%
Nifty IT 21.40% 24.10%
Nifty Energy 4.90% 29.40%
Nifty FMCG -0.90% 29%
Nifty Auto 22.80% 47.60%

Note: The data represents annual returns for calendar years 2023 and 2024.

How To Get Exposure to The Nifty Total Market Index

Investors can gain exposure to the Nifty Total Market Index through mutual funds and ETFs. Some of the top mutual funds tracking this index include Bandhan Nifty Total Market Index Fund and Mirae Asset Nifty Total Market Index Fund. Angel One MF has launched two new funds that consider Nifty Total Market TRI to be the benchmark.

The NFO for Angel One Nifty Total Market Index Fund, which began on February 10, 2025, closes today, February 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM

For those looking to invest via ETFs, the Angel One Nifty Total Market ETF—which is also a new fund offer—is currently the only ETF providing exposure to the Nifty Total Market Index. This too is in its New Fund Offer (NFO) stage, running from February 10 to February 21, 2025.

Conclusion

The Nifty Total Market Index offers a broad view of India’s stock market by covering key sectors. Over the past 2 years, sectors like Nifty IT and Nifty Auto have delivered strong returns, while Nifty Financial Services and Nifty Energy have shown steady performance.

These sectoral trends highlight the diverse growth drivers of the Indian economy. As India’s economy evolves, tracking sector performance through the Nifty Total Market Index can provide valuable insights into long-term growth trends and investment 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.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully.

Mid-Day Top Gainers and Losers on Feb 21, 2025: Hindalco, Leads the Gains, M&M Among Top Losers

On February 21, 2025, as of 1:15 PM, the Sensex had dropped 465.71 to 75,270.25, while the Nifty50 was down 138.25 points at 22,774.90.

Mid-Day Top Gainers

Symbol LTP % Chng Volume
HINDALCO 655.5 2.61 50,08,855
TATASTEEL 141.26 2.33 2,56,19,574
LT 3324.55 1.49 9,35,970
EICHERMOT 4944.55 1.15 2,00,296
HCLTECH 1703.3 0.93 7,13,274

  • Hindalco Industries

Hindalco Industries Limited opened at ₹639.20 and reached a high of ₹656.20, while the low for the day was ₹637.95. The previous close was ₹638.80, marking a current increase of ₹16.40 (2.57%).

  • Tata Steel

Tata Steel Limited opened at ₹137.91 and reached a high of ₹141.50, while the low for the day was ₹137.15. The previous close was ₹138.04, marking a current increase of ₹3.15 (2.28%).

  • Larsen & Toubro

Larsen & Toubro Limited opened at ₹3,275.80 and reached a high of ₹3,324.90, while the low for the day was ₹3,270.90. The previous close was ₹3,275.80, marking a current increase of ₹46.30 (1.41%).

  • Eicher Motors

Eicher Motors Limited opened at ₹4,888 and reached a high of ₹4,982.90, while the low for the day was ₹4,855 . The previous close was ₹4,888.40, marking a current increase of ₹55.20 (1.13%).

  • HCL Technologies

HCL Technologies Limited opened at ₹1,690 and reached a high of ₹1,704.15, while the low for the day was ₹1,685.15. The previous close was ₹1,687.55, marking a current increase of ₹15.40 (0.91%).

Mid-Day Top Losers

Symbol LTP % Chng Volume
M&M 2671.9 -5.9 61,43,400
WIPRO 305.9 -2.36 66,41,018
TATAMOTORS 674 -2.29 1,03,32,216
ADANIPORTS 1087.55 -2.17 15,74,981
BPCL 253.1 -2.13 46,39,122

  • Mahindra & Mahindra

Mahindra & Mahindra Limited opened at ₹2,815.20 and reached a high of ₹2,815.20, while the low for the day was ₹2,653.35. The previous close was ₹2,839.45, marking a current decrease of ₹169.65 (-5.97%).

  • Wipro

Wipro Limited opened at ₹312.80 and reached a high of ₹312.80, while the low for the day was ₹305.35. The previous close was ₹313.30, marking a current decrease of ₹7.45 (-2.38%).

  • Tata Motors

Tata Motors Limited opened at ₹686 and reached a high of ₹690, while the low for the day was ₹672.65. The previous close was ₹689.80, marking a current decrease of ₹15.75 (-2.28%).

  • Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited opened at ₹1,111.70 and reached a high of ₹1,119.10, while the low for the day was ₹1,084.75. The previous close was ₹1,111.70, marking a current decrease of ₹24.85 (-2.24%).

  • Bharat Petroleum Corporation

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited opened at ₹258 and reached a high of ₹259.40, while the low for the day was ₹251.25. The previous close was ₹258.60, marking a current decrease of ₹5.60 (-2.17%).

Conclusion

At midday on February 21, 2025, the stock market reflected mixed sentiments, with some stocks witnessing strong gains while others faced significant losses. Hindalco, Tata Steel, and Larsen & Toubro led the gainers, indicating strength in the metals and infrastructure sectors. On the other hand, Mahindra & Mahindra, Wipro, and Tata Motors were among the top losers, suggesting pressure in the automobile and IT 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.

How Much Did Gold ETFs Gain in a Year? Find Out Here!

Gold ETFs posted up to 40% returns in the past year, led by UTI Gold ETF at 39.75%. Inflows surged 486%, and AUM jumped 87% YoY, as investors turned to gold amid inflation and market volatility.

Gold ETFs See Strong One-Year Returns

Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have recorded notable returns over the past year, with some reaching up to 40%.

The UTI Gold ETF reported the highest return at 39.75%, followed by LIC MF Gold ETF at 39.17%. Other ETFs in the category included HDFC Gold ETF (38.90%), Kotak Gold ETF (38.87%), and Axis Gold ETF (38.41%).

Gold ETF Performance and Investor Inflows

As of February 19, 2025, gold ETFs have witnessed significant investor interest, with monthly inflows jumping by 486%—rising from ₹640 crore in December to ₹3,751 crore in January.

On a yearly basis, inflows increased by 471% compared to ₹657 crore in January 2024. The assets under management (AUM) for gold ETFs also saw a sharp 87% year-on-year growth, reaching ₹51,839 crore from ₹27,778 crore in the previous year.

Top 5 Gold ETFs Based on 1-Year Return

Gold ETF Scheme 1-Year Return (%)
UTI Gold ETF 39.75%
LIC MF Gold ETF 39.17%
HDFC Gold ETF 38.90%
Kotak Gold ETF 38.87%
Invesco India Gold ETF 38.55%

Note: The one-year returns are as of February 19, 2025.

Conclusion

Gold ETFs have seen a sharp rise in investor participation, with monthly inflows surging 486% and assets under management growing 87% YoY, reflecting increased interest amid inflation concerns and market volatility.

While past performance provides insights into market trends, investors should conduct thorough research and assess their financial goals before making investment decisions.

 

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.

RVNL Share Price in Focus as Consortium Seals BharatNet Deal With BSNL

Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL) partners with HFCL and Aerial Telecom to sign a ₹13,253 crore PIA deal with BSNL for BharatNet expansion, as RVNL reports a 13.1% YoY profit dip in Q3FY25 despite steady margins.

RVNL Consortium Secures Key Role in BharatNet Connectivity Expansion

Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL), in collaboration with HFCL Ltd and Aerial Telecom Solutions Pvt. Ltd, has signed a Project Implementation Agency (PIA) agreement with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL).

This partnership focuses on developing, upgrading, operating, and maintaining the middle-mile network of BharatNet, a government initiative aimed at enhancing broadband connectivity across India.

RVNL to Expand BharatNet’s Rural Reach

The consortium won the contract by emerging as the lowest bidder for the project, valued at approximately ₹13,253 crore. The agreement includes a 3 year construction phase followed by 10 years of maintenance.

The maintenance fee structure is set at 5.5% of the capital expenditure annually for the first five years, increasing to 6.5% for the next five years.

This project is a crucial part of BharatNet’s ongoing expansion efforts to improve internet connectivity in rural and remote regions, supporting the Digital India initiative.

The successful execution of this plan is expected to significantly boost broadband accessibility, fostering economic growth and digital inclusion in underserved communities.

Rail Vikas Nigam Q3 Results

Meanwhile, Rail Vikas Nigam reported a 13.1% year-on-year (YoY) decline in net profit, which stood at ₹311.6 crore for the third quarter ending December 31, 2024. This profit decline occurred despite maintaining stable EBITDA margins.

The company’s revenue for Q3FY25 saw a 2.6% YoY decline, reaching ₹4,567.4 crore. Despite the revenue and profit decline, RVNL has upheld its revenue forecast for FY25 at ₹22,000 crore, indicating confidence in meeting its financial targets.

RVNL Share Price Performance

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) share price traded at ₹382.40, reflecting a gain of ₹0.85 or 0.22% at 10:05 AM on the NSE from its previous close of ₹381.55. The stock opened at ₹377.15 and reached an intraday high of ₹393, while the lowest price recorded so far is ₹376.35.

Conclusion

RVNL’s partnership with BSNL for the ₹13,253 crore BharatNet expansion marks a significant step in strengthening India’s digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.

As the company continues to secure large-scale projects and expand its role in national infrastructure development, its long-term growth prospects remain strong, aligning with India’s broader digital and economic expansion goals.

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.