JSW Energy’s Largest Greenfield Project of 1600 MW Thermal Plant Announced in West Bengal

JSW Energy plans to develop a 1,600 MW thermal power plant in Salboni, West Bengal. This marks the company’s largest greenfield venture to date and its first significant move into the eastern region of India. The project was awarded through a competitive bidding process, followed by the signing of a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the West Bengal government.

Meeting the Region’s Rising Energy Demand

In a recent media interaction, Sharad Mahendra, Joint Managing Director and CEO of JSW Energy, highlighted the energy consumption trends in West Bengal. He revealed that the state’s current per capita electricity consumption is approximately 650 units per year, just about half of the national average of 1,200 units.

With the state’s focus on rapid industrial development, Mahendra stated that West Bengal’s power demand is projected to double over the next 10 years, surpassing the expected national growth rate.

Project Cost

“The project cost is ₹16,000 crore, and it is the largest greenfield investment by the company. It also holds strategic significance,” JSW Energy’s Joint Managing Director Sharad Mahendra said.

Read More: JSW Energy Finalises Acquisition of 4.7 GW Renewable Energy Portfolio from O2 Power

 

Growth Drivers: Industrialisation, Urbanisation, and New-Age Sectors

The surge in power demand will be underpinned by West Bengal’s industrialisation initiatives. Emerging sectors such as manufacturing, data centres, artificial intelligence, and services are set to play a crucial role. Urbanisation will further fuel the need for reliable energy infrastructure.

Thermal Power’s Continued Relevance

Although JSW Energy is actively expanding its renewable energy portfolio—including solar, wind, and battery storage- Mahendra underscored the enduring importance of thermal power for providing consistent, round-the-clock electricity.

He also referred to a recent shift in central government policy that increased the country’s targeted thermal power capacity addition to 80 GW by 2032, highlighting the continuing role of conventional energy in India’s power mix.

Market Reaction

As of 1:34 PM on April 21, 2025, JSW Energy’s share price has risen by more than 1% and is trading at ₹512.15.

Conclusion 

The 1,600 MW thermal plant marks a significant step in JSW Energy’s expansion into eastern India. It reflects the growing energy needs of West Bengal’s industrial 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.

Equity Mutual Funds Log Historic ₹4.17 Lakh Crore Net Inflows in FY25

The Indian mutual fund industry marked an unprecedented milestone in FY25, with equity-oriented schemes receiving record-breaking net inflows of ₹4.17 lakh crore. This figure more than doubled the inflows from the previous fiscal year (₹1.84 lakh crore in FY24), representing a staggering 127% year-on-year surge.

This surge reflects a heightened investor interest in equity markets, supported by positive market sentiment, increasing retail participation, and a broader acceptance of mutual funds as a long-term investment vehicle.

Sectoral/Thematic Funds Take the Spotlight

Among all equity fund categories, sectoral and thematic funds attracted the highest net inflows, totalling ₹1.47 lakh crore during FY25. This segment recorded a remarkable 218% growth in net inflows compared to the previous year.

Investors appeared to be aligning their investments with structural and thematic trends, possibly viewing specific sectors as long-term growth opportunities. This trend significantly contributed to the massive rise in equity inflows.

Strong Inflows Across Equity Fund Categories

Aside from sectoral/thematic funds, other equity categories also witnessed significant interest from investors:

These figures suggest broad-based confidence across the equity fund spectrum, cutting across different market capitalisation segments.

Noteworthy Growth in Assets Under Management (AUM)

The rise in net inflows also translated into notable growth in assets under management (AUM) across several fund categories:

  • Sectoral/thematic funds saw the highest AUM growth of 51.59%. 
  • Multi cap funds followed with a growth of 37.87%. 
  • Large & mid cap funds posted a 25.82% increase in AUM. 

This growth not only reflects new investments but also the capital appreciation achieved during the financial year.

Read More: Lowest Mutual Fund Equity Deployment Since July 2023 Recorded in March 2025

Open-Ended Schemes Witness Broad-Based Surge

Across all open-ended mutual fund categories, net inflows surged to ₹8.18 lakh crore in FY25, up from ₹3.68 lakh crore in FY24. This 122% increase points to a broader trend of investor preference for managed funds across debt, equity, and hybrid products.

The data underlines the mutual fund industry’s expanding role in channelising household savings into capital markets.

Conclusion

FY25 stands out as a historic year for the Indian mutual fund industry, especially for equity-oriented schemes. The record inflows and growth in AUM across multiple categories reflect growing investor confidence and a shift towards long-term market participation. While several factors may have contributed to this momentum, the industry’s continued evolution and investor education efforts have played a crucial role in achieving this milestone.

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

SEBI to Simplify Scheme Categories; Plans Tarun Yojana for New and Low-Income Investors from Small Towns

At the CII Annual Mutual Fund Summit 2025, Manoj Kumar, Executive Director of SEBI, shared that the regulatory body is reworking mutual fund scheme categorisation. He acknowledged that the current labels used to classify mutual fund schemes are not easily understood, particularly by first-time or retail investors.

Kumar stated that SEBI’s goal is to make investment choices more intuitive and accessible for the average Indian, aiming to boost investor confidence and participation across all segments of society.

Current Categorisation Seen as a Barrier

The existing mutual fund scheme categorisation, though designed with regulatory clarity in mind, is often considered too technical for everyday investors. This complexity may deter new participants, especially in semi-urban and rural regions where financial literacy levels vary significantly.

Simplification of scheme names and categories is expected to address this gap, enabling investors to make more informed and confident decisions.

Clause 24B Under Review: A Move Towards Flexibility

During the same panel discussion, Kumar also addressed Clause 24B of SEBI’s mutual fund regulations, which outlines restrictions on the business activities of asset management companies (AMCs). This clause currently prevents AMCs from acting as trustees of any mutual fund and restricts them from undertaking non-related business activities unless those are advisory or management services aligned with pooled assets like insurance or pension funds.

Describing it as the “only clause that begins with the word ‘Restrictions’,” Kumar noted that it has often been perceived as a constraint on the operational flexibility of AMCs. SEBI is now reviewing this clause to ease unnecessary limitations while still safeguarding investor interests.

Read More: SEBI Plans to Simplify Mutual Fund Norms and Classification

Inclusive Growth with New Products Like Tarun Yojana

SEBI, in collaboration with asset management companies, is also focusing on developing targeted mutual fund products such as the Tarun Yojana. This scheme is aimed at attracting investors from smaller towns and those with modest incomes. The move underscores SEBI’s broader objective to make mutual fund investing more inclusive and to bridge the gap between urban and rural investor participation.

A More Collaborative Regulatory Environment

The panel discussion also highlighted a shift in the regulatory climate. According to participants, the mutual fund industry now enjoys a more cooperative and consultative relationship with SEBI. This open dialogue between regulators and industry players is seen as crucial in ensuring that reforms are both progressive and practical.

Conclusion

SEBI’s renewed approach towards simplifying mutual fund categories and re-evaluating restrictive regulations signals a shift towards greater accessibility and flexibility. By addressing investor comprehension and easing operational hurdles for AMCs, these changes aim to foster wider participation in mutual fund investments, particularly among first-time and small-town investors.

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

5 Reasons Why Indian Markets Are Booming – And What Investors Must Know Before Jumping In!

The Indian stock market is witnessing an electrifying rally that’s catching everyone’s attention. The Nifty50 has surged past the 23,800 mark — a sharp 6% jump in just 4 trading sessions since April 9, 2025. What’s fueling this bull run? Let’s break down the five big drivers behind this market madness — and what smart investors should be watching closely.

1. Banking Boom: Q4 Earnings Spark Optimism

The banking sector is leading the charge, with strong Q4 performance acting as a confidence booster. Investor sentiment is riding high on expectations of robust results from major banks. A healthy financial sector often signals broader economic resilience — and the markets are pricing that in.

2. Big Money is Back: FIIs Pour in ₹10,000 Crore

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) have made a dramatic comeback, buying Indian equities worth nearly ₹10,000 crore for two days straight. This renewed foreign interest shows growing confidence in India’s growth story — and it’s lighting up the markets.

3. Global Winds Shift: US-Japan Trade Talks Hint at a Win for India

Progress in US-Japan trade negotiations has been a surprising positive twist, especially with US President Donald Trump stepping into the talks. If India emerges as a strategic partner in these discussions, it could open new doors for trade and investments — another bullish cue for the markets.

4. Dollar Drops: Emerging Markets Get a Green Light

The US Dollar Index has slid to 99.56 from its 2025 high of 109.88. A weaker dollar makes emerging markets like India more attractive to foreign investors. As capital starts flowing in, Indian equities are benefiting from the global liquidity wave.

5. Oil Relief: Stable Crude Keeps Inflation in Check

Brent crude is holding steady at around $66 per barrel — a welcome development for India, which imports most of its oil. Lower fuel prices reduce inflationary pressure, ease the cost burden on businesses, and create more room for economic growth.

Also Read: TCS vs Infosys vs Wipro: Which IT Giant Delivered Highest Profits in Q4FY25?

Investor Takeaway

While the rally is exciting, investors should avoid getting swept up by euphoria. These tailwinds are promising, but markets can be volatile. Monitor global cues, earnings reports, and FII activity closely. The key to long-term wealth isn’t just timing the market — it’s time in the market, backed by informed decisions.

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

Create in India Challenge Becomes Global Phenomenon with Nearly 1 Lakh Registrations

The Create in India Challenge (CIC), launched under the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), has transformed from a national initiative into a global movement. With nearly 1 lakh registrations from across the world, including over 1,100 international participants, CIC Season 1 has struck a powerful chord with creators, technologists, and innovators.

All 32 challenges under CIC are now closed, and anticipation is building for the grand finale at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, scheduled from May 1 to 4, 2025. The event will culminate in the WAVES Creator Awards ceremony, honouring excellence in creativity across domains.

Global Reach: Participants from Over 60 Countries

CIC has attracted attention from every continent, with entries from over 60 countries. From this rich talent pool, 750 finalists have been selected to exhibit their work at Creatosphere, a platform showcasing innovation across animation, comics, artificial intelligence, XR, gaming, music, and more.

International highlights include:

  • 43 global finalists representing over 20 countries

  • Strong representation from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Tajikistan (6 finalists each)

  • Finalists from Indonesia and the Maldives (5 each), and Mauritius (4)

  • Other participating countries include the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Russia, Canada, Argentina, and more

This widespread international presence brings an inclusive and collaborative flavour to WAVES 2025, underlining India’s growing stature in the global creative economy.

Pan-India Participation from Every State and Union Territory

The challenge saw nationwide engagement, with participants hailing from all 28 Indian states and 8 Union Territories. From the hills of Himachal Pradesh to the coasts of Kerala, and from Gujarat to Meghalaya, the finalist list paints a vivid map of regional talent and diversity.

This expansive domestic footprint demonstrates the depth of India’s creative reservoir and the inclusive nature of the competition.

Celebrating Youth and Inclusivity

The Create in India Challenge has become a canvas for young dreamers and changemakers. Most of the participants are in their 20s, comprising college students, budding professionals, and teenage innovators. Remarkably, the age range of finalists spans from 12 to 66 years, proving that creativity knows no bounds.

This wide generational spectrum reflects CIC’s core ethos—a platform for all.

Challenges that Bridge Heritage and Innovation

The challenges covered an impressive spectrum of themes, marrying tradition with cutting-edge technology. Key highlights include:

  • Innovate 2 Educate Challenge – promoting accessible education solutions

  • Make the World Wear Khadi – reviving India’s textile heritage for a global audience

  • India: A Bird’s Eye View – using drones and storytelling to empower communities, led by ‘Drone Didis’

Each challenge reflects a deep commitment to innovation, social impact, and cultural preservation.

Read More: Startup Mahakumbh 2025: Goyal’s Call to Move Beyond Ice Cream and Instant Delivery in Startup India

Conclusion

As WAVES 2025 draws near, the Create in India Challenge has clearly grown into more than a competition. It is a movement—an embodiment of India’s creative confidence, its global ambition, and its inclusive spirit.

The blend of Indian and international creators has made CIC a beacon of collaborative innovation. It perfectly aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision that “WAVES should reach every home and every heart.”

With its massive participation and inspirational themes, the Create in India Challenge stands as a landmark initiative that celebrates not just talent, but also purpose, diversity, and the future of global media and entertainment.

 

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. 

 

New India Co-operative Bank Crisis: Depositors Urge Revival or Merger

The New India Co-operative Bank (NICB), once a trusted financial institution for thousands of account holders, finds itself in troubled waters following a large-scale embezzlement case involving Rs 122 crore. On February 13, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed restrictions on the bank, severely limiting withdrawals and triggering widespread concern among depositors.

Depositors Unite Under NICB Depositors’ Foundation

In response to the crisis, affected account holders formed the NICB Depositors’ Foundation, a body representing the interests of the depositors. The foundation has been at the forefront of efforts to seek a resolution, either through a revival plan or a merger with a more stable financial institution.

Led by Foundation President TN Raghunatha, a delegation of depositors recently met with key RBI-appointed advisors at the bank’s corporate office in Prabhadevi. These advisors — Ravindra Chavan and Ravindra Sapra — have been tasked with assessing the bank’s condition and exploring possible solutions.

Dialogue with RBI-Appointed Advisors

During the meeting, the advisors conveyed a cautiously optimistic stance. While they did not provide specific details, they confirmed that multiple options, including a potential merger, are actively under consideration. They also assured the delegation that all concerns and formal representations would be forwarded to the Reserve Bank along with their own observations and recommendations.

Read More: New India Co-op Bank Scam: 8th Accused Promised 50% Interest on Stolen Funds

Relief Demanded for Hardship-Burdened Depositors

One of the most pressing demands made by the foundation was an increase in the withdrawal limit, currently capped at ₹25,000 per account. The foundation urged that this be raised to ₹1.5 lakh, especially to support senior citizens and co-operative housing societies who are facing significant financial stress due to the ongoing restrictions.

Further Engagement with RBI Officials

The delegation also met with three Assistant General Managers from the RBI’s Supervision Department at the central bank’s Maker Chambers office in Cuffe Parade. According to Foundation Vice President Rajani Pitale, the officials were receptive to their concerns and promised to escalate the matter to senior authorities.

Additionally, a formal copy of the depositors’ representation was submitted to the Cuffe Parade police station as part of the Foundation’s continued advocacy.

Arrests Made in Connection with the Scam

As investigations continue, the Mumbai Police have arrested eight individuals in connection with the Rs 122 crore embezzlement. These developments highlight the severity of the financial misconduct and reinforce the urgency for resolution measures to protect depositors’ interests.

Conclusion

While no final decision has been made public, the depositors are pressing for clarity and timely action. The ongoing dialogue between depositors and regulatory authorities signals an intent to find a solution that restores confidence in the co-operative banking system.

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.

Clarified: How GST Applies to Your Housing Society’s Monthly Maintenance Fees

In response to rising concerns among apartment residents, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has clarified the applicability of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on housing society maintenance charges. The clarification aims to eliminate confusion regarding whether GST applies solely to the portion exceeding ₹7,500 or the entire contribution when certain thresholds are met.

Key Thresholds for GST on RWA Maintenance

As per the prevailing GST framework, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) are obligated to collect and remit GST on monthly maintenance charges when both of the following conditions are satisfied:

  1. Monthly contribution exceeds ₹7,500 per unit.

  2. Total annual turnover of the RWA surpasses ₹20 lakh.

If both conditions are met, the entire maintenance charge—not just the amount exceeding ₹7,500—is subject to GST at the applicable rate. This clarification from the CBIC aligns with earlier notifications and intends to bring consistency and transparency in GST compliance for RWAs and apartment owners.

Read More: Government Confirms No GST on UPI Payments Over ₹2,000

Not a New Rule, But a Reaffirmation

This is not the first time the government has addressed this issue. A similar clarification was previously issued through a Ministry of Finance circular dated 22 July 2019. It had affirmed that RWAs would not be required to charge GST if individual contributions remained below ₹7,500, regardless of the association’s total turnover.

The ₹7,500 exemption threshold has been in place since January 2018, when it was revised from ₹5,000, providing a wider relief to apartment owners in terms of GST liability.

The Impact of the Clarification

Given that this clarification is a reiteration of an existing regulation rather than a new imposition, it is not expected to increase monthly outgoings for residents. Most RWAs and gated communities that fall within the purview of these provisions are already complying with the stated GST norms.

Thus, the CBIC’s move is more about reinforcing awareness than introducing any new burden.

Kerala High Court Ruling on GST for Member-Based Associations

In a parallel and significant development, the Kerala High Court in April 2025 delivered a judgement declaring a 2021 amendment to the Central GST Act as unconstitutional. The struck-down amendment had allowed for the imposition of GST on services rendered by clubs or associations to their own members.

The case was brought forward by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which operates internal welfare schemes for its members. The IMA argued that such member-funded activities do not constitute a commercial ‘supply’ and should not be taxed under the GST regime.

The court upheld this interpretation, stating that the principle of mutuality, where contributors and beneficiaries are the same, should not be disregarded, thereby setting a precedent for similar associations across the country.

Conclusion

The recent CBIC clarification brings clarity, not change, to the GST treatment of housing society maintenance charges. Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court’s ruling on GST levied on internal services among members may potentially influence future policy direction for member-based associations. Apartment owners and RWAs should remain informed about these legal and regulatory developments to ensure compliance and clarity in tax-related matters.

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.

RBI Governor Flags Liquidity Risks in India’s Money Market

During the 24th FIMMDA-PDAI Annual Conference held in Bali, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra raised a red flag regarding the shrinking liquidity in the call money market. This tightening of liquidity conditions, he noted, could hinder the seamless transmission of monetary policy decisions and limit the potential benefits of current policy rate cuts for the broader economy.

Governor Malhotra emphasised that the efficiency of monetary transmission depends heavily on the functioning of the short-term money market, particularly the call money segment, which plays a critical role in interbank lending.

Asymmetries Among Key Short-Term Rates

One of the major concerns highlighted by the governor was the persistent asymmetry among three key money market rates: the call money rate, market repo rate, and the Triparty Repo (TREPS) rate. These rates, ideally, should move in tandem, reflecting a well-integrated liquidity framework. However, deviations have been observed.

Governor Malhotra urged banks, which are uniquely positioned with access to the RBI’s liquidity windows and money market instruments, with to act more proactively. He stressed that banks must work towards ensuring quicker and more effective transmission of the RBI’s liquidity management actions to the wider market.

Need for a Robust Risk-Free Term Structure

In his address, Governor Malhotra highlighted the urgent need to build a robust, risk-free term structure for short-term interest rates, particularly in the three-day to three-month maturity range. Such a structure would serve as a reliable benchmark for pricing a wide range of financial instruments, including loans and other interest rate-linked products.

A well-developed term structure in this segment is vital for fostering transparency and efficiency in interest rate pricing, which in turn supports better risk management across the financial system.

Read More: Rate Cut Alert! RBI Just Made Borrowing Cheaper – Here’s What It Means for Your Stocks and SIPs

Limitations of the Swap Market and the Call for Basis Swaps

Addressing concerns in the swap market, which currently relies on overnight rates, the governor noted that this may not be the ideal mechanism for entities aiming to hedge interest rate exposure. The overnight rate is often used to express expectations of future monetary policy changes, making it a less stable foundation for hedging long-term risk.

Drawing parallels with developed economies, Malhotra pointed out that having two distinct benchmark rates—one for monetary policy expectations and another for risk hedging—helps improve the resilience of the financial ecosystem. He called for the development of basis swap instruments and derivatives based on the Secured Overnight Rupee Rate (SORR) to address these limitations and support market participants in managing basis risk more effectively.

Stability Across Financial Market Segments

Despite liquidity challenges in specific segments, Governor Malhotra affirmed that India’s broader financial markets have remained largely stable. The foreign exchange market, government securities, and money market segments have shown resilience. While the Indian rupee experienced some pressure earlier, it has since recovered. Moreover, the government securities market remained strong throughout FY25, even as the equity markets faced corrections due to capital outflows.

Conclusion

Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s remarks underline the importance of strengthening the architecture of India’s money market. With dwindling liquidity and structural inefficiencies in short-term rates, the RBI is urging banks and market participants to enhance market depth, improve risk management tools, and ensure smoother transmission of monetary policy actions. While the overall financial system remains stable, these proactive measures are deemed essential for maintaining long-term financial resilience.

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.

Govt Clarifies No Satellite-Based Tolling from May 1: ANPR-FASTag Hybrid System to be Piloted

Several media outlets recently reported that a satellite-based tolling system would be launched across India from May 1, 2025, replacing the existing FASTag-based toll collection. This news caused confusion among commuters and stakeholders.

To clarify, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have issued a statement confirming that no such nationwide decision has been taken.

Read More: FASTag Rules Change from Today: What It Means for You

ANPR-FASTag Hybrid System to be Piloted at Select Toll Plazas

In a move aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing travel time, NHAI is working on introducing an ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System at select toll plazas.

This system aims to enable seamless and barrier-free movement of vehicles, minimising congestion at toll booths.

How the New System Works: A Blend of ANPR and FASTag

The proposed tolling mechanism integrates:

  • Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR): High-performance cameras will automatically detect vehicle number plates.

  • FASTag RFID Technology: The current FASTag system, using Radio-Frequency Identification, will continue for toll deduction.

Vehicles will be charged without needing to stop at the toll plaza. The toll amount will be deducted automatically based on vehicle recognition.

E-Notices and Penalties for Violations

To ensure compliance with the new system, e-Notices will be sent to violators. If toll charges remain unpaid:

  • FASTag accounts may be suspended

  • Penalties under the VAHAN rules could be imposed

This mechanism is expected to deter non-compliance and promote smoother toll operations.

Pilot Implementation and Future Nationwide Rollout

NHAI has invited bids for implementing the ANPR-FASTag hybrid system at selected locations. Based on:

  • Operational performance

  • System efficiency

  • User feedback

A decision regarding the nationwide rollout will be taken. Until then, the existing FASTag-based tolling system remains in force.

Conclusion

The government has not announced any nationwide shift to satellite-based tolling. The ANPR-FASTag hybrid system is currently under pilot testing to assess its feasibility for future rollout.

 

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.

GAIL Share Price Gains 5% – Sharpest Single-Day Surge in 2 Months Amid Tariff Hike Buzz

The share price of GAIL (India) Ltd witnessed a notable upswing of approximately 5% during the trading session on Monday, April 21, 2025. As of 12:21 PM, the stock showed its sharpest single-day increase since January 2025. On the National Stock Exchange (NSE), GAIL opened at ₹190.50 and moved between an intraday low of ₹188.59 and a high of ₹197.

This marked price action has garnered attention due to its magnitude and the context surrounding it, linked to regulatory developments that could have long-term implications for GAIL’s revenue model.

Trigger for the Surge: PNGRB’s Proposed Tariff Revision

According to a news report, the rally in GAIL’s share price is closely associated with a consultation paper released by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB). The paper proposes a review of tariffs on natural gas pipeline networks and specifically covers 10 pipelines operated by GAIL.

The timing and scope of this regulatory move have led market observers to track its potential implications for future earnings. Reports indicate that GAIL is seeking a revised levelised tariff of ₹78 per MMBtu—up from the current ₹59 per MMBtu—which would apply retrospectively from 1 January 2025 through to 31 March 2049.

Historical Context: GAIL’s Tariff Proposal

This is not the first time GAIL has pushed for a tariff revision. In June 2024, the company had already proposed a similar hike, citing the need for a sustainable and equitable return on infrastructure investments. The proposed increase would help GAIL better align with operating and capital costs incurred over the projected period.

Even a partial approval, such as a tariff hike to ₹70 per MMBtu, would be considered a step forward, according to the report. Although the final decision remains pending, the very proposal has sparked optimism and renewed investor interest in the stock.

GAIL’s Role in India’s Energy Ecosystem

Established in August 1984 by the Government of India, GAIL—formerly known as Gas Authority of India Ltd—was envisioned as a cornerstone in the country’s natural gas infrastructure development. Over the decades, it has diversified its operations across several key segments:

  • Natural Gas Transmission and Marketing

  • Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Production and Transmission

  • Liquid Hydrocarbon Production

  • Petrochemicals

  • City Gas Distribution (CGD)

With a strong nationwide presence and a central role in the energy supply chain, any regulatory or pricing change affecting GAIL has a ripple effect across multiple downstream sectors.

Consultation Process and Next Steps

The consultation paper released by PNGRB serves as the first step in a regulatory revision process. Stakeholders, including industry participants and consumers, will provide feedback before the Board makes any conclusive amendments to the existing tariff structure.

While it remains to be seen how the final tariffs will be set, the fact that a review is underway is itself significant, especially given the extended time frame over which these tariffs would be applicable.

Read More: GAIL Seeks 26% Stake in US LNG Project and 15-Year Supply Deal Amid Trade Talks

Conclusion

GAIL’s stock movement on April 21, 2025, underscores how regulatory developments can act as catalysts for short-term price movements and potentially long-term structural shifts in the business environment. The PNGRB’s proposal to revise pipeline tariffs places GAIL at the centre of discussions around energy pricing and infrastructure sustainability in India.

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.