Cochin Shipyard and Drydocks World Sign MoU to Develop Ship Repair Clusters in India

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing India’s maritime infrastructure, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Drydocks World, a prominent entity of DP World specialising in maritime and offshore industries. This collaboration intends to leverage the combined expertise of both organisations to significantly improve India’s ship repair capabilities. The share price of Cochin Shipyard was down by 1.84% as of 9:44 AM. 

Key Highlights of the MoU

The MoU outlines the intention to create advanced ship repair clusters along India’s coastline, particularly focusing on Kochi in Kerala and Vadinar in Gujarat. This initiative is anticipated to introduce global best practices within the domestic ship repair industry, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and capacity.

The agreement also considers potential ventures in offshore fabrication projects, which will engage major ports and other governmental entities, aiming for broader infrastructure development.

Prominent Figures and Events

The MoU signing took place at the prestigious CEO-Connect event titled “Dubai-India Economic Ties & Opportunities” held in Mumbai. It was witnessed by esteemed dignitaries, including H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; Shri Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry; and His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, CEO of DP World. The signing underscored the robust economic relationship between India and the UAE.

Strategic Importance and Employment Opportunities

This strategic partnership aligns closely with the Indian government’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and the longer-term Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. By modernising maritime infrastructure and ship repair capabilities, this collaboration is expected to create substantial employment opportunities and bolster the local economies of the regions involved.

Strengthening India’s Global Maritime Position

By integrating the technical know-how and extensive industry experience of Drydocks World and CSL, India is positioned to strengthen its role as a global maritime hub. The partnership is aligned with the nation’s ambition for greater self-reliance under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, ultimately aiming to secure a leading international position in maritime engineering and related sectors.

Conclusion

The agreement between Cochin Shipyard Limited and Drydocks World represents a significant step forward in India’s ambition to enhance its maritime infrastructure and capabilities. With the involvement of both domestic and international stakeholders, the maritime sector in India is set for promising growth and global recognition.

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.

LG Electronics India and Ather Energy Hit Pause on IPOs as Markets Wobble

The recent upheaval in global markets, driven by mounting fears of a US recession and intensifying trade tensions, has put a brake on the initial public offerings (IPOs) of LG Electronics India and Ather Energy, as per a media report. Both companies had initially planned to launch their IPOs on the 3rd or 4th week of April 2025, capitalising on what had appeared to be a recovering market. However, the sharp and sudden shift in investor sentiment has forced a reassessment of those plans.

Significant Offerings Now Under Review

LG Electronics India, the home appliance giant, was preparing an IPO estimated at ₹15,000 crore — potentially becoming the fifth-largest in Indian history. Meanwhile, Ather Energy, the electric scooter manufacturer, had set its sights on raising ₹4,000 crore through its public issue. These ambitious listings, however, now face uncertainty.

Sources suggest that both companies are exploring the possibility of deferring their launches. There are also indications of internal discussions around scaling back the offer sizes and valuations to reflect prevailing market conditions. It is important to note, though, that no official confirmation has been made regarding any revisions.

From Optimism to Uncertainty

Only weeks ago, the companies had reportedly locked in tentative dates, booked venues, and initiated IPO roadshows. The equity markets had rebounded from their March lows, briefly reviving hopes for successful listings. But that optimism was short-lived. A swift decline in benchmark indices, driven by global macroeconomic concerns, has now cast a shadow over these large-scale offerings.

Both LG and Ather had secured regulatory approvals — with LG Electronics India receiving the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi)’s nod in March, and Ather Energy in December 2024. Despite this readiness, the deteriorating sentiment has forced issuers to reconsider timing.

Broader IPO Pipeline Feels the Heat

LG and Ather are not alone. Several other companies, including Smartworks, Brigade Hotel Ventures, Aegis Vopak Terminals, National Securities Depository, IndiQube, and Indogulf Cropsciences, were also preparing to tap the market in the coming months. The current volatility, however, has introduced a wave of caution.

The benchmark Nifty fell to its lowest level since June 2024. Consequently, March 2025 saw no mainboard IPOs — the first such dry spell since May 2023.

A Cold Start to 2025

So far, in 2025, IPO activity has significantly slowed. Just nine companies have raised a total of ₹15,723 crore — a stark contrast to 2024, when 91 companies raised a record ₹1.6 trillion. While the market did witness a short-lived rebound of 8% from the March lows, this momentum has proven insufficient to sustain confidence in new public offerings.

If April ends without a single IPO, it will mark the longest gap since February 2023. Such a prolonged lull underlines the nervousness pervading equity capital markets, even as some listed firms continue to pursue share sales amid fleeting moments of stability.

Conclusion

As global economic indicators remain mixed and domestic markets react with heightened sensitivity, the IPO landscape in India appears to be entering a cautious phase. Companies like LG Electronics India and Ather Energy, which had previously seen strong investor interest, are now in wait-and-watch mode — a reflection of the complex interplay between market timing, valuation expectations, and investor confidence.

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.

Senco Gold Hits Upper Circuit After Reporting Record Revenue Growth and Strong Q4 Performance

Senco Gold Ltd’s share price hit an upper circuit on April 9, 2025, as of 9:21 AM, following the company’s robust Q4 and FY24-25 business update, which highlighted record-breaking revenues, significant retail growth, and strong momentum from wedding and festive demand despite rising gold prices.

Strong Revenue Momentum in Q4

Senco Gold recorded its highest-ever Q4 revenue at over ₹1,300 crore, marking a 23% year-on-year (YoY) retail growth and an 18.4% same-store sales growth (SSSG). For the full financial year FY25, revenue crossed ₹6,200 crore with a YoY retail growth of 19.4% and SSSG of 14.6%. Notably, revenue from non-Eastern markets surpassed ₹1,100 crore.

Growing Demand for Diamonds and Designer Jewellery

A significant highlight was the 39% YoY jump in diamond jewellery sales in Q4, driven by marketing campaigns, participation in exhibitions, and curated offers. This helped lift the stud ratio to 10.9% in FY25, up from 10.5% in the previous nine months. Additionally, the company launched over 11,000 gold jewellery and 4,300 diamond jewellery designs in Q4 to refresh its offerings.

Consumer Sentiment Resilient Despite Gold Price Surge

Despite gold prices increasing 11% quarter-on-quarter and 33% compared to Q4 last year, reaching an all-time high of US$3,150/oz, consumer sentiment remained buoyant. Senco Gold saw a surge in old gold exchanges, with 40% of sales in FY25 stemming from recycled gold, and 61% of that coming from non-Senco customers.

Expansion Strategy and Store Network Growth

In Q4 alone, Senco Gold added four new showrooms in Kolkata (BT Road/Dunlop and Budge Budge), Ghatal in West Bengal, and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. In total, the company added 15 showrooms in FY25 (net), bringing its network to 175 stores—including 72 franchisee outlets and one showroom in Dubai.

Looking ahead, the company aims to launch 20–22 new showrooms in FY26, including company-owned and franchisee models. It also plans to expand its SIS (store-in-store) model with approximately 70 outlets, targeting 100 by March 2026. Furthermore, 5–7 new SENNES stores are expected to be launched via its subsidiary Sennes Fashion Ltd, focusing on lifestyle products like lab-grown diamonds, leather goods, and perfumes.

Margin Outlook and Schemes to Drive Loyalty

Despite an earlier margin impact from customs duty reduction, Q4 showed improved profitability owing to the uptick in diamond jewellery sales. The adjusted EBITDA margin stood at 6.2%, and the outlook for Q4 margins is optimistic. The company also relaunched an 18-month jewellery purchase scheme to build a loyal customer pipeline and maintain steady footfall during festive periods.

Positive Start Expected for FY26

Encouraged by the momentum of Poila Baisakh, Akshaya Tritiya, and continued wedding season demand, Senco Gold anticipates a strong Q1 FY26 with expected YoY growth exceeding 18%. The recent gold price correction and rising consumer spending power may further bolster performance in the coming months.

Conclusion

Senco Gold’s robust Q4 performance, marked by record revenue, strong retail growth, and strategic expansion, reflects its ability to capitalise on festive and wedding season demand despite rising gold prices. 

The company’s focus on design innovation, expansion into non-Eastern markets, and growing traction in diamond jewellery have added further strength to its business model. Amidst these developments, Senco Gold’s share price hit the upper circuit on April 9, 2025, as of 9:21 AM.

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.

SEBI Sees No Systemic Risk in Indian Stock Markets Despite Global Tariff Volatility

In the wake of renewed market volatility driven by the global tariff tensions initiated by US President Donald Trump’s trade policy, India’s stock market regulator has come forward with a clear message: There is no systemic risk to the Indian capital markets.

Tuhin Kanta Pandey, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), addressed concerns about market disruptions due to external pressures and rising volatility to the media. “I think investors have no need to panic,” Pandey remarked, assuring that despite the turbulence, the system remains fundamentally sound.

A Settlement System Designed to Withstand Shocks

Highlighting the resilience of the Indian stock market infrastructure, Pandey pointed to the uniqueness of India’s settlement system. He noted that trade clearing houses of both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and BSE – India’s 2  largest bourses – are interconnected. This means that if 1 exchange were to encounter difficulties, the other could step in to settle trades seamlessly, preventing a broader market breakdown.

This interoperable structure significantly reduces the chances of a system-wide collapse and ensures the continued functioning of the market during periods of elevated volatility.

Dematerialisation Offers Investor Protection

A major strength in India’s market ecosystem, according to Pandey, lies in the dematerialisation of securities. In this system, investors hold their securities in electronic form, directly linked to their bank accounts.

Because of this direct linkage, fund transfers happen automatically, reducing the risk of broker defaults impacting retail investors. “Money from any transaction is directly debited or credited to their bank accounts,” Pandey said, adding that this setup acts as a robust firewall against client-level financial losses in the event of intermediary issues.

India VIX Surges, But Equities Remain Resilient

Despite a record surge in the India Volatility Index (India VIX) — often referred to as the “fear index” — Indian equities have shown greater resilience compared to several global markets.

The India VIX spike reflected a rise in investor anxiety on Monday, yet domestic equities have relatively outperformed peers since the US began imposing steep import tariffs. The response of Indian investors has been measured, and volatility has not led to widespread market disruptions.

Conclusion

According to Pandey, the Indian investor landscape is also evolving. “I think the people are also learning to stay calm,” he noted. This behavioural shift, combined with systemic safeguards, appears to be fortifying India’s market response to global economic headwinds.

He further reassured that the risk of systemic failure is minimal, and that India’s financial ecosystem is equipped to protect investor interests, even in the face of external shocks.

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.

Want More from Your Term Insurance? Add These Powerful Riders for Maximum Protection

Term life insurance remains one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to ensure financial security for your loved ones in your absence. It offers a death benefit to your family if the insured person passes away during the policy term, helping them cover day-to-day expenses and maintain their lifestyle. Furthermore, it safeguards future goals such as children’s education, marriage, and a retirement fund for your spouse.

To make term insurance even more robust, policyholders can opt for riders—additional features that come at a nominal cost and offer enhanced protection against unforeseen circumstances. Let’s first understand how to decide on the right cover and then explore three essential riders that can strengthen your policy.

Determining the Right Coverage for Your Term Insurance

Choosing the right sum assured is the first step toward securing your family’s future. A widely used method is the income replacement rule, where the coverage amount should ideally be 10 to 15 times your annual income. This rule serves as a general benchmark and should account for the following:

  • Existing loans and debts

  • Financial goals for dependents

  • Daily living expenses

  • Inflation over the coming years

Additionally, your age plays a crucial role in determining the cover. Younger individuals, with more earning years ahead, may benefit from a higher coverage multiple. Conversely, older individuals with fewer working years may opt for a relatively smaller sum assured.

Beyond just death coverage, modern financial planning also considers protection from events like disability and life-threatening diseases. This is where riders make a real difference.

What Are Riders, and Why Are They Important?

Riders are optional add-ons that enhance the scope of a base term insurance policy. By paying a slightly higher premium, you can customise your policy to include additional protections tailored to your personal risks and responsibilities. Riders are particularly useful in managing financial setbacks caused by accidents or critical health conditions.

Here are three significant riders to consider:

Accidental Death and Disablement Benefit Rider

This rider provides financial compensation in the event of death or disability resulting from an accident. The payout is in addition to the basic death benefit of the policy.

As per data from the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, over 1.68 lakh lives were lost due to road accidents in India in 2022, underlining the importance of this rider.

Key features:

  • Accidental Death: A lump sum is paid to the nominee in addition to the base sum assured.

  • Disablement Cover: In case of partial or total disability due to an accident, the policyholder may receive periodic payouts or a lump sum, depending on the insurer’s terms.

  • Exclusions: Typically, this rider does not cover suicide, substance abuse, or self-inflicted injuries.

This rider is particularly suited to individuals with high-risk jobs or those who spend significant time commuting or travelling for work.

Critical Illness Rider

This rider offers a lump sum payout if the policyholder is diagnosed with a critical illness listed in the policy. These usually include conditions such as:

  • Cancer
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Kidney failure

The payout can help cover:

  • Medical treatment and hospitalisation costs
  • Loss of income due to inability to work
  • Ongoing care and recovery-related expenses

This rider is especially valuable for those with a family history of critical illnesses or those who are the sole earners in their households. It helps prevent the erosion of savings and ensures that medical emergencies do not disrupt long-term financial plans.

Waiver of Premium Rider

The waiver of premium rider ensures that your term policy continues to remain active even if you are unable to pay future premiums due to a critical illness or permanent disability.

How it works:

  • If the policyholder is diagnosed with a covered illness or suffers a qualifying disability, all future premiums are waived.

  • Despite the non-payment of premiums, the policy remains in force with all benefits intact.

This rider is a safety net that ensures the continuation of life coverage during financially challenging times, offering peace of mind for those with dependents or in high-risk professions.

Conclusion

Riders offer policyholders the ability to tailor their term insurance to meet specific life risks and responsibilities. By addressing potential scenarios such as accidents, critical illnesses, and income disruptions, these add-ons provide a comprehensive layer of financial security. While term life insurance forms the foundation, riders enhance its strength, ensuring you are well-prepared for life’s uncertainties.

Remember, each rider comes with its own terms, conditions, and exclusions, and it is essential to read the policy document thoroughly before making any 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.

New Form ITR-B: A Simplified Way to Report Undisclosed Income

The Ministry of Finance formally notified Form ITR-B through the Gazette of India. This newly introduced income tax return form is specifically designed for taxpayers who are required to declare previously undisclosed income discovered during search or requisition operations conducted on or after September 1, 2024.

Unlike standard ITR forms that demand extensive disclosures, Form ITR-B is narrowly focused on reporting information related only to the block assessment period. The aim is to reduce compliance burden while maintaining the precision necessary for income tax disclosures.

Understanding Block Assessment in Income Tax

Block assessment is a special procedure adopted by tax authorities when there is evidence of concealed or unreported income over a span of time. Typically initiated after search and seizure operations, this form of assessment allows tax authorities to compute total undisclosed income for a specific block period, generally spanning the previous 6 to 10 years.

Form ITR-B aligns itself with this procedure by facilitating the disclosure of income unearthed during such enforcement actions, ensuring due process is followed for taxation and penalties, if applicable.

TDS and TCS Claims on Undisclosed Income

Form ITR-B also provides an avenue for taxpayers to claim credit for TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and TCS (Tax Collected at Source) on the disclosed undisclosed income. However, these claims are subject to verification and approval by the assessing tax officer.

This clause can present challenges, especially in cases where the supporting documents are incomplete or ambiguous, potentially delaying or denying the credit benefits to the assessee.

Digital Filing vs Manual Verification: A Procedural Mismatch

While Form ITR-B has been introduced with the intent to streamline compliance through digital filing, it contains certain sections that appear contradictory to its digital-first approach. For instance, the verification tab of the form demands inputs such as:

  • Stamp receipt number
  • Seal of the tax office
  • Manual signature of the receiving official

This could lead to procedural confusion, as electronic submission may not practically accommodate such manual validation fields. This issue could potentially undermine the otherwise progressive move towards digitised compliance.

Concluding

Form ITR-B marks a significant development in India’s taxation framework, providing a focused mechanism for reporting undisclosed income during search operations. While its streamlined nature and digital intention are commendable, procedural inconsistencies may warrant clarification to ensure a truly seamless filing experience.

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.

EPFO’s Claim Settlement Reforms: A Boon for Over 7.7 Crore Members

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, has announced 2 major simplifications to its claim settlement process. These changes aim to enhance the ease of living for over 7.7 crore EPF members and also ease the operational burden on employers.

Key Reform 1: No More Uploading of Cheque Leaf or Attested Passbook

Earlier, EPF members had to upload an image of their cheque leaf or an attested copy of their bank passbook when applying for claims. This process often led to complications such as claim rejections due to blurred, incomplete or unreadable uploads. Now, this requirement has been scrapped altogether.

According to official estimates, this step alone is expected to benefit around 60 million members instantly. It not only improves user experience but also reduces the volume of grievances related to rejected claims.

Key Reform 2: Bank Seeding Approval No Longer Required from Employers

Another significant change is the elimination of the need for employer approval when seeding bank account details with the Universal Account Number (UAN).

During the financial year 2024-25, approximately 13 million EPFO members submitted requests to seed their bank accounts. These requests had to undergo a verification process and then await employer approval, which typically took up to 16 days. The approval stage created a bottleneck, adding workload for employers and delaying the claim process for employees.

With the employer approval requirement now removed, EPFO expects a smoother and faster seeding process, thereby accelerating overall claim settlement timelines.

Current Status of Bank Seeding and Pending Approvals

As of now, out of the 77.4 million EPFO members making monthly contributions, 48.3 million have already seeded their bank accounts with their UAN. However, 1.49 million requests are still pending at the employer’s end. The recent reform is poised to clear such backlogs by removing the intermediary step of employer validation.

Objective Behind the Reforms

The underlying aim of these changes is to create a more efficient and member-centric EPF system. By cutting down on redundant paperwork and digital uploads, and reducing employer dependency, the EPFO is taking strides toward quicker claim settlements and minimal grievance redressal delays.

Conclusion

These reforms reflect the government’s broader push towards digital transformation and administrative ease in public service delivery. By streamlining the claim settlement process, EPFO is likely to make a significant difference to millions of working individuals who rely on their provident fund contributions as a vital financial resource.

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.

No More Aadhaar Photocopies! India’s New Aadhaar App Makes ID Verification Super Easy

In a landmark move to enhance digital identity accessibility and security, the Indian government, under the leadership of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, has launched a next-generation Aadhaar app. This application aims to eliminate the dependence on physical documents and streamline the verification process for Indian citizens.

Built in collaboration with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the app integrates Face ID technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to provide seamless, real-time Aadhaar authentication.

Key Features of the New Aadhaar App

The newly launched Aadhaar mobile application comes equipped with cutting-edge features to simplify the user experience while ensuring robust security:

  • Face ID-Based Authentication: The app uses facial recognition technology to verify a user’s identity in real time, reducing the need for manual checks or physical documents.

  • QR Code Verification: Just like scanning a QR code for a UPI transaction, users can now verify their identity instantly at various service points.

  • User Consent-Based Sharing: The app allows Aadhaar holders to control what data they share and with whom, maintaining full ownership over their personal information.

  • No Need for Physical Cards: The app is entirely digital, eliminating the necessity to carry photocopies or physical Aadhaar cards.

Aadhaar Verification Simplified: Like Making a UPI Payment

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw compared the verification process of the new Aadhaar app to the ease of a UPI transaction. Citizens can simply scan a QR code at designated points using the app, and their identity will be verified on the spot through facial recognition.

This instant, secure exchange of information marks a major shift from the traditional method of handing over Aadhaar photocopies at hotel receptions, airports, shops, or during official verifications.

Empowering Citizens with Data Privacy

One of the most significant advantages of the app is its focus on user privacy. Unlike physical documents that can be easily copied or misused, the new Aadhaar app ensures that information is shared digitally and only with the user’s explicit permission.

This development is expected to instil greater confidence in citizens regarding the protection of their personal data and reduce the risks of identity theft.

Conclusion

Currently in its Beta testing phase, the Aadhaar app is expected to be launched nationwide soon. The ministry aims to ensure that the application is both user-friendly and accessible across various digital platforms.

With the widespread rollout, Aadhaar authentication is set to become faster, more secure, and entirely paperless—bringing India one step closer to becoming a digitally empowered society.

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.

What is a Primary Dealer (PD) and Why Shriram Finance is Eyeing a PD Licence

Primary Dealers (PDs) play a vital role in the Indian financial ecosystem by acting as intermediaries in the government securities (G-sec) market. They underwrite the issuance of G-secs, treasury bills, and cash management bills on behalf of the Government of India. Essentially, PDs are the market-makers for these securities, ensuring liquidity and price discovery in the primary and secondary markets.

Often referred to as “merchant bankers to the government,” PDs are the only entities authorised to underwrite primary issues of dated government securities. Their participation supports the smooth functioning of the debt market and stabilises yields through active bidding in auctions.

Evolution of the PD System in India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced the Primary Dealer system in 1995, initially allowing independent entities to engage in PD activities. Over time, the system expanded to include banks, which were allowed to conduct PD operations within their institutions starting from 2006–07.

To ensure wider participation and greater stability in the G-sec market, RBI allowed standalone PDs to diversify into other financial services beyond core PD activities, subject to regulatory oversight and compliance.

Shriram Finance’s Strategic Move

According to a recent news report, Shriram Finance, one of India’s largest non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), is seeking a standalone PD licence from the Reserve Bank of India. If approved, this would mark a significant development as Shriram Finance would become one of the few non-bank entities to receive such a licence in recent times.

The company has a substantial investment book and is looking to build capabilities in trading government securities. This aligns with the PD business model, which is typically characterised as a low-margin but zero-risk operation, owing to the sovereign backing of the securities involved.

Key Corporate Update

Last week, Shriram Finance informed stock exchanges that it has received the RBI’s nod to acquire 100% equity in Shriram Overseas Investments (SOIPL) from Shriram Investment Holdings. Following this acquisition, Umesh Revankar and Parag Sharma have been appointed as directors on the board of SOIPL—potentially signalling strategic shifts aligned with the pursuit of the PD licence.

Why PD Licence Matters for Shriram Finance

The licence would enable Shriram Finance to:

  • Underwrite auctions for government securities
  • Strengthen its presence in the fixed-income space
  • Leverage its investment book to build trading expertise
  • Diversify its financial services portfolio

While the PD business may not promise large profit margins, it offers stability, credibility, and regulatory recognition, making it an attractive proposition for a large NBFC like Shriram Finance.

Existing PDs in India

As of now, India has 7 standalone PDs and 14 bank-affiliated PDs.

Standalone Primary Dealers:

  • ICICI Securities Primary Dealership
  • Morgan Stanley India Primary Dealer
  • Nomura Fixed Income Securities
  • PNB Gilts
  • SBI DFHI
  • STCI Primary Dealer
  • Goldman Sachs (India) Capital Markets

Bank Primary Dealers:

RBI has remained selective in issuing PD licences, and the criteria include being registered as an NBFC for at least 1 year before application submission.

Conclusion

The pursuit of a PD licence by Shriram Finance reflects its ambition to expand into the domain of government securities trading and establish itself as a trusted intermediary in the public debt market. With the RBI’s cautious approach to granting PD licences, the outcome will be closely watched across the financial sector.

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.

Atmanirbhar Bharat Push: Government Notifies ₹22,919 Crore Scheme to Boost Domestic Electronics Manufacturing

In a major boost to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the government has notified a ₹22,919 crore incentive scheme to strengthen India’s domestic electronics manufacturing capabilities. The scheme covers a broad range of critical components, including camera modules, displays, lithium-ion cells for digital devices, non-surface mount devices, and multi-layer printed circuit boards (PCBs).

Launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the scheme is expected to become operational within the next 2 to 3 weeks. Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that the operational guidelines are being finalised following consultations with industry stakeholders.

Towards a Self-Reliant Electronics Ecosystem

This scheme marks a significant step in completing the electronics manufacturing trifecta that underpins an Atmanirbhar Bharat:

  1. Semiconductor fabrication
  2. Semiconductor component production
  3. Manufacturing of finished electronics goods such as smartphones, laptops, and IT hardware

Minister Vaishnaw highlighted India’s evolving manufacturing landscape, noting that over 400 electronics production units have emerged across the country. This journey has transitioned from the assembly of finished goods to the localisation of core components—a milestone for India’s self-reliance journey in the tech sector.

Exponential Growth in Electronics Output and Exports

India’s electronics industry has recorded commendable growth. The sector saw a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17% in production, while exports registered a higher CAGR of 20%.

Smartphone exports alone crossed ₹2 trillion last financial year, with Apple’s iPhone accounting for nearly ₹1.5 trillion. This reflects the growing role of India in global electronics manufacturing.

Overall, electronics product exports—including mobile phones—grew by 54% year-on-year, positioning them among India’s leading export categories.

Incentive Framework for Manufacturers

Spanning 6 years with an optional one-year gestation period, the scheme offers incentives under 2 models:

Turnover-Based Incentive:

This is tied to net incremental sales of eligible components over a base year, encouraging firms to scale up local production.

Capital Expenditure (Capex)-Based Incentive:

Firms will qualify based on meeting investment thresholds, beginning commercial production, and promoting infrastructure development and capacity expansion.

Both greenfield and brownfield projects are eligible, with separate applications required for each product segment.

Strengthening Atmanirbhar Bharat Through Institutional Support

To oversee the scheme, a governing council chaired by the IT secretary will be formed, with representation from key government departments including:

  • Department of Expenditure
  • Department of Economic Affairs
  • Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
  • Department of Telecommunications
  • Ministry of Heavy Industries

The council will evaluate reports from the project management agency and offer recommendations for approving applications and releasing incentives.

This multi-agency coordination is expected to ensure transparent execution and alignment with the broader goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Conclusion

The notification of the ₹22,919 crore electronics component manufacturing scheme underscores India’s commitment to building a self-reliant, globally competitive electronics industry. By nurturing domestic capabilities in core component manufacturing, India is taking a definitive stride toward achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat, reducing import dependency, and strengthening its position in the global supply chain.

The scheme is set to create new opportunities for manufacturers, generate employment, and catalyse innovation in India’s electronics sector—laying the foundation for long-term economic 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.