PLI Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industry: Status and Progress So Far

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the Automobile and Auto Component Industry—commonly known as the PLI-Auto Scheme—was introduced by the Indian government to encourage domestic manufacturing, innovation, and self-reliance in the automotive sector.

With a significant outlay of ₹25,938 crore, this scheme is aimed at enhancing India’s competitiveness in the global automotive landscape, especially in emerging segments such as electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced automotive technologies.

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the Automobile and Auto Components Industry, with a budgetary outlay of ₹25,938 crore, aims to enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities for Advanced Automotive Technology (AAT) products.

The scheme has approved applications from several companies, categorized under “Champion OEM Incentive Scheme” and “Component Champion Incentive Scheme.”

Champion OEM Incentive Scheme

Companies have been approved under this category, including – Ashok Leyland LimitedTata MotorsHero MotoCorp Ltd etc.

Component Champion Incentive Scheme

The following applicant has been approved under this category: Bosch Limited.

Objective of the Scheme

The PLI-Auto Scheme is primarily designed to incentivise manufacturers for achieving incremental sales of products that utilise advanced automotive technology. The incentive is calculated based on a determined sales value, which refers to the incremental eligible sales of a particular year compared to the base year—defined as FY 2019–20.

There is no fixed target for incremental sales as of February 2025, which offers companies flexibility while still rewarding performance improvements.

Incentive Disbursement Update (FY 2024–25)

As per the latest update shared by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, the government has received incentive claims worth ₹322.12 crore from 4 applicants during FY 2024–25. Of these, ₹246.21 crore has already been disbursed to 2 applicants as of February 28, 2025.

This reflects a gradual but tangible uptake of the scheme by eligible manufacturers.

Electric Vehicle Sales Under the Scheme

One of the key areas of focus under the PLI-Auto Scheme has been the promotion of electric vehicles. As of December 31, 2024, the cumulative determined sales of electric vehicles under the scheme stood at a noteworthy ₹14,657 crore. This indicates both rising consumer acceptance and production traction in the EV segment, supported by policy-level interventions such as the PLI-Auto Scheme.

Conclusion

While disbursements and participation are still at a relatively early stage, the data points towards growing engagement by automotive players. As more companies ramp up production and meet the criteria for incremental sales, it is likely that incentive disbursements will increase in the coming financial years.

The PLI-Auto Scheme is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s automotive sector, particularly by promoting cleaner mobility solutions and advanced component manufacturing.

 

 

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.

Government of India Steps Up to Combat Deepfakes and Cyber Threats

In the age of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology, ensuring a safe, trusted, and accountable digital space is a pressing concern for nations worldwide. India, with its vast digital footprint, has recognised the risks posed by the misuse of technology and is actively implementing legal and institutional frameworks to counter cyber threats and misinformation.

The IT Act: A Foundation for Cybersecurity

The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act), along with its subsequent rules, lays the groundwork for India’s efforts to regulate cyberspace. This legislation criminalises a range of cyber offences such as identity theft, impersonation, privacy violations, and the dissemination of obscene or exploitative material.

Importantly, the IT Act extends to information created using artificial intelligence or other technologies. This ensures that AI-generated content, including deepfakes, is not exempt from accountability under Indian law.

IT Rules 2021: Strengthening Intermediary Accountability

In a move to adapt to the evolving digital environment, the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 were introduced. These rules place clear responsibilities on digital intermediaries, especially social media platforms, including:

  • Not hosting, storing, or publishing any unlawful content.
  • Acting promptly to remove flagged content as per grievance redressal protocols.
  • Addressing content that spreads misinformation, incites violence, or poses a threat to national integrity.

The rules empower users to file complaints with platform grievance officers. If dissatisfied with the response, users can escalate the issue to the Grievance Appellate Committees (GAC) viawww.gac.gov.in.

Tackling Deepfakes Through Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

Recognising the growing misuse of deepfake technology, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has been proactively engaging with stakeholders and digital platforms. These consultations have led to the issuance of advisories reminding intermediaries of their obligations to counter synthetic and manipulated media.

Such advisories serve to reinforce the compliance expectations outlined in the IT Rules, especially regarding malicious and misleading content created using AI.

CERT-In: Frontline Defence Against Cyber Threats

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) plays a central role in India’s cyber protection strategy. It issues frequent alerts on:

  • Emerging cyber threats, including AI-driven attacks.
  • Safety measures to counter deepfakes and adversarial AI tools.
  • Phishing, vishing, and social engineering campaigns.

In November 2024, CERT-In released a specific advisory on deepfake threats, offering guidance on prevention and mitigation. Additionally, in May 2023, it published a comprehensive advisory on minimising AI-based risks.

Awareness and Public Engagement

CERT-In has also ramped up public outreach with initiatives such as:

  • Cyber Swachhta Kendra – Offers tools to detect and remove malware.
  • Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) – Organised annually in October with activities like webinars and quizzes.
  • Swachhta Pakhwada and Cyber Jagrookta Diwas – Recurring awareness drives targeting both the public and technical communities.

These efforts aim to build a vigilant digital society where citizens are empowered to identify and report cyber threats.

Coordinated Policing via I4C and Citizen Portals

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to streamline enforcement efforts across states and law enforcement agencies.

Citizens can report cybercrimes, including financial fraud and deepfake-related offences, through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in). Additionally, the toll-free number 1930 provides real-time assistance for reporting online frauds.

Conclusion

India’s response to the growing menace of deepfakes and digital misinformation is multifaceted—spanning regulation, collaboration, public awareness, and enforcement. As technology evolves, so too does the government’s approach, ensuring that cyberspace remains secure, trustworthy, and inclusive for all users.

The initiatives reflect a broader commitment to safeguarding digital rights while holding intermediaries accountable—a crucial balance in the digital age.

 

 

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 UPI Credit Card and Why Is PM Modi Pushing for Its Integration with BIMSTEC Payments?

A UPI credit card is an innovation in digital payments that allows users to link their credit cards to a Unified Payments Interface (UPI) application. Traditionally, UPI was used to transfer funds directly from one bank account to another, but this new functionality allows transactions to be charged to a user’s credit card instead of their bank account.

This means users can make purchases without carrying a physical credit card—payments can be processed instantly through a mobile device, offering both convenience and enhanced security.

Key Features of UPI Credit Cards

  • No Need for Physical Cards: Users can leave their wallets at home and pay using their smartphones.
  • UPI-Linked Payments: Once a credit card is linked to a UPI app, users can make payments as easily as they would with a bank account.
  • Credit-Based Transactions: The payment amount is billed to the credit card, not deducted from a bank balance.
  • Secure Payments: Transactions are PIN-protected and do not require the physical handling of the card.

Benefits of Using UPI Credit Cards

  • Ease of Use: No need to manually enter card details for every transaction.
  • Deferred Payments: Purchases are made within the credit card limit, allowing users to pay the bill later.
  • Rewards and Cashback: Many banks offer reward points or cashback on UPI credit card transactions, although terms vary by provider.
  • Wide Acceptability: UPI payments are accepted at a vast network of merchants, including offline and online platforms.
  • Instant Payments: Payments are processed in real-time, ensuring a smooth and fast experience.

How to Link Your Credit Card with a UPI App

Setting up a UPI credit card is simple and typically takes only a few minutes:

  1. Open your preferred UPI app.
  2. Select the option to ‘Link Credit Card’.
  3. Choose your issuing bank from the list.
  4. Select your card type (e.g., Visa, RuPay).
  5. Generate a UPI PIN to authorise transactions.

Popular Indian banks such HDFC BankICICI Bank and others already support UPI credit card linking.

Why PM Modi Proposed Linking UPI with BIMSTEC Payment Systems

During a recent summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed integrating India’s UPI system with the payment networks of BIMSTEC member countries—namely Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

The rationale behind this proposal includes:

  • Promoting Regional Trade: Linking payment systems could reduce friction in cross-border transactions.
  • Boosting Tourism: Tourists from these nations could use their home country payment systems seamlessly while travelling within BIMSTEC countries.
  • Fostering Financial Inclusion: A common digital payment infrastructure can bridge economic gaps across member nations.
  • Showcasing India’s Digital Innovation: India is already a global leader in real-time transactions and is now seeking to expand its influence in the global digital economy.

Conclusion

India has emerged as one of the leading nations in real-time digital transactions, thanks to innovations like UPI. The government has actively promoted digital payment adoption through:

  • UPI integration with multiple banks and apps
  • Incentive schemes for users and merchants
  • International tie-ups and proposals, such as with Singapore’s PayNow and the BIMSTEC initiative

This push is part of India’s broader mission to become a global leader in digital payment infrastructure and to ensure inclusive financial access for all.

 

 

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

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

Trump’s Trade Tussle Triggers Turmoil: A Closer Look at the Market Meltdown

In a candid statement addressing the recent sell-off in the US stock markets, President Donald Trump remarked that while he does not want asset prices to decline, “sometimes you have to take medicine.” This comment came amid heightened fears of a deepening trade war between the United States and China.

The US stock markets have experienced a significant downturn, with over $5 trillion wiped off in market capitalisation across 2 trading sessions. Futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged by about 1,200 points on Monday afternoon, signalling a rough start to the trading week.

The Trade War Escalation with China

President Trump reaffirmed his aggressive stance on trade, particularly targeting China. “We have a trillion-dollar trade deficit, hundreds of billions of dollars a year we lose with China. And unless we solve that problem, I am not going to make a deal,” he said.

China, in retaliation, imposed 34% tariffs on US imports, effective April 10. This countermeasure follows the reciprocal tariffs introduced by the US just a week earlier. Trump responded via a post on Truth Social, stating, “China played it wrong,” underlining his firm approach toward achieving what he believes to be a fairer trade relationship.

Read More How JioHotstar Achieved 100 Million Subscribers in India and What’s Next. 

White House Stance: Market Fall Not a Strategy

Despite the mounting losses in the equity markets, officials within the Trump administration maintained their support for the President’s trade policies. Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council, clarified that the market correction is not part of a deliberate strategy to pressure foreign nations. Rather, the administration views it as collateral damage in the pursuit of long-term economic rebalancing.

Ripple Effects on Global Markets

The American stock market turbulence has sent shockwaves across global financial markets, including India. As a key participant in the interconnected global economy, the Indian markets tend to mirror sentiments seen in major economies like the United States.

Following the US market rout, Indian benchmark indices such as the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty were trading significantly lower by nearly 4% as of 2:21 PM, reflecting investor apprehensions.

Sector-Wise Impact in Indian Markets

All the sectoral indices were trading in red, led by Nifty Metal which is down by nearly 8% due to global growth concerns and risk-off sentiment. Nifty Realty and Nifty Media are down by 5.8% and 4.6%, respectively. Volatility, as measured by the India VIX index, spiked sharply by a staggering 61% above the level of 22, suggesting heightened fear and uncertainty among market participants.

Investor Sentiment 

While policymakers in both countries continue to navigate complex negotiations, investors are left in limbo, awaiting clarity. The near-term trajectory of global equities, including Indian indices, is likely to be dictated by geopolitical developments, trade policy signals, and central bank responses.

In the Indian market, investors are expected to remain cautious, with short-term movements highly sensitive to global cues and institutional fund flows.

Conclusion

President Trump’s remarks and the escalating trade tensions with China have sparked a global market sell-off, leading to a pronounced correction in equities worldwide. The Indian stock market, deeply entwined with global trends, has not been immune to the shock. As uncertainty looms large, market participants are closely watching developments for signals of stability.

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.

Wagon Production Hits Record High in FY25: 3x Rise Over 2004–14 Average; Stocks to Watch Out

Indian Railways has set a new benchmark in wagon production, manufacturing 41,929 units in FY 2024-25, marking an 11% year-on-year growth over the 37,650 wagons produced in FY 2023-24. This achievement reflects a significant ramp-up in manufacturing capabilities, especially when compared to the average annual production of just 13,262 wagons between 2004 and 2014.

Notably, the total wagon production over the last 3 fiscal years has crossed 1,02,000 units, a testament to the Indian Railways’ push towards scaling up freight movement infrastructure.

Wagon Production Over the Years

 

Period Production
2004-2014 (Average) 13,262
2014-2024 (Average) 15,875
2022-2023 22,790
2023-2024 37,650
2024-2025 41,929
Total production in the last 3 years 1,02,369

Read More Nifty IT Index Slides to 52-Week Low as Kotak Sees Stocks Dropping 35%

Unlocking Freight Efficiency

The increased availability of wagons is expected to ease freight congestion, enabling smoother and quicker cargo movement across India. Sectors heavily reliant on bulk transportation—coal, cement, and steel—stand to benefit substantially.

More wagons mean less dependence on road transport, which translates to:

  • Lower fuel consumption

  • Reduced carbon emissions

  • Decreased logistics costs

This development not only enhances operational efficiency for industries but also contributes to India’s climate and sustainability goals.

Economic and Industrial Impact

The rapid growth in wagon production signals a strong alignment with India’s economic ambitions. Improved rail logistics will help reduce bottlenecks that often cause delays and cost overruns, especially in key industrial corridors.

This strategic growth supports:

  • Domestic manufacturing

  • Trade competitiveness

  • Inflation control through lower logistics costs

It also underpins the government’s broader initiative to make India a global industrial and economic force, by reinforcing robust and sustainable infrastructure.

Stocks to Watch in the Wagon Manufacturing Space

While this blog is purely informational, readers tracking the wagon manufacturing sector may observe listed companies involved in this space, such as:

These firms are part of the broader ecosystem that is contributing to the rise in rail freight capacity.

Conclusion

The record wagon production of FY 2024-25 is not merely a statistic—it represents a critical enabler of India’s growth engine. As Indian Railways scales its freight capabilities, the ripple effects are expected to strengthen the country’s industrial backbone, boost trade, and foster economic resilience, all while contributing to a more sustainable future.

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

 

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

Indian Idol 15 Winner Manasi Ghosh: How Much Tax Will She Pay on Her ₹25 Lakh Prize and Car?

Manasi Ghosh, a talented singer from Kolkata, emerged victorious in the 15th season of the popular reality show Indian Idol. Her melodious voice, emotional connect, and consistent performances made her a fan favourite and earned her the winner’s trophy. With her win, she took home a cash prize of ₹25 lakh and a brand-new car, defeating finalists Shubhojit Chakraborty and Sneha Shankar.

Her musical journey began with local stage performances, where she honed her craft and developed a deep connection with music. Speaking after her victory, Manasi expressed her desire to reinvest part of the prize money into her music career.

Reality Show Prizes: The Tax Angle

Many Indians are aware of grand prizes offered in games and talent shows like Indian Idol, Kaun Banega Crorepati, and Dance India Dance. These prizes often come in the form of large cash amounts or luxury items such as cars and flats. However, what most people might not fully realise is that such winnings are taxable under Indian law.

Read More JSW Steel Reports Record Q4 FY25 Steel Production, Up 12% YoY

Taxability of Prize Winnings in India

Under the Indian Income Tax Act, any income earned from lotteries, game shows, or talent competitions is categorised under “Income from Other Sources” and is taxed at a special flat rate of 30%, plus applicable cess.

Here’s how it breaks down:

  • Flat Tax Rate: 30% base + 4% cess = 31.2% total tax rate.

  • No Deductions Allowed: Winners cannot claim deductions under sections like 80C or 80D.

  • No Basic Exemption Benefit: Even if it’s your only income, you still pay full tax at the flat rate.

  • TDS Deduction: Tax is deducted at source (TDS) before the prize is handed over to the winner, if it exceeds ₹10,000.

  • In-Kind Prizes: For non-cash prizes like cars or flats, tax must be paid on the market value of the prize before it is awarded.

Tax Implications for Manasi Ghosh

Let’s break down the tax Manasi would owe on her Indian Idol winnings:

1. Cash Prize: ₹25,00,000

  • Flat Tax @ 31.2%: ₹25,00,000 × 31.2% = ₹7,80,000

  • Net Receivable (Post-Tax): ₹25,00,000 – ₹7,80,000 = ₹17,20,000

It is likely that the show’s organisers deducted the TDS of ₹7.8 lakh before disbursing the cash prize.

2. Prize in Kind: Brand-New Car

Assuming the market value of the car is approximately ₹10,00,000 (as no specific car make is provided), the tax would be:

  • Tax on Car @ 31.2%: ₹10,00,000 × 31.2% = ₹3,12,000

Now, depending on whether the show organisers cover this tax or recover it from Manasi, two possibilities arise:

  • If Manasi Pays It: She must pay ₹3,12,000 from her cash winnings.

  • If Organisers Bear It: Then the organisers pay the tax on her behalf and gross up the car’s value in their tax filings.

Final Tax Summary for Manasi Ghosh

 

Component Amount (₹) Tax Rate Tax Payable (₹)
Cash Prize 25,00,000 31.2% 7,80,000
Car (estimated) 10,00,000 31.2% 3,12,000
Total Tax Payable     10,92,000

 

Hence, Manasi Ghosh’s total tax liability could be nearly ₹10.92 lakh, subject to the final market value of the car and who bears the tax burden for the in-kind prize.

Conclusion 

Though winning such shows brings fame and fortune, it is essential to be aware of the tax implications. Winnings, whether in cash or kind, are taxed heavily and need to be accounted for during the financial year. This ensures compliance and avoids any surprises during tax filing season.

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. 

 

SEBI Allows Investment Advisers to Advertise Verified Performance Metrics

In a significant shift, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has amended its regulations to allow registered investment advisers (RIAs) to advertise their past performance. However, there is a catch—this performance must be verified through a newly introduced mechanism known as the Past Risk and Return Verification Agency (PaRRVA).

What Has Changed?

Until recently, SEBI regulations strictly prohibited investment advisers from referencing past performance in their advertisements. The rationale behind this was to protect investors from potentially misleading or exaggerated claims that were not backed by independent validation.

In its latest circular, SEBI has now amended this regulation, providing RIAs with the opportunity to share performance-related metrics, but under strict conditions.

Introduction of PaRRVA: A New Verification Mechanism

To bring credibility and standardisation to performance metrics, SEBI has introduced PaRRVA—a concept akin to a credit rating agency but tailored specifically for the investment advisory space.

PaRRVA will be responsible for verifying risk-return metrics claimed by RIAs. Only after verification by PaRRVA can advisers include such metrics in their promotional materials.

SEBI’s Official Statement on the Amendment

In its circular dated May 21, 2024, SEBI stated: “In order to enable IAs and RAs to avail the services of PaRRVA and make claims in their advertisements using risk-return metrics verified by PaRRVA, it has been decided to amend the above-mentioned clauses of the Master Circular for IAs and RAs…”

This amendment brings an official structure to the process, ensuring that only metrics validated by SEBI-recognised agencies can be used for public promotions.

Criteria for Becoming a PaRRVA

SEBI has also issued operational guidelines detailing the eligibility criteria for entities aspiring to become a PaRRVA. These include:

  • Minimum 15 years of existence
  • Net worth exceeding ₹100 crores
  • A client base of over 250 issuers with listed or proposed-to-be-listed debt securities
  • A fully functional online investor grievance redressal mechanism 

Essentially, SEBI has opened the door for established Credit Rating Agencies (CRAs) to become PaRRVA entities, subject to these qualifications.

Significance of the Move

This development marks a pivotal moment in India’s investment advisory landscape. It strikes a balance between transparency and investor protection. While RIAs gain the ability to showcase their past performance, SEBI ensures that such claims are credible and standardised through third-party verification.

Conclusion

SEBI’s latest amendment offers a structured pathway for investment advisers to advertise their performance in a manner that is both transparent and trustworthy.

The introduction of PaRRVA as a verification agency adds a much-needed layer of authenticity, ensuring that retail investors are not misled by unverified or inflated claims. While this move is aimed at enhancing transparency, it also raises the bar for RIAs wishing to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

 

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

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

IGL Share Price Falls Over 5% After CNG Price Hike Announcement

On Monday, April 7, Indraprastha Gas Ltd. (IGL) announced a price increase for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across its operational areas. The revision sees a ₹1 per kilogram hike in Delhi and a ₹3 per kilogram hike in other regions such as Noida and Ghaziabad.

With the revision, the updated CNG price in Delhi now stands at ₹76.09 per kg, while in Noida and Ghaziabad, it has risen to ₹84.70 per kg. This marks the first increase in CNG prices in the Delhi market since June 2024.

Delhi Remains a Key Market for IGL

Delhi plays a pivotal role in IGL’s business operations, accounting for 70 per cent of its total CNG sales. The remaining 30 per cent is distributed across other regions. While markets outside Delhi witnessed a price increase in November 2024, this recent hike now includes the national capital after a gap of several months.

Link to Administered Price Mechanism (APM) Hike

The CNG price increase comes soon after the Indian government revised natural gas prices under the Administered Price Mechanism (APM). Effective from April to September 2025, the APM rate has been set at $6.75 per mmBtu, a 4% increase from the previous rate of $6.5 per mmBtu that remained unchanged for the first three months of the year.

This latest revision is the first since April 2023 and aligns with the recommendations of the Kirit Parikh panel, which allowed a 4% annual increase starting from the 3rd year of implementation.

Market Reaction and Stock Performance

As of 11:54 AM on April 7, the share price of IGL had declined by over 5%, making it one of the key stocks in focus for the day. The market’s reaction highlights concerns over how the price hike might affect consumer demand and overall margins, especially in a competitive and regulated segment such as city gas distribution.

Conclusion 

The impact of the price increase on customer behaviour, volume demand, and profitability remains to be seen. Additionally, other city gas distribution companies like Mahanagar Gas Ltd (MGL) may also come under investor scrutiny as market participants assess the broader implications of the gas price policy framework and demand elasticity.

 

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.

Do You Have to Pay Tax When Selling Old Family Gold? Here’s What You Should Know

Selling family gold may feel sentimental, but for tax purposes, it is treated purely as a financial transaction. When you sell inherited gold, such as ornaments passed down from your grandfather, it is considered a capital asset under Indian tax laws. The key factor is that the transaction falls under the capital gains head, not income from other sources.

Inherited Gold and Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG)

Because the gold was originally acquired by your grandfather, the date of acquisition will be considered from the time he purchased it. If the gold was bought before April 1, 2001, the fair market value (FMV) as of that date becomes the cost of acquisition.

The formula for calculating the capital gain is:

Sale Price – FMV as of 01 April 2001 = LTCG (Long-Term Capital Gain)

Since the holding period exceeds 24 months, the gains qualify as long-term capital gains, which are taxed accordingly.

What if There Are No Purchase Bills?

It’s common for older family gold to have been purchased without formal invoices or documentation. In such cases, the Income Tax Department allows valuation by a registered valuer. This expert-assessed value can then be used as the cost of acquisition. Ensure the valuer is recognised and provides the appropriate certification, which may be required during any scrutiny or assessment.

Tax Rate on Long-Term Capital Gains from Gold

As per current tax provisions, LTCG on the sale of gold is taxed at 12.5%, in addition to any applicable surcharge and cess. This rate is fixed and does not vary with income slabs. You cannot claim indexation benefits on gold jewellery unless specified otherwise in future budget amendments.

Pension and Interest Income: Tax Treatment Simplified

If you’re also receiving pension income, it is taxed under the head ‘income from salaries’. You may be eligible for:

  • Old Tax Regime: Standard deduction of ₹50,000
  • New Tax Regime: Enhanced standard deduction of ₹75,000

In addition, senior citizens (60 years or older) can benefit from Section 80TTB, which provides an exemption of up to ₹50,000 annually on interest from fixed deposits, post offices, and cooperative banks.

For those below 60 years, Section 80TTA allows a deduction of up to ₹10,000 on savings account interest only — fixed deposits are not included. These deductions are not available under the new tax regime.

The Role of Section 87A: Complete Tax Rebate for Modest Incomes

Even without exemptions on interest income, individuals with a total taxable income below ₹5 lakh can benefit from Section 87A, which provides a full rebate on tax payable. In fact, under the new tax regime, this rebate applies for incomes up to ₹7 lakh, and for FY24, the government has further increased it to cover income up to ₹12 lakh under certain conditions.

This means that even if you’re earning a pension and interest income, your overall tax liability may be nil, provided your total income falls within this threshold.

Conclusion 

Understanding tax implications before selling family gold or declaring pension and interest income can prevent unpleasant surprises during assessments. While there may be emotional value attached to inherited gold, the tax department views it through a capital gains lens. When in doubt, consider getting a registered valuation and explore available deductions or rebates applicable to your age and tax regime.

 

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.

AstraZeneca Gets Approval from CDSCO for Osimertinib Tablets

AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited has received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), which is part of the Indian Government’s Health Department. This approval allows the company to import and sell a medicine called Osimertinib Tablets (TAGRISSO) in 40 mg and 80 mg doses.

Purpose of the Approval

The approval allows Osimertinib to be used with 2 types of chemotherapy medicines, pemetrexed and platinum-based drugs, as the first treatment for patients with advanced or spreading non-small cell lung cancer. It is meant for patients whose cancer has specific genetic changes like EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutations.

Impact of the Approval

AstraZeneca is now allowed to market TAGRISSO for its newly approved use in India. However, the company still needs to secure other required government approvals before it can begin full-scale sales and distribution.

About the AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited

AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited is a leading biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing and delivering innovative medicines. It operates mainly in the areas of oncology, cardiovascular, renal, metabolic and respiratory diseases. As part of the global AstraZeneca group, the company aims to improve the health of patients in India through advanced treatments and strong research-based solutions.

Share Price Performance 

As of April 07, 2025, at 11:00 AM, AstraZeneca Pharma share price is trading at ₹7,727.25 per share, reflecting a loss of 2.24% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has registered a profit of 3.47%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹9,059.05 per share, while its low is ₹4,800.15 per share.

Conclusion

This new approval is a major step for AstraZeneca in expanding its cancer treatment options in India. Once the remaining approvals are in place, TAGRISSO will offer a new line of treatment for many lung cancer patients with specific genetic changes, improving the availability of advanced cancer care in the country.

 

 

 

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