RBI Mandates Banks to Ensure ATMs Carry More ₹100, ₹200 Notes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced new regulations requiring banks and White Label ATM Operators (WLAOs) to ensure better public access to ₹100 and ₹200 denomination notes. This move seeks to increase the circulation of frequently used banknotes and must be implemented in a phased manner.

Banks and WLAOs to Ensure Dispensation of Lower Denomination Notes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday asked banks to ensure that ATMs dispense ₹100 or ₹200 denomination notes to enhance the availability of these currency notes to the public. Banks and White Label ATM Operators (WLAOs) have to implement the direction in a phased manner.

“As part of an endeavour towards enhancing public access to frequently used denominations of banknotes, it has been decided that all banks and White Label ATM Operators (WLAOs) shall ensure that their ATMs dispense ₹100 and ₹200 denomination banknotes on a regular basis…,” the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said in a circular.

Implementation Deadlines Set for 2025 and 2026

According to the circular, by September 30, 2025, 75% of all ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) shall dispense either ₹100 or ₹200 denomination banknotes from at least one cassette.

Furthermore, the RBI circular outlines that by 2026, 90% of all ATMs shall dispense either ₹100 or ₹200 denomination banknotes from at least one cassette. These targets set a structured timeline for banks and WLAOs to systematically upgrade and configure their ATM networks to comply with the mandate.

Read More: RBI says India’s Economy Projected to Grow 6.5% Amid Global Volatility

Conclusion

The Reserve Bank of India’s new directive focuses on improving public convenience by ensuring easier access to ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes through ATMs. With defined deadlines, banks and WLAOs are expected to progressively align their ATM infrastructure to comply with the mandate.

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. 

Apollo Tyres to Acquire an Additional 3.43% Stake in Green Infra Wind Power Projects Ltd

Apollo Tyres Ltd. has bought an additional 3.43% share in Green Infra Wind Power Projects Limited (GIWPPL). After this deal, Apollo’s total ownership in GIWPPL has increased to 21.27%. 

Details About Green Infra Wind Power Projects Limited

GIWPPL runs a 24 MW wind power project located in Tamil Nadu. Its turnover was ₹235.25 million as of March 31, 2024. The company is a subsidiary of Sembcorp Green Infra Private Limited, and it was incorporated on July 4, 2011. GIWPPL operates only in India.

Transaction Information

  • Nature of Acquisition: This is not a related party transaction.  
  • Purpose: To procure wind power.  
  • Payment Mode: Done through cheque, demand draft or banking channels.  
  • Cost: Bought 60,000 shares at ₹10 each, totalling ₹6 lakh.  
  • Regulatory Approval: Governed by the Indian Electricity Rules 2005.  
  • Completion Timeline: Expected by the first week of May 2025.

Previous Holding and New Position

Before this acquisition, Apollo Tyres already owned 17.84% of GIWPPL by holding 3,12,000 shares. After acquiring the new shares, Apollo’s total ownership has now increased to 21.27% in GIWPPL.

 

Read More: F&O Changes: NSE to Exclude Apollo Tyres, Escorts Kubota, and 3 More Stocks from June Series

Share Price Performance 

As of April 29, 2025, at 9:40 AM, Apollo Tyres share price is trading at ₹456.95 per share, reflecting a decline of 0.54% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has surged by 8.02%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹584.90 per share, while its low is ₹370.90 per share.

Conclusion

The increased investment highlights Apollo Tyres’ commitment to promoting sustainable energy sources. Strengthening its stake in Green Infra supports the company’s broader vision of building a greener and more energy-efficient 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.

Vimta Labs Board Approves 1:1 Bonus Share Issue and Final Dividend

Vimta Labs Limited has announced a 1:1 bonus share issue for its shareholders, a decision that reflects the company’s solid financial footing and commitment to rewarding investor trust. The move follows a strong performance in FY25, signalling continued confidence in future growth.

Board Recommends Bonus Issue

The Board of Directors has proposed the issue of bonus shares in the ratio of 1:1, meaning shareholders will receive one additional equity share for every share currently held. This recommendation is subject to approval at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). The decision is aimed at increasing the liquidity of the company’s shares and broadening the shareholder base.

This announcement comes alongside the declaration of a final dividend of ₹2 per equity share, reinforcing Vimta’s focus on delivering consistent returns to its investors. Bonus shares, while not offering direct monetary gains, enhance shareholder value by increasing the number of outstanding shares without diluting ownership.

 

Vimta Labs Q4 FY25 Results 

Vimta Labs Limited reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2025, with growth in its pharmaceutical services business. The company’s total income for Q4FY25 stood at ₹960.8 million, up 31.4% year-on-year. 

EBITDA for the quarter was ₹346.8 million, with margins at 36.1%. Profit after tax (PAT) from continuing operations rose 31.2% year-on-year to ₹183.2 million, maintaining a PAT margin of 19.1%. Basic earnings per share (EPS) for Q4FY25 were ₹8.2, compared to ₹6.3 a year ago.

 

Read More: When Did BSE Issue Bonus Shares for the First Time?

 

Recent Developments

Vimta is broadening its services to include research and development for biological drugs like new therapeutic entities, biosimilars, and peptide treatments. This new biologics R&D division is slated to be fully up and running by the third quarter of the 2026 fiscal year, with revenue generation anticipated to begin in fiscal year 2027.

In other news, Vimta successfully passed a cGMP inspection by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and a GCP audit by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Health. Their food division also received the ‘Outstanding Laboratory Performance Award 2024’ from CII for the second year in a row.

Furthermore, Vimta has finalised its merger with EMTAC Laboratories, which will enhance the company’s range of services.

Vimta Labs Share Performance 

As of April 29, 2025, at 9:20 AM, Vimta Labs share price is trading at ₹1,061.30 per share, reflecting a surge of 3.45% from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has surged by 5.93%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹1,178 per share, while its low is ₹420.00 per share

Conclusion

The proposed 1:1 bonus issue by Vimta Labs underscores its commitment to shareholder value creation. The stock surged during the opening session after reporting strong earnings.

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.

 

CESC Signs Power Purchase Agreement for 300 MW Wind-Solar Hybrid Project

CESC Limited, a major private utility company in India, has taken a step toward renewable energy development by entering into a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The agreement, involving a hybrid energy project, signals the company’s strategic direction towards sustainable power sourcing.

Agreement Details and Tariff Commitment

CESC Limited has signed a Power Purchase Agreement with Bhojraj Renewables Energy Private Limited, its subsidiary, for procuring 300 MW of wind-solar hybrid power. The contract is set for a period of 25 years at a tariff of ₹3.81 per kWh. This agreement reflects CESC’s commitment to integrating renewable sources into its power mix, ensuring cost stability over the long term. The deal highlights a substantial capacity addition in the renewable segment, contributing to India’s broader clean energy objectives.

 

The implementation of the agreement is conditional upon the approval of the West Bengal Electricity Regulatory Commission (WBERC). Once approved, the contract will be deemed effective from the date of such clearance. CESC has disclosed this development in compliance with Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, maintaining transparency with stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

 

Read More: CESC Expands Power Distribution Business with Chandigarh Acquisition

CESC Share Performance 

As of April 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM, CESC share price is trading at ₹160.40 per share, reflecting a surge of 0.67% from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has surged by 4.85%. The stock’s 52-week high and 52-week low stands₹212.49 and ₹119.00 per share, respectively.

Conclusion

The Power Purchase Agreement between CESC and Bhojraj Renewables underscores the growing role of hybrid energy solutions in India’s power sector. Subject to regulatory approval, this 25-year arrangement is set to play a key role in CESC’s long-term energy sourcing plans.

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 to Inject ₹1.25 Lakh Crore Liquidity in May via OMO Purchases

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced open market operation (OMO) purchase auctions of Government of India securities, with a total value of ₹1.25 lakh crore. The auctions will be conducted in four phases between May 6 and May 19, 2025.

Auction Details

Auction Date Amount (₹ crore)
May 6, 2025 50,000
May 9, 2025 25,000
May 15, 2025 25,000
May 19, 2025 25,000

The RBI stated that it would issue separate notifications ahead of each tranche. Bids for these auctions will be accepted electronically through the E-Kuber platform. In case of any system failure, physical bids may be considered. Auction results will be announced on the same day.

Background 

The decision follows a review of the current and evolving liquidity conditions. The RBI had earlier conducted bond purchases amounting to ₹80,000 crore on April 1 and ₹40,000 crore on April 11 through the OMO route. In March, the central bank carried out OMO purchases of ₹1 lakh crore in two tranches of ₹50,000 crore each.

Apart from OMOS, the RBI also conducted a $10 billion-rupee buy/sell swap auction for 36 months. Recently, the central bank reduced the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points and shifted its monetary policy stance from neutral to accommodative.

About Open Market Operations

Open market operations involve the purchase or sale of government securities by the RBI to manage liquidity conditions in the market. The RBI buys securities to inject liquidity when needed and sells them to absorb surplus liquidity.

Read more: RBI’s ₹1 Lakh Crore OMO and $10 Billion Forex Swap: A Move to Address Liquidity Challenges

Conclusion

The RBI’s upcoming OMO purchases in May are part of its measures to manage liquidity and ensure the smooth functioning of the financial 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.

Wipro Signs 5-Year IT Transformation Agreement with Vorwerk

Wipro Limited has entered into a 5-year agreement with Vorwerk, a direct sales company based in Germany, to manage and transform its IT infrastructure. The financial terms of the contract have not been disclosed.

As of 10:18 AM on April 29, Wipro share price was trading at ₹241.05, up 0.23%, down 14.25% over the past six months, and up 4.13% over the past year.

Project Details

Under the agreement, Wipro will consolidate Vorwerk’s business applications, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity systems into a single monitoring platform. The aim is to improve operational visibility and work on cyber-risk management.

Wipro will use its AI-powered infrastructure operations solution to manage Vorwerk’s IT systems. As part of the engagement, Wipro will also assist Vorwerk in updating its customer engagement strategies and standardising its product portfolio.

Additional Plans

The engagement includes building an end-to-end support portal to improve the experience for users within Vorwerk’s technology environment. Wipro will work with Vorwerk’s existing technology partners to support product development initiatives focused on quicker time to market.

The companies plan to jointly develop IT strategies to support Vorwerk’s digital transformation goals.

Company Statements

Jörg Kohlenz, Managing Director and Group CIO at Vorwerk Services GmbH, said the partnership focuses on developing IT solutions through transparent collaboration.

“We are proud to be Vorwerk’s partner of choice. This long-term programme leverages our AI-powered solutions, coupled with our deep consulting-led sectoral knowledge, to realise Vorwerk’s business transformation ambitions,” said Ann-Kathrin Sauthoff-Bloch, Regional Head and Managing Director, Germany and Austria, Wipro Limited.

Read More: Wipro Unveils GitHub Centre of Excellence to Boost AI Development

About the Companies

Vorwerk was founded in 1883 in Wuppertal, Germany. The company operates in more than 61 countries and specialises in household appliances such as the Thermomix® and Kobold systems. Vorwerk reported consolidated sales of EUR 3.2 billion for the year 2023.

Wipro Limited is a technology services and consulting company with a workforce of over 230,000 employees and business operations across 65 countries.

Conclusion

The five-year partnership covers IT infrastructure modernisation, cybersecurity integration, the launch of a support portal, and collaboration on product development initiatives.

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.

Royal Orchid to Open a 70-Room Property in Mussoorie

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd (ROHL) announced the signing of a new property in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. With this addition, the company’s portfolio in Uttarakhand will increase to six hotels.

As of 10:19 AM on April 29, 2025, Royal Orchid Hotels share price was trading at ₹387.05, up 0.78%, down 6.19% over the past month, and up 21.60% over the past six months.

Property Overview

The hotel is spread across 7 acres and overlooks the Doon Valley. It will have 70 rooms, including suites. Facilities will include multiple food and beverage outlets, event spaces for weddings and conferences, and large outdoor lawns for social gatherings.

The property will have a wellness facility with swimming pools, spa services, and areas designated for alternative therapies.

Expansion Context

This will be the second Royal Orchid hotel in Mussoorie. The company stated that the location and timing align with ongoing infrastructure development initiatives in Uttarakhand, including projects to improve road, rail, and air connectivity.

Read more: Royal Orchid Expands in Maharashtra with Regenta Bharti Resort

Market Background

Mussoorie is a major destination for domestic and international tourists, known for its colonial heritage and ecotourism activities. The region is seeing an increase in hospitality investments due to government initiatives supporting tourism and infrastructure expansion.

Company Details

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. currently operates more than 110 properties across India. The group manages hotels across the 5-star, 4-star, and resort categories under the Royal Orchid and Regenta brands. The company is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE: 532699) and the National Stock Exchange.

Other Developments

The state of Uttarakhand has announced multiple projects aimed at boosting tourism, including the Char Dham Road Project and new train services, which are expected to improve access to various destinations within the region.

Conclusion

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. has signed an agreement for a new 70-room property in Mussoorie, further expanding its presence in Uttarakhand with a focus on accommodation, wellness, and event facilities.

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.

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund Halts New SIP Registrations in Five Index Funds

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund has announced the suspension of fresh Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) registrations and subscriptions in five of its index funds. The suspension applies only to new SIPs and will not affect ongoing investments. The suspension will be effective from May 06, 2025. 

List of Affected Funds

The suspension is applicable to the following funds:

These funds invest in government securities (G-Secs) and state development loans (SDLs), tracking specific bond and debt indices. The suspension will be effective from May 06, 2025.

Scope of the Suspension

The restriction applies only to new SIP registrations and fresh subscription transactions. Existing SIPs that have already been registered will continue without any interruption. Redemptions, switches, and existing investments in these funds remain unaffected.

No Clarification on Duration

ICICI Prudential MF has not specified how long the suspension will last. No additional reasons or detailed explanations regarding the suspension were provided by the fund house at the time of the announcement.

Read more: ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund Declares Income Distribution in Arbitrage Fund

Impact on Investors

Investors who were planning to start new SIPs in any of the five affected funds will need to explore other available schemes for the time being. Those with active SIPs or existing investments in these funds will not experience any change in their investment process or schedules.

Conclusion

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund has paused fresh SIP registrations for five of its debt-focused index funds. Existing investors remain unaffected, and no changes have been announced regarding redemption or ongoing SIP installments.

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.

Ayushman Vay Vandana: Delhi Senior Citizens Get Free ₹10 Lakh Health Coverage

The Delhi government has introduced the Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme, offering health coverage of up to ₹10 lakh for residents aged 70 and above. The scheme was launched on Monday, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri distributing the first set of health cards to beneficiaries at Thyagraj Stadium.

Scheme Details

The health coverage under the scheme consists of ₹5 lakh provided by the Centre through the Ayushman Bharat initiative and an additional ₹5 lakh from the Delhi government. Beneficiaries will have access to cashless treatment for up to 1,961 medical procedures across 27 specialities, including chemotherapy, ICU services, surgeries, and diagnostics.

Nearly 100 hospitals across Delhi have been empanelled under the scheme. Registration is open to all Delhi residents aged 70 years and above who possess an Aadhaar card. There is no income criterion for eligibility. Applications can be submitted online through the Ayushman portal or at community health centres, government dispensaries, or sub-divisional magistrate offices.

Card and Health Record Management

Each eligible individual will receive a Vay Vandana card. The card will store the beneficiary’s health records, medication history, and emergency service details. All health checkups for seniors under the scheme will be conducted free of cost.

Rollout and Initial Distribution

During the launch event, 32 cards were distributed to senior citizens. Beneficiaries included residents such as 84-year-old Sushila Devi and 86-year-old Harpati Devi. Some recipients stated they had not yet been informed about the network of hospitals or specific usage guidelines.

Read more: Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana: Check Eligibility, How to Download and More

Additional Information

Officials from the State Health Agency clarified that the ₹10 lakh coverage is per individual, not per family. The scheme applies to all Delhi senior citizens regardless of income. Delhi is the 35th state or Union Territory to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Conclusion

The Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme has been launched to provide cashless health coverage to Delhi residents aged 70 and above, with ₹10 lakh coverage available through combined central and state support.

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

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

India’s Military Spending in 2024 Nearly 9 Times Higher Than Pakistan’s: SIPRI

India spent $86.1 billion on defence in 2024, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). This represents a 1.6% increase compared to 2023 and a 42% rise since 2015. India ranked 5th among the world’s highest military spenders, following the United States, China, Russia, and Germany.

Pakistan’s Defence Expenditure

Pakistan spent $10.2 billion on defence in 2024, placing it 29th among the 40 countries with the highest military budgets. India’s military expenditure was nearly nine times larger than Pakistan’s during the year.

Global Military Spending Trends

Global military expenditure reached $2,718 billion in 2024, showing a 9.4% rise compared to 2023. This marked the fastest year-on-year growth since at least 1988. Military spending increased across all regions, particularly in Europe and West Asia, amid ongoing conflicts.

Top Military Spenders

The United States remained the largest military spender with $997 billion, accounting for 37% of global military expenditure and 66% of NATO’s total. China spent an estimated $314 billion, representing 50% of all military spending in Asia and Oceania. Russia’s military spending rose by 38% to $149 billion, making up 7.1% of its GDP. Germany spent $88.5 billion, a 28% rise compared to 2023.

An analysis by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute reveals that five nations accounted for 60% of global military expenditure, led by the USA (37%), followed by China (12%), Russia (5.5%), Germany (3.3%) and India (3.2%).

Regional Spending Patterns

Military spending in Europe, including Russia, rose by 17% to $693 billion, surpassing levels recorded at the end of the Cold War. In the Middle East, expenditure increased by 15% to $243 billion, with Israel and Lebanon among the major contributors.

Ukraine’s military expenditure stood at $64.7 billion, accounting for 34% of its GDP, the highest military burden recorded globally.

Read more: India’s BrahMos Missile Exports: Philippines Became First Nation to Import

Conclusion

India’s defence spending in 2024 remained substantially higher, amid broader increases in global military expenditure. The SIPRI report was released at a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following a terrorist attack near Pahalgam, Kashmir.

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.