From PMKVY to MUDRA: Government Backs 73,000+ Women Entrepreneurs Across India

In recent years, the Government of India has rolled out a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic empowerment of women. From financial assistance to skill-building programmes, these schemes play a vital role in enabling women to participate more actively in entrepreneurship and innovation. According to official data, more than 73,000 startups—nearly half of those supported under the Startup India Initiative—have at least 1 woman director, indicating a positive trend in women’s leadership across sectors.

Skill Development Programmes – Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and Mahila Coir Yojana 

Skill development remains a cornerstone of women’s empowerment. Schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and the Mahila Coir Yojana (MCY) are designed to equip women with industry-relevant skills and training. While PMKVY offers short-term training in various sectors, MCY provides coir industry training specifically for rural women, enabling them to become self-reliant and financially independent.

Financial Assistance and Credit Schemes

To ease access to credit and facilitate entrepreneurship, the government has introduced multiple financial schemes:

  • MUDRA Yojana: Offers collateral-free microfinance loans for small businesses.

  • Stand-Up India: Facilitates loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore for women and marginalised communities to start greenfield enterprises.

  • Startup India: Provides mentoring, tax benefits, and funding support to foster a startup ecosystem inclusive of women.

In addition, the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) and the Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) offer financial backing and employment generation avenues for aspiring women entrepreneurs.

Intellectual Property Benefits

Recognising the need for innovation and intellectual property protection, the government has extended several benefits to women entrepreneurs. Under the Indian Patent Act, women applicants enjoy a reduced patent filing fee and an expedited examination process. As a result, there has been a 905% surge in patent filings by women in the past 5 years, showcasing their growing presence in technology-driven ventures.

Support for the Informal Sector and Street Vendors

The Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme provides working capital loans to street vendors, including women, helping them restart or expand their micro-businesses post-pandemic. These small-scale initiatives are crucial for many women who form the backbone of the informal economy in India.

Dedicated Schemes from Nationalised Banks

Several public sector banks have also stepped forward with dedicated schemes for women-led businesses:

  • Mahila Udyam Nidhi Yojana: Aids small-scale women entrepreneurs with soft loans for business expansion.

  • Dena Shakti Scheme: Offers concessional interest rates to women in agriculture, retail, and manufacturing.

  • Stree Shakti Package for Women Entrepreneurs: Provides interest rate concessions and collateral-free loans for women with majority ownership in enterprises.

  • Cent Kalyani Scheme: Targets self-employed women and those running MSMEs, offering finance for both working capital and expansion.

A Step Forward in Nation-Building

These multifaceted efforts are part of a broader vision to empower women economically and foster inclusive growth. The schemes not only address the financial needs of women but also promote long-term socio-economic change by encouraging independence and innovation.

The information was shared by Ms. Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for Women and Child Development, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, underlining the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality in entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

From skill development to startup incubation and microfinance support, the Indian government has laid a strong foundation for women entrepreneurs to thrive. These initiatives signal a shift towards a more inclusive economic landscape, where women are increasingly seen as key drivers of growth and innovation.

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 Ethanol Journey: Policy Push and Measures Beyond the 20% Blending Target

India’s commitment to energy security and sustainable fuel alternatives has placed ethanol blending at the forefront of its biofuel strategy. While the current policy targets 20% ethanol blending in petrol (E20) by FY26, discussions and infrastructure development hint at readiness for even higher blending levels in the future.

Ethanol Blending: A Timeline of Progress

The National Policy on Biofuels – 2018, amended in 2022, brought a significant shift by advancing the target year for 20% ethanol blending from 2030 to the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26.

  • 10% blending was achieved in June 2022, 5 months ahead of schedule for ESY 2021-22.
  • Ethanol blending increased further to:

    • 12.06% in ESY 2022-23
    • 14.60% in ESY 2023-24
    • 17.98% as of February 2025 (ESY 2024-25)

This upward trend showcases the government’s proactive approach, although no official decision has yet been taken to increase the target beyond the 20% mark.

Technical Challenges with E20

As per the Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India 2020–25 by an inter-ministerial committee, switching to E20 petrol results in a marginal drop in fuel efficiency in vehicles calibrated for E10.

However, this setback can be mitigated by modifications in engine hardware—a necessary step as India looks to scale up blending levels without compromising vehicle performance.

Flexibility in Feedstocks

To meet growing ethanol demands, the National Biofuel Coordination Committee has allowed the use of food grains during surplus phases, alongside traditional sugar-based sources.

Key approved feedstocks include:

  • Maize
  • Sugarcane juice and molasses
  • Broken rice
  • Agricultural residues

This diversification helps ensure both environmental sustainability and economic viability for farmers and ethanol producers.

Government Support for Ethanol Production

The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, launched in 2014, has provided multiple incentives to support the ethanol ecosystem:

  • Subsidised pricing for ethanol procurement
  • 5% GST to reduce production costs
  • Regulatory amendments to facilitate easier inter-state movement of ethanol
  • Introduction of Ethanol Interest Subvention Schemes (EISS) to ease financing
  • Long-Term Offtake Agreements (LTOAs) to provide revenue visibility for producers

These initiatives aim to create a stable and attractive business environment for ethanol manufacturers.

Conclusion

While the current ethanol blending target stands at 20% by FY26, India is steadily building the infrastructure and policy support necessary to exceed this benchmark. From diversified feedstocks to technical adjustments and financial incentives, the nation is laying the groundwork for an ambitious and greener future in energy. Though no official roadmap has been declared for blending beyond 20%, the momentum clearly signals a strong commitment to ethanol as a cornerstone of India’s biofuel strategy.

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.

Mumbai Airport May Levy an Additional Fee of ₹325 on Domestic Flyers

From May 2025, passengers flying out of Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) could be subject to higher costs. According to a report, the Adani-owned airport has proposed levying a user development fee (UDF) of ₹325 on domestic passengers and increasing the current charge for international travellers to ₹650.

At present, international flyers pay ₹187 as UDF, while no such fee is applied to domestic passengers. The proposal, if approved, marks a significant change in how the airport recovers expenses related to infrastructure development.

Landing and Parking Charges to Drop

In a move that may soften the financial impact on airlines—and indirectly passengers—CSMIA has proposed reducing landing and parking charges for aircraft by nearly 35%. Airport officials suggest that despite the hike in UDF, the net effect on final ticket prices could be minimal, with the yield per passenger rising from ₹285 to ₹325, translating to less than a 1% increase in fares.

Massive Infrastructure Overhaul Planned

This increase in UDF comes as part of a larger capital investment plan worth nearly ₹10,000 crore. The funds will be utilised for a sweeping upgrade of airport infrastructure, including:

  • Complete demolition and reconstruction of the ageing Terminal 1
  • Expansion of Terminal 2, which handles most international traffic
  • Development of new taxiways
  • Enhancements to runway capacity and efficiency

According to the report,  Terminal 1, which serves domestic travellers and is located in Vile Parle, is one of the oldest structures on site and is due for a comprehensive upgrade, both in terms of physical layout and digital passenger amenities.

Terminal 1 to Close by November for Reconstruction

Terminal 1 is likely to shut down by November 2025 to make way for reconstruction. The existing structure will be fully demolished and replaced with a modern facility designed to improve passenger flow and comfort.

The revamped terminal will incorporate advanced digital infrastructure and passenger-friendly features, reflecting current global standards in airport design and functionality.

Conclusion: Project Completion Timeline and Capacity Boost

The redevelopment project is expected to take approximately 3 years, with completion targeted between 2028 and 2029. Once operational, the new Terminal 1 will be able to accommodate 20 million passengers annually—a 42% jump from its current capacity.

This enhancement is part of CSMIA’s broader vision to future-proof the airport for the growing demand in domestic aviation and ensure smoother, faster, and more efficient passenger movement.

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.

DMart Leases 35,000 Sq Ft at Migsun Mi Gente Mall, Ghaziabad for ₹21 Lakh Monthly Rent

According to a news report, Avenue Supermarts Ltd, the company behind India’s prominent hypermarket chain DMart, has inked a 29-year 11-month lease for 35,000 sq ft of retail space at the Migsun Mi Gente Mall located in Raj Nagar Extension, Ghaziabad. The deal is reportedly valued at ₹21 lakh per month, reinforcing DMart’s expansion strategy across high-growth urban clusters.

Migsun Mi Gente: Emerging as a Prime Retail Destination

According to statements from the Migsun Group, the lease marks a significant milestone for Migsun Mi Gente Mall, which is fast positioning itself as a go-to retail destination in the region. The property offers state-of-the-art facilities such as round-the-clock security, high-speed elevators, ample parking, and an uninterrupted power supply. Moreover, the mall boasts an international-style architectural design with a fully glass façade and will be the first AI-enabled mall in the area.

Strategic Location in a Rapidly Growing Hub

The Raj Nagar Extension area in Ghaziabad is witnessing rapid development as both a residential and commercial hub. The influx of reputed brands like DMart is expected to attract greater footfall and enhance the region’s overall appeal as a comprehensive urban centre.

Commenting on the deal, Yash Miglani, MD of Migsun Group, highlighted the partnership as a strong endorsement of the mall’s strategic positioning and the broader region’s economic potential. “We are confident this partnership will set new benchmarks for retail experiences in Ghaziabad and reinforce the mall’s position as a catalyst for economic growth,” he said.

DMart’s Ongoing Expansion in North India

This lease follows DMart’s earlier acquisition of 47,000 sq ft of space at the Migsun project in Rohini, Delhi, for ₹108 crore. These moves are part of a broader strategy by Avenue Supermarts to scale up its presence in high-density urban corridors in northern India.

As of March 21, 2025, DMart has opened a new store in Sankeshwar, Belagavi (Karnataka), bringing its total store count to 399 across India.

Financial Performance in Q3

In its recent financial report for Q3, Avenue Supermarts Ltd posted a consolidated net profit of ₹723.54 crore, marking a 4.8% increase from ₹690.41 crore in the corresponding quarter the previous year. Revenue from operations rose by 17.68%, reaching ₹15,972.55 crore compared to ₹13,572.47 crore a year ago.

Conclusion

While DMart’s long-term lease at Migsun Mi Gente Mall reflects its bullish outlook on the region’s retail potential, it also underscores the rising prominence of Ghaziabad as a commercial and residential powerhouse in Delhi-NCR. The partnership not only boosts the mall’s positioning but also aligns with DMart’s continued efforts to expand strategically across key urban nodes.

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.

Shares Worth $350 Million Become Tradable as IPO Lock-in Ends for 8 Companies

With Monday, March 24, marking the end of shareholder lock-in periods for multiple recently listed companies, a total of 20 crore shares across 8 companies are set to become eligible for trading. While this development opens up the possibility for fresh supply in the market, it’s important to clarify that eligibility does not automatically mean these shares will be sold.

Here’s a company-wise breakdown of the lock-in expiries and their potential implications:

Sanathan Textiles

  • Lock-in Period: 3 months
  • Shares Eligible: 26 lakh
  • Sanathan Textiles will see 26 lakh shares, equivalent to 3% of its outstanding equity, become eligible for trading. The stock at 10:02 AM is seen trading at ₹329.60 per share, down by 3.92%.

Mamata Machinery

  • Lock-in Period: 3 months
  • Shares Eligible: 11 lakh
  • Known for its robust IPO subscription (195 times), Mamata Machinery will see 11 lakh shares or 4% of its equity become tradable on March 24. The share price of Mamata Machinery is trading higher by 2.44% at ₹403.30.

DAM Capital

  • Lock-in Period: 3 months
  • Shares Eligible: 44 lakh
  • After a strong IPO subscription and listing, DAM Capital has witnessed a correction aligned with broader market trends. On March 24, 44 lakh shares, amounting to 6% of its equity, became eligible to trade. The stock currently trades below its IPO price at ₹222.75, down by 3.73%. 

Concord Enviro Systems

  • Lock-in Period: 3 months
  • Shares Eligible: 11 lakh
  • With 5% of its equity—11 lakh shares—now eligible for trading, Concord Enviro Systems is among the set of companies reaching the end of its 3-month shareholder lock-in on March 24.

Quality Power

  • Lock-in Period: 1 month
  • Shares Eligible: 45 lakh
  • With 6% of its outstanding equity now eligible for trading, Quality Power share price is trading down by 4.78% at ₹335.20 as of 10:12 AM. 

Western Carriers

  • Lock-in Period: 6 months
  • Shares Eligible: 5.3 crore
  • Western Carriers stands out with a significant 52% of its equity—5.3 crore shares—becoming tradable. The stock trades considerably below its IPO price of ₹172.

Northern Arc Capital

  • Lock-in Period: 6 months
  • Shares Eligible: 9.9 crore
  • Northern Arc Capital leads the pack with 9.9 crore shares, or 61% of its total equity, becoming eligible for trading today. The stock remains below its IPO issue price of ₹263.

Samhi Hotels

  • Lock-in Period: 1.5 years
  • Shares Eligible: 3.44 crore
  • After a 1.5-year lock-in, 3.44 crore shares (or 16% of equity) of Samhi Hotels became tradable. The stock is currently trading just above its IPO price of ₹126.

A Note on Lock-In Expiry

It is essential to understand that while the expiry of lock-in periods increases the free-float in the market, it does not necessarily mean that all these shares will be offloaded immediately. It merely grants shareholders the eligibility to trade them, subject to their own investment timelines and market outlook.

Conclusion

This development is likely to be observed closely by market participants for potential shifts in supply and sentiment, especially in stocks where a large portion of equity is coming out of lock-in.

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.

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands in Vrindavan and Navsari

Lemon Tree Hotels has announced the signing of two new properties under the Keys Select brand, located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, and Navsari, Gujarat. Both hotels will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels.

The Vrindavan property, expected to open in FY 2026, will feature 54 rooms, a restaurant, a banquet hall, a meeting room, a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness centre. The Navsari property, set to open in FY 2028, will also have 54 rooms, along with a restaurant and banquet hall.

Strategic Expansion and Growing Presence

With this expansion, Lemon Tree Hotels is strengthening its presence in tier II and III cities. The company operates across various hotel segments, catering to a broad spectrum of travellers.

Since its inception in 2004, the group has grown significantly, with a portfolio of over 210 hotels. Its strategic expansion highlights a commitment to providing quality hospitality in both established and emerging destinations.

Lemon Tree Share Performance 

As of March 24, 2025, at 9:53 AM, the share price of Lemon Tree Hotels is trading at ₹140.51 per share, reflecting an upside of 0.98% from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 9.46%.

Conclusion

These new signings reflect Lemon Tree Hotels’ strategy of expanding in high-potential locations. As the properties become operational, they will further enhance the brand’s footprint in India’s hospitality 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.

Top 5 Performing Pharma Mutual Funds – Top Fund Gave Over 9% Return in March

The Nifty 50 index reclaimed the 23,350 mark on Friday, March 23, 2025, showing signs of resilience and gaining ground for the 5th consecutive session as of 3:23 PM. While the broader market sentiment has remained optimistic this week, certain sectors have outperformed significantly, particularly the Nifty Pharma and Nifty Healthcare indices.

Nifty Pharma Index Posts Best Weekly Performance in Three Years

As of 3:23 PM on Friday, the Nifty Pharma index was up 1.14% for the day. More notably, it has registered a weekly gain of over 6%, making it the index’s strongest weekly performance since March 2022, when it recorded a 6.34% rise. This trend suggests growing investor interest in the pharmaceutical space, likely driven by earnings expectations, sectoral tailwinds, and defensive allocation amid market volatility.

So far in March, the Pharma index has risen by 9.25%, indicating strong month-to-date momentum.

Nifty Healthcare Index Also Delivers Robust Gains

Alongside pharma, the Nifty Healthcare index has also shown impressive strength. With a weekly gain of 7.24%, it has logged its best weekly performance. As of March 21, its month-to-date gain stands at 10.53%, reflecting strong investor sentiment across healthcare and allied segments.

Top Performing Pharma & Healthcare Mutual Funds

In light of this strong sectoral performance, mutual funds focused on healthcare and pharma have also posted notable returns. 

Below are 5 mutual funds from the sectoral mutual fund that have gained significantly in March 2025:

 

Mutual Fund AUM(in ₹cr) Expense Ratio (%) NAV in ₹ Return (%)
HDFC Pharma and Healthcare Fund 1,468.7 2.1 15.93 9.34
DSP Nifty Healthcare ETF 9.1 0.19 138.81 8.92
WOC Pharma and Healthcare Fund 271.4 2.39 12.74 8.77
Mirae Asset Healthcare Fund 2,441.1 1.96 36.27 8.32
Kotak Healthcare Fund 379.9 2.39 12.78 8.13

Note: Data is as of March 20, 2025 and it’s of regular funds. 

The top-performing fund among the list has delivered returns of over 9% during the month, reflecting the ongoing investor enthusiasm around the pharma and healthcare space.

Final Thoughts

While the recent rally in pharma and healthcare indices may be driven by a confluence of factors, including favourable sector outlook, policy support, or defensive rotation, it highlights the importance of sector-based diversification. Sectoral mutual funds, though more concentrated in nature, may offer exposure to such themes for investors who wish to track specific trends in the market.

Curious about your SBI SIP returns? Get accurate estimates of your investment growth using our SBI SIP Calculator and stay ahead of your financial goals.

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

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

Quant Midcap Fund Jumps 8.5% in March– ₹5 Lakh Grows to ₹5.42 Lakh

Quant Mutual Fund’s midcap offering, the Quant Midcap Fund – Direct Plan (Growth), has once again captured attention for its strong performance. As of March 20, 2025, the scheme has delivered an absolute return of 8.5% for the month, significantly outperforming its benchmark, the NIFTY Midcap 150 TRI, which posted a return of 6.59% over the same period.

Snapshot of Returns

 

Scheme Name 01-03-2025 to 20-03-2025
Growth Value Absolute Return (%)
Quant MidCap 5,42,525 8.5
NIFTY Midcap 150 TRI 5,32,927 6.59

An investment of ₹5 lakh at the beginning of the month would have grown to ₹5.42 lakh by 20 March 2025. 

Fund Overview and Key Metrics

As of March 20, 2025, the Net Asset Value (NAV) of the Growth option under the Direct Plan stands at ₹226.42. The fund currently manages Assets under Management (AUM) worth ₹7,615.71 crore, with an expense ratio of 0.62%, making it a competitively priced offering in the midcap category.

Investment Objective and Strategy

The fund aims to achieve capital appreciation and long-term growth opportunities by investing in a diversified portfolio of midcap companies. However, as with any investment product, it is important to note that there is no assurance that the investment objective will be achieved.

Minimum Investment and Exit Load

The scheme has a minimum investment requirement of ₹5,000, with additional investments allowed from ₹1,000 onwards. The Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) option also starts from ₹1,000. Investors should note that the scheme attracts an exit load of 0.50% if redeemed within 3 months from the date of investment.

Conclusion

With a sharp 8.5% return in just 20 days, the fund has outshone its benchmark in March 2025. It continues to draw interest for its dynamic midcap approach.

Ready to watch your savings grow? Try our SIP Calculator today and unlock the potential of disciplined investing. Perfect for planning your financial future. Start now!

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.

Embassy Developments Signs Landmark Deal with Semiconductor Manufacturer Lam Research For ₹1,125 Crores

Embassy Developments Ltd. (EDL), through its wholly owned subsidiary Embassy East Business Park Pvt Ltd., has finalised definitive agreements with Lam Research (India) Private Limited for the sublease and eventual divestment of approximately 25 acres in Whitefield, Bengaluru. The deal, valued at ₹1,125 crore, is subject to regulatory approvals.

Strengthening Bengaluru’s Position as a Tech Hub

The agreement between EDL and Lam Research, a global semiconductor leader, reflects the increasing demand for world-class commercial infrastructure tailored to cutting-edge industries. As the city continues to attract high-value investments, this deal further cements Bengaluru’s reputation as a preferred destination for advanced technology companies.

The transaction signifies the evolving landscape of the city’s business ecosystem, with major global players choosing Bengaluru as their base for expansion and innovation.

Strategic Asset Monetisation for EDL

Aditya Virwani, Managing Director of EDL, expressed enthusiasm over the partnership, calling it a milestone transaction. He said,” We are delighted to partner with one of the world’s foremost semiconductor companies in this milestone transaction. Bengaluru remains a top choice for global corporations, and this transaction reaffirms EDL’s capability to unlock value through strategic asset monetisation. The proceeds from this sale will be reinvested into high-growth opportunities, strengthening our development pipeline and delivering sustained value to our stakeholders.”

Embassy Development Share Performance 

As of March 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM, Embassy Development’s share price is trading at ₹119.00 per share, reflecting an upside of 3.16% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 9.58%.

Conclusion

The agreement between Embassy Developments Ltd. and Lam Research highlights Bengaluru’s growing influence in the global high-tech sector. By facilitating investments in cutting-edge industries, the transaction not only enhances the city’s commercial infrastructure but also positions EDL for further growth.

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

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

How Much Gold is Legal to Keep at Home – Limits for Married & Unmarried Women and Income Tax Explained

In India, gold holds more than just economic value—it is deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and religious beliefs. Whether it’s a wedding, festival, or auspicious occasion, gold plays a central role in Indian celebrations. For generations, families have been accumulating gold, often passing it down through inheritance. But beyond emotional and cultural connections, it’s essential to be aware of the legal framework around gold storage at home.

Gold Storage Rules in India: What the Law Says

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued clear guidelines on how much gold one can legally keep at home. While there is no ban on possessing gold, the amount must be justifiable through legitimate means such as declared income or inheritance. Failing to prove the origin of your gold during an income tax investigation could potentially lead to scrutiny, or in severe cases, a raid.

Legal Limits Based on Gender and Marital Status

The CBDT’s guidelines offer specific limits for gold possession based on an individual’s gender and marital status:

  • Married women are permitted to keep up to 500 grams of gold.
  • Unmarried women are allowed up to 250 grams.
  • Men, regardless of marital status, can keep up to 100 grams.

It’s important to note that these limits apply even if there is no documentation available, such as receipts or inheritance papers. However, possessing gold above these thresholds will require proper documentation to avoid complications.

Inherited and Purchased Gold: Is There a Tax?

Gold received as inheritance or purchased through tax-paid income does not attract any immediate tax liability. You are not required to pay tax merely for keeping gold at home—provided you can explain its origin if asked.

Gold received through agricultural income or other tax-exempt sources is also exempt from taxation. However, in the event of an income tax raid, authorities cannot seize jewellery within the permissible limits, even if no purchase proof is available.

Tax Implications on Selling Gold

Although there’s no tax on keeping gold, selling it is a different matter altogether. Any profit made from the sale of gold is subject to capital gains tax, depending on the holding period.

Capital Gains Tax on Gold: Budget 2024 Update

In the Union Budget 2024, the government introduced key changes in how capital gains on physical gold are taxed. Here’s what has changed:

  • The holding period for gold to qualify as a long-term capital asset has been reduced from 3 years to 2 years.
  • If you sell gold after 24 months, any gains will be treated as long-term capital gains (LTCG) and taxed at 12.5%, without indexation.
  • If sold before 24 months, it will attract short-term capital gains tax, which is taxed as per the individual’s applicable income tax slab.

Documentation is Key to Compliance

Regardless of the amount of gold you own, keeping relevant documents—like purchase invoices, inheritance declarations, or gift deeds—will help safeguard your assets from legal scrutiny. This becomes even more important if the gold exceeds the standard limits prescribed by the CBDT.

Conclusion: Tradition Meets Regulation

Gold is a cherished asset in Indian households, serving both emotional and financial purposes. While the law does not prohibit gold ownership, it does require accountability. Understanding the limits and maintaining proper documentation ensures peace of mind and protects you from unnecessary tax-related concerns.

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.