The recently announced Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is set to bring substantial foreign investment to India. According to Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Mr. Piyush Goyal, EFTA nations—comprising Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—have pledged Rs. 8,74,500 crore (US$ 100 billion) in Foreign Direct …
India, long recognised as the pharmacy of the world, is set to experience a significant expansion in pharmaceutical exports. With a target of ₹30,76,500 crore (US$ 350 billion) by 2047, the country’s pharma industry is expected to grow 10 to 15 times from its current export value of ₹2,37,330 crore (US$ 27 billion) in 2023. …
Tourism is a significant contributor to India’s economy, but its rapid growth also presents environmental and socio-economic challenges. Recognising this, the Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism, focusing on key pillars that ensure responsible travel while preserving natural and cultural heritage. Strategic Pillars of Sustainable Tourism The Ministry has identified …
The Indian Navy has made remarkable strides in embracing the spirit of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance), transitioning from a Buyer’s Navy to a Builder’s Navy. Over 60 warships are currently being constructed in Indian shipyards, highlighting its commitment to indigenisation. Naval Aviation, an integral part of the Navy, is steadfast in its efforts to achieve self-reliance. As …
The Indian rupee experienced a sharp rally, surging nearly 1% against the US dollar on Tuesday, its most significant rise in over two years. At 12:30 PM, the USD/INR spot rate was 86.88, trading 0.68% lower. The surge, which took the rupee back above the 87 mark for the first time since January 31, was …
Indian government bond yields saw a rise on Monday morning as investors stayed cautious after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) made its monetary policy decision. The benchmark 10-year bond yield was recorded at 6.7284%, slightly up from the previous close of 6.7043%. Weak Rupee and U.S. Trade Fears Impact Sentiment The Indian rupee hit …
The Union Budget 2025 has introduced several tax changes that will impact investors, taxpayers, and senior citizens. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the key updates: ULIP Taxation Changes The government has clarified that if the annual premium for Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) exceeds ₹2.5 lakh, the redemption amount will be subject to capital gains …
The Indian rupee fell by 45 paise, reaching a record low of 87.95 against the US dollar in early trading on Monday, February 10, 2025. This was largely due to the strength of the US dollar in the global market and a negative trend in domestic equities. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee …
Kerala’s Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal presented the state budget for 2025-26, in the State Legislative Assembly on Friday, February 7, 2025, which includes plans for infrastructure development like metro projects, high-speed rail corridors, tourism initiatives, and significant welfare investments. The budget emphasises Metro rail projects in Kochi, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram, high-speed rail corridors, the ‘K-Homes’ …
The Budget Session of Parliament resumed on Monday, 10 February 2025, and one of the most anticipated developments is the tabling of the new Income Tax Bill. Cleared by the Union Cabinet last week as per reports, the bill is expected to be introduced in the Lok Sabha soon. Even if it is not presented …
