eznews.inPrivate sector capital investment in India is projected to surge by 21.5% to ₹2.67 lakh crore in the fiscal year 2025-26, bolstered by strong macroeconomic fundamentals and a 100-basis point cut in policy rates, according to an article in the Reserve Bank of India's August bulletin. Despite global uncertainties, Indian companies are entering this fiscal year with healthier balance sheets and improved access to diverse funding sources. The article highlights that ongoing infrastructure initiatives, sustained disinflation, and favorable liquidity conditions are creating a conducive environment for investment, particularly in the power sector. While external risks such as geopolitical tensions may impact sentiment, domestic fundamentals remain robust. The authors emphasize the importance of translating investment intentions into execution, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and supportive policies to ensure sustainable economic growth. The views expressed are those of the authors and do not reflect the RBI's official stance. 
Published: Aug 31 2025, 3 pmeznews.inIn a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of India has clarified that motor vehicle tax is compensatory in nature and should not be levied if a vehicle is not used or kept for use in a 'public place.' The verdict, delivered by Justices Manoj Misra and Ujjal Bhuyan, stemmed from an appeal regarding a December 2024 judgment by the Andhra Pradesh High Court. The court emphasized that the tax is applicable only when vehicles are utilized in public infrastructure, such as roads. The case involved a logistics firm that had deployed 36 vehicles within the restricted premises of the Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) in Visakhapatnam, which is not accessible to the public. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the firm, stating that it should not be liable for motor vehicle tax during the period its vehicles were confined to the central dispatch yard, thus allowing the appeal and ordering a refund of ₹22,71,700.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 2 pmeznews.inIndia's reliance on Chinese specialty fertiliser imports has surged since 2005, with the country now sourcing 80% of its specialty fertilisers directly from China. As China prepares to reimpose export restrictions from October, industry officials warn of potential price hikes that could adversely affect farmers. Rajiv Chakraborty, President of the Soluble Fertilizer Industry Association, noted that while a temporary resumption of exports has provided short-term relief, the tightening of controls will soon resume, leading to increased inspections and consignment delays. Indian companies are racing to secure supplies during this brief window, with global sourcing firms working to meet seasonal demands. Although domestic production is expected to alleviate some supply issues by mid-season, price increases are anticipated, directly impacting farmers. The recent halt in exports previously caused a 40% price surge, but the peak demand period for specialty fertilisers coincides with the farming season, limiting immediate disruption.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 1 pmeznews.inThe Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has called on the Indian government to implement urgent relief measures following the imposition of a 50% tariff by the United States on Indian goods, effective August 27. GJEPC Executive Director Sabyasachi Ray noted that exporters had preemptively increased shipments to the US, but the sudden tariff has severely impacted the industry, particularly in Surat, which processes 90% of the world's diamonds. The council has submitted a memorandum requesting an extension of credit timelines, a moratorium on loan payments, and reimbursement for additional tariffs. Key demands also include extending the export obligation period for duty-free gold imports and support for workers facing job losses. Despite the challenges, Ray remains optimistic that the tariff will be temporary, emphasizing the importance of the broader India-US relationship.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 1 pmeznews.inIn a significant bilateral meeting in Tianjin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping sought to mend strained relations following the Galwan Valley clashes of 2020. Emphasizing the importance of mutual trust, Modi highlighted the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights between the two nations, which he described as vital for the 2.8 billion people they represent. Xi echoed the sentiment, calling for the "dragon and the elephant" to unite amid global transformations. Modi's visit, his first to China in seven years, comes as he prepares to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit and meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The backdrop of rising tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on India, China, and Russia adds urgency to their discussions, as these three countries collectively account for a significant portion of the world's GDP. Recent diplomatic gestures from China, including addressing India's concerns over essential supplies, signal a potential thaw in relations.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 1 pmeznews.inThe Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has solidified its position in the online ticketing sector, capturing nearly 88% of reserved railway bookings in the first quarter of FY26. As part of its digital expansion, IRCTC plans to enhance its fintech capabilities by introducing UPI-linked credit card bookings and developing an AI-driven advertising strategy to boost cross-selling. The company has received preliminary approval from the Reserve Bank of India for a payment aggregator license, which is expected to broaden its revenue streams beyond ticketing within the next 12 to 18 months. In the April-June quarter, IRCTC's internet ticketing revenue rose 9% year-on-year to ₹360 crore, contributing to a consolidated net profit increase of 7% to ₹330 crore. While catering and Rail Neer divisions faced challenges, tourism saw a robust 21% growth, driven by initiatives like Bharat Gaurav trains and luxury offerings.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 12 pmeznews.inIn his latest 'Mann Ki Baat' broadcast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on citizens to support local products during the festive season, emphasizing the importance of 'Swadeshi' goods. As the nation celebrates 'Ganesh Utsav', he urged people to choose Indian-made gifts, attire, and decorations, reinforcing the mantra of 'Vocal for Local' and the vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India). This appeal comes amid challenges faced by Indian exporters, particularly in textiles and gems, due to high tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Modi also highlighted the growing adoption of solar power, noting its transformative impact on farmers' lives, exemplified by the story of Devki from Muzaffarpur, who has gained respect and financial independence through solar initiatives. He encouraged the nation to harness solar energy, stating it not only provides electricity but also empowers communities.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 12 pmeznews.inThe Indian government is formulating an action plan to address the repercussions of a 50% tariff increase imposed by the US on Indian exports, according to Economic Affairs Secretary Anuradha Thakur. She acknowledged that certain employment-intensive sectors may be adversely affected and emphasized the government's commitment to assessing the impact and exploring solutions. To bolster domestic demand and support manufacturing, the government has introduced measures such as zero income tax for earnings up to ₹12 lakh and GST reforms aimed at reducing commodity prices. Thakur expressed confidence in meeting the fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of GDP for 2025-26, despite a rise to 29.9% of the full-year target by July. India's economy grew by 7.8% in the April-June quarter, driven by strong agricultural performance and robust domestic demand, reinforcing its status as the fastest-growing major economy, outpacing China's 5.2% growth.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 11 ameznews.inIndia's nominal GDP growth rate for the April-June quarter of FY26 has fallen to 8.8%, the lowest in three quarters, despite a real growth rate reaching a five-quarter high. This decline in nominal growth, which reflects the value of goods and services at current prices, could impact the fiscal deficit, projected at ₹15.69 lakh crore or 4.4% of an estimated GDP of ₹357 lakh crore. The GDP deflator, a key inflation measure, has also dropped to 0.9%, its lowest in 23 quarters, influenced by subdued wholesale and retail inflation rates. Tax revenue growth has slowed to just 0.8% year-on-year, significantly below the anticipated 10.8% for FY26, while revenue expenditure has surged by 17.1%. Experts warn that proposed GST rate changes could significantly affect fiscal targets if they do not stimulate demand.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 11 ameznews.inThe upcoming GST Council meeting on September 3-4, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is crucial for the auto industry, particularly the luxury car segment, as clarity on new GST rates could stimulate sales during the festive season. BMW Group India President Hardeep Singh Brar highlighted that consumer uncertainty surrounding potential GST changes has led to a cautious approach among buyers, impacting vehicle sales. He emphasized the need for clarity to bolster economic growth and maintain the existing 5% GST on electric vehicles to support sustainable adoption. Audi India and Mercedes-Benz India executives expressed optimism for the festive season, anticipating increased consumer confidence post-GST clarification. However, Icra's Jitin Makkar cautioned that luxury car sales may only see mid-single-digit growth this festive season due to external economic pressures, with a potential GST cut for smaller cars possibly benefiting the mass market while the luxury segment faces challenges.
Published: Aug 31 2025, 11 am
For the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
India
World
Economy
Science
Health
Showbiz
Contact