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Rice prices increase slightly, but surplus may alter trend

Global rice prices have seen a slight increase recently, but experts predict this trend may not last due to ample supplies, particularly from India, which holds a record inventory of 33.6 million tonnes of rice. Indian exporters are facing challenges, including a temporary halt in shipments to Senegal due to expired import licenses. Despite competitive pricing, with India's 5% broken white rice at $346 per tonne, exports have declined compared to last year, with non-basmati rice exports at 7.02 million tonnes in the first half of the fiscal year, down from 8.96 million tonnes in 2022-23. The Ministry of Agriculture anticipates a record kharif rice production of 125.40 million tonnes, contributing to potential price drops. Additionally, the impact of weather events like Cyclone Senyar could further influence production and prices in the coming months. sources

Published:
Nov 27 2025, 9 am

Poultry industry requests government approval for GM maize imports

The ₹3-lakh crore poultry industry in India is urging the government to permit the import of genetically modified (GM) maize to mitigate rising production costs exacerbated by competition from the ethanol sector. With the ethanol industry consuming 12-15 million tonnes of the country's 42 million tonnes of annual maize production, prices have surged, impacting the poultry sector, which requires about 25 million tonnes. Uday Singh Bayas, President of the Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers Association, highlighted that high input costs, particularly for maize and soya, hinder the industry's competitiveness against international players like Brazil and Thailand. He called for government intervention to stabilize prices and ensure farmers receive fair compensation. Additionally, the industry seeks recognition as a distinct sector, advocating for export promotions to enhance its global market presence, as current revenues remain low despite significant potential. sources

Published:
Nov 27 2025, 9 am

India's Q2 FY26 GDP Growth Projected at 7.5%: Union Bank

India's economic growth is projected to surge to 7.5% in the second quarter of the financial year 2026, significantly up from 5.6% in the same period last year, according to a report by Union Bank of India. The official GDP data will be released on November 28. While this growth is robust, it is slightly lower than the 7.8% recorded in the previous quarter. Gross Value Added (GVA) is also expected to rise to 7.3%, compared to 5.8% in Q2 FY25. The report notes that nominal GDP growth may slow to 8.0%, down from 8.8% in Q1. Factors such as strong government spending and the front-loading of exports have bolstered growth, although challenges may arise in the second half of FY26 due to fading statistical drivers and potential inflation increases. Union Bank has revised its FY26 GDP growth target upward to 7.1%, anticipating that GST rate cuts will further support demand. sources

Published:
Nov 27 2025, 9 am

Remittances for foreign equity/debt rise 57% in H1FY26

In September 2025, outward remittances by Indian retail investors for equity and debt investments reached $279 million, marking a six-month high and a 57% increase to $1.1 billion for the April-September period compared to $700 million the previous year, according to the Reserve Bank of India's Liberalised Remittance Scheme data. This surge is attributed to market volatility and a depreciating rupee, prompting investors to seek opportunities in global markets, particularly in AI and technology stocks. Sitashwa Srivastava, CEO of Borderless, noted that limited local investment options have driven this trend, with the platform reporting a 100% year-on-year increase in trading volumes. Investors like Viram Shah emphasize the benefits of global bonds, which offer better returns when accounting for rupee depreciation. Chartered accountant Prathik Desai highlighted the diversification potential of investing in international markets, particularly in leading tech companies following strong performances. sources

Published:
Nov 27 2025, 6 am

IMF Urges Monitoring of GST, Income Tax Rate Cuts

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged India to closely monitor the fiscal implications of recent changes to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and personal income tax rates, following the completion of its Article IV Consultation. While the IMF anticipates robust growth, projected at 6.6% for FY2025-26, supported by favorable domestic conditions and resilient service exports, it also highlighted significant near-term risks, including potential geoeconomic fragmentation and unpredictable weather impacts. The IMF noted that the recent GST rate cut, effective September 22, is expected to mitigate tariff impacts and keep inflation contained. Directors recommended targeted and transparent tariff relief measures and emphasized the need for fiscal consolidation and enhanced domestic revenue mobilization. They also supported the Reserve Bank of India's data-driven monetary policy approach, suggesting that further easing may be possible if current tariff levels persist. Comprehensive structural reforms are deemed essential for India’s ambition to become an advanced economy. sources

Published:
Nov 26 2025, 9 pm

RBI Deputy Governor: MPC inflation forecasts are unbiased

Poonam Gupta, Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), affirmed that the inflation forecasts utilized by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) are unbiased, despite inherent risks of errors in forecasting. This statement follows the RBI's downward revisions of its retail inflation projections for FY26, which dropped from an initial 4% in April to 2.6% by October. Speaking at a workshop on the revision of key economic indicators, Gupta highlighted the importance of the RBI's Flexible Inflation Targeting (FIT) framework, which aims to balance price stability with growth. She acknowledged the challenges of inflation forecasting in India, particularly due to the outdated weight of food in the Consumer Price Index and the volatility of food prices. Gupta emphasized the RBI's commitment to enhancing forecast accuracy through advanced models and timely data, ensuring that forecasts remain unbiased and reflective of the rapidly evolving Indian economy. sources

Published:
Nov 26 2025, 8 pm

RBI loan moratorium: Govt may expand eligible export sectors

On November 14, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a moratorium on export loans for select exporters, covering term loan installments and working capital interest due between September 1 and December 31, 2025. The Commerce Department plans to discuss expanding this moratorium, currently limited to 20 sectors, to include more industries affected by US tariffs and global trade disruptions, such as textiles, toys, and sports goods. During the moratorium, interest will be calculated simply, with accrued amounts converted into a funded interest term loan repayable by September 30, 2026. The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) has urged the RBI to allow any exporter demonstrating adverse impacts from trade disruptions to qualify for support, arguing that this would ensure equitable treatment across affected sectors. The US imposed significant tariffs on Indian exports in August, leading to a notable decline in trade. sources

Published:
Nov 26 2025, 8 pm

Government unveils ₹7,300 cr scheme for EVs and Defence magnets

In a significant move to bolster domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on China, the Union Cabinet approved a ₹7,280 crore incentive scheme aimed at promoting the production of sintered rare earth permanent magnets (REPMs) on Wednesday. Addressing a cabinet briefing in New Delhi, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that the initiative seeks to create a capacity of 6,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) and is expected to attract investments exceeding ₹20,000 crore. This scheme, which includes sales-linked incentives and capital subsidies, aims to position India as a competitive player in the global REPM market, crucial for sectors such as electric vehicles and aerospace. With approximately 6.9 million tonnes of rare earth element reserves, the government aims to bridge the gap in production capabilities, enhancing energy security and reducing carbon emissions, according to industry experts. sources

Published:
Nov 26 2025, 8 pm

Gujarat Pipavav Port's ₹17,000-cr MoU with GMB non-binding

Gujarat Pipavav Port Ltd (GPPL) has reported positive progress in discussions with the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) regarding a concession agreement, with no concerns raised thus far. The company clarified that its recently signed ₹17,000-crore Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GMB is not binding and contingent upon securing an extension of its operating concession, which is set to expire on September 29, 2028. GPPL's proposed investment aims to enhance infrastructure at the port over 30 years, focusing on various marine and landside assets, including new jetties and land development. Managing Director Girish Aggarwal emphasized that while plans are evolving, it is premature to discuss specifics of the expansion. Additionally, GPPL is advancing its ₹700-crore liquid berth expansion, expected to be commissioned by late 2026, with significant expenditure planned for early that year. sources

Published:
Nov 26 2025, 6 pm

Centre reviews national highway bypass planning standards

The Indian government is reviewing its national framework for planning and constructing highway bypasses, driven by rapid urban expansion along national highways that has intensified pressure on existing routes. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is reassessing criteria for bypass necessity, particularly in densely populated areas where widening existing corridors is impractical. The new policy aims to align bypass development with urban master plans, recognizing that such projects can spur urbanization and economic growth. MoRTH is also evaluating proposals for land acquisition from state governments, establishing buffer zones between highways and bypasses, and considering shared financial responsibilities for development. The review will incorporate feedback on traffic projections, safety, and economic impacts, while aligning with the Bharatmala Pariyojana programme. Currently, ring roads in major cities are serving as bypasses, with new expressways providing long-distance diversions. sources

Published:
Nov 26 2025, 7 pm

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