CONSUMER AFFAIRS MINISTRY
Direct vs indirect taxes: Key differences and how they impact taxpayers and prices in India
If you are confused by personal finance terms, jargon and calculations, here’s a series to simplify and deconstruct these for you. In the 99th part of this series, Riju Mehta explains the difference between the two types of taxes.
Around 10.10 lakh passengers travelled to India since February 28 from region amid West Asia tensions, says Govt
India is ensuring smooth functioning across key sectors amidst the West Asia situation. The Petroleum Ministry guarantees uninterrupted fuel and LPG supply. Commercial LPG prioritizes essential services. Refineries operate at high capacity with adequate crude. Indian vessels and seafarers are safe. Flights continue to operate, with many passengers returning. The government is actively monitoring and coordinating efforts.
Global growth needs unconstricted energy markets: Jaishankar on Hormuz disruption
India is pushing for safe passage for ships. Attacks on merchant vessels are unacceptable. Global growth needs open energy markets. India will work with partners to build strong supply chains. Japan launched a new initiative to help Asian countries facing fuel shortages. This plan offers financial aid to secure energy supplies and diversify sources.
Attacks on merchant shipping completely unacceptable, says Jaishankar amid West Asia situation
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly backed safe and unimpeded maritime shipping. He stated that attacks on merchant vessels are unacceptable. This comes as India engages diplomatically on the West Asia conflict. The minister also highlighted India's commitment to energy market supply chain resilience. India is closely monitoring developments in the region.
Govt seizes 500 LPG cylinders as India intensifies energy security measures amid Israel-Iran war
The government is taking strong measures to address the LPG shortage and ensure fuel stability. Raids are underway to stop black-marketing, with over 2,950 conducted recently. New PNG connections are expanding, and efforts are made to increase supply of smaller cylinders. Domestic fuel prices are being managed. Repatriation of seafarers and travel for Indian nationals from West Asia are facilitated.
'Indian flagged vessel Green Asha safely reaches JNPA after crossing Strait of Hormuz': Union Shipping Ministry
"No incident involving Indian flagged vessels or Indian seafarers has been reported in the past 24 hours. The Indian flagged vessel Green Asha, which crossed the Strait of Hormuz on 5th of April, 2026, has safely reached JNPA earlier today...," he said.
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West Asia conflict deals a double whammy to India’s farm sector: pre-harvest cost pressures, post-harvest shipping delays
Supply shocks, export disruptions, and labour shortages caused by the Iran war are beginning to strain India’s agriculture despite ample foodgrain stocks.
IT mojo returns pre-Q4 results; Flipkart's AI sprint
IT stocks have gained momentum ahead of Q4 results. This and more in today's ETtech Top 5.
US-Iran ceasefire set to ease pressure on India's energy supplies
India's energy outlook improves as a ceasefire between Iran and the US brings down crude oil prices. The critical Strait of Hormuz is reopening, easing concerns over energy imports. India had faced supply disruptions for LPG and natural gas. Efforts are underway to free stranded Indian vessels.
Enough rice, wheat stocks for emergency
Food prices remain steady across India. Essential items like grains, pulses, edible oils, and sugar are in good supply. The government assures sufficient buffer stocks for public distribution and emergencies. The FCI is prepared to release more foodgrain if needed to keep prices stable. Consumers can expect continued availability of these vital commodities.
No unusual price volatility despite West Asia tensions, Government says; ample food stocks in place
The government states essential commodity prices are stable despite the West Asia crisis. Sufficient wheat and rice stocks are available for public distribution and emergencies. States are urged to prevent hoarding and black marketing. Daily price monitoring of 40 commodities occurs across India. Production of pulses, onion, potato, and tomato remains strong.
India begins its first digital census in 16 years and this time there's a big difference
India begins Census 2027 on April 1, 2026. This nationwide count is the first in 16 years and will be fully digital, using smartphones and online portals. For the first time since 1931, caste will be comprehensively enumerated. The census aims for faster data delivery and improved policy-making. This exercise will also generate significant employment opportunities across the country.
Rajnath Singh chairs IGoM meet, urges constant vigil over West Asia crisis
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led a crucial meeting on the West Asia conflict. The government is closely monitoring the situation. Measures are being taken to protect India's interests and minimize the impact on citizens. Steps include customs duty exemptions and support for industries. Domestic LPG supply is prioritized, with action against hoarding.
Abhishek Singh of IndiaAI mission named DG of NTA
In a significant shake-up, Abhishek Singh, who spearheaded the IndiaAI Mission, will now take the helm as the director general of the National Testing Agency. This strategic move comes amid a broader bureaucratic realignment.
Union Cabinet appoints IndiaAI Mission CEO Abhishek Singh as the Director General of NTA
In a sweeping bureaucratic reshuffle on the last day of the financial year, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment and transfer of over 40 senior officers across various central ministries and departments.
Vir Vikram Yadav appointed new Directorate General of Civil Aviation chief
Vir Vikram Yadav is the new chief of DGCA. This appointment is part of a major reshuffle of senior bureaucrats. Twenty-five civil servants have been moved to new roles. Puneet Kansal is now Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Vishal Gagan will be Secretary at the Central Information Commission.
Framing the future: How the enduring legacy of India AI Impact Summit 2026 can power Viksit Bharat
From Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s 58,000 GPU expansion commitment to a Guinness World Record for validated pledges, from Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani’s Rs 10 lakh crore commitment to the landmark Nandan Nilekani-Dario Amodei dialogue, the India AI Impact Summit 2026 delivered big on vision and scope. One month on, its conversations continue to shape India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 trajectory.
Govt shares key updates on oil, gas shortage, shipping & more amid Israel-Iran war
India is actively managing its oil and gas supplies amidst global conflicts. Key LPG carriers are en route, and the nation is prioritizing natural gas for essential consumers. The government is also expediting infrastructure development and advising consumers on alternative fuels. Efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of Indian citizens from affected regions.
Rajnath Singh chairs first IGoM meet on West Asia situation, calls for proactive and coordinated response
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led a key meeting of ministers to address the West Asia situation. The group discussed impacts on India and planned proactive steps. Ministers emphasized vigilance and coordinated action. Presentations highlighted sectoral issues and policy measures. The government is committed to protecting citizens from conflict effects. Information sharing and public advisories are prioritized.
India-US trade agreement designed to protect domestic sensitivities: Govt tells LS
India and the US have reached an interim trade agreement framework. The agreement focuses on market access and reducing trade barriers. It also addresses non-tariff barriers and promotes cooperation in technology and energy.
Trump's Iran war pushes India to rekindle old friendship with Russia
India and Russia are strengthening energy ties. Discussions are underway for Russia to resume direct liquefied natural gas sales to India for the first time since the Ukraine war began. This move follows India's earlier reduction of Russian crude oil purchases. Both nations are also set to increase crude oil sales. This cooperation occurs amid rising global energy prices.
Petrol, diesel rates to be reviewed every 15 days, government says
Fuel prices will now be reviewed every two weeks. This move comes as global crude oil prices surge due to the West Asia conflict. The government is closely monitoring the situation. Domestic LPG production has increased significantly. Supply decisions are being calibrated to prioritize Indian consumers. Key industries are receiving essential fuel supplies.
India retains inflation target at 4% for next five years
India has maintained its retail inflation target at 4 percent for the Reserve Bank of India. This decision ensures continuity and price stability amidst global economic uncertainties. The framework, set for another five years until March 2031, obligates the RBI to manage monetary policy for price control. This move influences government fiscal measures, aiming for overall economic stability.
7 groups of secretaries gear up to deal with Gulf crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced seven empowered groups to address the long-term impacts of the West Asia war, urging states to collaborate in a 'Team India' approach. He emphasized dialogue and diplomacy for peace, stressing self-reliance and preparedness for potential supply chain disruptions and energy crises.
CCS reviews situation arising due to West Asia conflict; energy, fuel security assessed
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting to review the West Asia conflict's impact on India. The committee assessed critical needs like food, energy, and fuel security, directing a dedicated group to manage the effects. Measures for short, medium, and long-term availability of essential commodities were discussed.
Government says LPG situation not ‘self-sustainable’ as imports hit by Middle East crisis
India's LPG supply is normal but demand is worrisome. The government encourages a shift to piped natural gas. Monitoring of West Asia continues, with discussions held with Oman and France. India reaffirms solidarity with Qatar. Efforts are underway to ensure smooth distribution and prevent panic buying of essential fuels.
Three-horse race for Happiest Minds; Gazette may unlock content blocking
Happy Friday! A clutch of suitors is eyeing IT veteran Ashok Soota’s Happiest Minds. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.
Centre urges state govts to take action as LPG situation remains a 'matter of concern' amid war
The Indian government has asked state governments to actively manage the LPG situation. Officials emphasized the need to prevent hoarding and black marketing of cooking gas. States are also urged to provide daily updates to citizens. The central government is encouraging new PNG connections to ease the LPG crisis.
India gives major updates on LPG connections, ships in Gulf & citizens' return to homeland
The Indian government briefed on West Asia developments, highlighting LPG supply stability for domestic consumers and a significant shift to digital bookings, with 90% now made online. The ministry also provided updates on shipping vessels in the Gulf and the repatriation of Indian nationals.
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