CONSUMER MINISTRY
US–Israel–Iran War Day 52: Strait of Hormuz explodes into chaos as US seizes Iranian cargo ship; Tehran cries 'piracy', Pakistan’s peace push hangs by a thread
Iran War News Day 52: On Day 52 of the US–Israel–Iran war, tensions have intensified after the US seized an Iranian cargo ship, prompting Tehran’s threat of retaliation. The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz continues to disrupt global oil supplies, pushing crude prices higher. With talks stalled and military posturing rising, fears of a wider regional conflict and prolonged energy crisis are growing.
India seeks to cool war’s oil burn with flex-fuel shift
India is gearing up to fast-track the integration of flex-fuel vehicles into its automotive landscape. These innovative cars are capable of using higher blends of ethanol, paving the way for decreased dependence on imported oil. As the global oil markets grapple with instability stemming from geopolitical conflicts, this initiative is timely.
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.
India LPG consumption slides 13% amid West Asia conflict
India's LPG consumption plummeted by 13% in March due to West Asia conflict-induced supply disruptions. Despite government efforts to boost domestic production and meet household demand, commercial and bulk sales saw significant drops. However, overall LPG consumption for the fiscal year ending March 2026 still registered a 6% increase.
Bangladesh raises fuel prices as Iran war drives up costs
Bangladesh has made a tough choice to raise fuel prices by up to 15 percent, a direct response to rising crude oil costs and supply interruptions stemming from conflicts in the Middle East. This price hike affects petrol, diesel, and kerosene, reflecting the harsh realities of the global market.
Weight-loss drug craze for Ozempic, Mounjaro surges in India amid safety concerns
In India, appetite for weight-loss drugs is on the rise, with consumers increasingly turning to injectables such as Mounjaro and Ozempic for gradual weight reduction. Healthcare professionals are urging the need for stringent regulations to prevent misuse and improper marketing.
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DA hike announcement: How salaries of Level 1-18 employees will rise after 2% dearness allowance hike
DA hike for central government employees: A 2% hike in DA will take it from its current rate of 58% to 60%. With this hike, dearness relief (DR) for pensioners has also been increased to 60%. The announcement is for January 2026 and central government employees and pensioners will get arrears from the back date.
Paracetamol may get costlier as Vizag chemists warn 30–40% drug cost surge amid Iran war-led pharma cost shock
The ongoing conflict in Iran is impacting India's healthcare sector. Pharmaceutical distributors warn of significant price increases for essential medicines. Soaring raw material costs, particularly from West Asia, are forcing manufacturers to adjust prices. While current stock remains unaffected, future hikes are expected for generic and essential drugs. The government is taking steps to stabilize costs and ensure availability.
India's LPG demand softens, bookings fall to 46-50 lakh, supply remains normal: Govt
LPG demand is expected to moderate during the summer season, with bookings already witnessing a decline, said Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia on Friday.
Indian banks halt gold, silver imports amid delay in government clearance, sources say
Indian banks have halted gold and silver import orders as a fresh government authorisation under DGFT is still pending, leaving tonnes of bullion stuck at customs. India, a top global consumer, risks supply shortages and rising premiums if delays continue.
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.
Lulu Group heads to Ladakh to export 1500 MT Ladakhi apricots across foreign markets
Ladakh is set to export a significant amount of its famed apricots this season. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with Lulu International to export over 1000 metric tons of apricots. This initiative aims to boost farmer income and promote Ladakhi produce globally. Plans are also underway for an e-commerce portal to provide direct market access.
Indian officials see Iran war oil shock as disruptive as Covid
India is drawing on its Covid-era playbook to cushion the economic blow from the Iran war, with officials warning the disruption to energy supplies could rival the pandemic, threatening growth, widening the fiscal deficit, and pushing the rupee to record lows.
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.
100% domestic LPG, PNG supply ensured amid West Asia crisis: Govt
India has successfully maintained full supply of Piped Natural Gas and Liquefied Petroleum Gas for homes. This was achieved by prioritising domestic needs during energy disruptions from the West Asia crisis. Commercial LPG supplies have also been restored significantly. The government implemented measures to manage demand and ensure availability for critical sectors and industries.
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.
Reviewing draft fuel efficiency norms, will discuss with members on implementation timeline: SIAM
Auto industry body SIAM is reviewing the draft CAFE III fuel efficiency norms and will discuss manufacturer readiness for the implementation timeline with members. President Shailesh Chandra declined to comment on proposed incentives for small cars, citing differing views among manufacturers. SIAM advocates for an enabling environment for EV adoption rather than mandates.
PM's AYUSH Premium Mark push sparks rise in global demand for 'Made in India' homeopathy: Experts
India's homeopathy sector is experiencing a significant surge in demand, both domestically and internationally. This growth is attributed to the government's AYUSH Premium Mark and NABL accreditation initiatives, which have enhanced quality assurance and global credibility for "Made in India" medicines. These certifications are fostering trust and enabling Indian companies to compete effectively in regulated markets.
TCS Nashik: A look at the sexual harassment allegations rocking the IT major
Tata Consultancy Services is under scrutiny following serious allegations of sexual and religious harassment at its Nashik office. Investigations have led to multiple FIRs and the arrest of several employees, including an HR manager. Tata Sons chairman has ordered a thorough internal probe into the matter. The company has suspended employees involved.
Will US naval blockade on Iranian ports successful in ending already-fragile ceasefire? Global oil, Strait of Hormuz, Donald Trump, Iran tensions explained
Will US naval blockade on Iranian ports successful in ending already-fragile ceasefire? The United States has launched a naval blockade targeting ships linked to Iranian ports after failed talks. Warships are near the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has issued warnings. Oil prices, shipping, and global trade face pressure. This explainer covers the blockade, ceasefire risks, oil supply impact, diplomacy, and global reactions.
No serious LPG supply shortage reported by auto component makers so far, says govt
Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing here on the recent developments in West Asia, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Hanif Qureshi, said that regarding supply chain issues, the ministry is in constant touch with the automobile industry and is making appropriate efforts to address them.
Coal stock adequate for 90 days available: Union Coal Minister Kishan Reddy
India now holds over 200 million tonnes of coal, enough for 90 days, a significant increase from previous stock levels. The nation achieved one billion tonne coal production for the second consecutive year. The government is actively working to reduce import dependence and boost self-reliance in the minerals sector. Reforms and auctions are driving progress in this vital area.
YC partner on AI's funding gap, Indian startups; TCS CEO talks IT's resilience
Happy Monday! Y Combinator’s Ankit Gupta told ET in an exclusive chat that AI money is crowding at the top while early founders scramble for scraps. This and more in today's ETtech Morning Dispatch.
Prolonged war may hit Rs 75,000 crore dividend target
The ongoing turmoil in West Asia casts a shadow over India's revenue streams. Soaring commodity prices may squeeze the profitability of state-run enterprises, which could derail the anticipated ₹75,000 crore dividend. With petroleum sectors particularly at risk, the government is alert to fluctuations in the situation.
Broadcast ecosystem may be headed for regulatory reset
India's broadcast sector is set for a major regulatory overhaul. TRAI is planning a broad review of pricing, distribution, and platform rules. This comes after the New Tariff Order faced criticism for not ensuring affordability and transparency. The move aims to address structural concerns and adapt to changing consumer habits and competition from streaming services.
Advisory to states on crop bonus policy to encourage greater crop diversification: FinMin
In a statement, the finance ministry said the January 9, 2026, letter from the Department of Expenditure Secretary, Ministry of Finance, to chief secretaries of states was an advisory and not a directive, to align their bonus policy to promote pulses, oilseeds, and millets.
West Asia War: India permits Iranian oil tankers to berth for Reliance, sources say
West Asia War: India's shipping ministry has granted special permission for four vessels carrying Iranian oil to dock at Sikka port. This move comes after a temporary U.S. waiver on sanctions. Reliance Industries requested the special berthing for these vessels. The waiver is set to expire soon. This development allows India to potentially resume importing Iranian crude after a significant gap.
Govt nod to 52 applications in textile PLI
The government has approved 52 new textile applications under the PLI Scheme. These companies will invest Rs 6,708 crore. This initiative aims to boost domestic manufacturing and innovation. It will strengthen India's global textile market position. The scheme supports manmade fibre apparel, fabrics, and technical textiles. This move is set to enhance production capabilities across the sector.
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