DUTY RATIONALISATION
EC gives deadline to West Bengal to withdraw excess security for poll deployment
The Election Commission has ordered West Bengal to withdraw excess security from private individuals by Friday evening. This move aims to free up state police personnel for crucial booth-level election duties. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has criticized the decision, alleging selective targeting of Trinamool Congress leaders. The state is preparing for polling on April 23 and 29.
Oberoi Realty & Nirmal Lifestyle get NCLT approval for merger
The National Company Law Tribunal has approved the merger of Nirmal Lifestyle Realty with Oberoi Realty. This move will simplify Oberoi Realty's group structure and enhance operational efficiencies. Nirmal Lifestyle Realty will be dissolved without winding up. The amalgamation aims to optimize resource utilization and provide a clearer strategic roadmap.
CII's 20-Point Policy Agenda calls for coordinated fiscal, financial and trade response to West Asia crisis
Confederation of Indian Industry praises government and RBI for swift actions amid West Asia conflict. CII proposes a detailed plan to support industries, especially MSMEs. Recommendations include credit lines, moratoriums, and trade cost management. The agenda aims to bolster resilience and ensure India's economic stability against external shocks.
Boom or bust? Analysts reveal what lies ahead for India Inc in FY27 amid Iran war
Indian businesses brace for 2026-27 with geopolitical tensions and AI reshaping industries. While core sectors show stability, policy shifts and costs pose challenges. Experts see opportunities for long-term growth. Banks anticipate margin recovery. FMCG expects better earnings. IT navigates AI disruption. Oil and gas faces price volatility. Pharma deals with supply chain issues. Navigating these dynamics will be key.
FY27 Outlook: Geopolitical pressure and AI disruption set to reshape India Inc
Corporate India faces heightened uncertainty entering fiscal year 2026-27 due to geopolitical tensions and AI disruption. Sectors like banking anticipate gradual NIM recovery, while FMCG expects better earnings visibility. The IT sector grapples with AI concerns, and oil prices present a mixed outlook for the oil and gas industry.
Despite rate reset, GST collection rises on strong consumption
India's Goods and Services Tax collections ended the fiscal year strongly. March collections surpassed two lakh crore rupees for the third time. This indicates robust consumption despite rate reductions. Import-linked revenues drove much of this growth. Experts remain cautious for the coming months due to global turmoil. Rising crude oil prices pose a risk.
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Airlines seek fee relief, fuel support from government amid West Asia conflict
Indian airlines are grappling with the escalating conflict in West Asia. Rising jet fuel prices and increased insurance premiums are impacting operations. Carriers are seeking government aid to mitigate these financial pressures. Extended flight routes and regulatory hurdles are adding to the strain. Airlines are struggling to sustain flights to the region, primarily for evacuations.

Karnataka to end alcohol price controls from April 2026
Karnataka is set to overhaul its liquor tax system. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced reforms including an alcohol-content-based duty structure and deregulated pricing. The state aims for a Rs 45,000 crore revenue target from the excise sector by 2026-27. Technology will enhance monitoring and transparency. These changes will modernize the decades-old framework, simplifying business operations and boosting state finances.

Court grants bail to Indian Youth Congress President Udai Bhanu Chib after midnight hearing
A Duty Magistrate at Patiala House Court granted bail to Indian Youth Congress President Udai Bhanu Chib after a late-night hearing at her residence in the AI Summit protest case. Chib was produced before the magistrate around 12.30 am after completing four days of police custody.

Fiscal incentives on cards to boost India's share in fibre production
National Fibre Scheme: The textiles ministry has begun work on the scheme that will address structural inefficiencies and bridge quality gaps to position India against global leaders such as China, Bangladesh and Italy.

Tariff relief on US nuts could lower landed costs by up to 50%, boost consumption: NDFC President
With the US accounting for nearly 93% of India’s almond imports, trade liberalisation under the FTA could redefine sourcing, retail pricing and value-added exports, says Gunjan Vijay Jain, President of the Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India).

Nifty near 28,000 by Feb 2027? Prabhudas Lilladher says current consolidation setting stage for next rally
Domestic brokerage Prabhudas Lilladher expects the Nifty 50 to hit nearly 28,000 in 12 months, saying India’s consolidation phase is paving the way for the next rally. It cites strong policy momentum, major trade deals, resilient corporate earnings and a multi-year compounding cycle supporting medium-term market growth.

‘Very Shocking’: RoDTEP cut by half triggers exporters' appeal for immediate review
Exporters are reeling from the government's decision to slash RoDTEP rates by half, a move that significantly increases export costs by reducing refunds for embedded domestic taxes.

Himachal Pradesh going to face revenue deficit of Rs 10,000 crore: Dy CM Mukesh Agnihotri
Himachal Pradesh faces a significant financial challenge. The state anticipates a Rs 10,000 crore revenue deficit. This comes after the Union Government stopped the Revenue Deficit Grant. The state government is implementing new policies. These include reforms in toll collection and excise. Entry fees for vehicles are also revised.

Himachal toll tax hiked: Check new rates you will have to pay to enter hills from April 1
Himachal toll tax hike new rate: Himachal Pradesh is increasing entry fees for vehicles from April 1. This move aims to boost state revenue amid financial pressure. Various vehicle categories will see higher charges. The state is also implementing tech-driven toll collection to improve efficiency. This change will make trips to Himachal more expensive for visitors.

Himachal Pradesh eyes toll reforms to raise revenue; Mukesh Agnihotri seeks PM backing
Himachal Pradesh is boosting its income through new rules for liquor shops, toll collection, and vehicle entry fees. These changes aim to collect more revenue after a key grant ended. The government is using technology for better collection and transparency. Reforms in excise and toll collection are now in place.

Brace for a bigger bar tab in UP from April — here’s how much liquor prices will rise, and why
UP alcohol price hike: Uttar Pradesh liquor prices will increase by approximately 7.5 percent starting April. The state government has approved a new excise policy for 2026-27. This rise is due to higher licence fees and revised pricing rules. The policy also aims to boost liquor exports from Uttar Pradesh. New measures are expected to generate an additional Rs 1,500 crore for the state.

Land costs squeeze housing dreams, bold reforms can unlock supply: NITI Aayog's Rajiv Gauba
India faces significant housing challenges due to land scarcity and soaring prices. NITI Aayog proposes structural reforms like increasing Floor Area Ratios and promoting land pooling. Government initiatives under PMAY are progressing, with millions of houses completed. Policy measures aim to channel more credit and reduce construction costs, signaling momentum to address the housing crunch if land bottlenecks are resolved.

NFO Update: HDFC Mutual Fund launches consumption theme based passive fund
HDFC Mutual Fund has launched the HDFC Nifty India Consumption Index Fund, offering exposure to companies benefiting from India’s long-term consumption growth. The fund tracks the Nifty India Consumption Index, focusing on domestically driven sectors, and carries thematic concentration risks.

India's trade deals with US, EU lift its credit outlook to 'Stable', CareEdge Ratings says
India's trade deals with the US and European Union are boosting its economic standing. The Union Budget 2026-27 outlines a clear fiscal path. These developments are strengthening India's credit profile. Improved export opportunities and controlled government spending are key factors. India is positioned for a gradual decline in public debt amidst global challenges.

J&K draws Rs 14,948 crore private investment in four years: Deputy CM
Jammu and Kashmir has seen significant industrial growth. Private investments totaling Rs 14,948 crore have been attracted over the last four years. This has created employment opportunities for 64,515 individuals. Over 1,400 industrial units have been established. The government has implemented various policies and schemes to boost investment and improve the industrial ecosystem.

Union Budget 2026: Sitharaman proposes to make your foreign goods orders cheaper
The Union Budget 2026-27 brings good news for individuals importing goods. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a significant reduction in customs duty. The tariff rate on all dutiable goods imported for personal use will now be 10%, down from 20%. This move aims to simplify the duty structure and ease the financial burden on citizens.

India Budget: Customs overhaul to cut costs, boost manufacturing
India's Union Budget 2026-27 introduces a comprehensive customs overhaul, featuring duty relief for manufacturing and exports, and a single digital window for faster clearances. Measures aim to boost competitiveness in sectors like textiles and footwear, while rationalizing duties on strategic imports to enhance market access with the US.

Union Budget 2026: Customs duty rationalisation to help boost exports, promote manufacturing, say experts
Budget 2026-27's customs duty rationalization is set to boost exports and domestic manufacturing by lowering costs for key sectors like clean energy and healthcare. Experts highlight the removal of basic customs duty on capital goods and strategic inputs, alongside increased duty-free import limits for seafood processing, as significant steps towards enhancing competitiveness and self-reliance.

Budget 2026: Check what gets cheaper in Union Budget this year
Union Budget 2026 Cheaper List: The Budget announced a series of duty cuts and tax rationalisations aimed at easing costs for consumers, exporters and strategic sectors.

Budget: Auto cos seek EV duty rationalisation, support for multiple green energy pathways
Union Budget 2026: Indian auto industry is seeking reduced duties on electric vehicle components and more support for local EV technology. Continued investment in infrastructure and multiple green energy options are also crucial. These measures could boost manufacturing, enhance ease of doing business and accelerate India's progress towards net-zero emissions.

Infra development, duty rationalisation key to drive luxury car industry: Audi India
Audi India Brand Director Balbir Singh Dhillon highlights key budget expectations for the luxury car sector. He emphasizes infrastructure development, particularly roads and charging facilities. Rationalisation of duties and a stable policy framework are also crucial. Steady foreign exchange conditions will further boost growth. The upcoming Union Budget 2026 presents an opportunity to reinforce India's economic momentum and consumer confidence.

Revenue loss due to customs duty rationalisation in iron, steel and plastic seen at Rs 10K-15K cr
The government is expecting a revenue loss of Rs 10,000-15,000 crore as a result of the recent customs tax recalculation on iron and steel and plastic. With effect from May 22, it abolished customs duties on the import of some raw materials needed by the steel industry, lowering costs for the domestic industry and lowering prices.
Rationalise excise duty
The budget needs to both rejig excise rates and rationalise the duty regime.
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