STANDING COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
UAE asks US for a wartime financial lifeline as Iran conflict drags: Report
The United Arab Emirates is in discussions with the United States regarding a potential financial backstop. This measure is being considered in anticipation of a deepening crisis stemming from the Iran war. UAE Central Bank Governor raised the possibility of a currency-swap line with US Treasury officials.
War revives stagflation dangers for global economy
Global economic outlook faces uncertainty as seven weeks of Middle East conflict impact growth and inflation. Business surveys from Australia to the US will reveal the extent of deterioration, with stagflation risks looming. Policymakers grapple with responses amid persistent global uncertainty, while inflation data and interest rate decisions from various nations are closely watched.
Chinese business hired lobbying firm with ties to Donald Trump Jr, then scored a win in Washington
A U.S. startup's bid to remove a Chinese investor from its board was rejected by a national security watchdog. A lobbying firm connected to Donald Trump Jr. facilitated a meeting for the Chinese firm with the watchdog's head. This decision, which favored the Chinese company, has raised concerns about foreign influence on U.S. national security decisions.
RBI revamps business correspondent model to boost last mile delivery of financial services
The Reserve Bank of India is overhauling its business correspondent system. New service points, Business Correspondent-Banking Outlets and Business Correspondent-Banking Touchpoints, will be introduced. This aims to improve customer service and expand financial inclusion across India. Banks must conduct thorough checks on new correspondents. These changes are proposed to enhance banking access.
Parliament Budget Session: HM Amit Shah to move CAPF Bill in Lok Sabha today
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will present the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. This bill, already passed in the Rajya Sabha, proposes significant deputation quotas for senior positions within the CAPFs. Additionally, Mr. Shah will introduce the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, to establish Amaravati as the sole state capital.
UPI processes 218.6 billion transactions till February in FY26; value at Rs 285 lakh crore
January recorded the highest volume with 21.7 billion transactions, followed by December and October with 21.6 billion and 20.7 billion transactions, respectively. In value terms too, January led with Rs 28.33 lakh crore, driven by strong year-end and festive spending momentum.
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Fino Payments Bank defers MD Rishi Gupta's reappointment; awaits RBI review
Fino Payments Bank has paused the re-appointment of its Managing Director, Rishi Gupta. This decision comes as the Reserve Bank of India will reassess Gupta's fit and proper criteria. The bank board withdrew a shareholder vote notice for his reappointment. Gupta was recently granted bail after an arrest related to GST investigations. His candidature remains unaffected pending these reviews.
Sitharaman to move Finance Bill 2026 and Corporate Laws Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha today
Parliament's Budget session resumes today. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will introduce the Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. She will also move for consideration of the Finance Bill, 2026. Several ministers will lay papers on the table. Reports on women's empowerment and urban affairs will be presented. The session continues until April 2.
Review Indo-US trade relations, address LPG challenges amid West Asia crisis: Parl panel to govt
A Parliamentary Standing Committee has urged a review of Indo-US trade relations due to tariff impacts and a weakening rupee. It also highlighted concerns over crude oil availability, suggesting measures to address rising domestic fuel prices. The committee recommended incentivizing domestic container manufacturing and revising the WPI base year.
NPCI counts on Bharat, Northeast to accelerate UPI adoption
As the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) grapples with a moderation in growth of the Unified Payments Interface, it is turning its focus to the Hindi heartland and northeastern states to drive the next phase of adoption. NPCI is nudging fintech firms to prioritise states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, along with the northeastern region, where penetration remains relatively low.
Parliamentary panel suggests MeitY seek expert views on GPU plans
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology in its latest report suggested the Ministry of Electronics and IT to consult with all stakeholders, academicians and environmentalists on how to tackle the challenges.
Parliament Watch: Panel flags oil shock risks, CPSE crisis; govt updates on US tariffs, repo, Panama leaks
A parliamentary panel has advised the Department of Economic Affairs to establish an energy mitigation framework. This is to safeguard the economy from oil price shocks. The panel also called for a national strategy to boost critical mineral supply. Additionally, it highlighted a leadership crisis in Central Public Sector Enterprises. Discussions with the US on tariff issues are ongoing.
Total 53 CPSEs without CMD, 70% Independent director post vacant
A parliamentary panel has identified a significant managerial crisis within Central Public Sector Enterprises. Many CPSEs are operating without full-time leaders, impacting decision-making and accountability. The panel also highlighted funding issues and a shortage of independent directors. Recommendations include reviewing dividend policies and improving leadership appointments to boost CPSE competitiveness.
Oil shock: Panel urges Finance Ministry to craft strategic energy mitigation framework
A parliamentary panel has urged the Department of Economic Affairs to create an energy mitigation framework. It also called for a national strategy for critical minerals and streamlining FDI rules. The panel wants states to move away from revenue deficit grants. Reforms are suggested for fiscal prudence and transparency in off-budget borrowings.
Parliamentary panel urges a 'golden share' strategy to protect PSU autonomy if state stakes fall below 51%
A parliamentary panel urged the government to finalize a 'golden share' strategy to protect PSU autonomy as state stakes fall below 51%. Recommendations also include enhancing MoU frameworks, prioritizing vacant officer positions, and developing a roadmap for InvITs and REITs. The committee stressed bridging revenue gaps and optimizing debt management for economic stability and growth.
Parliamentary panel advises MoSPI to optimise fund use, seek extra funds if needed
A Parliamentary panel has urged the Statistics Ministry to use allocated funds wisely. The ministry faces funding shortfalls for key schemes like Support for Statistical Strengthening. The panel advised seeking supplementary funds if necessary. It also recommended developing an integrated digital dashboard for consolidated data. Expediting the National Child Survey and improving the MPLAD Scheme portal were also highlighted.
Bank-NBFC co-lending pacts may be expanded to aid MSMEs
A parliamentary panel suggests boosting bank and NBFC co-lending to help MSMEs access cheaper credit. It also proposes listing profitable regional rural banks and reinforcing state-run general insurers. The committee highlighted a significant credit gap for small businesses and a decline in insurance penetration. Recommendations include developing climate risk insurance and using business correspondents to reach rural areas.
Intensify scrutiny of sectors displaying duopolistic market structures: Parliament panel tells CCI
A Parliamentary panel has urged the CCI to intensify proactive monitoring of duopolistic and high-concentration sectors, both digital and traditional, through regular market studies and targeted interventions. The committee also called for expediting the Digital Competition Bill to regulate large digital platforms effectively, highlighting staff shortages at the CCI as a concern.
The economics of bombing Iran is getting tough for America
Two weeks into Operation Epic Fury, the US faces a financially punishing war against Iran. Billions are being spent on advanced munitions, depleting stockpiles and prompting a request for tens of billions more. The high cost of precision weapons and the imbalance with cheaper Iranian drones present a significant economic challenge.
Consider bringing back revenue mechanism on UPI for sustenance of sector: Parliamentary committee
The committee also recognised the need for cashback and multi-year subsidy schemes to promote adoption of digital payments in tier-three to -six cities.
Parliamentary Panel seeks higher stipend, age relaxation under PM Internship Scheme
PM Internship Scheme: The panel, chaired by senior BJP leader Bhartruhari Mahtab, has pitched for higher stipend to beneficiaries, keeping in view prevailing living costs.
Parliament Watch: Faster rooftop solar rollout, stress test for I-T portal, faster smart meters
During the past two years, about 23.29 lakh rooftop solar installations were achieved against the target of 61 lakh, with 80% fund utilisation at ₹22,402.97 crore out of the revised allocation of ₹28,100 crore, as per the panel's report on the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's 2026-27 demands for grants.
Parliament watch: RBI examining complaints against Standard Chartered; tax 'nudge' campaign yields Rs 7,000 cr
August 2027 marks a historic milestone as India's first homegrown Bullet Train prepares for its trial run along a vital 97 km segment of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor. On another front, the Reserve Bank of India is diving into complaints regarding Standard Chartered Bank.
Inside the Nepal campaign that could vault Balendra Shah to power
Emerging from the vibrant streets of Nepal, young rapper Balendra Shah is making waves with his political ambitions. His party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party, is at the forefront of election outcomes, thanks to a dynamic campaign strategy bolstered by support from the diaspora.
Donald Trump takes forceful steps to pressure Latin American leaders to reduce China ties
As tensions rise, the US is strategically countering China's expanding influence in Latin America by implementing travel restrictions and advising nations on the risks associated with Chinese investments. Meanwhile, China is not backing down, ramping up its engagement through infrastructure loans and favorable trade agreements.
We expect policy rate to be at current level or lower for a long time: Sanjay Malhotra, Governor, RBI
While policy rates in India are likely to stay at current levels or even go lower for an extended period, there are risks as well, Malhotra said. Inflation is looking benign and going forward, underlying inflation is expected to remain low. It will depend on growth-inflation dynamics as they play out. We are still living in very uncertain times, the RBI Guv added.
Money does not evaporate, it moves from one asset to another: 2026 is the year investors should understand the US bond market
The US bond market is often called "the smartest market in the world”. While stock markets can be driven by narratives, memes, and retail sentiment, the treasury market is dominated by central banks, pension funds, and sovereign wealth funds, participants who allocate capital based on macro-economic data, not emotion. In 2026, it may probably become important for investors to figure out the US bond market.
Nativity Card Bill passed by Kerala Assembly
Kerala's Left government passed the Nativity Card Bill in the state Assembly. The House also approved other legislative and financial business. The opposition UDF boycotted the proceedings. The Nativity Card aims to allow Keralites to proudly declare their identity. The government stated the card will help individuals prove their identity and place of residence.
Widow wins right to higher pension and dues: Allahabad HC allows claim based on husband’s 1993 regularisation
In a significant ruling on February 5, 2026, the Allahabad High Court affirmed that a deceased employee's legal representative can claim terminal dues, including family pension, as part of the deceased's estate. This decision overturned a single judge's order that denied a widow, Smt. Tiwari, her husband's higher pension. The dispute arose from a backdated correction of her husband's regularization date from 2000 to 1993, entitling him to proportional pension and benefits. Despite the correction order and subsequent communications, the benefits remained unpaid. The High Court found the single judge's dismissal of the widow's locus standi erroneous, emphasizing that accrued service and pensionary benefits survive the employee.
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