AGRICULTURE SECTOR DUTY CONCESSIONS
Agri loans emerge as biggest asset quality risk for Indian banks
Agricultural loans in India are currently facing significant asset-quality risks, with bad-loan ratios surpassing other sectors. The gross non-performing asset ratio for agricultural loans is at 5.1%, compared to 1.5% for industry and services. Factors such as a poor monsoon have contributed to this situation, although agricultural bad loans have declined since 2020-21. Various banks have reported increased agricultural loan slippages but maintain a cautious outlook on borrower stress.
DGFT invites applications for vehicle import quotas under India-UK FTA
The government of India has opened applications for importers seeking duty concessions under the India-UK trade pact. This initiative relates to a quota of 24,500 passenger cars and 2,750 transport vehicles. The applications are accepted from November 6, 2026 to November 21, 2026, according to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement allows reduced tariffs on vehicle imports between the two nations.
IFC extends $150 million credit line to SBI in first investment in an Indian state-owned bank
The International Finance Corporation has extended a $150 million social loan to State Bank of India to support agricultural financing for around 864,000 rural women. The IFC has also executed its first domestic cross-currency swap with an Indian bank, making SBI its first local swap counterparty in South Asia.
Nitin Gadkari says UP farmers will soon produce hydrogen from water that will run planes, cars and trains
Nitin Gadkari's hydrogen plan: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari says Uttar Pradesh farmers will soon produce hydrogen from water and agricultural waste that will power aircraft, cars and railway engines. He also highlighted ethanol production, alternative fuels and the state's potential to become an energy exporter from a net importer. The state was known as Bimaru state.
India focused on becoming AI application capital of the world: Ashwini Vaishnaw
India is on a mission to become the global hub for artificial intelligence applications while also enhancing its semiconductor industry. With the launch of the Semicon 2.0 Web Application Portal, only well-prepared semiconductor enterprises will have their applications considered. The government is actively working on a strategy to produce indigenous graphics processing unit chips, alongside other crucial electronic components such as battery cells and copper foils.
India focused on becoming AI application capital of the world: Ashwini Vaishnaw
India is striving to become the artificial intelligence application capital while also focusing on semiconductor manufacturing. The government plans to launch the Semicon 2.0 Web Application Portal to attract serious players in the industry. Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the importance of complete applications for participation.
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A billionaire couple donated $50 million to UC Davis for agricultural research; in 2026, a 34,000-square-foot center opened in California
At the forefront of agri-tech innovation, the Resnick Center at the University of California, Davis, drives agricultural advancement with a strong focus on sustainability and research. Fueled by generous donations, it strives to elevate farming practices and enhance crop resilience. Current projects aim at transforming agricultural waste into valuable resources, thereby reducing ecological footprints.
Farmer bought land at less than stamp duty value, got income tax notice; How DVO report helped him win Rs 18.24 lakh tax dispute in ITAT Surat
Mr. Desai, encountered difficulties with the Income Tax Department after purchasing land for a price less than the stamp duty value. The Income Tax Department attempted to levy taxes on an Rs 18.24 lakh discrepancy, but his Chartered Accountant opposed this claim. The case was sent to the Departmental Valuation Officer, who appraised the land at Rs 14.08 lakh.
Trump could woo North Korea after midterm setback, but Kim may not respond
Following an unfavorable midterm election, Trump may pivot towards foreign policy engagement with North Korea, as analysts suggest this could fortify his legacy. Nevertheless, the North seems disinclined to reciprocate Trump's overtures, and regional partners, including South Korea and Japan, are apprehensive about being excluded from talks with Kim Jong Un. The intricate dynamics of the situation are likely to hinder productive discussions moving forward.
Manipur Chief Minister announces new handloom department at MANITEX 2026 to boost local artisans
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has announced a future upgrade for the Handloom and Handicrafts sector. The government is considering establishing a full-fledged department dedicated to this important economic area. During his speech at the Manipur International Textile Expo, he emphasized the sector's contribution to the state's identity.
Maharashtra gives one-time age relaxation for recruitment exams, extends concession till end-2027
The Maharashtra government has announced a one-time relaxation in age limits for state recruitment exams until December 31, 2027. This decision follows protests from candidates regarding delays in recruitment procedures that made them ineligible. Candidates can now apply with this extended age limit for certain advertisements issued by the MPSC. Recruitment agencies are also included in this relaxation, offering opportunities for newly eligible candidates.
West Bengal investment policy puts jobs first, offers up to 120% assistance to industries
West Bengal has launched a new investment promotion policy aimed at encouraging industrial growth and job creation. The policy includes substantial incentives for businesses, especially those focused on employing women and transgender workers. It offers streamlined processes for approvals and payments, enhancing efficiency for investors. Priority areas will receive higher assistance levels and a framework for regular review every three years.
Bringing gold jewellery, bars, coins from Dubai to India? Know how much a passenger can bring duty-free
A passenger who has been abroad for at least 6 months can bring up to 1 kg of gold, including bars, coins and ornaments, by paying a concessional duty in foreign currency. Ornaments studded with stones or pearls don't qualify for that concession. Know customs rules for different passengers for bringing gold from Dubai to India.
India's farms offer 116 GW solar manufacturing opportunity: ISMA
India's agricultural sector could create a demand for 116 GW of solar modules through the solarisation of irrigation pumps. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) aims to support this transition. Solarising pumps can reduce dependence on conventional electricity and diesel while improving farmers' electricity availability. The report emphasizes the need for sustained policy support and demand visibility to benefit domestic manufacturers.
HDFC Bank's Parivartan bolsters agricultural livelihoods in Kashmir through market linkages
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, HDFC Bank has taken initiatives to boost agricultural productivity in the Kashmir region. This program has successfully raised revenues for local Farmer Producer Organisations, including one that reached Rs 1.4 crore. Farmers are receiving training to process and market their goods effectively, creating direct sales links for improved pricing.
Government prepares draft sustainable aviation fuels policy; moots mandatory blending in ATF from 2027
The civil aviation ministry has circulated the draft National Policy on Sustainable Aviation Fuels which mandates use of only indigenously manufactured SAF to be blended with Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF).
Trump's midterm setback may put India under pressure for quick trade deal on US terms: GTRI
Amid electoral challenges, US President Donald Trump is likely to ramp up pressure on India to seal a trade deal. This potential agreement would require India to decrease import tariffs on US goods while the US keeps its tariffs intact. Analysts caution that such an arrangement may breach WTO MFN principles, undermining India's trade credibility. Additionally, compromising energy security and development aspirations could have serious implications.
COP31: EU FTA on horizon, but India won't budge on CBAM
India's environment minister Bhupender Yadav reaffirmed the country's opposition to trade-linked barriers at COP31. The upcoming negotiations will focus on the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism affecting various Indian sectors. Participation in carbon markets should remain voluntary, according to Yadav. Additionally, India emphasizes the importance of climate finance from developed nations.
India has never allowed genetically modified products' import, won't do in future: Piyush Goyal
India continues to maintain a strict policy against the import of genetically modified products, as stated by Minister Piyush Goyal. He highlighted that the dairy sector remains particularly sensitive and has not been opened in trade agreements. Goyal emphasized India's commitment to protecting its agricultural and fisheries sectors while seeking preferential market access for textiles and pharmaceuticals.
India has never allowed import of GM products, will never open dairy sector: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized India’s commitment to safeguarding its dairy sector from free trade agreement pressures. He reiterated the nation's opposition to imports of genetically modified products, considering them sensitive. Goyal mentioned efforts to unlock new employment opportunities and promote domestic agriculture for competitive exports.
Govt consults seed, fertiliser firms on easing regulatory hurdles
The Indian government is engaging with agricultural companies to address regulatory challenges that affect the sector. Consultations focus on updating the Seeds Act, 1966, to align with modern agricultural technology. Industry representatives have pointed out delays in approvals and licensing processes that hinder market access.
Budget 2027: Customs duty relief on 118 goods under review
The Indian government is currently reviewing customs duty concessions applicable to 118 products set to expire. This review involves input from respective line ministries and industry stakeholders regarding these exemptions. Goods under review include materials for power projects and certain medical devices. A focus is on correcting the inverted duty structure to support local manufacturing initiatives. The outcomes of this review will influence the upcoming budget for 2027-28.
Govt moves to resolve Scotch tariff dispute under UK trade pact, sources say
India has assured industry executives that it will honor the trade pact with Britain regarding Scotch whisky tariffs. Ongoing investigations into bulk Scotch imports are expected to result in a resolution. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal detailed steps to address concerns over duty concessions for bulk imports. The disagreement centers on customs classifications affecting the whisky industry significantly.
India-New Zealand FTA: Expanding India’s footprint in Oceania
More than a trade deal, the India-New Zealand FTA is a strategic gateway to new markets, fresh investment and stronger capabilities, positioning India to compete, connect, and grow across the Asia-Pacific.
Govt extends customs duty exemption on cotton imports till December 31
The Indian government has announced an extension of the customs duty exemption on cotton imports until December 31, 2026. This move aims to improve the availability of raw materials for the textile and apparel industry. The extension supports Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) while easing input cost pressures for manufacturers.
Government scraps export duty on petrol, raises levies on diesel and ATF
The Indian government has abolished the special additional excise duty on petrol exports as of now. Diesel export levies have been raised to Rs 11.50 per litre from Rs 8.50 per litre. The export duty on aviation turbine fuel has also increased by 50 paise per litre. These adjustments reflect ongoing pressures from international energy market disruptions linked to geopolitical events.
India eyes a $20 billion pot of gold in New Zealand as its trade pact goes live
The free trade agreement between India and New Zealand promises to promote trade and enhance professional movement. While some goods may enjoy duty-free status, a significant rise in merchandise exports might take time. However, New Zealand's engagement in several service sectors holds potential benefits for Indian companies. The agreement also opens up new job opportunities for Indian students and creates pathways for skilled professionals.
India-New Zealand FTA kicks in October 20, gives all Indian goods zero-duty access
India's free trade agreement with New Zealand will begin on October 20 and provide duty-free access for Indian goods. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade significantly by 2030, increasing it from $2.4 billion to nearly ₹35,000 crore. New Zealand will grant 100% market access, while India will provide tariff concessions on 70% of its tariff lines. Customs clearance timelines will be expedited, enhancing trade efficiency and reducing costs.
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