Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) President Zou Jiayi a ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) President Zou Jiayi and suggested the bank expand its focus to include newer infrastructure that centres on AI, MSMEs, and skilling. She reiterated that the bank's regional centrality should continue to remain a defining institutional characteristic and an important anchor of its mandate. Both leaders discussed AIIB's robust pipeline of projects in India and its expanding global presence. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with Jordan's Minister of Planning Zeina Zeid Toukan in Doha. The ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with Jordan's Minister of Planning Zeina Zeid Toukan in Doha. The two ministers discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including food security and trade. Sitharaman emphasized the goal of reaching $5 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. Jordan expressed interest in strengthening ties with India, particularly in energy and infrastructure. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited Singapore from October 9 to 11 for official discussions. She ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited Singapore from October 9 to 11 for official discussions. She met President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to strengthen bilateral relations. Their discussions focused on economic developments and investment opportunities for Singaporean companies in India. Sitharaman also met Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, who highlighted the growth prospects in India. Singapore is India's largest source of foreign direct investment, significantly contributing to the economy. ...Less

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman met small-trader representatives on Wednesday, following which the AI ...More

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman met small-trader representatives on Wednesday, following which the AICPDF and AIMRA withdrew their proposed ‘No UPI Day’ protest on October 2. ...Less

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed media after the GST Council meeting concerning pending c ...More

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed media after the GST Council meeting concerning pending central grants. He mentioned that Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman provided some encouraging updates on this matter. Shivakumar opposed the proposal for criminal cases against those not paying GST, advocating for a more constructive approach. The meeting also confirmed that significant procedural reforms were approved and the existing GST rates will remain unchanged. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will embark on a pivotal visit to Qatar from September 27 to 29, 2026 ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will embark on a pivotal visit to Qatar from September 27 to 29, 2026, where she will participate in the 11th Annual Meeting of the AIIB Board of Governors in Doha. This trip includes crucial bilateral discussions with finance ministers from various nations and interactions with Qatari business leaders and investors, further reinforcing India's prominent role as the second largest shareholder in the AIIB. ...Less

During a recent briefing, India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that talks regarding a tr ...More

During a recent briefing, India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that talks regarding a trade pact with the US are currently stalled. While she sees some room for advancement, she pointed out the complexities involved in making further concessions. The dialogue also encompasses the trade deficit issues with both the US and China. ...Less

India and the US are currently negotiating a trade agreement aimed at expanding market access and address ...More

India and the US are currently negotiating a trade agreement aimed at expanding market access and addressing trade balance concerns. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that both sides appear to have reached a plateau in negotiations. She indicated that further concessions may be challenging following rigorous discussions. Despite this, she believes there could be opportunities for additional negotiations. The US is particularly focused on reducing its trade deficit with India. ...Less

As India and the US engage in talks for a bilateral trade deal, uncertainties loom over tariff treatments ...More

As India and the US engage in talks for a bilateral trade deal, uncertainties loom over tariff treatments. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that the scope for concessions is limited, indicating a plateau. Ajay Srivastava from GTRI cautioned against making unilateral concessions, stressing that additional tariffs might complicate trade relations. An effectively designed interim agreement is crucial for ensuring substantial benefits for India. ...Less

GST reforms 2026 will move around 2 lakh businesses operating across multiple CGST jurisdictions towards ...More

GST reforms 2026 will move around 2 lakh businesses operating across multiple CGST jurisdictions towards a centralised, faceless tax administration, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said. The framework will cover scrutiny, audits, adjudication, appeals and taxpayer services, with public consultation planned before Budget 2027 and implementation targeted for FY28. ...Less

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman became emotional at an event in Bengaluru. The program honored ...More

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman became emotional at an event in Bengaluru. The program honored the 110th birth anniversary of Carnatic vocalist M.S. Subbulakshmi. Subbulakshmi's great-granddaughters performed some of her renowned compositions during the celebration. The minister reflected on Subbulakshmi's dedication and her significant musical legacy. M.S. Subbulakshmi received the Bharat Ratna and performed at the United Nations. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said BRICS countries need to ensure their views are reflected in the ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said BRICS countries need to ensure their views are reflected in the new global tax rules, as decisions taken in the next few years could shape cross-border taxation for a generation. ...Less

The Indian rupee ended little changed on Monday, bolstered by central bank interventions during ongoing p ...More

The Indian rupee ended little changed on Monday, bolstered by central bank interventions during ongoing pressures. A firmer dollar was observed, approaching a 17-month high due to a weak euro's impact. Crude oil prices increased to nearly $103 per barrel, posing risks to India's economy. India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that trade talks with the United States reached a plateau. ...Less

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is planning a two-day visit to Delhi starting Wednesday ...More

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is planning a two-day visit to Delhi starting Wednesday afternoon. He will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and various Union Ministers to discuss critical state projects. During these meetings, Naidu aims to seek financial assistance for drought relief efforts caused by El Nino. He is also expected to discuss the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project and river-linking initiatives. ...Less

To strengthen compliance and reduce conflicts, reforming the Goods and Services Tax (GST) administration ...More

To strengthen compliance and reduce conflicts, reforming the Goods and Services Tax (GST) administration is essential. The GST Council will introduce initiatives to rectify persistent tax structure issues. India's energy sector remains excluded from GST, affecting economic progress and inflation rates. It's also vital to recognize states' contribution to tax revenue to preserve fiscal independence. Additionally, a portion of GST revenue could support urban municipal bodies in fostering sustainable development. ...Less

Negotiations between India and the US have encountered significant sticking points affecting market acces ...More

Negotiations between India and the US have encountered significant sticking points affecting market access and agriculture. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer noted the identification of all key issues during talks. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that negotiations have reached a plateau with limited opportunities for further concessions. India is advocating for more preferential access for its exports. Meanwhile, Washington seeks increased access to the Indian market, especially in agricultural sectors. ...Less

Anticipated changes in the Indian cabinet are on the horizon as Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri plans t ...More

Anticipated changes in the Indian cabinet are on the horizon as Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri plans to leave the petroleum ministry next month. This development comes after key ministry realignments, particularly Pralhad Joshi’s additional duties in education. With around 40% of ministers managing dual roles, the current cabinet structure appears strained. As the Modi administration approaches its midpoint, these shifts could drastically influence minority representation. ...Less

"The impact depends on to what extent tariffs are going to be applied. So, it's premature to answer. But ...More

"The impact depends on to what extent tariffs are going to be applied. So, it's premature to answer. But obviously it will have some negative impact," Malhotra said during the post-monetary policy press conference in response to a query on the impact on the economy if the trade deal with the US fails to materialise. However, India has concluded or implemented a series of trade agreements in recent months, which could help diversify its export markets. ...Less

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the Centre absorbs a significant urea subsidy for f ...More

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the Centre absorbs a significant urea subsidy for farmers. This subsidy currently stands at approximately Rs 2,700 for each bag of urea. Sitharaman emphasised the government's commitment to providing essential farm inputs despite rising global prices. Additionally, her remarks highlighted ongoing efforts to support agricultural investment in Andhra Pradesh. These initiatives aim to ensure that farmers receive necessary resources and maintain economic stability. ...Less

At the Kautilya Economic Conclave, Nirmala Sitharaman spoke about fostering international trade policies ...More

At the Kautilya Economic Conclave, Nirmala Sitharaman spoke about fostering international trade policies that are not only open but also predictable. She underlined the critical need for nations to communicate effectively to dissolve geopolitical trade barriers. Highlighting the importance of resilience in the global economy, she introduced the National Critical Minerals Mission, stressing strategic autonomy to reduce single-source dependencies amid ongoing global economic turmoil. ...Less

The SME Growth Fund aims to provide long-term growth capital and address financing gaps for these busines ...More

The SME Growth Fund aims to provide long-term growth capital and address financing gaps for these businesses. By targeting manufacturing and services sectors, the initiative will facilitate expansion and enhance competitiveness. Strategic investments in Tier II and Tier III cities will foster balanced regional development as well. ...Less

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday said India's economic resilience has been built con ...More

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday said India's economic resilience has been built consciously over the past decade through fiscal prudence, infrastructure creation, banking reforms, last-mile delivery and sustained reforms, while stressing the need for greater strategic autonomy and preparedness to deal with emerging global challenges. ...Less

The 57th meeting of the Goods and Services Tax Council has been rescheduled to October 8, starting at 11 ...More

The 57th meeting of the Goods and Services Tax Council has been rescheduled to October 8, starting at 11 am. The meeting's location is the Summit Room, Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi. An Office Memorandum cited unavoidable circumstances for the date change without providing further details. Members of the Council have been notified about this alteration, and an apology has been expressed for any inconvenience caused. ...Less

The 57th meeting of the GST Council, to be chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and compr ...More

The 57th meeting of the GST Council, to be chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and comprising state finance ministers, will on October 8 deliberate significant changes to the GST enforcement framework, including removing the arrest powers of GST officers. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman engaged in meetings in Doha to enhance economic ties with Saudi Arabi ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman engaged in meetings in Doha to enhance economic ties with Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, and Jordan. Discussions included the India-Saudi Arabia Bilateral Investment Treaty and opportunities for Swiss investments in India's infrastructure sector. The focus also extended to food security and trade with Jordan, aiming to boost bilateral trade by 2030. Additionally, talks centered on post-flood reconstruction efforts with Nepal and potential Indian support. ...Less

The Union Cabinet approved a Rs 10,000 crore SME Growth Fund to support micro, small, and medium enterpri ...More

The Union Cabinet approved a Rs 10,000 crore SME Growth Fund to support micro, small, and medium enterprises. This fund is part of the government's initiative to create champion MSMEs in India. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined various measures to enhance liquidity support and accessibility to risk capital. Additionally, the government allocated Rs 24,566.27 crore to the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. ...Less

India's manufacturing sector must focus on quality and innovation to secure a competitive global position ...More

India's manufacturing sector must focus on quality and innovation to secure a competitive global position. Venu Srinivasan expressed that India's progress must extend beyond cost-effectiveness to achieve international standards. The country faces significant challenges in gaining consumer trust for its products, requiring widespread improvement across all industries. Continuous efforts are necessary as companies evolve amid global competition in quality. ...Less

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted strategic priorities to build resilience amid ong ...More

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted strategic priorities to build resilience amid ongoing global economic uncertainty. She emphasized the importance of optimizing supply chains and fostering private sector investment for strengthening innovation. The minister noted that India's R&D expenditure is significantly lower compared to OECD countries, necessitating increased private participation. Sitharaman discussed the shocks faced in recent years and the importance of managing economic stability. ...Less

During his visit to the United States, Piyush Goyal held meetings with executives from several major Amer ...More

During his visit to the United States, Piyush Goyal held meetings with executives from several major American companies. The discussions focused on expanding investment and manufacturing opportunities within India under the Make in India initiative. Goyal highlighted the rising potential of India's consumer market as a strong base for global brands. ...Less

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the need for investment in AI, semiconductor chips, ...More

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the need for investment in AI, semiconductor chips, and quantum technology. She stated that strengthening digital infrastructure will support AI adoption across various sectors. Additionally, Sitharaman underscored the importance of providing AI solutions to micro, small, and medium enterprises. She believes that achieving over 10 percent economic growth is possible with greater effort in all sectors. ...Less

Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Finance Minister, radiated confidence in India's economic future, forecasti ...More

Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Finance Minister, radiated confidence in India's economic future, forecasting a growth rate surpassing 10 percent. She stressed the necessity of embracing technology and innovation in all sectors, celebrating the impact of startups since 2015. Furthermore, she emphasized technology's ability to revolutionize agriculture for increased productivity. The minister called upon citizens to nurture a constructive approach in pursuit of these vital economic objectives. ...Less

India will lead both working groups. The meeting also approved terms of reference of the BRICS Tax Suppor ...More

India will lead both working groups. The meeting also approved terms of reference of the BRICS Tax Support Network. Addressing the BRICS Heads of Tax Authorities meeting in New Delhi, Sitharaman said the proposed working groups would create a sustained platform for developing economies to address tax issues that have traditionally imposed higher administrative and capacity costs on them. ...Less

India and the United States are enhancing their defence and strategic partnership under the leadership of ...More

India and the United States are enhancing their defence and strategic partnership under the leadership of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. Admiral Samuel Paparo's visit to India included discussions on regional security challenges and technology cooperation. High-level meetings were held with senior Indian defence officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani. The discussions emphasized shared security priorities and maritime coordination in the Indo-Pacific region. ...Less

The finance ministry has sought feedback from banks on their use of AI-driven loan collection tools to as ...More

The finance ministry has sought feedback from banks on their use of AI-driven loan collection tools to assess adoption and customer-protection practices. Most banks are using AI for borrower engagement and repayment, while only a few have implemented conversational AI for collections. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged Indian corporates to strengthen internal governance, engage con ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged Indian corporates to strengthen internal governance, engage constructively with regulators and resolve disagreements before resorting to litigation. She also called for higher private-sector R&D spending, stronger management capabilities, resilient institutions and more inclusive business models to support India’s growth towards Viksit Bharat by 2047. ...Less

The GST Council recently approved substantial reforms to simplify the indirect tax structure and improve ...More

The GST Council recently approved substantial reforms to simplify the indirect tax structure and improve compliance. These changes include raising prosecution thresholds and decriminalising several offences, signifying a major shift in GST law. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined plans for these reforms to take effect from April 1 next year. Experts believe these measures will enhance business operations and support economic growth. ...Less

Mobile phone retailers across India will observe October 2 as 'No UPI Day' to protest UPI charges. The Al ...More

Mobile phone retailers across India will observe October 2 as 'No UPI Day' to protest UPI charges. The All India Mobile Retailers Association has expressed concerns over new charges affecting their earnings. Retailers will not accept UPI payments and will cover QR codes to symbolize their protest. The introduction of a 0.4 percent fee on transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 starts on October 15. ...Less

Paytm, Mobikwik and Pine Labs shares fall sharply as reports of a possible delay in UPI MDR implementatio ...More

Paytm, Mobikwik and Pine Labs shares fall sharply as reports of a possible delay in UPI MDR implementation raise concerns over the fintech companies’ expected benefits from the new fee structure. ...Less

India's fiscal trajectory will increasingly depend on the strength of direct tax collections due to lower ...More

India's fiscal trajectory will increasingly depend on the strength of direct tax collections due to lower customs duties. Indirect tax revenues are constrained by weaker excise collections, which affects overall government finances. Government spending has been front-loaded this fiscal year with significant capital expenditures and subsidies. Primary and fiscal deficits have risen, highlighting concerns regarding fiscal management. ...Less

Amid rising tariffs and geopolitical tensions, trade negotiations between India and the United States hav ...More

Amid rising tariffs and geopolitical tensions, trade negotiations between India and the United States have reached an impasse. The US has voiced concerns over India's ongoing acquisition of Russian oil, which could trigger higher tariffs. India aims to safeguard its vital agricultural sectors during talks while advocating for enhanced export conditions. Future discussions, particularly with Secretary of State Marco Rubio's upcoming visit, may provide an opportunity for resolution. ...Less

As FY27 progresses, India's fiscal deficit climbed to an alarming Rs 7.10 lakh crore within the first fiv ...More

As FY27 progresses, India's fiscal deficit climbed to an alarming Rs 7.10 lakh crore within the first five months, representing 41.9% of the projected budget for the year. The total receipts amounted to Rs 13.68 lakh crore, aligning at 37.5% of the total budget. Meanwhile, government spending hit Rs 20.78 lakh crore, with major subsidies also rising to Rs 1.87 lakh crore amidst continuing fiscal challenges. ...Less

FSSAI said action had been initiated against Amazon, Flipkart India, Swiggy Instamart, Zepto and BigBaske ...More

FSSAI said action had been initiated against Amazon, Flipkart India, Swiggy Instamart, Zepto and BigBasket over allegedly misleading claims related to Happilo Premium Date Bites - Zesty Orange. Separately, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket face action over alleged misleading claims and non-compliant product information involving three Milky Mist products - Fresh Low Fat Cream, Farm Fresh Curd and Greek Yoghurt. ...Less

Sitharaman made a strong pitch for better-governed family businesses and greater corporate spending on re ...More

Sitharaman made a strong pitch for better-governed family businesses and greater corporate spending on research and development. She said the next 20 years would require Indian businesses to move beyond the creation of startups towards building enterprises that could scale, professionalise and endure. ...Less

Small businesses selling only to consumers may soon have the option to file GST returns annually. The GST ...More

Small businesses selling only to consumers may soon have the option to file GST returns annually. The GST Council has approved a plan for eligible taxpayers with turnover up to Rs 5 crore. Currently, these businesses file monthly returns under the existing GST structure. The new scheme is expected to ease compliance burdens and allow quarterly tax payments. Changes are set to take effect from April 1, 2027. ...Less

Government may end UPI subsidies for small transactions as merchant fees are introduced. Taxpayer-funded ...More

Government may end UPI subsidies for small transactions as merchant fees are introduced. Taxpayer-funded incentives for UPI and RuPay transactions are being phased out. No new subsidies have been paid for transactions since April 2025. This shift aims to make the payment ecosystem self-sustaining and reduce taxpayer burden. Incentive disbursements have significantly decreased in recent fiscal years. ...Less

Pre-budget meetings for the Union Budget 2027-28 will commence on October 12 and continue until November ...More

Pre-budget meetings for the Union Budget 2027-28 will commence on October 12 and continue until November 13. These discussions aim to finalize the Revised Estimate for 2026-27 and the Budget Estimate for 2027-28. Ministries are required to submit necessary details by October 6 to facilitate these meetings. The Budget is expected to address economic growth, job creation, and domestic demand. ...Less

The Supreme Court rejected the Centre's plea regarding private complaints in fraud cases. Special courts ...More

The Supreme Court rejected the Centre's plea regarding private complaints in fraud cases. Special courts cannot take cognisance of such complaints filed under the Companies Act. The court allowed the Centre to authorize officers to file complaints in these matters. This ruling ensures further scrutiny before fraud allegations are considered. The decision stemmed from a case involving former directors of Shreemukh Namitha Homes. ...Less

GST Council Meeting 2026: The GST Council concluded that existing GST rates would remain unchanged. It fu ...More

GST Council Meeting 2026: The GST Council concluded that existing GST rates would remain unchanged. It further removed arrest authorities from tax officers while increasing the threshold for prosecution to Rs 5 crore. The Council introduced friendlier regulations for small sellers on e-commerce sites, as well as efforts to enhance tax compliance and registration processes. Collectively, these actions reflect a transformative approach favoring sellers within the GST framework. ...Less

Talking to PTI, Sitharaman said the decision was completely professional, and it was taken jointly by the ...More

Talking to PTI, Sitharaman said the decision was completely professional, and it was taken jointly by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), payment banks and merchant banks, and not imposed by the government. ...Less

India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar launched development projects during his Bhutan visit. He ha ...More

India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar launched development projects during his Bhutan visit. He handed over Jersey cows for Bhutan's dairy breeding program. Phase-II of international UPI was launched for Bhutanese citizens visiting India. Nepal's Finance Minister Wagle met Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi. They discussed Nepal's reconstruction, trade, energy, and connectivity improvements. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged corporate India to look beyond affluent urban consumers. Rising ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged corporate India to look beyond affluent urban consumers. Rising incomes will drive future consumption growth across various sectors. The government is increasing public investment and strengthening digital infrastructure. Private sector participation is expanding into new areas like space and nuclear energy. Indian companies should focus on design and technology for global value chains. ...Less

Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi stated that India cannot give a timeframe for Sheikh Hasina's ext ...More

Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi stated that India cannot give a timeframe for Sheikh Hasina's extradition. Hasina has been living in India since she fled Bangladesh amid massive protests in 2024. The Bangladesh government has repeatedly requested her extradition, which India is examining through legal processes. Tensions between India and Bangladesh have increased since Hasina's interim administration was toppled. ...Less

Manufacturing PMI climbed to a seven-month high of 55.7 in September from 52.8 in August, while services ...More

Manufacturing PMI climbed to a seven-month high of 55.7 in September from 52.8 in August, while services activity increased to 55.8 from 54.1. Demand strengthened across both manufacturing and services, with manufacturing recording a higher increase. Sales growth also remained stronger among manufacturers than service providers, reaching a seven-month high. ...Less

GST Reform Winners 2026: The GST Council has greenlit key reforms intended to simplify compliance for bus ...More

GST Reform Winners 2026: The GST Council has greenlit key reforms intended to simplify compliance for businesses across the board. Small businesses now have the option to file just one GST return per year instead of a series of filings. Exporters stand to gain from expedited refunds and increased input tax credits on eligible manufacturing costs. ...Less

Assam and Meghalaya Chief Ministers met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. They sought a renewed ...More

Assam and Meghalaya Chief Ministers met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. They sought a renewed push for Externally Aided Projects in their states. The discussion focused on increasing capital expenditure and investment channels. This aims to boost physical and social infrastructure development in the Northeast. The Finance Minister responded positively and assured support for the agenda. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the need for BRICS nations to improve collaboration on int ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the need for BRICS nations to improve collaboration on international taxation. She proposed establishing working groups to address transfer pricing disputes, which affect developing countries disproportionately. This effort aims to shape future cross-border taxation rules through multilateral negotiations. Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava highlighted the importance of collective experience in these deliberations. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met AIIB President Zou Jiay in New Delhi. They discussed deepening th ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met AIIB President Zou Jiay in New Delhi. They discussed deepening the India-AIIB partnership and infrastructure priorities. Support for transport connectivity and local-currency financing was also explored. Increased private sector participation and AIIB's global presence were key topics. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. ...Less

Market participants said large public sector banks were seen selling dollars at the behest of the Reserve ...More

Market participants said large public sector banks were seen selling dollars at the behest of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in a market with thin volume, helping the local currency recover from the near 96 level despite global crude price hovering around $105 a barrel and raising the risk of imported inflation. ...Less

The GST Council is poised to address significant reforms that could transform GST compliance for business ...More

The GST Council is poised to address significant reforms that could transform GST compliance for businesses. Among the proposed measures are the removal of arrest powers held by GST officers and higher thresholds for criminal prosecution. Small e-commerce sellers might find it easier to register through platform warehouses without needing tax officer intervention. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated Merchant Discount Rate charges will not be passed to consumers ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated Merchant Discount Rate charges will not be passed to consumers. She clarified these charges are between payment service providers for system improvement. Opposition parties were accused of spreading misinformation regarding the UPI MDR framework. Sitharaman also criticized mimicry at a recent Congress event in Indore. She further denied allegations of discrimination in fund allocation to Punjab state. ...Less

Its composition is being finalised and is likely to include a former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) deputy g ...More

Its composition is being finalised and is likely to include a former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) deputy governor, industry leaders from the fintech sector and an Indian Banks' Association (IBA) nominee, said people familiar with the matter. ...Less

"One may think of the cumulative depreciation of the INR in the past year and a half to be a temporary ph ...More

"One may think of the cumulative depreciation of the INR in the past year and a half to be a temporary phenomenon," she said. "If anything, there seems to be a fair case for the rupee to not just stabilise but perhaps even appreciate from the current levels, as was being anticipated by the market analysts when the capital flow measures were first announced." ...Less

Nepalese Prime Minister Balen Shah plans his first India visit by year-end. This visit aims to open new v ...More

Nepalese Prime Minister Balen Shah plans his first India visit by year-end. This visit aims to open new vistas for bilateral partnership and cooperation. Discussions will focus on industry-to-industry collaboration and job creation initiatives. Nepal also seeks fresh private investments and modernization of trade treaties. Discussions also covered reconstruction efforts following recent devastating flash floods. ...Less

Global Fintech Fest: Sitharaman said that India was experiencing its demographic dividend in real time, w ...More

Global Fintech Fest: Sitharaman said that India was experiencing its demographic dividend in real time, with the country’s young population increasingly translating its potential into economic momentum. ...Less

The GST Council is expected to consider easing compliance for small ecommerce sellers. This and more in t ...More

The GST Council is expected to consider easing compliance for small ecommerce sellers. This and more in today’s ETtech Top 5. ...Less

GST Council Meeting 2026: The GST Council, meeting in New Delhi, is expected to propose significant refor ...More

GST Council Meeting 2026: The GST Council, meeting in New Delhi, is expected to propose significant reforms for tax administration. One reform will address arrest powers for tax officers, requiring court orders for detentions. Input tax credits on certain business expenses may also be unblocked, which could benefit various industries. Small taxpayers may see a simplified registration process and reduced compliance requirements. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed that the Merchant Discount Rate on UPI payments above Rs 2, ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed that the Merchant Discount Rate on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 will not be passed to consumers. This rate is a charge borne by merchants and not the government. Sitharaman emphasized that this charge is not a tax, cess, or surcharge. The rate is set at 0.4% and will impact only certain UPI transactions. ...Less

A jhalmuri seller in Jhargram celebrated Prime Minister Modi's birthday. He served larger portions of the ...More

A jhalmuri seller in Jhargram celebrated Prime Minister Modi's birthday. He served larger portions of the popular Bengali snack to his customers. This gesture marked the memorable visit of the Prime Minister to his stall. Photographs from the Prime Minister's visit were displayed and shared widely. The interaction had previously gained significant national attention and viral fame. ...Less

The finance ministry said in a statement Monday it has taken cognisance of the concerns and decided to ke ...More

The finance ministry said in a statement Monday it has taken cognisance of the concerns and decided to keep the implementation in abeyance in response to the employee representation on the PLI structure. The matter will now be discussed during the ongoing bipartite settlement or joint note discussions, it said. ...Less

The discussions covered India-IMF relations, the country's evolving growth trajectory, and the implicatio ...More

The discussions covered India-IMF relations, the country's evolving growth trajectory, and the implications of shifts in the global economic environment, including India's trade agenda and developments in the global trading system, including recently concluded bilateral trade agreements. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stressed responsible AI adoption over avoidance. Institutions must ma ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stressed responsible AI adoption over avoidance. Institutions must manage AI risks and avoid legacy system reliance. Faster AI adoption requires safety and accountability, with human oversight remaining vital. Regulators and senior management must oversee AI deployment and potential harms. ...Less

DMK leader Kanimozhi met Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Thursday. This meeting follows discussions with Ud ...More

DMK leader Kanimozhi met Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Thursday. This meeting follows discussions with Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar. Strains between DMK and Congress have emerged recently. The TMC and Congress have also sparred over a West Bengal bypoll. Kanimozhi's outreach sparks speculation about opposition coordination efforts. ...Less

India's Financial Intelligence Unit issued notices to fifteen Virtual Digital Assets Service Providers. T ...More

India's Financial Intelligence Unit issued notices to fifteen Virtual Digital Assets Service Providers. These firms operated without complying with anti-money laundering regulations in India. The Director of FIU-India also ordered the takedown of illegal applications and URLs. Fifteen firms were brought under the AML/CFT framework in March 2023. Virtual Digital Assets Service Providers must register with FIU-India and follow mandated obligations. ...Less

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday asked banks providing loans under the PM MUDRA Yoja ...More

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday asked banks providing loans under the PM MUDRA Yojana to step up financial literacy efforts across states to help small entrepreneurs expand their businesses and bring more people under the scheme. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reviewed BRICS Finance Track outcomes and preparations. She met with ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reviewed BRICS Finance Track outcomes and preparations. She met with senior officials from the Department of Economic Affairs. The upcoming BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting is scheduled for September. This significant gathering will take place in Mumbai ahead of the BRICS Leaders' Summit. The Finance Track is guided by the theme 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability'. ...Less

The Department of Rural Development and PFRDA will create Pension Sakhis across rural India. These women ...More

The Department of Rural Development and PFRDA will create Pension Sakhis across rural India. These women will facilitate pension enrolment and retirement planning for SHG members. The initiative aims to improve financial inclusion and long-term savings in rural areas. Digital dashboards and mobile solutions will strengthen outreach and monitor progress effectively. This collaboration supports sustainable prosperity and economic advancement for rural households. ...Less

Premiumisation trend is spreading beyond affluent urban consumers, with households upgrading across homes ...More

Premiumisation trend is spreading beyond affluent urban consumers, with households upgrading across homes, cars, travel, smartphones, appliances and everyday products. While 54% of home sales in eight major cities were priced above Rs 1 crore in the first half of 2026, companies are also seeing stronger premium demand in smaller towns and rural markets. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said sustaining consumption growth will require this shift to extend beyond urban India as incomes and aspirations rise. ...Less

The government has postponed the performance-linked incentive scheme for bank employees. This decision fo ...More

The government has postponed the performance-linked incentive scheme for bank employees. This decision follows employee representations seeking a review of the existing structure. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with bank employee representatives to discuss their concerns. The scheme's implementation for 2025-26 will be kept in abeyance. Discussions will continue through bipartite settlement and joint note talks. ...Less

Uday Kotak emphasized India's heavy dependence on gold imports, estimating a rise to $90 billion by FY27. ...More

Uday Kotak emphasized India's heavy dependence on gold imports, estimating a rise to $90 billion by FY27. He highlighted that excluding gold from the current account deficit would strengthen India's external position significantly. Kotak called for a committee to address gold demand alongside capital account challenges while proposing tighter fiscal policies. He noted that global economic uncertainties could be opportunities for India to accelerate reforms and improve domestic production. ...Less

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India has announced new proposals to limit commissi ...More

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India has announced new proposals to limit commission rates for insurance distributors. This move seeks to tackle high distribution costs, ultimately enhancing the policyholder experience. By implementing reforms aimed at fostering customer-centric practices, the initiative aims to curtail the mis-selling of insurance products. Insurers must align their compensation methods with the value delivered to customers. ...Less

School assembly news for September 24 includes major weather alerts in India, developments at the United ...More

School assembly news for September 24 includes major weather alerts in India, developments at the United Nations, new medal achievements by Indian athletes at the Asian Games and banking and aviation updates. The key stories also include India’s growing solar capacity, international diplomatic discussions and measures being taken ahead of a nationwide bank strike. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with IMF Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke on Monday. They re ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with IMF Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke on Monday. They reviewed India-IMF relations and acknowledged India's role in SARTTAC. Discussions covered India's growth trajectory and global economic changes. The IMF official highlighted India's economic performance and resilience amid global challenges. Clarke also praised government efforts in fiscal consolidation and economic support measures. ...Less

Uday Kotak urged India to address its substantial gold import bill. He projected gold imports could reach ...More

Uday Kotak urged India to address its substantial gold import bill. He projected gold imports could reach USD 88-90 billion by FY27. Kotak also highlighted the need for further fiscal consolidation efforts. He advised leveraging global uncertainty for accelerated reforms and investment. Strengthening Centre-state coordination is crucial for national resilience. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged young graduates to prioritize national interests in leadership ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged young graduates to prioritize national interests in leadership roles. She highlighted India's economic resilience amid global uncertainties and strong growth. Tamil Nadu offers growing opportunities for young professionals in technology and manufacturing. The Union Budget includes provisions to increase women's workforce participation. Graduates were advised to remain humble and approach challenges with patience. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis to deepen economic ties. ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis to deepen economic ties. They discussed trade, technology, and supply chain resilience cooperation. Sitharaman also met South Korean Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yun-cheol for bilateral talks. Both nations aim to strengthen economic and financial cooperation further. Discussions included investment, critical minerals, and payment system interoperability. ...Less

Recent asset declarations from ministers reveal a diverse range of portfolios including cryptocurrency in ...More

Recent asset declarations from ministers reveal a diverse range of portfolios including cryptocurrency investments and foreign assets. While some officials claim livestock such as cows and sheep, others report ownership of older cars. Notably, several cabinet members hold properties in the Delhi-NCR region, yet declarations of firearms are largely absent. Overall, these disclosures highlight wealth accumulated through family means rather than just assets obtained in office. ...Less

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said over one lakh youths will get government jobs in the next six month ...More

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said over one lakh youths will get government jobs in the next six months as he handed appointment letters to 818 UPPSC and UPSSSC selectees in Lucknow, attacking the previous SP government over recruitment irregularities. ...Less

Russian President Vladimir Putin wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday, praising his c ...More

Russian President Vladimir Putin wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday, praising his contribution to strengthening the India-Russia strategic partnership and calling their recent Delhi talks substantive and productive. Putin thanked Modi for his hospitality during the BRICS Summit visit, while both leaders discussed closer trade, energy, infrastructure, technology, defence and cooperation on regional and global issues. ...Less

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 76 on Thursday, September 17, with Union ministers and BJP leaders ex ...More

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 76 on Thursday, September 17, with Union ministers and BJP leaders extending birthday greetings and highlighting his leadership and public service. Messages from Yogi Adityanath, Amit Shah, Piyush Goyal, S Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman, JP Nadda, Rajnath Singh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Devendra Fadnavis praised his focus on development, self-reliance and national service. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged tax professionals and industry bodies to move beyond demands fo ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged tax professionals and industry bodies to move beyond demands for exemptions and rate cuts, asking them to identify provisions that no longer serve the tax system, even when they benefit from them. She said India remains better placed economically despite global challenges and sought evidence-based tax reforms. ...Less

India's real GDP grew 7.8 percent in the April-June quarter. This performance exceeded the Reserve Bank o ...More

India's real GDP grew 7.8 percent in the April-June quarter. This performance exceeded the Reserve Bank of India's earlier growth forecast. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman credited the people and government reforms for this success. The government remains committed to expanding economic opportunities for all citizens. Nominal GDP grew 10.3 percent while real GVA recorded 8.2 percent growth. ...Less

Michael Spence highlights the economic growth of India and China, noting India's potential growth traject ...More

Michael Spence highlights the economic growth of India and China, noting India's potential growth trajectory. He emphasizes India's advancements in digital infrastructure, particularly in digital financial services like UPI. Spence discusses the significance of AI in economic development and its anticipated impact over the next decade. He warns of potential economic shocks due to rising debt levels and high market valuations. ...Less

India and the European Union explored deeper cooperation in critical minerals and processing. Discussions ...More

India and the European Union explored deeper cooperation in critical minerals and processing. Discussions also covered fintech and artificial intelligence advancements between the two blocs. The finance minister met with her Russian counterpart to discuss bilateral cooperation. They also reviewed regional and global economic developments and shared interests. Sitharaman further met with finance ministers from Poland, Qatar, and South Korea. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday questioned whether safeguards being developed by frontier ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday questioned whether safeguards being developed by frontier artificial intelligence companies are keeping pace with the rapid advancement of the technology, citing the recent resignation of Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon over concerns about the race towards self-improving AI systems. ...Less

Prime Minister Modi hosted a splendid BRICS gala dinner in New Delhi, which saw the participation of chie ...More

Prime Minister Modi hosted a splendid BRICS gala dinner in New Delhi, which saw the participation of chief ministers from opposition-led states. The summit concluded with the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026, emphasizing the need for reforms in global governance and the inclusion of developing countries. The event also showcased a cultural performance that honored the shared heritage and diversity of the BRICS community. ...Less

The 57th GST Council meeting, scheduled for September 12, is likely to be postponed, with a final decisio ...More

The 57th GST Council meeting, scheduled for September 12, is likely to be postponed, with a final decision expected after consultations with states. The meeting was set to discuss several ease-of-doing-business measures, including protecting buyers’ ITC when suppliers fail to deposit GST, simplifying taxation of corporate guarantees, allowing ITC on certain employee-related expenses and enabling small businesses to obtain GST registrations across multiple states. ...Less

Public sector insurers must focus on profitable business lines and lower incurred claim ratios. Greater t ...More

Public sector insurers must focus on profitable business lines and lower incurred claim ratios. Greater technology use and digitalisation are encouraged for operational efficiency. Improved customer outreach and social media engagement will enhance product awareness. Companies should increase insurance penetration and reduce protection gaps. Performance monitoring will be strengthened through a standardised KPI framework. ...Less

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently. This meeting ...More

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently. This meeting occurred during the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors gathering. Indian companies have invested forty billion dollars in the United States. These investments currently support over seventy thousand American jobs. The US-India account shared this significant economic information. ...Less

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted artificial intelligence as a double-edged sword for finan ...More

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted artificial intelligence as a double-edged sword for financial systems. She advocated for a soft-touch regulatory framework for emerging technologies and innovation. The minister urged the Reserve Bank of India to accelerate its digital rupee pilots and capabilities. Sitharaman also dismissed pessimism regarding India's demographic dividend, emphasizing youth-led growth. ...Less