New Delhi, Sep.12,2025:Retail Inflation in India has once again made headlines, with the government releasing fresh data for August 2025. The figures reveal that consumer prices have risen slightly, sparking debates on whether Indian households will continue to feel the pinch in the coming months.

According to official data, the Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based retail inflation rose to 2.07% in August, compared to 1.55% in July. While this increase remains within the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) comfort zone of 2–6%, it highlights worrying trends in food and fuel prices.

What Is Retail Inflation in India

Retail inflation in India is measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). It tracks the change in prices of essential goods and services such as food, fuel, clothing, and housing.

• A moderate inflation rate indicates a stable economy.
• Higher inflation, however, reduces purchasing power and impacts household savings.

For a deeper understanding of CPI, you can check the RBI’s official CPI definition.

Official Data for August 2025

The government’s data shows:

• CPI Inflation in August 2025: 2.07%
• CPI Inflation in July 2025: 1.55%
• Food Inflation: from -1.76% in July to -0.69% in August

The data confirms that the rise in vegetable and pulse prices played a major role in pushing up retail inflation in India.

Why Did Retail Inflation in India Rise

Food Price Surge

Vegetables and pulses saw a sharp price rise due to:

• Excess rainfall damaging crops
• Lower-than-expected agricultural output
• Higher demand during the festive season

Fuel and Oil Prices

Global crude oil prices have risen significantly, raising transportation and energy costs. This has had a cascading effect on essential commodities.

Impact of Monsoon and Supply Chains

Heavy rains disrupted supply chains, especially in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. This created shortages in local markets, pushing retail prices upward.

The Numbers Explained

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket is made up of several components:

(Source: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation – MOSPI)

Impact on Households and Daily Expenses

The slight rise in retail inflation in India has already been felt by middle-class families:

• Household budgets stretched due to higher vegetable and cooking oil prices.
• Transportation and LPG cylinder costs increased.
• Dining out and packaged food prices saw small hikes.

For many households, even a 0.5% increase in food inflation significantly affects monthly expenses.

RBI’s Reaction and Monetary Policy Outlook

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has kept its inflation target between 2% and 6%.

• With inflation at 2.07%, RBI is unlikely to change interest rates in the short term.
• However, policymakers are keeping a close watch on global oil prices and domestic food supply trends.

For more updates, visit the RBI monetary policy page.

Expert Opinions on Inflation Trends

Economists believe-

• Short-term inflation will remain moderate but volatile.
• If rainfall continues to disrupt supply, food inflation may rise further.
• Global oil prices are the biggest risk factor for India’s inflation stability.

Global Factors Influencing Retail Inflation in India

Several global trends are shaping India’s inflation outlook:

1. Oil Prices: Brent crude recently crossed $90 per barrel.
2. Geopolitical tensions: Conflicts and trade restrictions affect global supply chains.
3. Currency fluctuations: A weaker rupee makes imports more expensive.

Will Inflation Ease or Rise Further

The road ahead for retail inflation in India depends on:

• The impact of the ongoing monsoon season.
• Global energy markets.
• Domestic demand during the festival season.

If food supply stabilizes and oil prices ease, inflation may remain under control. But any shock to global oil or agriculture could push inflation back above 3–4%.

The latest data confirms that retail inflation in India rose slightly to 2.07% in August 2025. While still within the RBI’s comfort zone, the rise in food and fuel prices is a reminder of how vulnerable the Indian economy remains to external shocks and climate-related disruptions.

For Indian households, this means carefully planning budgets and preparing for possible price hikes in essentials. Policymakers, on the other hand, must stay alert to ensure inflation remains under control without stalling economic growth.

New Delhi, Sep.01,2025:Taxpayers must disclose foreign assets—even if penalties are reduced for assets valued under ₹20 lakh—reporting remains compulsory

Don’t Choose the Wrong ITR Form

Filing under an ineligible form like ITR-1 when you have capital gains, foreign assets, or multiple employers can render your return defective. For instance, you must use ITR-2 if long-term capital gains exceed ₹1.25 lakh or you hold overseas accounts.

Always Verify AIS, Form 26AS & TIS

Verify your income and TDS against AIS, Form 26AS, and Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS). Mismatches are a leading cause of notices, delays, or penalties.

Declare Every Income Source—Even Exempt Ones

Include interest income from savings/fixed deposits, rental income, dividends, and exempt income like PPF interest. Even if exempt, failing to declare these can invalidate your return.

Avoid Incorrect HRA or Capital Gains Claims

Incorrect HRA claims—such as missing landlord PAN or wrong rent details—can trigger scrutiny. Also, capital gains tax slabs changed post-July 23, 2024; filing errors here are common among investors.

Be Wary of Fraudulent or Unsupported Deductions

Claiming deductions under Sections 80C, 80D, 80U without proper documentation is risky. AI-driven systems now flag false or exaggerated claims more easily, resulting in notices or refunds blocked.

Disclose Foreign Assets & Profession-Specific Income Codes

Taxpayers must disclose foreign assets—even if penalties are reduced for assets valued under ₹20 lakh—reporting remains compulsory. Influencers, F&O traders, and gig workers now need to use specified profession codes in ITR-3/ITR-4 (e.g., code 16021 for influencers).

E-Verify Your Return on Time

Filing alone isn’t enough. You must verify (via Aadhaar OTP, net banking, EVC, or ITR-V via post) within 30 days—without it, the return is considered unfiled.

For Excel-Based Filers- Use Pre-filled JSON

ITR-2/3 Excel utilities often glitch. Download the pre-filled JSON from the e-filing portal, activate macros, and validate each schedule. Keep backups to avoid data loss.

Fix Stock & Mutual Fund AIS Mismatches Early

Taxpayers with stock or mutual fund investments face AIS mismatches—like zero purchase cost for old holdings, duplicated entries, or inflated gains. Cross-check with demat or broker records and use the portal’s feedback tool to correct errors.

Actionable Fixes at a Glance

The deadline for ITR filing is 15 September 2025, giving you a runway—but not a reason to delay. Avoid the ITR filing mistakes 2025 detailed above, ensure your filing is precise, and ride through this season confidently.

New Delhi, Aug.29,2025:The agriculture sector experienced a significant turnaround, with a 3.7% growth in real terms, up from 1.5% in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year

India’s economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving a 7.8% GDP growth in the first quarter (April-June) of the 2025–26 fiscal year. This performance not only surpasses the Reserve Bank of India’s projection of 6.5% but also defies expectations amid global economic uncertainties.

Sectoral Performance Highlights

Agriculture Sector

The agriculture sector experienced a significant turnaround, with a 3.7% growth in real terms, up from 1.5% in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. This improvement reflects favorable monsoon conditions and effective government policies supporting the sector.

Manufacturing and Construction

The secondary sector, encompassing manufacturing and construction, recorded a 7.7% and 7.6% growth, respectively. These figures indicate a robust industrial activity, driven by increased domestic demand and infrastructure development projects.

Services Sector

The services sector led the growth trajectory with a 9.3% increase, up from 6.8% in the previous year’s first quarter. Key drivers include trade, hotels, transport, communications, and financial services, reflecting a rebound in consumer spending and business activities.

Government Spending and Consumption Patterns

Government Final Consumption Expenditure (GFCE) witnessed a substantial rise of 9.7%, compared to 4.0% in Q1 FY25. This surge indicates increased public spending on infrastructure and welfare programs. Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) grew by 7.0%, signaling sustained consumer confidence and spending.

Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Indian Exports

Despite the robust growth, India’s export sector faces challenges due to the United States’ imposition of additional tariffs on Indian goods. The tariffs, which have increased up to 50%, are expected to impact key export industries such as textiles, chemicals, and food products. The government is exploring measures to mitigate these effects and support affected sectors.

Comparative Analysis: India vs. China

In contrast, China’s economy grew by 5.2% in the same quarter, indicating a slowdown from previous periods. Factors contributing to this deceleration include weak domestic demand and challenges in the real estate sector. India’s higher growth rate underscores its economic resilience and potential for sustained development.

Economic Outlook and Future Projections

While the current growth is commendable, economists caution that the upcoming quarters may witness moderation due to external trade pressures and global economic conditions. Projections suggest a full-year GDP growth ranging between 6.0% and 6.5%, contingent on effective policy interventions and global trade dynamics.

India’s 7.8% GDP growth in Q1 FY26 is a testament to its economic resilience and the effectiveness of domestic policies. While challenges persist, the country’s diversified economic base and proactive measures position it well for sustained growth in the coming quarters.

New Delhi, Aug.01,2025:From 1 August, commercial LPG cylinder (19 kg) rates are slashed by Rs.33.50 nationwide—

New Rules August 2025: What’s Changing

New Rules August 2025 kicks off a wave of regulatory changes across finance, payments, fuel, banking, and tolls. From August 1, Monday, a slew of updates go live that impact everyday costs—from fuel bills to digital payments to travel convenience.

LPG Price Cut on August 1

From 1 August, commercial LPG cylinder (19 kg) rates are slashed by Rs.33.50 nationwide—Delhi Rs.1,631.50; Mumbai Rs.1,582.50; Kolkata Rs.1,734.50; Chennai Rs.1,789. No changes to domestic LPG prices this.

UPI Limits & API Rules Begin August 1

New Rules August 2025 enforce significant UPI system changes from NPCI:

• Maximum 50 balance‑check requests per day per app per user
• Bank‑account listing limited to 25 per app per day
• Autopay and mandate executions only during non‑peak hours (before 10 AM, 1–5 PM, after 9:30 PM)
• Only 3 status‑check attempts allowed
• Receiver name must display before payment; no GST on UPI transactions.

These changes aim to reduce server overload, improve speed, and enhance security.

SBI Credit Cards Lose Free Air‑Accident Insurance

Starting 11 August, SBI is withdrawing free air‑accident insurance cover from select co‑branded credit cards (ELITE & PRIME) issued with UCO Bank, Central Bank, PNB, Karur Vysya, Allahabad Bank. Coverage up to Rs.50 lakh–Rs.1 crore is discontinued.

FASTag Annual Pass Introduced from August 15

From 15 August, Road Transport Ministry launches a new FASTag annual pass for private vehicles: Rs.3,000 covers up to 200 toll‑free trips or one year, whichever earlier. Designed for frequent highway users, it’s optional but likely cost‑effective.

PNB KYC Update Deadline: August 8

Punjab National Bank has mandated that all customers update their KYC by 8 August 2025 to keep accounts active, in compliance with RBI guidelines.

ATF Price Revision and Impact on Airfares

Also on 1 August, Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices are revised:

• Delhi ~ Rs.92,022 per kL
• Kolkata ~ Rs.95,165
• Mumbai ~ Rs.86,077
• Chennai ~ Rs.95,512

These rates apply for domestic airlines; higher ATF costs may push up airfares—or a drop could bring relief.

Bank Holidays Schedule in August

In August 2025, 15 days of bank holidays are observed across India, including all Sundays, second and fourth Saturdays, and state‑specific festival holidays. Plan ahead to avoid delays in banking transactions.

What This Means for Consumers

New Rules August 2025 bring both relief and impact:

• Hotel/restaurants benefit from lower commercial LPG rates; households unaffected.
• UPI users face limits on balance checks and autopay timings—though better stability and fewer failures are expected. Delays possible during peak hours.
• SBI cardholders must consider alternative insurance options if they relied on airport safety cover.
• Frequent toll‑road users might save with FASTag annual pass.
• PNB customers must act fast to avoid account deactivation.
• Air travellers should watch for fare shifts due to ATF price updates.
• Bank users must navigate 15 holiday‑days wisely, especially in offline transactions.

New Rules August 2025 mark a significant regulatory shift across consumer finance and payments systems. While some changes ease costs—like LPG cuts and FASTag options—others introduce constraints, like UPI limits and loss of SBI card benefits. Stay informed and adjust monthly budgets accordingly.

Mumbai, July24,2025: As of August 26, 2016, SBI’s fund-based exposure exceeded ₹2,227.64 cr; bank guarantees added ₹786.52 cr.

ED raids Anil Ambani – The Shocking Start

ED raids Anil Ambani kicked off on July 24, 2025, when the Enforcement Directorate stormed over 40 locations tied to Anil Ambani, including in Mumbai and Delhi.

The operation stems from alleged financial irregularities, money laundering, and loan fraud linked to Yes Bank and SBI accounts. This sweeping enforcement marks a critical juncture in the saga of Reliance Communication’s financial collapse.

What Triggered the ED Raids?

SBI’s “Fraud” Tag

A key catalyst was SBI labelling Anil Ambani and Reliance Communications as a fraudulent borrower. On June 13, 2025, SBI formally classified the loans as ‘fraud’, escalating to an RBI report on June 24, 2025, followed by CBI complaint preparations.

SBI’s outstanding exposure: ₹2,227.64 cr in principal and ₹786.52 cr in bank guarantees.

Link to Yes Bank Money Laundering

ED’s probe also overlaps with alleged Yes Bank loan fraud, part of broader money laundering accusations. Authorities traced suspicious transactions and offshore fund movements via Ambani-linked entities.

Scope of the ED Raids

Locations: Mumbai & Delhi

Synchronized raids covered 40–50 premises across Mumbai and Delhi.

These included residential, corporate, and workshop spaces tied to Ambani and associated firms.

Agencies Involved

The Enforcement Directorate led the raid, supported by the investigation teams from both Mumbai and Delhi, aligning with the anti-money laundering framework.

What SBI’s Fraud Declaration Means

Legal Framework

Under RBI’s Master Directions and SBI’s fraud policies, such classification triggers reports to RBI and CBI. Borrowers lose access to bank loans for at least 5 years under banking law.

Financial Exposure

As of August 26, 2016, SBI’s fund-based exposure exceeded ₹2,227.64 cr; bank guarantees added ₹786.52 cr.

nsolvency & NCLT Proceedings

RCom is in Corporate Insolvency Resolution under IBC; personal insolvency proceedings are active against Anil Ambani before NCLT Mumbai.

Implications for Anil Ambani & Group Firms

• Legal jeopardy: CBD complaint could lead to CBI investigation and judicial action.
• Funding freeze: With the fraud tag, access to credit is blocked for 5+ years.
• Asset scrutiny: ED may attach or seize assets; seizure may extend to offshore holdings.
• Reputational fallout: These developments shake investor confidence, further weakening market value.

Reactions & Defense

Anil Ambani’s Legal Response

Legal counsel Agarwal Law Associates has challenged SBI’s classification, demanding a prompt hearing and due process.

Official Reactions

• Ministry of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, confirmed the fraud tag in Parliament and affirmed impending CBI complaint.
• ED and SBI have largely declined further comments, citing ongoing investigations.

Possible Scenarios Ahead

External Perspective & Expert Analysis

• Financial analysts stress that SBI’s ₹3,000+ crore exposure signals systemic risk.
• Legal experts underscore the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling, demanding prior notice to borrowers—a protocol SBI followed in re-tagging the loans after reversal in 2023.
• Market watchers note that once accounts are tagged fraud, the broader banking ecosystem becomes cautious, potentially freezing overdue payments.

A Storm Unfolding

ED raids Anil Ambani is more than a headline—it marks a tipping point in India’s regulatory and legal landscape. It underlines stringent actions by Indian banks and agencies against financial impropriety. As the case unfolds, it will test the resilience of judicial systems, corporate governance, and the fate of Ambani-linked businesses.

Sakshi Gupta, a relationship manager at ICICI Bank’s Kota branch from 2020 to 2023, was arrested for cheating customers of ₹4.5 crore. She changed their contact details to stop alerts and transferred money to a pool account, which she used for stock market trading. The fraud came to light after the branch manager filed a complaint.

In a shocking case of financial fraud, Sakshi Gupta, a relationship manager at ICICI Bank’s Kota branch, has been accused of embezzling ₹4.5 crore from customer accounts. Gupta allegedly manipulated customer contact details to prevent them from receiving transaction alerts, allowing her to siphon off funds undetected. The stolen money was reportedly funneled into a pool account and subsequently used for high-risk stock market trading. The fraudulent activity went unnoticed for months, raising serious concerns about internal security and oversight mechanisms within the bank.

The accused named Sakshi Gupta was posted as a relationship manager at ICICI Banks’s DCM branch, according to a PTI news agency.

Sakshi Gupta, a relationship manager at ICICI Bank’s Kota branch from 2020 to 2023, was arrested for a massive fraud involving ₹4.58 crore. According to police, she stole money from over 110 accounts belonging to 41 customers over a span of two years. Gupta allegedly changed customer contact details to block transaction alerts and transferred the funds into a pool account. She then invested the stolen amount in the stock market, where she lost most of it. The fraud came to light after branch manager Tarun Dadich filed a complaint at Udhyog Nagar Police Station on February 18.

Sakshi Gupta, a relationship manager at ICICI Bank’s Kota branch from 2020 to 2023, was arrested for cheating customers out of ₹4.58 crore. Police said she stole money from over 110 accounts belonging to 41 customers over two years. To avoid detection, she changed the registered mobile numbers of account holders to numbers belonging to her relatives. This prevented customers from getting transaction alerts or OTPs.

Gupta then quietly transferred funds to multiple accounts. In one case, she used the account of an elderly woman—who was completely unaware—as a “pool account” to collect money. By February 15, 2023, she had moved over ₹3 crore into this single account. Most of the stolen money was then invested in the stock market, where she lost a large part of it. The fraud was exposed when branch manager Tarun Dadich filed a complaint at Udhyog Nagar Police Station on February 18.

Sub-Inspector Ibrahim confirmed the details of the case.

Sakshi Gupta, a relationship manager at ICICI Bank’s Kota branch from 2020 to 2023, has been arrested for embezzling ₹4.58 crore from customers’ accounts. According to police, she stole money from over 110 accounts of 41 customers over two years. To avoid detection, she changed the mobile numbers linked to the accounts with those of her relatives, stopping transaction alerts and OTPs from reaching the actual account holders.

Sub-Inspector Ibrahim revealed that Gupta misused debit cards, PINs, and OTPs, and even activated overdraft facilities on 40 accounts without the customers’ knowledge. She also closed 31 customers’ fixed deposits, illegally transferring over ₹1.34 crore, and took a personal loan of ₹3.40 lakh using fraudulent means.

Many of these transactions were carried out using Insta Kiosks, ATMs, and digital banking platforms. She used debit cards from at least 4 customers and routed money into demat accounts to hide her activities. One elderly woman’s account, unknown to her, was used as a pool account to collect over ₹3 crore.

The fraud came to light after branch manager Tarun Dadich filed a complaint at Udhyog Nagar Police Station on February 18, 2023.

Meanwhile, ICICI Bank released a statement saying, “The interest of our customers is most important. We filed an FIR immediately after discovering the issue and have a zero-tolerance policy for any fraudulent activity.” The bank added that Gupta has been suspended and genuine customer claims have already been settled.

Sakshi Gupta, an ICICI Bank relationship manager in Kota, has been arrested for allegedly siphoning off Rs 4.58 crore from customer accounts between 2020 and 2023. She fraudulently withdrew funds from over 100 accounts, investing in the stock market and suffering losses. The bank has filed an FIR, suspended the employee, and settled genuine claims from impacted customers.

KOTA: In a major bank fraud case, Sakshi Gupta, a relationship manager at ICICI Bank’s Shriram Nagar branch in Kota, has been accused of siphoning off ₹4.58 crore from customer accounts between 2020 and 2023. She was arrested by Udhyog Nagar police on May 31 after an investigation into the fraud, which first came to light on February 18 when branch manager Tarun Dadhich filed a complaint.

According to the police, Sakshi fraudulently withdrew money from over 100 accounts belonging to 41 customers over two and a half years. To hide her activities, she changed the mobile numbers linked to many accounts to those of her relatives, preventing customers from receiving transaction alerts and OTPs.

Sub-Inspector Ibrahim stated that Sakshi systematically transferred large sums into various accounts, including over ₹3 crore into an elderly woman’s account that she used as a “pool account” without the woman’s knowledge. She also misused debit cards, PINs, and OTPs, and even activated overdraft facilities on 40 customer accounts without consent. Additionally, she closed fixed deposits and took a personal loan using fraudulent methods.

Most of the siphoned money was invested in the stock market, where she incurred heavy losses. The fraud was carried out using digital banking platforms, ATMs, Insta Kiosks, and demat accounts.

Introduction to PAN 2.0

The Indian government has introduced PAN 2.0, a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing the Permanent Account Number (PAN) system. This upgrade is designed to enhance taxpayer services, streamline processes, and promote a more efficient digital economy. With the introduction of QR codes on PAN cards, the new system promises to facilitate easier verification and access to taxpayer information, making it a significant step towards a paperless future.

What is PAN 2.0?

Understanding the Upgrade

PAN 2.0 is part of a broader e-governance initiative approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA). This project, with a budget of ₹1,435 crores, aims to consolidate various PAN and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) services into a single unified portal. The goal is to simplify the issuance and management of PAN cards while ensuring enhanced security and user experience.

Key Features of PAN 2.0

• Unified Portal: All services related to PAN and TAN will be available on one platform, reducing confusion and improving accessibility.
• QR Code Integration: Each PAN card will now feature a QR code for quick verification, enhancing security and efficiency.
• Free Issuance: The new e-PAN cards will be issued free of charge, making it accessible for all taxpayers.
• Real-time Processing: The upgraded system allows for faster processing times compared to the previous methods.
• Enhanced Data Security: Advanced cybersecurity measures will protect sensitive information from fraud and misuse.

How to Apply for Your Free PAN 2.0 Card

Step-by-Step Process

Getting your new PAN 2.0 card delivered directly to your email is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the Unified Portal:
   • Navigate to the official Income Tax Department’s website dedicated to PAN services.
2. Enter Personal Details:
   • Fill out the application form with accurate personal information including your name, date of birth, and contact details.
3. Upload Required Documents:
   • Prepare scanned copies of necessary documents:
     • Proof of Identity (Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID)
     • Proof of Address (Utility bills, Bank statements)
     • Proof of Date of Birth (Birth certificate, School leaving certificate)
4. Review and Submit:
   • Double-check all entered information for accuracy before submitting your application.
5. Receive Your e-PAN:
   • Once processed, your e-PAN will be sent directly to your registered email address at no cost.
   • Here are the steps to obtain your PAN card from the NSDL website:
   • Step 1: Visit the Link
   • Go to the following URL: NSDL e-PAN Request.
   • Step 2: Enter Required Information
   • On the webpage, fill in the following details:
   • PAN (Permanent Account Number)
   • Aadhaar number (only for individuals)
   • Date of birth
   • Step 3: Submit Your Information
   • After entering the required information, check the applicable box and click on the Submit button.
   • Step 4: Verify Your Details
   • A new webpage will open where you need to verify your current details updated with the Income Tax Department. You will be prompted to choose how you want to receive a One-Time Password (OTP).
   • Step 5: Enter and Verify OTP
   • Input the OTP you receive and verify it. Remember, the OTP is valid for 10 minutes.
   • Step 6: Choose Payment Method
   • Select your preferred payment method. Check the box to agree to the terms and conditions.
   • Step 7: Confirm Payment Amount
   • Review the payment amount and click on Confirm Payment.
   • Step 8: Continue After Payment
   • Once the payment is successful, click on Continue.
   • Step 9: Receive Your e-PAN
   • After successful payment, your PAN will be delivered to the email ID registered in the Income Tax database. It may take up to 30 minutes for you to receive your e-PAN in your registered email.If you do not receive your e-PAN within this time frame, you can email your payment details to ti*****@*********ch.in. Alternatively, you can call customer service at 020 – 27218080 or 020 – 27218081 for assistance.

Eligibility Criteria

• All existing PAN cardholders are eligible for an upgrade to PAN 2.0 without needing to reapply.
• New applicants must provide valid identity and address proof as part of their application.

Benefits of PAN 2.0

Why You Should Upgrade

• Cost-effective: The transition to PAN 2.0 is free for all users.
• Environmentally Friendly: The shift towards digital processes minimizes paper usage.
• Improved Compliance: Enhanced features like QR codes simplify tax compliance and verification processes.
• Faster Services: Reduced processing times mean quicker access to your PAN details.

Do Existing PAN Holders Need to Reapply?

No, current PAN cardholders do not need to apply for a new number unless they wish to update their details. Existing cards remain valid under the new system.

What If I Encounter Issues During Application?

A dedicated help desk will be available through the unified portal to assist users with any queries or issues related to their applications.

Also read : Unlocking the Future of Education: The Revolutionary APAAR ID Card for Students

Stock Market: The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) are closed today, November 20, 2024, as voters in Maharashtra head to the polls for the state assembly elections. This closure affects all trading segments, including equities, derivatives, and currency markets, halting major market activities for the day. The elections are critical, with all 288 assembly seats contested in a single phase, and results are expected to be announced on November 23.

Why Is the Market Closed?

The decision to close the stock markets is in line with the public holiday declared by the Maharashtra government for the election day. This ensures that citizens can participate in the democratic process without disruptions from financial market activities. The BSE and NSE will resume trading tomorrow, November 21.

Recent Market Performance

Prior to today’s holiday, Indian equity markets showed signs of recovery after a challenging period. On November 19, the BSE Sensex rose by 239 points (0.31%) to close at 77,578.38, while the Nifty50 gained 64.70 points (0.28%), finishing at 23,518.50. This uptick was largely driven by value buying in blue-chip stocks and positive sentiment in sectors such as auto and real estate.

Key Indicators and Trends

Despite this recovery, the Nifty50 remains in a correction zone, having fallen nearly 10% from its September peak of 26,277. Analysts are closely monitoring key resistance levels around 23,780–23,800 and support levels near 23,300. The volatility index (India VIX) has also seen an uptick of 3.26%, indicating heightened uncertainty among investors.Market Sentiment:

• Bullish Outlook: If Nifty sustains above 23,500, analysts predict a potential rally towards 23,700–23,800.
• Bearish Concerns: Conversely, failure to hold above critical averages could lead to further declines towards 23,180.

Also read : NTPC Green Energy Launches ₹10,000 Crore IPO: A Game Changer in Renewable Energy

Upcoming Trading Days

After today’s break for elections, traders will be keen to see how market sentiment shifts based on election outcomes and potential policy changes from the newly elected government. The next scheduled market holiday is on December 25 for Christmas celebrations.

How to Check Stock Market Holidays

Investors can stay updated on trading holidays by visiting the official websites of NSE or BSE:

1. Navigate to the NSE homepage.
2. Hover over the “Resources” tab.
3. Click on “Holidays” under “Exchange communication.”

This resource will provide a comprehensive list of trading holidays for the year.

A Strategic Pause

Today’s stock market holiday serves as a reminder of the broader economic landscape influenced by political events. As investors await election results, they should remain vigilant about market trends and prepared for potential volatility upon reopening. The outcome of these elections could significantly impact various sectors reliant on state policies.

Read More News On Market

CT Investment Desk, Nov 19 2024 : NTPC Green Energy, the renewable energy arm of NTPC Limited, has officially opened its initial public offering (IPO) aiming to raise a staggering 10,000 crore. This move marks a significant step for the company as it seeks to expand its footprint in the renewable energy sector. With a focus on sustainability and clean energy, NTPC Green Energy is poised to become a leader in India’s transition towards greener solutions.

Key Details of the IPO

IPO Overview

• Total Amount: 10,000 crore
• Issue Type: Fresh issue of 92.59 crore shares
• Price Band: 102 to 108 per share
• Minimum Investment:
  • Retail investors must apply for at least 138 shares, totaling 14,904.
  • Small Non-Institutional Investors (sNII) need to apply for a minimum of 1,932 shares (14 lots), requiring an investment of 2,08,656.
  • Big Non-Institutional Investors (bNII) must apply for at least 9,384 shares (68 lots), amounting to 10,13,472.

Important Dates

• IPO Opening Date: November 19, 2024
• IPO Closing Date: November 22, 2024
• Allotment Date: November 25, 2024
• Listing Date: November 27, 2024

Financial Performance and Future Prospects

NTPC Green Energy has shown remarkable growth in its financial performance. In the fiscal year 2023-24, the company reported a total income increase of 1,094%, reaching 2,037.66 crore compared to 170.63 crore in the previous year. The net profit also more than doubled to 344.72 crore from 171.23 crore in FY 2022-23.

Utilization of IPO Proceeds

The proceeds from this IPO will be strategically utilized for:

• Investing in NTPC Renewable Energy Limited (NREL), its wholly-owned subsidiary.
• Repaying or prepaying outstanding borrowings.
• General corporate purposes.

Market Sentiment and Subscription Trends

On the first day of bidding, the NTPC Green Energy IPO saw a robust response from investors. Within just 90 minutes of opening, retail subscriptions reached 55%, indicating strong market interest. The anchor investment round completed prior to the IPO raised 3,960 crore from institutional investors, providing a solid foundation for the offering.

Grey Market Premium (GMP)

As of now, NTPC Green Energy shares are trading at a grey market premium of approximately 0.70 per share. This reflects a potential listing gain of about 0.65% over the upper price band.

Why Invest in NTPC Green Energy?

Leadership in Renewable Sector

NTPC Green Energy is recognized as India’s largest non-hydro renewable energy public sector enterprise. The company is committed to expanding its operational capacity significantly over the coming years, with plans to reach 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032.

Strategic Focus on Sustainability

The company’s portfolio includes:

• Solar projects with an operational capacity of 3,220 MW.
• Wind projects contributing an additional 100 MW across six states.

This strategic focus on renewable energy aligns with global trends towards sustainable practices and positions NTPC Green Energy as a key player in this evolving market.

Expert Recommendations

Brokerage firms have broadly recommended subscribing to the NTPC Green Energy IPO for long-term investment. Analysts highlight that while the valuation may appear aggressive with a P/E ratio of 264x, the company’s strong fundamentals and ambitious growth plans justify this outlook.

The NTPC Green Energy IPO represents a significant opportunity for investors looking to engage with India’s burgeoning renewable energy sector. With strong financial backing and an ambitious growth trajectory, NTPC Green Energy is set to make waves in the market upon its listing on November 27.