India News & Trends
CNN-News18 introduces Shawan Sens Raw Report
Shawan Sen, a professional journalist, is the anchor of CNN-News18's new program, Raw Report. Starting on August 3, the program will air on television, connected TV (CTV), and YouTube on weekdays at 12 and 10 p.m. By providing exclusive stories, ground reporting, and context surrounding the day's most significant events, Raw Report seeks to go beyond headlines by fusing live reporting with in-depth analysis. Using the network's reach, each edition will aim to provide viewers with a new, unique perspective on the most important news of the day.The article that sets the agenda for the day will be the main topic of the 12 p.m. edition. The show will explain developments using on-the-ground reporting, in-depth images, and crisp, data-driven graphics rather than just broadcasting breaking news, assisting viewers in comprehending the wider picture as events take place.A thorough summary of the day's most important domestic and international stories will be provided in the 10 p.m. edition. It will give viewers a 360-degree view of the events influencing the news cycle, based on in-depth reporting and perceptive analysis. Every story that Raw Report covers will include an exclusive news break in addition to a major newsmaker of the day. For the second time, Shawan Sen has joined CNN-News18 as Executive Editor – Enterprise & Special Investigations. From September 2012 to July 2016, he covered crime, defence, and intelligence services as a Senior Correspondent for CNN-IBN. He has also collaborated with Times Network, Republic TV, The Times of India, and The Indian Express over the years.Rahul Shivshankar, Editorial Affairs Director, CNN-News18, announced the launch, saying, "As the nation's top English news channel, we have to keep evolving with it. News consumption is changing rapidly." At CNN-News18, we're always experimenting with formats to increase the engagement of our reporting without sacrificing authenticity. One such step is the Raw Report. Original reporting, enterprising journalism, and insightful analysis are its cornerstones. Shawan's return demonstrates our dedication to bolstering our editorial staff with some of the best journalists in the industry. He is a great asset to our newsroom because of his background as a field reporter and his knack for breaking news."Shawan Sen, Executive Editor-Enterprise & Special Investigations at CNN-News18, offered his thoughts on the new program: "Returning to CNN-News18 is special because it's a newsroom that has always believed in strong reporting." Being where the news is, getting to the facts first, and providing viewers with verified, first-hand information are the cornerstones of the journalism I've practiced throughout my career. The goal is to cut through the clutter and provide a clear explanation of each story's essential elements. We've done our job if viewers leave believing what we report and comprehending the narrative more fully."
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:22 PM
Your heritage lends you credibility. You get the future through relevance: From Anirban Banerjee to classic brands
Nostalgia is not a viable strategy for legacy brands. Anirban Banerjee, CEO of Eveready Industries India Ltd., stated during his keynote speech at Adgully's CMOs' Charcha-Kolkata Chapter 2026, which is presently taking place in Kolkata, that they must always change in order to be significant for future generations of consumers. Speaking to a group of marketers, brand executives, and business experts, Banerjee discussed Eveready's own transformation process and made the case that, although longevity is an accomplishment, a brand's relevance ultimately decides its survival."We celebrate longevity when we have a brand. However, longevity on its own is only a success if the brand continues to be relevant to every new generation and shifting market. "Your longevity is remembered and celebrated if you continue to provide what customers need at that point in time," he emphasized. Banerjee began his lecture by citing well-known businesses to illustrate his claim that a brand's past does not ensure its future. Because they reimagined themselves, many legendary brands have endured. Others vanished while leaving behind a great legacy. Survival is never assured, even for the largest brands. Because of this, the issue of relevancy keeps coming up, he explained.Banerjee cited companies like Lego, Asian Paints, and Amul as examples of how they have effectively adjusted to shifting consumer demands through innovation, diversification, and ongoing reinvention while maintaining their essential character.Speaking about Eveready, one of the most well-known and established consumer brands in India with strong ties to West Bengal, Banerjee stated that the company's goal is to appeal to younger consumers in addition to maintaining its legacy. "Maintaining the heritage is not the problem. Making the heritage relevant for young people and Gen Z consumers is a challenge. He admitted that as brands become more iconic, transition gets harder. "Change feels harder the more iconic a brand gets. It seems dangerous. However, the risk of staying the same is considerably greater.Banerjee discussed how Eveready has been updating its brand to better suit the evolving needs of its customers. A modern design inspired by an infinity loop, which represents unending energy and limitless potential, replaces the long-standing, well-known "Give Me Red" positioning in the revised identity. Banerjee claims that the transformation is about communicating the brand's heritage in a way that appeals to modern consumers rather than giving it up. "Our identity now represents empowerment and limitless possibilities instead of just energy."
Published 28 Jul 2026 05:41 PM
From Stage to Screen and Beyond: Kubbra Saits Numerous Reimaginings
Actor and author Kubbra Sait is once again showing her ability to reinvent herself through her latest project, Humanaige. Known for taking on bold and meaningful roles, Kubbra continues to explore new ways of expressing herself. The project highlights her journey from theatre and films to fresh creative spaces, proving that she is much more than just an actress.Over the years, Kubbra has built a career by choosing characters that leave a lasting impact. From her breakthrough performance in Sacred Games to international projects and public speaking, she has never been afraid to step outside her comfort zone. Humanaige reflects this same spirit, presenting different sides of her personality while celebrating growth, confidence, and creativity. Speaking about her journey, Kubbra has often shared that she believes in constant learning and embracing change. Instead of following a fixed path, she prefers taking on projects that challenge her and help her grow. This mindset has made her one of the most versatile performers in the entertainment industry today.With Humanaige, Kubbra Sait continues to inspire audiences by showing that success comes from being open to change and trying new things. Whether on stage, on screen, or through creative collaborations, she keeps redefining herself and encouraging others to embrace their own unique journeys.
Published 27 Jul 2026 09:38 PM
In Q1 of FY27, PVR INOX reports a profit of ₹70.5 crore.
India's largest multiplex chain, PVR INOX, has reported a strong financial turnaround in the first quarter of FY27 by posting an adjusted net profit of ₹70.5 crore, compared to a loss of ₹33.5 crore in the same quarter last year. The impressive recovery was driven by strong box office collections, higher footfalls across cinemas, and increased spending by moviegoers on food and beverages. The company's total revenue rose nearly 12% year-on-year to ₹1,642.3 crore, reflecting growing consumer interest in the theatrical movie experience despite competition from streaming platforms. The company also recorded a significant improvement in its operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA increased by around 90% year-on-year, while operating margins improved from 8.2% to 14%. This growth was supported by successful film releases across Hindi and regional languages, improved ticket sales, premium cinema formats, and better cost management. The strong financial results indicate that PVR INOX has successfully strengthened its business after the merger of PVR and INOX and is benefiting from better operational efficiency. Another major achievement for the company is that it has become net cash positive, reporting ₹80.7 crore in net cash as of June 30, 2026. This marks a remarkable improvement from the large debt position the company carried at the time of the PVR–INOX merger. A stronger balance sheet gives the company greater financial flexibility to invest in expansion, improve cinema infrastructure, and introduce more premium movie experiences for customers. Looking ahead, PVR INOX plans to continue its growth by opening 90 to 100 new screens during FY27, focusing mainly on asset-light and capital-efficient expansion. The company expects a strong lineup of upcoming Bollywood, Hollywood, and regional films to attract more audiences in the coming quarters. Industry experts believe that if content quality remains strong and consumer demand continues, PVR INOX is well-positioned to maintain its profitability and strengthen its leadership in India's multiplex cinema industry.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:10 PM
BSP leader Randhir Beniwal, Akash Anands father-in-law, is expelled by Mayawati
New Delhi: On Sunday, Mayawati, the president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), dismissed national coordinator Randhir Singh Beniwal, father-in-law of her nephew Akash Anand, and former Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Siddharth from the party due to his lack of discipline and anti-party behaviour.The action follows the denial of rumours regarding Anand's involvement in the distribution of tickets for the Uttar Pradesh elections in 2027. Mayawati had stated on July 31 that she was personally in charge of the party's election preparations, presiding over review sessions in Lucknow, and selecting candidates. She dismissed as "completely baseless" claims that Akash Anand was choosing party nominees, stating that interviews had already taken place and that over two dozen people had been selected. Mayawati claimed on Sunday that rumours about Siddharth's return to Uttar Pradesh were a part of a "deliberate conspiracy" to confuse party members and sabotage 2027 election preparations. She declared that Siddharth had been banished immediately and would never be allowed to return.Randhir Singh Beniwal, the BSP national coordinator, was also dismissed by her due to persistent transgressions of party rules. According to party sources, Beniwal neglected to concentrate on Punjab, which is headed for elections.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:43 PM
Bihar bypoll Prashant Kishor is leading according to early indicators as the Bankipur byelection counting gets underway.
In the first rounds of vote counting, newcomer Prashant Kishor overtook adversary Neeraj Kumar of the BJP. He has won five straight rounds as of 11.30 a.m.Voting for the Bankipur Assembly bypoll in Bihar started at 8 a.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, in Patna. Everyone was watching to see if Jan Suraaj Party rookie Prashant Kishor would unseat the BJP.Nitin Nabin, the national president of the BJP, resigned after being elected to the Rajya Sabha in April, necessitating a by-election."The counting of votes for the Bankipur by-election began amid tight security arrangements," an official stated. Voter turnout in the July 30 bypoll was 34.30%, a decrease of about 7% from the 41.45% registered in the last Assembly elections. This time, there are 26 contenders in the race. In November 2025, Mr. Nabin defeated his closest opponent, Rekha Gupta of the RJD, by more than 50,000 votes to win the Assembly seat for the fifth time in a row. Mr. Gupta was once more nominated by the RJD for the by-election. The BJP, which has never lost the Assembly segment since 1995 when it was known as Patna West, has fielded low-key youth wing leader Neeraj Kumar Sinha, while Prashant Kishor, a former poll strategist who founded the Jan Suraaj Party a few years ago, is running in his maiden election.As early indications of the Bankipur Assembly by-election indicated founder Prashant Kishor leading, joyful Jan Suraaj Party members gathered at the party's camp headquarters. While closely monitoring the current vote count, followers of the former poll strategist-turned-politician raised slogans in favour of him and praised his impressive start in his first election.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:30 PM
Kiran Thadimarri is named CFO by IndiGo parent InterGlobe Aviation, while Gaurav Negi is appointed advisor.
InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, has announced an important leadership change in its finance team. The company's Board of Directors has appointed Kiran Thadimarri as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective July 28, 2026. Before this promotion, Thadimarri served as the Deputy CFO and has been closely involved in the company's financial planning and business operations. At the same time, Gaurav Negi, who has been leading the finance function as CFO since 2022, will move into a new position as Advisor to the Managing Director. The company said this transition has been carefully planned to ensure continuity in financial leadership while allowing both executives to contribute in roles that best support IndiGo's long-term growth. The appointment comes at a significant time for IndiGo, India's largest airline, as it continues to expand its domestic and international network while also dealing with rising operating costs and increasing competition in the aviation sector. Kiran Thadimarri brings valuable experience to the role, having worked with leading organizations such as Udaan and General Electric before joining IndiGo. His understanding of the company's financial operations and strategic priorities is expected to help strengthen its financial management during a period of rapid growth. Meanwhile, Gaurav Negi will continue to play an important role by advising the Managing Director, ensuring that his knowledge and experience remain available to the company during this transition. Industry experts see this leadership change as a smooth internal succession rather than a major restructuring. Promoting an experienced executive from within the organization reflects IndiGo's focus on stability and long-term planning. The airline has recently faced pressure from higher fuel prices and reported another quarterly loss, making strong financial leadership especially important. With Kiran Thadimarri taking charge as CFO and Gaurav Negi continuing in an advisory capacity, the company aims to maintain confidence among investors, employees, and stakeholders while continuing its expansion plans and strengthening its position in India's fast-growing aviation market.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:12 PM
In a significant bureaucratic reorganisation, IRS Officer Satya Pal Kumar was appointed FIU Director.
In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, Satya Pal Kumar, an officer from the Central Information and Research Service (CIRS), has been appointed as the new Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). The appointment is part of the government’s latest administrative changes aimed at strengthening key financial and regulatory departments. Satya Pal Kumar brings experience in handling important government responsibilities and is expected to play a crucial role in improving FIU’s operations. The Financial Intelligence Unit works under the Ministry of Finance and is responsible for monitoring financial transactions, detecting money laundering activities, and helping agencies track illegal financial networks. His appointment comes at a time when financial security and transparency have become major priorities for the government. The FIU plays an important role in analysing suspicious transactions and coordinating with enforcement agencies to prevent financial crimes. The bureaucratic reshuffle includes changes across several departments, with new officers being given responsibilities to improve efficiency and governance. Kumar’s new role as FIU Director is expected to further strengthen India’s efforts in combating financial crimes and maintaining a secure financial system.
Published 27 Jul 2026 10:02 PM
The second-largest worldwide opening weekend for a new Spider-Man movie
Spider-Man: Brand New Day exceeded its expected $225 million production budget with $927 million (£687 million) in ticket sales worldwide, making it the second-biggest opening weekend ever. The superhero film, which stars real-life husband and wife Tom Holland and Zendaya, trails behind Avengers: Endgame, which made over $1.2 billion on its first weekend of release in 2019. With $335 million in box office receipts, Brand New Day also set a second-best North American record.After a spate of underperforming Marvel films in recent years, the film's good performance gives Marvel Studios a much-needed lift ahead of the much awaited release of Avengers: Doomsday in December. A few years after Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021, Brand New Day, which debuted in theatres this week, follows Peter Parker as he fights crime in a society that has forgotten he is the masked superhero. Reviews for the most recent installment of the wildly successful franchise were overwhelmingly positive, with several praising Holland's performance as Spider-Man to date. According to distributor Sony Pictures, Brand New Day earned $572 million from over 73,000 screens outside of the US, including $121 million from China. Over the weekend, $49 million worth of tickets were sold in the UK. Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, described the debut of Brand New Day as "truly phenomenal" and expressed gratitude to viewers for "coming out and experiencing our film the way it was meant to be seen."Before Doomsday, the eagerly anticipated conclusion of several superhero story arcs following Avengers: Endgame, the movie represents Marvel's final big-screen production. Since Endgame, Marvel films have not been able to draw the same wide crowds as they did during their heyday. Although they were among the studio's lowest-grossing films, big-budget productions like The Marvels and The Thunderbolts recovered their production expenses. No Way Home has sold about $2 billion in tickets, making Spider-Man one of Marvel's most profitable franchises. Since the Covid-19 outbreak, moviegoing has decreased, hastening the transition to home-streaming services like Netflix. However, the big screen has made a sort of comeback this year, with box office receipts in North America expected to surpass $10 billion for the first time since 2019. Blockbuster hits like Toy Story 5, Michael, and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie—all of which have generated over $1 billion—helped with that. Brand New Day, which opens in July, and Christopher Nolan's adaptation of the great Greek poem, The Odyssey, are also expected to surpass $1 billion.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:29 PM
Trailer for Batwara 1947 Sunny Deol battles Pakistan once more, this time for the religion of Maa.
The trailer of Batwara 1947 has created a strong buzz among movie lovers and marks Sunny Deol’s return in another powerful role set against the backdrop of India’s Partition. While many viewers are comparing the film to Gadar, the trailer makes it clear that this story is not only about India and Pakistan but also about humanity, sacrifice, and the unconditional love of a mother. Sunny Deol plays a fearless man who stands up against violence and hatred during one of the most painful periods in history. His powerful dialogues, intense action scenes, and emotional expressions remind audiences why he is still one of Bollywood’s most loved action stars. The film is directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, reuniting him with Sunny Deol after many years, a combination that has earlier delivered memorable films. One of the biggest highlights of the trailer is its emotional message about the “religion of Maa.” Instead of focusing only on conflict, the film shows how the love, care, and sacrifices of a mother rise above every religion, border, and political divide. Veteran actress Shabana Azmi plays a central role, and her emotional scenes with Sunny Deol leave a lasting impact. The trailer also features Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal, and Karan Deol in important roles, making the story feel even more powerful. Beautiful visuals, strong background music, and heartfelt performances add depth to the film and suggest that it will be an emotional journey rather than just an action drama. Fans have reacted positively to the trailer on social media, praising Sunny Deol’s commanding screen presence and the film’s emotional storytelling. Many viewers feel that the movie carries a meaningful message of peace, compassion, and unity while portraying the pain and suffering caused by Partition. Ahead of the trailer launch, Sunny Deol also dedicated the film to his mother, saying, “Meri Maa hi mera Rab hain,” which perfectly matches the film’s emotional theme. Batwara 1947 is scheduled to release in theatres on August 14, 2026, and expectations are already high for what could become one of the biggest patriotic and emotional films of the year.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:06 PM
Jana Nayagan Box Office Collection Day 4 Updates: Vijays film struggles on Monday following an opening weekend of almost Rs 200 cr.
Thalapathy Vijay's Jana Nayagan had a powerful opening weekend, collecting more than ₹200 crore worldwide in just four days. The film enjoyed a strong response from fans, especially in Tamil Nadu, helping it cross ₹124.75 crore net at the Indian box office and around ₹217 crore worldwide gross by the end of Day 4. However, the film faced its first real challenge on Monday. After the excitement of the opening weekend, ticket sales slowed down, which is common for most big releases. While the collections were lower than Sunday, the movie still managed to hold its ground and continued to attract audiences in several key markets. Trade experts believe the Monday performance was decent enough to keep the film on a steady path. Despite mixed reviews from critics, Vijay's star power and loyal fan base have played a major role in the film's box office success. The political action drama has performed particularly well in Tamil-speaking regions and has also received a good response in overseas markets. Strong weekend earnings have given the film a solid foundation for the days ahead. The coming weekdays will be important in deciding how far Jana Nayagan can go at the box office. If it continues to maintain stable collections before new releases arrive, the film could end its theatrical run as one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of the year. Industry observers will now be watching its weekday trend closely to see whether it can keep its momentum going.
Published 27 Jul 2026 09:51 PM
Review of Jana Nayagan The pressure of being Vijays final film causes it to fall apart
Actor-turned-politician Vijay bids farewell to cinema with Jana Nayagan, a political action drama directed by H. Vinoth. As Vijay's final film before focusing on politics, expectations were extraordinarily high. While the film delivers several whistle-worthy moments, emotional fan service, and a strong political message, many critics believe it struggles to balance storytelling with its role as a farewell tribute. The story follows a fearless leader who stands up against corruption and injustice while protecting his people. The screenplay is packed with action sequences, emotional speeches, and political symbolism. However, reviewers note that the narrative often pauses to celebrate Vijay's screen persona rather than develop the plot, making the film feel more like a farewell campaign than a tightly written political thriller. Vijay's performance is widely regarded as the film's biggest strength. His commanding screen presence, powerful dialogues, emotional scenes, and action sequences remind audiences why he remains one of Tamil cinema's biggest stars. The climax, in particular, has been described as an emotional goodbye that resonated strongly with fans. Co-stars Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, and Mamitha Baiju deliver solid performances, though some critics felt their characters were underutilized. Early critical reception has been mixed. Some reviewers praised the film as an emotional send-off and a celebration of Vijay's legacy, while others criticized its predictable screenplay, lengthy runtime, and excessive fan service. Audience reactions on social media have also been divided, with many fans calling it a fitting farewell and others describing it as a missed opportunity for a stronger final film. Overall, Jana Nayagan succeeds more as a tribute to Vijay's remarkable career than as a consistently engaging political action drama. For longtime fans, it offers plenty of memorable moments and emotional satisfaction. For general audiences, however, its storytelling may feel uneven, weighed down by the pressure of delivering the perfect farewell.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:20 PM
Axis Bank is Religares pick of the month for March, 10% upside seen at TP of ₹1,185; should you buy?
Domestic brokerage firm Religare Broking has picked Axis Bank as its stock pick of the month for March 2024 with a potential upside seen around 10 per cent. Shares of Axis Bank were on an uptrend and gained around three per cent today as Nifty 50 hit a fresh lifetime high of 22,353.30 on strong macroeconomic indicators.On Friday, March 1, shares of Axis Bank opened at ₹1,074.05 and gained 2.5 per cent to hit an intra day high of ₹1,101.60 against its 52-week high of ₹1,151.50 apiece on the BSE. Shares of Axis Bank settled 2.20 per cent higher at ₹1,099.35 apiece on the BSE. At a current market price (CMP) of ₹1,085, Religare sees a potential upside of 10 per cent on Axis Bank stock at a target price of ₹1,185 from an initiation range of ₹1,080-1,085 and a stop loss of ₹1,030. Religare Broking highlights that in its report that Axis Bank has remained one among the top performer among the private banking majors and we expect the outperformance to continue. ‘’The stock has been in a primary uptrend from last more than eight months, forming series of Higher Highs and lows with gradual rise in volumes. It has formed an elevated base around the 20 weekly EMA which also coincides with rising support trend line,'' said Religare Broking. Following the price action and uptick in volumes indicates the stock to resume its prevailing trend and inch higher to surpass its previous swing high, according to the brokerage. The stock gained marginally (around three per cent) in the previous series with reduction of eight per cent open interest (OI). 98 per cent of the open positions rolled which is same with respect to previously. ‘’OI of 82k contracts as against 89k previously. Decent cash based buying also seen in last three days of February series. With fresh cash accumulation and shorts being trapped, it may witness good short covering,'' said Religare Broking. The bank's net interest income (NII) in the third quarter at ₹12,532, crore, which rose by nine per cent - almost in line with the market estimate of ₹12,555 crore. NII is the difference between interest earned by a bank through loans and interest it pays to depositors. Meanwhile, the net interest margin (NIM) stood at 4.01 percent for the quarter ended on December 31, 2023. Net Interest Margin refers to the difference between the interest income earned and the interest disbursed by a bank in relation to its interest-generating assets such as cash.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:35 PM
Potential for any re-rating delayed for Paytm, says UBS; still sees 25% upside in the stock – heres why
Shares of One 97 Communications (Paytm) have witnessed an almost 50 percent drop just in February as investor sentiment turned negative amid the RBI and Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) saga.In a recent note, brokerage house UBS said it believes that any potential for a re-rating of Paytm based on profitability improvement has been delayed. It has retained a 'neutral' call on the stock and reduced its target price to ₹510 (from ₹650 earlier). The new target indicates an over 25 percent potential upside. "Paytm's share price has derated significantly post RBI regulatory action and the stock is trading at 1.5x EV to one-year forward consensus sales, nearly an 80 percent discount to its Indian internet peers. Our ₹510 price target implies a 2.4x EV to FY25E sales, which is still a 70 percent discount to Indian internet peers. We believe this is justified as Paytm's growth profile is now much weaker at an 8 percent expected revenue CAGR over FY24-26E, versus Indian peers at a much higher 27 percent. Additionally, Paytm's re-rating potential based on its profitability improvement is now also pushed out and the company's margin profile is much weaker than peers. Furthermore, the loss of investor confidence based on the regulatory action is unlikely to change in a hurry. We believe only sustained execution in the coming quarters can re-build investor confidence which would drive a re-rating," explained the brokerage. The RBI on January 31 directed PPBL to stop accepting deposits or top-ups in customer accounts, wallets, FASTags, and other instruments after February 29, citing large-scale non-compliance with regulations and supervisory concerns. In the latest update, the Reserve Bank of India clarified that non-Paytm Payments Bank Limited (PPBL) linked merchants (85 percent of the total) can continue to function as normal and gave a 15-day extension till 15th March for most PPBL-linked activities. RBI also informed that @paytm UPI handles can be migrated to banks after approval from NPCI. This implies key linkages between Paytm and PPBL will be transferred to other banks via Paytm and also clears the way for Paytm to function as third-party app provider (TPAP), similar to its competitors PhonePe and Google Pay, once NPCI provides approval for the same. Following RBI's latest update, the anticipated negative impacts on Paytm have been alleviated to a considerable extent. Paytm is poised to retain a significant portion of its customer and merchant base pending certain approvals from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). However, UBS anticipates a churn of 15-20 percent in merchants, customers, and devices in Q4 compared to Q3 levels, accompanied by a steep decline of around 60 percent quarter-on-quarter in loan origination. Additionally, it foresees a challenging FY25 with a projected 2 percent revenue decline, attributed to the loss in the wallet business and gradual normalisation in payments and loan origination activities. To regain lost customers, Paytm is expected to escalate its marketing expenditure, leading to heightened EBITDA losses in FY25, consequently prompting adjustments in its EPS estimates.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:35 PM
Stock market selloff: Nifty forms Bearish Engulfing; 21,850 next?
Nifty on Wednesday could not sustain early gains and saw heavy selling, as it closed below the psychological mark of 22,000 for the time since February 15. The index formed a Bearish Engulfing pattern on the daily chart, which has a negative connotation. The silver lining was the index somehow managed to settle above its 21-day EMA on a closing basis. If the index stays below 22,000 level, chances are it may revisit 19,850-800 level, analysts said.“The index dropped below the 22,000 mark, indicating a growing weakness. Nevertheless, it managed to close just above the 21EMA on the daily timeframe. Observing the daily chart, the index has been navigating within a rising channel. A decline below 21,950 could potentially trigger a correction towards 21,800 in the near term,” said Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities. For the day, the 50-pack index closed at 21,951.15, down 247.20 points or 1.11 per cent. A sustained Nifty trade above 21,950 might spur a recovery in the index towards 22,100, De added. With the Bearish Engulfing candle, Nifty has given up all the gains of the previous week, said Chandan Taparia of Motilal Oswal Securities. This analyst believes that were the index say below 22000, weakness could be seen towards 21,850, followed by 21,700 levels. Resistances are seen at 22,150 and 22,222 levels, he said.atin Gedia – Technical Research Analyst at Sharekhan said that the index has reached its 20-day moving average of 21,944. He said the broad range of 21,800-22,300 still has not been breached. "The daily as well as hourly momentum indicators have a negative crossover, which is a sell signal. But prices are still in a range and, hence, a decisive breach below 21,875 i.e. the previous swing low is required to validate the change of trend. The Index is around the crucial support zone 21,900, which is likely to act as a make-or-break level from short term perspective," Gedia said.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:34 PM
IIT Kanpur’s 1974 batch pledges Rs 10.11 crore
"The Class of 1974 of the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) has committed Rs 10.11 crore to fund a range of institute initiatives. The promise is made as part of the batch's Golden Jubilee Reunion, which will take place from February 23 to February 25, 2024, and will bring together over 80 graduates and their families. ""IIT Kanpur takes great pride in its alumni, and time and time again, our alumni have come together for supporting the growth of their alma mater through various means,"" stated Prof. S Ganesh, Director of IIT Kanpur, in response to the Class of 1974's kind pledge. The Class of 1974's commitment to support greatness at the institute by aiding in its development aligns with a shared goal He continued, ""The 'Batch Legacy Fund' will be used to enhance possibilities for both faculty and students. ""We, the proud alumni of the Class of 1974, are honored to unite and contribute to our cherished alma mater, IIT Kanpur,"" he stated, thanking his classmates for this endeavor and his alma mater, batch coordinator Yogesh Khosla. Our combined support is a testament to our great pride in the organization and our common goal of seeing it succeed moving forward. I would want to sincerely thank everyone of my classmates for their kind cooperation in this project. The Class of 1974's 50th reunion was a happy event full with memories, laughter, and introspection that will live on in the archives of IIT Kanpur, an institution thinkinh said. IIT Kanpur stated that the ""Class of 1974 Batch Legacy Fund"" will undoubtedly advance learning within its community and expressed its sincere gratitude to the Class of 1974 for their outstanding contribution and steadfast dedication. The researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will present their findings to the students during an open house. The purpose of the event is to give students a forum to interact with professionals and well-known businesspeople. March 2 and March 3 of 2024 will be dedicated to the open house. Shaastra will host IITM for Everyone. A statement on the social media account read, ""IIT Madras is open to all for the first time in 15 years."" "
Published 28 Feb 2024 05:34 PM
On paper leak fast-track courts, the BJP supports PM Modi and challenges the opposition to discuss
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to establish fast-track courts for examination paper leak cases, describing the move as a major step to protect the future of students and restore confidence in India's examination system. BJP leaders said that repeated paper leaks have harmed millions of aspirants and argued that swift trials and strict punishment are necessary to deter those involved in such crimes. The party maintained that the government's priority is to ensure justice for students and strengthen transparency in recruitment and competitive examinations. At the same time, BJP leaders challenged Opposition parties to hold a full debate in Parliament on the issue. They accused the Opposition of politicising student concerns instead of supporting legal reforms aimed at curbing paper leaks. According to the BJP, the government is willing to discuss examination reforms, accountability, and measures to prevent future leaks, while also highlighting the proposed fast-track courts as a concrete policy response rather than a political statement. The announcement comes amid ongoing protests and political criticism over recent examination paper leak incidents. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, argued that fast-track courts alone are insufficient and demanded broader accountability, including action against those responsible for administrative failures. They have continued to press for wider reforms in the examination system and questioned the government's handling of the issue. Prime Minister Modi said that "nothing is more important than the future of the youth" and assured students that those responsible for paper leaks would face speedy trials and stringent punishment. The government believes that dedicated fast-track courts will help deliver quicker justice, discourage organised examination fraud, and reinforce public trust in the country's recruitment and education systems.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:16 PM
Why Rahul Gandhi confronted the PM about the paper leak
today news that Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep The Indian Express Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep Today India's Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi protest outside Modi's house Reuters India's Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi protest outside Modi's house Today Rahul Gandhi asks PM Modi to apologise to students over protest crackdown The Economic Times Rahul Gandhi asks PM Modi to apologise to students over protest crackdown Today On July 21, 2026, Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi led a protest towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in New Delhi over the ongoing examination paper leak issue and the police action against student protesters. The Congress said the Prime Minister should directly answer students' concerns instead of remaining silent on the issue. During the protest, Rahul Gandhi and several other opposition leaders were detained by the police. Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak issue to the Prime Minister's doorstep because he argued that the controversy is not just about one examination but about the future of millions of students and job seekers across the country. He accused the central government of failing to stop repeated exam paper leaks and demanded accountability from the highest level of government. According to Congress, the Prime Minister should take responsibility for ensuring a fair and transparent examination system. The protest also came after clashes between police and student demonstrators demanding action against paper leaks and reforms in the examination system. Rahul Gandhi criticized the police action on students and asked Prime Minister Modi to apologize for the handling of the protests. Congress leaders said they would continue raising the issue both inside and outside Parliament until their demands are addressed. The government has maintained that steps are being taken to strengthen the examination system and investigate paper leak cases. However, the opposition argues that stronger action and greater accountability are needed to restore students' confidence in competitive examinations. The issue has become a major political debate, with both the government and the opposition presenting different views on how the problem should be handled.
Published 21 Jul 2026 09:57 PM
AAP must leave its headquarters by June 15th, per a Supreme Court order.
The Aam Aadmi Party of Arvind Kejriwal will have to leave its headquarters, which are located on a plot of land designated for the High Court. The good news is that you still have until June 15 to act. The Supreme Court gave the party a long deadline because of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, emphasizing that this is an encroachment case. The party may now submit an application for alternative land to the Land and Development Office of the Center.The bench, which included Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, stated, "We would request the L&DO to process the application and communicate its decision within a period of four weeks." The bench continued, "AAP has no legal right to remain on the land." The Delhi High Court was granted land in February to expand its operations and build more courtrooms for the Rouse Avenue location. The court had noticed that the AAP was intruding on this land. When considering a case involving the nation's judicial system, the highest court took notice of the issue.The state government promised at a meeting on February 15 that the plot would be removed in two months if a substitute plot was provided, in response to a court order. However, the situation remained unchanged. According to India's Chief Justice, DY Chandrachud, nobody has the authority to impose law on others. "It is absurd for any political party to sit on it. Every intrusion will be eliminated... The land should be given to the High Court so that it can be utilized by the general public and citizens, Justice Chandrachud stated.
Published 04 Mar 2024 05:31 PM
Article 21: The Constitutions Soul, with Citizens Liberty Supreme
According to the Supreme Court, Article 21 is the essence of the Constitution because it protects citizens' rights to liberty, which are so valuable that a person would lose them if the high court takes too long to decide cases pertaining to it. Amol Vithal Vahile, a prime accused in the murder of a corporator in Maharashtra, was granted bail by the Bombay High Court on January 29 following prodding from the top court, according to a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta.In a recent ruling, the bench stated that it is evident that prior to this court's order being issued on January 29, 2024, the high court had dismissed the bail application on one or more grounds rather than considering it on its merits.It goes without saying that Article 21 of the Indian Constitution is its core because it upholds the fundamental right to liberty for all citizens. It stated, "Depriving the party of their precious right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India would mean not reaching a quick decision and brushing off the issue on one or the other basis pertaining to a citizen's liberty." The bench stated that it has encountered numerous cases from the Bombay High Court in which the applications for bail and anticipatory bail were not resolved promptly. The bench mentioned one instance where the application for anticipatory bail was pending for over four years. "We have also encountered many cases where the judges find an excuse to reroute the case on unrelated grounds rather than rendering a decision based on the merits of the case. As a result, we ask the chief justice of the Bombay High Court to communicate our request to all judges who have criminal jurisdiction so that the issue of bail and anticipatory bail can be decided as soon as possible," the bench stated.It requested that the Supreme Court's Registrar (Judicial) forward this directive to the High Court's Registrar (Judicial), who will present it to the Bombay High Court's chief justice. The bench stated on January 29 that, despite the fact that Vahile had been detained for more than seven years, on March 30, 2023, the high court had ordered him to appear before the trial court for regular bail.
Published 02 Mar 2024 06:02 PM
What your scalp might be trying to tell you about why your dandruff keeps returning
Dandruff is one of the most common scalp problems, affecting millions of people worldwide. While many assume it is simply caused by a dry scalp, experts say recurring dandruff often points to a more complex issue. If white flakes continue to return even after using anti-dandruff shampoos, your scalp may be signaling an imbalance that needs more than a temporary fix. Factors such as excess oil production, fungal overgrowth, stress, weather changes, and even diet can contribute to persistent dandruff. One of the primary causes of recurring dandruff is the overgrowth of a naturally occurring yeast called Malassezia. This fungus lives on everyone's scalp but can multiply rapidly when excess oil is present. As it feeds on scalp oils, it produces by-products that irritate the skin, leading to itching, redness, and flaking. Individuals with oily scalps are particularly prone to this cycle, which explains why dandruff often returns soon after treatment is stopped. Your scalp can also reflect your overall health. Dermatologists note that persistent dandruff may indicate conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, or sensitivity to certain hair-care products. If dandruff is accompanied by severe itching, inflammation, yellowish flakes, or patches of redness, it is advisable to seek medical advice rather than relying solely on over-the-counter shampoos. Treating the underlying condition is often the key to achieving long-term relief.Lifestyle habits play a significant role as well. High stress levels can weaken the body's natural defenses, making the scalp more susceptible to irritation and fungal growth. Poor sleep, an unhealthy diet lacking essential nutrients such as zinc and B vitamins, and inadequate hydration may also worsen scalp health. Experts recommend maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support healthy skin and scalp function.
Published 06 Jul 2026 05:07 PM
A Significant Return for Marc Jacobs Beauty
Luxury makeup brand Marc Jacobs Beauty has officially returned in 2026 after being discontinued in 2021, marking one of the most talked-about beauty industry comebacks of the year. The brand relaunched with an entirely new collection of makeup products, including lipsticks, blush sticks, bronzers, eyeliners, mascaras, eyeshadows, and highlighters. The comeback is being led in partnership with Coty Inc., with products launching online and through Sephora stores.Beauty enthusiasts and industry experts have responded positively to the relaunch. The new collection features playful heart, star, and daisy-inspired packaging while maintaining the bold, high-performance formulas that made the original brand popular. Several products, particularly the Heart On Lipstick, Drawn This Way Eyeliner, and Born Star Eyeshadow, have generated strong demand and early sell-outs.Industry analysts view the return as a strategic move in the premium beauty market, where consumers are increasingly seeking distinctive brands with strong creative identities. Marc Jacobs himself recently described the relaunch as a modern reinvention rather than a revival of the old line, emphasizing individuality and self-expression as the brand's core philosophy.
Published 04 Jun 2026 06:02 PM
The days of microbladed eyebrows are over but are they reversible
Our eyebrows have seen more changes than any other feature. Brows have seen it all, from the thin, pencil-style brows of the year 2000 to the fuller, laminated look of today. But one thing hasn't changed: if you get your eyebrows correct, half of your appearance is taken care of.Microbladed eyebrows were commonplace for a very long period. Because the fad promised bigger, more natural-looking brows with less daily work, celebrities, influencers, and regular people loved it. For many, it provided a long-term solution for uneven or sparse eyebrows. But beauty trends change quickly, and what was once considered contemporary and attractive is now beginning to feel antiquated. Many people are starting to reconsider their previous microblading decisions as softer, more natural brows become more popular.In essence, microblading is a cosmetic tattooing method in which pigment is manually applied to the skin's surface to simulate eyebrow hair. According to Dr. Ruby Sachdev, an aesthetician and consultant at Gleneagles Hospital in Bengaluru, it became well-liked by those who want larger eyebrows without using makeup every day.
Published 03 Jun 2026 09:52 PM
Benefits of Sattu Indias first protein beverage
These days, a growing number of individuals are including tasty and nourishing "superfoods" from all over the world in their diets. Imagine those colorful matcha lattes, creamy avocado toasts, delicious chia pudding, quinoa salads, and cool kale smoothies. They are healthy in addition to being aesthetically pleasing. Just a gentle reminder: Is it really necessary to spend a lot of money to maintain your health?No, I believe! Sattu is an ancient superfood from India that is tasty, affordable, and very potent. This adaptable component, which is made from roasted gram flour, has been loved and consumed for more than 3,000 years, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Chana sattu, once cherished by diligent farmers for a rapid energy boost, is now widely accepted as a wholesome and organic supplement to contemporary meals nationwide. Let's examine the advantages of sattu powder, how it outperforms the most well-liked protein-rich foods, and why it should be at the top of your diet list before you hurry to try another foreign health craze.A traditional Indian flour produced from roasted barley or chickpeas is called sattu powder. In India, it is a native source of protein. It is a well-liked superfood with several health advantages due to its high protein content. Sattu, sometimes referred to as the "desi protein shake," is high in minerals, fiber, and plant-based protein. It is a popular dish in India that is becoming more and more well-known abroad.
Published 08 May 2026 06:04 PM
Ek bihari sab pe bhari Virat Kohli gives Vaibhav Sooryavanshi particular recognition
Virat Kohli's heartfelt praise for young Bihar cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has become one of the most talked-about moments after the IPL 2026 season. Following Royal Challengers Bengaluru's title-winning campaign, Kohli met the 15-year-old sensation and shared words of encouragement that quickly went viral on social media.In a video released by RCB, Kohli advised Vaibhav to stay focused on hard work and self-belief rather than outside opinions. He told the youngster that his success had come through dedication and confidence and urged him to keep aiming higher. The highlight of the conversation was Kohli's special line, "Ek Bihari, sab pe bhari", praising the Bihar-born batter for his remarkable performances throughout IPL 2026. .Vaibhav emerged as one of the biggest stars of the tournament, earning widespread admiration for his fearless batting and maturity at such a young age. His performances attracted praise from former cricketers and fans alike, with many viewing him as one of Indian cricket's brightest future prospects.The interaction between Kohli and Vaibhav was widely appreciated by cricket fans, who saw it as a passing-of-the-torch moment between one of India's greatest batters and a rising teenage talent. Kohli's message of humility, hard work, and self-belief has since been shared extensively across social media platforms.
Published 04 Jun 2026 05:53 PM
Virat Kohli changes once more incorporating elements of Abhishek and Sooryavanshi into his game
The cameras showed Kohli putting his arm over Sooryavanshi's shoulder and conversing with him for several minutes. Although the topic of the talk is unknown, rest assured that Sooryavanshi returned home much wealthier than he would have if he had only received a few honors. Less than a day has passed since Sooryavanshi was recommended for Test cricket by none other than the great Sachin Tendulkar. He had also complimented his batting style earlier.It is important to note that earlier in the 2026 IPL season, Kohli signed Sooryavanshi's cap and gave him an autograph after the left-handed hitter destroyed the RCB bowlers all over the field during the match at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati.Sooryavanshi won five awards when the IPL 2026 concluded. The 15-year-old was named Super Striker, Super Sixes of the Season, Orange Cap, Emerging Player of the Season, and Most Valuable Player. Sooryavanshi broke Chris Gayle's record for the most maximums in a single IPL season with 72 sixes during the 19th T20 competition. In the competition, he also became the fastest Indian to reach 1000 runs. In addition, he became the youngest player in the tournament to hit 1000 runs, surpassing Rishabh Pant.Sooryavanshi acknowledged that he would need to improve his fitness going forward if he wanted to have a lengthy career after receiving so many honors. "I need to improve my fitness if I want to avoid getting hurt. Everyone is really encouraging. In an interview with Ravi Shastri, Sooryavanshi stated, "Everyone supports me, including the senior players and support staff. It's a good atmosphere." Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar has praised Sooryavanshi as well. According to the renowned Indian hitter, the young player possesses all the necessary skills to participate in the game's longest format.In relation to Sooryavanshi, the next tri-series in Sri Lanka will include him. The left-hander will play for India A against Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A.In relation to Sooryavanshi, the next tri-series in Sri Lanka will include him. The left-hander will play for India A against Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A.
Published 02 Jun 2026 10:57 PM
For the first time in an IPL season Indian hitters outpace foreign batters
IPL 2026 had the highest batting strike rate of any season at 156.34. For the first time in an IPL season, Indian hitters (157.10) scored more runs than foreign batters (154.71). 237.30 strike rate, 776 runs, and 72 sixes In an IPL season, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became just the second hitter to score the most runs, hit the most sixes, and have the greatest strike rate (minimum 50 balls faced). Like Sooryavanshi, Chris Gayle was named Most Valuable Player in 2011.In the previous nine seasons, none of the highest run-scorers were among the top 15 strike rates in that season. The difference between Sooryavanshi's IPL 2026 run total and the next highest total for a batsman with a strike rate of 235 or more in any IPL season (Romario Shepherd's 70 runs in 2025) is 706 runs. IPL 2026 saw 65 totals of 200 or more, the highest in a T20 competition and 13 more than the previous record of 52 in IPL 2025. Individual teams also set new records in IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) all scored nine runs of 200 or more, the most in a Twenty20 competition.In terms of bowling, PBKS and RR gave up 200-plus totals nine times, which is also the most in a Twenty20 competition. IPL 2026 saw the highest number of sixes struck in a season, 1426, up 10.2% from the previous record of 1294 sixes in 2025. Thanks to 72 sixes from Sooryavanshi, who established the individual record for most sixes in a T20 competition, RR struck 181 sixes, the most of any team in a T20 event.
Published 01 Jun 2026 09:34 PM
Ramakrishna Ghoshs injury has been replaced by Macneil Noronha.
Macneil Noronha, an all-rounder from Karnataka who recently won the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman awards for being the highest run-getter in the 2024/25 Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy, will join Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 30 lakh as a replacement for Ramakrishna Ghosh, who injured his right foot during their game against Mumbai Indians on May 3rd and is out for the season. He will not play this season.Macneil Noronha will take Ghosh's place at CSK for INR 30 lakh.Noronha, a Karnataka all-rounder, has won the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman Awards for scoring the most runs in the Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy for 2024–2025. Noronha was called up by the Karnataka team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy after an outstanding season, and he played in three games for his state.For the remainder of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, the Chennai Super Kings have selected Karnataka all-rounder Macneil Noronha to replace injured uncapped player Ramakrishna Ghosh.He was called up to Karnataka's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy squad as a result of his domestic achievements, and he played in three games. Noronha made an impressive 34 off 21 deliveries in his most recent match against Tripura in December 2025. He also contributed a wicket. The move comes after Ghosh was sidelined for the rest of the season due to a right foot injury he sustained during Chennai's match against Mumbai Indians on May 3. Ghosh had just made his eagerly anticipated IPL debut in that match, contributing to Chennai's decisive eight-wicket victory. Introduced into the attack in a high-pressure match, the young player returned figures of 1 for 24 from his three overs, taking the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, who had looked dangerous after reaching 21 off just 12 balls. In that match, Ghosh made his eagerly anticipated IPL debut and contributed to Chennai's convincing eight-wicket victory. The youthful player, who was brought into the attack in a high-stress match, recorded figures of 1 for 24 from his three overs, taking the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, who had appeared dangerous after reaching 21 off only 12 balls.Chennai will be hoping that Noronha will offer valuable depth as they continue to strive for a play-off position in spite of the setback.
Published 13 May 2026 05:46 PM
There are five main reasons why Prashant Kishor will defeat the BJP in Bankipur.
Prashant Kishor, a former poll strategist who is now a politician, has an early advantage in the Bihar seat of Bankipur. Neeraj Kumar of the BJP is his nearest opponent. According to the most recent Election Commission figures, Kishor received 31,742 votes after Round 16 counting, while Kumar trailed him by more than 8,966 votes. Ghanshyam Singh of the Congress has more than 38,000 seats in Datia, Madhya Pradesh, while Ashutosh Tiwari of the BJP is behind by 6,500 votes. The final round of counting in Manjalpur, Gujarat, has given Satendrabhai Patel of the BJP a commanding lead of more than 29,000 votes.Since the widespread nationwide student protests over the paper leaks, these are the first elections. It is anticipated that the results would reflect the sentiment of the nation, particularly among young voters. No BJP candidate has ever lost from Bankipur, the party's stronghold. Nitin Nabin, the leader of the BJP, was the last person to occupy the position before he was elected to the Rajya Sabha. However, a hitch in the BJP camp and the long-awaited arrival of Prashant Kishor in the electoral arena will make this election noteworthy.BJP candidate Abhishek Kumar Sinha withdrew last month, citing "family reasons," just one day after submitting his nomination papers. Neeraj Kumar Sinha, a leader of the youth wing, was then selected as the BJP's candidate. In the opposition camp, it had caused a great deal of laughter. Its leaders mocked the BJP by claiming that the party was "jittery at the prospects of a defeat" in the seat that the party chairman had left empty.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:45 PM
2 big reasons why Left thinks it lost Kerala Vijayan, soft Hindutva
L&T Realty has announced two important leadership appointments to strengthen its management team and support the company's future growth plans. The company has appointed Navneet Kaul as Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO), while Rishi Kailash Bansal has been appointed as Executive Director and Head of Land and Logistics Development. Both appointments have taken effect immediately and are expected to play a key role in driving the company's expansion across residential, commercial, and logistics real estate projects. Navneet Kaul has been associated with L&T Realty for several years and has contributed to the successful execution of many major projects. As the new Chief Operating Officer, he will oversee the company's day-to-day operations, improve project delivery, and help maintain high standards of quality and customer satisfaction. His experience in managing large real estate developments is expected to support the company's long-term growth strategy. At the same time, Rishi Kailash Bansal will lead the land acquisition and logistics development business. His role will focus on identifying new development opportunities, strengthening the company's land portfolio, and expanding its presence in the rapidly growing logistics and industrial real estate sector. These appointments reflect L&T Realty's commitment to building a strong leadership team capable of meeting future business opportunities and delivering sustainable growth.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:13 PM
Mahua Moitra, a TMC MP, asks the HC to safeguard her from being thrown eggs.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra has approached the Calcutta High Court seeking protection after alleging that eggs are being hurled at her during public appearances in West Bengal. According to her petition, such incidents have repeatedly taken place wherever she travels in her constituency, causing humiliation and disrupting her ability to perform her duties as an elected Member of Parliament. Through her lawyer, Moitra requested the court to direct the police to provide adequate security and prevent further attacks. During the hearing on Thursday, the Calcutta High Court said it would take up the matter on July 29. Moitra's counsel argued that despite an earlier court direction to prevent such incidents, the police had failed to take effective action. While an FIR has reportedly been registered, the petition claims that the lack of adequate police protection has allowed repeated acts of intimidation to continue. The court heard submissions from the state authorities before adjourning the matter to the next hearing date. The plea comes after a series of political confrontations in Nadia district, where Moitra has alleged that BJP supporters targeted her with eggs and other objects during protests. BJP leaders have denied the allegations, and the matter has become part of the ongoing political tensions between the ruling TMC and the opposition in West Bengal. The High Court's upcoming hearing is expected to determine whether additional security measures or further directions to the police are required.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:26 PM
On paper leak fast-track courts, the BJP supports PM Modi and challenges the opposition to discuss
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to establish fast-track courts for examination paper leak cases, describing the move as a major step to protect the future of students and restore confidence in India's examination system. BJP leaders said that repeated paper leaks have harmed millions of aspirants and argued that swift trials and strict punishment are necessary to deter those involved in such crimes. The party maintained that the government's priority is to ensure justice for students and strengthen transparency in recruitment and competitive examinations. At the same time, BJP leaders challenged Opposition parties to hold a full debate in Parliament on the issue. They accused the Opposition of politicising student concerns instead of supporting legal reforms aimed at curbing paper leaks. According to the BJP, the government is willing to discuss examination reforms, accountability, and measures to prevent future leaks, while also highlighting the proposed fast-track courts as a concrete policy response rather than a political statement. The announcement comes amid ongoing protests and political criticism over recent examination paper leak incidents. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, argued that fast-track courts alone are insufficient and demanded broader accountability, including action against those responsible for administrative failures. They have continued to press for wider reforms in the examination system and questioned the government's handling of the issue. Prime Minister Modi said that "nothing is more important than the future of the youth" and assured students that those responsible for paper leaks would face speedy trials and stringent punishment. The government believes that dedicated fast-track courts will help deliver quicker justice, discourage organised examination fraud, and reinforce public trust in the country's recruitment and education systems.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:16 PM
Entertainment
- Trailer for Batwara 1947 Sunny Deol battles Pakistan once more, this time for the religion of Maa.
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- Review of Jana Nayagan The pressure of being Vijays final film causes it to fall apart
- Kartik Aaryan visits the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain with his parents after winning his first national award.
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- Never Heard About It Growing Up Sana Saeed, Little Anjali of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Makes A Startling Admission
- A New Chapter Unfolds as Alia Bhatt enters the world of Tumbbad 2, according to Sohum Shah.
- played at a nearby gurdwara after being pulled out of ZEE5. In Punjabi villages, Diljits Satluj is given a second chance at life.
- Shreya Kalras revelation that Akanksha Chamola is bisexual is criticized by Sreshta Iyer as not her story.
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Sports Trend
Mirabai Chanu is a legendary weightlifter who assists colleagues in winning gold.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:27 PM
Narak se swarag is the story of how one family transformed misery into a gold medal from the Commonwealth
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:05 PM
At the 2026 Commonwealth Games, Mirabai Chanu won weightliftings first gold for India.
Published 27 Jul 2026 09:47 PM
Without using force, Lovlina Borgohain guaranteed a medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:12 PM
Political Trends
- 2 big reasons why Left thinks it lost Kerala Vijayan, soft Hindutva
- Mahua Moitra, a TMC MP, asks the HC to safeguard her from being thrown eggs.
- On paper leak fast-track courts, the BJP supports PM Modi and challenges the opposition to discuss
- Why Rahul Gandhi confronted the PM about the paper leak
- Why a political dispute has been sparked by Punjabs reversal on a new rural jobs initiative
Finance & Stock Market Trend
All Trending News in India
Sensex slips for 3rd day, dips 314 pts; OFSS up 27%, LTIMindtree tanks 11%
Intraday, the Nifty witnessed a pullback from the support zone of 21,820 – 21,300, which is likely to continue over the next few trading sessions. On the upside, the counter-trend pullback can extend till 21,600 – 21,650 where resistance in the form of the 20-day moving average is placed.In terms of levels, 21,550 – 21,570 is the immediate hurdle zone while 21,350 – 21,300 is the crucial support zone. Bank Nifty has reached the 161.82% Fibonacci extension level 45,768, which also coincides with the 20-week moving average making the zone of 45,800 – 45,600 a crucial support zone.Until this is not breached on the downside, we can expect the recovery to continue. On the upside, the pullback can come till 46,400 – 46,600.Views by: Jatin Gedia – Technical Research Analyst at Sharekhan by BNP Paribas. The benchmark indices exhibited recovery from the day’s low and ended in red amid weak global cues, as investors are trimming bets on rapid FED cuts due to strong US retail sales and the resulting rise in global bond yields.Furthermore, oil price advances and rate escalation risks have led to disruptions in global shipping and crude production.The broader market continued its selling pressure given the elevated valuation and profit booking with an aim for sector rotation.Indian snacks maker Haldiram's is in talks to acquire a majority stake in Prataap Snacks, which is valued at $350 million, to expand its presence in the potato chip market, two people with direct knowledge of the matter said.The talks are at an early stage and a valuation has not been discussed, though it could be at a premium to Prataap's stock price.Haldiram's is eyeing a majority stake of at least 51%, but a final number has not been decided, said the sources.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:57 PM
Adani stocks found buyers in Indias retail investors during Hindenburg row
India’s retail investors piled into Adani Group companies as their shares cratered in the wake of the Hindenburg Research’s scathing report last January. A year later, they’re still keeping the faith. Individual holdings in nine of the group’s 10 stocks at the end of December are higher than they were before the short-seller’s attack on the conglomerate, exchange data compiled by Bloomberg show. The group’s market value has increased by more than $60 billion since late November, and is just $50 billion away from erasing the losses spurred by Hindenburg’s report. The recovery likely rewarded retail investors who used the selloff as a buying opportunity. “Many of the retail investors came in after the crash,” said Chakri Lokapriya, managing director at Mumbai-based asset manager RedStrawBerry LLP and former fund manager at BNP Paribas Asset Management. “They have exhibited a sense of maturity to hold on given that infrastructure companies take longer to realize their earnings potential.” While foreign investors, insurance companies and high-networth individuals pared their holdings in various group entities in 2023, the number of retail investors — those with at least Rs 2,00,000 ($2,411) to invest — jumped 42 per cent to 6.7 million in Adani companies, data compiled by Bloomberg show. Hindenburg’s allegations of stock manipulation and fraud, repeatedly denied by the group, had wiped off more than $150 billion from its market value at one point. Billions of dollars in investments from marquee funds including GQG Partners LLC, and more recently, an observation from India’s top court that it won’t take media reports on Adani as the “gospel truth,” has renewed investor confidence in the group stocks. To be sure, retail shareholding in the flagship Adani Enterprises Ltd. and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. fell from the levels reached at the end of March 2023, as the rally likely prompted some investors to book gains. “Retail investors who bought into these stocks definitely made money,” said Ambareesh Baliga, an independent market expert. “But when you are buying momentum stocks, you should book profits from time to time.”
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:56 PM
Apple expands India presence, opens office covering 15 floors in Bengaluru
US-based technology giant Apple expands its presence in India with a new office in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The new Apple office is located at Minsk Square in the center of the city. In its proximity, there are landmarks buildings and spots such as parliament, high court, central library, Chinnaswamy cricket stadium, and one of the largest green parks within Bengaluru. Covering 15 floors, the new Apple office will house up to 1,200 employees and features a dedicated lab space, areas for collaboration and wellness, and Caffe Macs. Its proximity to Cubbon Park metro station means public transit is easily accessible for employees. "Apple is thrilled to expand in India with our new office in the heart of Bengaluru. This dynamic city is already home to so many of our talented teams, including software engineering and hardware technologies, operations, customer support, and more. Like everything we do at Apple, this workspace is created to foster innovation, creativity, and connection. It’s an amazing space for our teams to collaborate” said Apple.From its Bengaluru office, Apple’s teams will work across a wide range of Apple’s business — from software, hardware, services, IS&T, operations, customer support, and others. In line with Apple's global presence, the new Apple office in Bengaluru boasts an interior crafted from locally-sourced materials, including stone, wood, and fabric in the walls and flooring, and the office is filled with native plants. The office is designed with sustainability at the core – will run on 100 per cent renewable energy. With it Apple aims to achieve a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum rating — the highest level of LEED certification. Apple has been carbon neutral for its corporate operations since 2020, and has run all Apple facilities using 100 per cent renewable energy since 2018. In India, the company has its corporate office footprint in Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Gurugram, and now in Bengaluru.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:56 PM
Govt may earmark Rs 4 trillion for next years food, fertiliser subsidies
India may earmark about Rs 4 trillion ($48 billion) for food and fertiliser subsidies for the next fiscal year, two government sources said, indicating fiscal caution ahead of this year's general election. Food and fertiliser subsidies account for about one-ninth of India's total budget spending of Rs 45 trillion during the current fiscal year that ends on March 31. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has estimated next year's food subsidy bill at Rs 2.2 trillion ($26.52 billion), the two sources said. That is 10 per cent higher than a projected outlay of nearly Rs 2 trillion ($24.11 billion) for the current 2023-24 fiscal year. Additionally, next fiscal year's fertiliser subsidy is expected to be Rs 1.75 trillion ($21.10 billion), down from the current 2022-23 fiscal year estimate of nearly Rs 2 trillion, one of the sources said.The sources, which are directly involved in the decision making on the subsidies, did not wish to be named as they were not authorised to speak to the media.Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will unveil the 2024/25 budget on Feb. The Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers and the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution ministries of finance did not reply to requests for comment. Maintaining the combined subsidies at their current level would be unusual for a government facing a national election in just a few months, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi is widely expected to win a rare third term in elections scheduled for April and May. Also, containing food and fertiliser subsidies is crucial for managing India's fiscal deficit, which Modi's government is targeting at 5.9 per cent of gross domestic product this year and planning to lower by at least 50 basis points in the fiscal year 2024/25. The food subsidy bill is likely to go up next year as Modi's administration late last year extended its flagship free food welfare programme for the next five years.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:55 PM
L&T Technology retains full-year forecast after all units post Q3 growth
Indian tech services provider L&T Technology Services retained its revenue growth forecast for the current financial year on Tuesday as all its five business verticals posted year-on-year growth for the third quarter.This comes as Infosys and HCLTech tightened their revenue guidance for the year last week citing no change in the demand environment for the year, marred by high inflation and clients cutting down on discretionary spending.However, better-than-feared numbers by the top four firms have triggered a rally in IT stocks this week, helping the country's benchmark indices hit fresh lifetime highs. L&T Technology's consolidated net profit rose 3.36 billion rupees ($40.43 million) from 2.97 billion rupees a year earlier, marginally above analysts' estimate of 3.31 billion rupees.Revenue from operations rose 12 per cent to 24.22 billion rupees, on the back of double-digit growth in telecom and medical devices verticals, below analysts' estimate of 24.45 billion rupees.Indian tech services provider L&T Technology Services retained its revenue growth forecast for the current financial year on Tuesday as all its five business verticals posted year-on-year growth for the third quarter.The Mumbai-based firm expects revenue for the current fiscal year ending March 31 to grow 17.5 per cent-18.5 per cent in constant currency."All five segments grew positively for the second quarter in a row giving us 1per cent sequential growth despite the seasonal softness," CEO Amit Chadha said in a statement.Two units - the industrial products segment and Europe region - have scaled a $200 million run-rate on annualised basis, he added. This comes as Infosys and HCLTech tightened their revenue guidance for the year last week citing no change in the demand environment for the year, marred by high inflation and clients cutting down on discretionary spending.However, better-than-feared numbers by the top four firms have triggered a rally in IT stocks this week, helping the country's benchmark indices hit fresh lifetime highs.Revenue from operations rose 12 per cent to 24.22 billion rupees, on the back of double-digit growth in telecom and medical devices verticals, below analysts' estimate of 24.45 billion rupees.The subsidiary of infra giant Larsen and Toubro won six deals that are more than $10 million each in size, it said in a filing. This included one deal each of sizes $40 million and $20 million.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:54 PM
Adani Group set to start mapping famous Mumbai slums Dharavi in weeks
The conglomerate owned by tycoon Gautam Adani won a government contract to redevelop Dharavi in late 2022 and will begin surveying the roughly 600 acre densely packed neighborhood in March, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified because they aren’t authorized to speak publicly. The Times of India reported Tuesday that the survey will kick off in two weeks. His bid to revamp Dharavi has received considerable attention thanks to the slum’s fame with tourists and backdrop to multiple films, including 2008’s Slumdog Millionaire. But Adani Group faces considerable political opposition and legal hurdles to completing the renovation, which has been sounded out with little progress for decades. Adani, one of India’s richest and most powerful businessmen who is seen to enjoy strong ties to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to complete the estimated $3 billion project over the next seven years, the people said. Last year, the billionaire said he intends to turn Dharavi into a modern hub and support the small industries based there. His bid to revamp Dharavi has received considerable attention thanks to the slum’s fame with tourists and backdrop to multiple films, including 2008’s Slumdog Millionaire. But Adani Group faces considerable political opposition and legal hurdles to completing the renovation, which has been sounded out with little progress for decades. In a statement issued on Monday, Adani said that eligible residents will get a 350 square foot flat in the area once the project is completed, while ineligible residents will be rehoused in areas across the city.But with few other details about Adani’s plans for the slum yet to be made public, many of Dharavi’s estimated million residents believe Adani will gut their community, shunting them into poor quality apartments or rehouse them miles from Mumbai’s center.Adani is also locked in a legal battle in the Bombay High Court with a Dubai-based consortium of developers and investors called SecLink Technologies Corp., which won a 2018 bid to revamp Dharavi. That tender was later canned and reissued by the state government of Maharashtra, which counts Mumbai as its capital and holds a 20% stake in the Adani-controlled entity pursuing the project. Adani’s team are aware they will have to win trust of residents and may face violent protests while conducting the survey, which will determine who is eligible for new apartments and commercial spaces, the people said.They added that the survey will help build out Adani’s master plan for the slum, which is expected to be submitted to local authorities by March — a delay from an original December deadline, according to the original tender documents.While local firm Genesys International Ltd. will map the area, UK consultancy Buro Happold Ltd. will outline the physical infrastructure needs, while Boston-based Sasaki Associates Inc. will be in charge of the overall re-design, said one of the people.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:37 PM
Bond market expects RBI to change policy stance in February review
Bond market participants are expecting the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to change its stance in the February policy review to neutral from withdrawal of accommodation, citing the continuous variable rate repo (VRR) auctions. “RBI is trying to adjust liquidity and bring it close to neutral or zero. The way RBI spoke in the last policy, it doesn't look like it wants a hike anytime soon,” said Naveen Singh, vice-president of ICICI Securities primary dealership.“If they don't want to cut now, but they also don't want to hike, then what's the point of keeping withdrawal of accommodation stance? They can very well come to a neutral stance. And, a neutral stance doesn't stop RBI from hiking if it wants to. Consequently, the market has been strategically taking long positions in government bonds, said dealers. “A majority of the people, if not everyone, is taking long positions (buying) because the market is factoring in that the RBI would change its stance in February,” said a dealer at a state-owned bank.Consequently, the market has been strategically taking long positions in government bonds, said dealers. “A majority of the people, if not everyone, is taking long positions (buying) because the market is factoring in that the RBI would change its stance in February,” said a dealer at a state-owned bank.Yield on the benchmark 10-year government bond has fallen by 3 basis points (bps) in January so far. In December, the yield had fallen by 11 bps. “A minority section of the market thinks that a change in stance in February is possible. The general view is that April is when the change in stance happens,” said Vijay Sharma, senior executive vice-president at PNB Gilts.“Even after this Rs 1.75 trillion VRR, the liquidity is still in deficit mode. It is apparent that through the recent consecutive VRR auctions, RBI is ensuring that tightness in liquidity is not stretched. However, it is too early to say that RBI is taking an accommodative stance. So, it is still a wait-and-watch situation.” he added. The central bank has been conducting VRR auctions in order to infuse liquidity into the banking system. In the 13-day VRR auction conducted by the RBI on Friday, bids were received for Rs 3.92 trillion, against a notified amount of Rs 1.75 trillion.In the preceding VRR auctions, the central bank received a strong demand, with banks submitting bids ranging between 2.5 and 3.2 times of the bidding amounts. This is due to tight liquidity conditions in the system. Liquidity remained largely in deficit mode in the third quarter. The central bank had conducted a VRR auction after six months on December 15.Market participants observed that despite the higher-than-expected US consumer price index (CPI), the US Treasury yield softened. This reinforced the anticipation of a rate cut by the Federal Reserve in March.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:36 PM
MC Exclusive | Capacity addition, lower AT&C losses top RK Singhs wishlist for Modi 3.0
With the general elections scheduled in April-May, Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy RK Singh listed out his top priorities with the hope that the Narendra Modi government will return for the third consecutive term. "The top priority once the government led by Modi is back in power will be increasing our electricity generation capacity. The other priority will be to reduce the aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses of distribution companies (discoms) to about 10 percent," Singh said during a fireside chat at Moneycontrol's Policy Next Summit in Delhi on January 18. "Rest, India is already a leader in energy transition, so I am not worried about the country's renewable energy targets. We will overachieve it anyway," he said. He said capacity addition is important to keep up with India's growing energy demand. “Since our country is going to continue growing at 7.5 percent or more for the next three decades, we will have to ensure enough electricity. In 2030, our peak demand is going to go up from 241 GW today to 366 GW. Our established capacity has to go up to 900 GW, from about 427 GW today," the power minister said. Giving an overview of the ongoing capacity additions in the power sector, the Union minister said the government is adding around 99,000 megawatt (MW) of renewable energy capacity, which is under construction. Another about 32,000 MW is under various bidding processes. Besides, the government has decided to bid 50,000 MW of renewable energy projects every year.On thermal capacity addition plan, Singh said the government will add 87,000 MW (87 GW) by 2030. "About 27,000 MW is under construction. In addition, we have bid out about 12,000 MW of thermal capacity. Another, 21,000 MW coal-fired capacity is under survey and investigation. Further, about 22,000 MW are under initial stages, where we have identified the land," he said. Singh said the government intends to increase India's hydropower capacity from the current 47,000 MW to about 90,000-100,000 MW. Talking about reduction of AT&C losses of discoms, the Union minister said he has set a fresh target of reducing it to 10-11 percent.AT&C losses are a combination of energy loss and commercial loss. While energy loss may comprise technical loss, theft, and inefficiency in billing, commercial loss constitutes default in payment and inefficiency in the collection. In 2021, the government had set the target to bring down AT&C losses to 12-15 percent by the financial year 2025. However, going by the latest provisional data, the government is likely to have achieved this target two years in advance.According to data from the power ministry, AT&C losses were as high as 25.5 percent in FY13. Till FY21, the AT&C losses stood at 22.3 percent. However, in FY22 it drastically declined to 16.4 percent. As per provisional data, in FY23, India's average AT&C losses have further come down to 13.5 percent.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:32 PM
HNIs chase mid, small caps, IEX under bear attack, I-Pru Life tumbles, NHPC in focus
“Current earnings, future prospects, management, marketability are all factors more or less independent of assets which contribute their share to the intrinsic value.” - Benjamin Graham. Sentiment has turned cautious after three successive sessions of fall, but two days of gains could change that. In the past, mid and small caps would take a battering during market corrections and investors would flee to the safety of large caps. But now exactly the opposite is taking place — large caps are sliding harder than second-line stocks when the market falls.Whispers in market is that many of the mid and small cap companies say they have good earnings visibility for the next few quarters. And that is giving HNIs the comfort to hold on their positions in the stocks. The stock prices so far indicate that the market is willing to believe the earnings story. They would flag when there's still a couple of quarters of earnings growth left. Bull argument: Spot LNG prices have softened. Strong demand for LNG across sectors of late, and this trend is likely to strengthen going forward.Bear argument: Competition is rising, also domestic gas production is increasing. The capex on its proposed petrochemicals foray could weigh on margins. Stock has fallen 16 percent in last couple of trading sessionsBear argument: Huge build up of speculative positions in F&O segment. Uncertainty over the market coupling policy for power exchanges an overhang on the stock.Bull argument: Stock has good support in the Rs 120-125 band. Also, concerns about the market coupling have already been priced in. Stock under pressure as government to sell 2.5 percent stakeBull argument: Seen benefitting from India’s commitment to net-zero as hydro power not polluting like thermal power. Capacity expected to go up sharply in the coming years.Bear argument: Increase in floating stock could be an overhang in the short term. Right now, power is a fancied sector and there is unusually high demand for PSU stocks. This could change. Earnings could be volatile because of dependency on monsoon. GQG Partners upped its stake in ITC to 2.79 percent from 1.58 percent.Bull argument: A good defensive bet if the market continues to correct further. Cigarette volumes increased in Q2 and the trend is likely to sustain.Bear argument: Revenues from agri-business is under stress in FY24 due to a ban on the exports of wheat and rice. Re-rating story is largely over. Further gains will depend on ability to grow earnings.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:32 PM
IndusInd Bank Q3 results impress analysts. Should you buy or sell?
IndusInd Bank impressed the street with a healthy set of number for the December quarter and analysts remain bullish on the counter, counting steady margins, improving retail deposit mix and strong loan growth as some of the key positives. In the past year, the stock has jumped more than 31 percent, outperforming Bank Nifty index which is up 8 percent. The stock hit a 52-week high of Rs 1,694 on January 15.The bank's net profit grew 17 percent on-year to Rs 2,301 crore, aided by healthy net interest income (NII) growth of 18 percent and lower provisions, the private lender said on January 18. At a time when banking sector is grappling with higher cost of funds, its net interest margin (NIM) saw a modest expansion of two basis points (bps) YoY to 4.29 percent in the December quarter. Analysts at Jefferies shared a "buy" call for IndusInd, with a target price of Rs 2,070, saying the lender's NII growth was among the best across coverage. "IndusInd's profit met estimates but they used Rs 200 crore of contingent buffers. We see 20 percent profit compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) in FY24-26, with return of equity (RoE) of 16 percent in FY25," they wrote in their result review. HSBC, too, shared a "buy" call, with a target price of Rs 2,040 apiece on the back of in-line Q3 operating performance, but remain wary of higher slippages. "We forecast CAGR of 23 percent for operating profit and 21 percent earnings per share (EPS) over FY24-26," they said. The rise in fresh slippages, or bad loans, however, remained a key concern during the quarter, analysts at Morgan Stanley said, trimming EPS by 0.5 percent for FY24 and a percent for FY25. The brokerage firm, however, shared an "overweight" call with a target price of Rs 1,850 per share. IndusInd Bank's fresh slippages rose 20.5 percent on a sequential basis to Rs 1,700 crore in the December quarter due to a elevated slippages in corporate and vehicle finance books. However, the management guided that they will normalise to Rs 1,200 crore going ahead. Gross non-performing asset (GNPA) and net NPA ratios were stable at 1.9 percent and 0.5 percent, respectively, due to asset reconstruction company (ARC) sale of Rs 3,100 crore. On the business front, analysts at Macquarie said 24 percent on-year growth in retail book was encouraging during the quarter. "The retail book growth was driven by vehicle book growth. As per liquidity coverage ratio classification mix, retail deposit improved to 45 percent YoY," the brokerage firm said, sharing an "outperform call" with a target price of Rs 1,900 a share. The lender's loan growth was up by 20 percent YoY, while deposits grew by 13 percent YoY. The management expects loan growth to be in the range of 18-23 percent, with the retail loan mix at 55-60 percent. "We estimate 21 percent earnings CAGR over FY24-26, leading to RoE of 16.2 percent in FY25," analysts at Motilal Oswal Financial Services said, reiterating a "buy" rating for IndusInd Bank with a target price of Rs 1,900. Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on Moneycontrol.com are their own and not those of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:28 PM
Interim Budget 2024 Expectations: Govt to target fiscal deficit at 5.3% of GDP for FY2025, says ICRA
ICRA expects the fiscal deficit target for FY2025 to be set at 5.3 per cent of GDP, midway through the expected print of 6.0 per cent for FY2024 and the medium-term target of sub-4.5 per cent by FY2026.With the the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman all set to present the interim Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 on February 1, 2024, an analysis by ICRA suggested that the government is likely to target fiscal deficit at 5.3 per cent of GDP for FY2025, entailing a reasonable degree of fiscal consolidation amid slower capex growth. The upcoming Budget will be an interim one and is said to have no major announcements as it is coinciding with the general elections year which is scheduled for this year. The full budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 will be presented after the formation of the new government following the general elections. The Budget is allotted for the upcoming fiscal year, which runs from 1st April to 31st March of the next year.However, the expansion in the Government of India’s (GoI’s) capex and the extent of fiscal consolidation would be scrutinised closely, given the implications for growth and G-sec yields, respectively. ICRA expects the fiscal deficit target for FY2025 to be set at 5.3 per cent of GDP, midway through the expected print of 6.0 per cent for FY2024 and the medium-term target of sub-4.5 per cent by FY2026. “This, along with our projection of an appreciable dip in the revenue deficit, would allow for a capex target of Rs 10.2 trillion for FY2025, 10 per cent higher than the expected level for FY2024 vis-à-vis the 20 per cent-plus YoY expansion seen during FY2021-FY2024. A higher capex target would impinge on the GoI’s ability to bridge half the required fiscal consolidation in FY2025, thereby making the task of reaching medium-term fiscal deficit target by FY2026 even more challenging,” ICRA said in a report. Given the favourable macroeconomic backdrop and expectations of the benign domestic environment sustaining in the next fiscal, per the analysis by ICRA, the GoI is expected to continue on the fiscal consolidation path in the Union Budget for FY2025. However, it added that this is likely to entail a slower expansion in capex vis-à-vis that seen in the post-Covid years, which could weigh on the growth in economic activity. Additionally, with the upcoming Budget set to be an interim one for the purpose of a vote-on-account, major policy changes and announcements are unlikely at this juncture, it said.“We expect the GoI’s gross tax revenues (GTR) to grow by a healthy 11 per cent in FY2025, led by direct taxes and GST collections, even as the growth in excise and customs duty collections is likely to be subdued,” it said. The disinvestment target is likely to be pegged at sub-Rs 500 billion for FY2025. Given the uncertainties involved in market transactions, it would be prudent to set a moderate target of sub-Rs 500 billion for FY2025, instead of a higher aim that may disrupt the budget math if there is a large shortfall in such receipts by the end of the fiscal, based on the past year trends. Furthermore, ICRA expects the revenue expenditure to increase by a modest ~4 per cent in FY2025, led by a moderate growth in interest payments amid a slight moderation in allocation for subsidies and a continued focus on curtailment of other expenses. It added, “We estimate the GoI to budget for a capex of Rs 10.2 trillion in FY2025, implying a relatively sedate YoY expansion of ~10 per cent, compared to over 20 per cent expansion seen in each of post-Covid years. The slowdown in capex growth is likely to have some bearing on economic activity and GDP growth.” As already mentioned above, ICRA expects the GoI to target a fiscal deficit of 5.3 per cent of GDP in FY2025, midway through the expected print of 6.0 per cent in FY2024 and the medium-term target of 4.5 per cent for FY2026.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:27 PM
Dense fog impacts flight operations at Delhi airport
The IGI airport experienced dense fog with visibility ranging between 50 and 100 metres from 12.30 am to 6.30 am, which improved and currently the visibility is 300 metres at 8 am today. Several flights were delayed at Delhi International Airport due to dense fog and low visibility. A few flights were also cancelled due to severe fog conditions in several parts of the country, Flight Information Display Board (FIDB) at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport showed. The IGI airport experienced dense fog with visibility ranging between 50 and 100 metres from 12.30 am to 6.30 am, which improved and currently the visibility is 300 metres at 8 am today, India Meteorological Department (IMD) mentioned in a tweet while adding that Runway Visual Range (RVR) is between 600-1200 metres. According to the weather forecast agency, very dense fog is when visibility is between 0 and 50 metres, between 51 and 200 metres is dense, between 201 and 500 metres moderate, and between 501 and 1,000 metres shallow. Several flights were also delayed and a few were cancelled due to the prevailing fog. Arrived from Bahrain and my (connecting) flight is delayed by one hour,” a passenger at Delhi’s IGI airport said. People in Delhi woke up to a foggy Thursday morning with the minimum temperature settling at 6.6 degrees Celsius, one notch below the season’s average, the weather department said. The Financial Express logoThe Financial ExpressSign inInterim Budget 2024 Expectations: Govt to target fiscal deficit at 5.3% of GDP for FY2025, says ICRARam Mandir inauguration date draws closer: Find out the top stocks with Ayodhya connection to bet onThe regional Lala Land! From cinemas to TV, OTT, regional content catches the imagination of viewersWhere to invest for your child’s higher educationBusiness NewsBusinessAirlines AviationFlight Operations Hit! Dense Fog Delays Several Flights At Delhi Airport – Details InsideFlight operations hit! Dense fog delays several flights at Delhi Airport – Details insideThe IGI airport experienced dense fog with visibility ranging between 50 and 100 metres from 12.30 am to 6.30 am, which improved and currently the visibility is 300 metres at 8 am today. The IGI airport experienced dense fog with visibility ranging between 50 and 100 metres from 12.30 am to 6.30 am, which improved and currently the visibility is 300 metres at 8 am today, India Meteorological Department (IMD) mentioned in a tweet while adding that Runway Visual Range (RVR) is between 600-1200 metres.Planned model of Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Airport in Gwalior (Image/@MoCA_GoI)Gwalior soars higher! Jyotiraditya Scindia boosts regional connectivity with new flights to 3 cities including Ayodhyapenalties for IndiGo and MIAL; Air India, SpiceJet finedMumbai Airport tarmac incident leads to rare high penalties for IndiGo and MIAL; Air India, SpiceJet fined Rs 30 lakh each – Here’s what happenedHindustan 228 aircraft HALHAL to unveil Hindustan-228 aircraft, upgraded Dhruv helicopter at Wings India 2024Air India Express Gwalior to Bengaluru direct flightAir India Express expands footprint: Daily direct flight from Gwalior to Bengaluru takes offAccording to the weather forecast agency, very dense fog is when visibility is between 0 and 50 metres, between 51 and 200 metres is dense, between 201 and 500 metres moderate, and between 501 and 1,000 metres shallow. Several flights were also delayed and a few were cancelled due to the prevailing fog.“I arrived from Bahrain and my (connecting) flight is delayed by one hour,” a passenger at Delhi’s IGI airport said.Dense fog prevails in parts of the country People in Delhi woke up to a foggy Thursday morning with the minimum temperature settling at 6.6 degrees Celsius, one notch below the season’s average, the weather department said.The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for moderate to dense fog at isolated places in the city for the next two days.According to an official release by the IMD, ‘very dense fog’ was observed in isolated parts of Punjab, Haryana, West Rajasthan and Bihar at 5.30 am on Thursday.Similar heavy fog was also reported in isolated parts of Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Assam while moderate fog was observed in isolated parts of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, as per IMD.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:26 PM