India News Update - April 7, 2025
Economic Developments
India Maintains Growth Projection Amidst U.S. Tariffs
Despite the imposition of new U.S. tariffs, India expects to maintain its projected economic growth of 6.3%-6.8% for the 2025/26 fiscal year, provided oil prices remain below $70 per barrel. However, several private economists have lowered their forecasts, anticipating growth at around 6.1%. The 26% U.S. tariff on Indian imports has intensified global trade tensions, significantly affecting sectors such as diamond exports, which heavily rely on the U.S. market. Indian officials are assessing the impact and considering support measures, including interest subsidies and credit provision. The government intends to pursue diplomatic negotiations rather than retaliation. Labor-intensive sectors like textiles, footwear, and agriculture are identified as particularly vulnerable. Read more
Excise Duty on Petrol and Diesel Increased
India's Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced an increase in the excise duty on petrol and diesel. Importantly, this hike will not be transferred to consumers; instead, the increased tax burden will be absorbed by the country's oil marketing companies. This move aims to bolster government revenues without impacting fuel prices at the pump for end users. Read more
Financial Markets
Stock Market Experiences Significant Decline
On April 7, 2025, the Indian stock market faced one of its biggest falls since June 2024. The Sensex fell nearly 4,000 points, while the Nifty 50 slipped below 21,750, dragging down investor confidence. This decline is attributed to escalating trade tensions and the imposition of new tariffs. Read more
Rupee and Bond Markets Eye Trade Tensions and RBI Policy
This week, the Indian rupee's movement will be primarily influenced by global trade tensions and the reactions of the dollar and Chinese yuan, while the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) upcoming monetary policy decision will guide both currency and bond markets. Analysts expect the rupee to range between 84.70 and 85.70. The RBI is anticipated to cut rates by 25 basis points on April 9 to bolster economic support amid trade headwinds. Bond yields fell sharply last week, with the 10-year benchmark dropping 12 basis points to 6.4630%, the largest weekly decline in 14 months. Read more
National News
PM Modi Inaugurates India's First Vertical-Lift Sea Bridge
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's first vertical-lift sea bridge, the New Pamban Bridge, in Tamil Nadu. He also flagged off a new train service connecting Rameswaram and Chennai, enhancing connectivity in the region. Read more
President Approves Waqf Amendment and Repeal Bills
President Droupadi Murmu approved the Waqf Amendment and Repeal Bills after a heated parliamentary debate. Notifications regarding these approvals have been issued by the Law Ministry. Read more
Sports News
Indian Boxers Shine at World Boxing Cup 2025
India's Hitesh won gold, and Abhinash bagged silver at the World Boxing Cup 2025 in Brazil after fierce final bouts, showcasing the country's growing prowess in international boxing. Read more
Weather Alert
India to Face Hotter April with Above-Normal Temperatures
India is predicted to experience a significantly hotter April, with temperatures expected to be above normal across most of the country. This forecast was shared by Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the director general of Meteorology at the India Meteorological Department. The increased temperatures could potentially impact various aspects of life and the environment across India.
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