Usha Shriram, a household name in India’s consumer durables sector, has made a strategic foray into the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) space with the launch of packaged drinking water. The move marks a significant diversification for the company, which has long been associated with home appliances, lighting solutions, and lifestyle products. By entering the packaged water segment, Usha Shriram aims to capitalize on rising consumer demand for safe, reliable, and branded hydration solutions.

Renault India has announced significant price reductions across its product lineup following the implementation of GST 2.0, with discounts reaching up to Rs. 96,395 depending on the model. The move comes in response to revised tax rates aimed at revitalizing the auto industry and enhancing consumer affordability. By swiftly aligning its pricing strategy with the new structure, Renault seeks to stimulate demand in a market that has experienced sluggish growth in recent quarters.

Mahindra & Mahindra has announced a significant reduction in prices across its passenger and commercial vehicle lineup after the government’s decision to lower Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on automobiles. The move, which translates into savings ranging from Rs. 20,000 to over Rs. 2 lakh depending on the model, is expected to stimulate sales in a sector grappling with muted demand.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has reaffirmed that no international trade agreement will be allowed to compromise the interests of India’s farmers. His statement comes at a time when negotiations on agricultural imports are gaining momentum in global forums. Chouhan underscored that while India remains committed to fair trade practices and international cooperation, the government’s top priority is safeguarding the livelihood of farmers who form the backbone of the rural economy.

In a move aimed at easing the financial burden on India’s agricultural community, the government’s recent decision to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on key farm inputs is set to benefit nearly 10 crore farmers nationwide. The measure is designed to lower production costs, enhance affordability of essential equipment, and promote greater adoption of modern agricultural practices. Analysts say the reform underscores the state’s commitment to rural welfare, addressing rising input costs while supporting long-term goals of food security and sustainable growth.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has described the Goods and Services Tax (GST) overhaul as a “people’s reform,” emphasizing its role in creating a transparent, simplified, and consumer-friendly tax regime. Since its implementation, GST has been projected as one of the most ambitious tax transformations in India’s history, unifying multiple indirect taxes into a single system. The government contends that the reform not only streamlines compliance for businesses but also reduces cascading taxes for consumers, thereby fostering efficiency, fairness, and long-term economic growth.

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) has rolled out a streamlined mechanism designed to assist small investors in reclaiming unclaimed shares, dividends, and other entitlements with greater efficiency. The move is expected to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, enhance transparency, and boost investor confidence in the capital markets. By simplifying the documentation process and introducing technology-driven verification systems, the authority aims to expedite settlements while ensuring stronger safeguards against fraudulent claims.

Gameskraft Ltd., a growing player in the gaming and digital entertainment sector, reported a notable decline in quarterly profits, citing increased Goods and Services Tax (GST) liabilities and certain unsanctioned payments as primary factors. While revenue streams remained stable, elevated taxation and regulatory compliance costs weighed on net earnings. Analysts suggest that the results highlight the challenges emerging companies face in managing tax obligations and internal governance in a rapidly expanding digital economy.

Indian equity benchmarks ended a turbulent trading session largely unchanged, with the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty reflecting investor caution amid mixed domestic and global cues. Market volatility was driven by fluctuating crude oil prices, corporate earnings announcements, and macroeconomic data releases. Despite intermittent gains in banking and IT stocks, losses in energy and metal counters offset upward momentum, resulting in a flat close.

Chartered Speed Ltd., a key player in the logistics and transportation sector, has submitted its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), signaling its intention to launch an initial public offering (IPO). The move is expected to raise significant capital to fund expansion plans, strengthen fleet operations, and invest in technology-driven logistics solutions. Market analysts note that the IPO comes at a time of robust demand for efficient supply chain services in India, positioning Chartered Speed to capitalize on growth opportunities.