Economy

Indian equity markets witnessed a sharp sell-off, with benchmark indices tumbling nearly 1,000 points in a single session as investor sentiment turned decisively risk-averse. The decline was driven by broad-based selling across banking, information technology, and metal stocks, reflecting concerns over global cues, stretched valuations, and persistent foreign fund outflows. Volatility spiked as traders rushed to cut exposure amid uncertain macroeconomic signals.

Gold prices climbed sharply to around Rs. 5,230 in early Asian trading Thursday, propelled by escalating geopolitical tensions and renewed uncertainty over U.S. trade policy. The rally follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that deemed sweeping tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump unlawful, only for the administration to respond with a fresh 15 percent levy effective immediately. The abrupt policy reversal has unsettled global markets and revived demand for safe-haven assets. Investors are now turning their attention to the upcoming U.S.

The Punjab government is set to present its Budget Estimates for the 2026–27 fiscal year on March 8, aligning the announcement with International Women’s Day in a symbolic and politically significant move. The state administration is widely expected to introduce its long-promised Rs 1,100 monthly allowance for women, a flagship welfare commitment with substantial fiscal implications. The Cabinet has approved the Vidhan Sabha’s budget session schedule from March 6 to March 16.

Ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the rollout of the ‘Meri Rasoi Yojna,’ a large-scale welfare initiative aimed at strengthening food and nutrition security across the state. Beginning in April, approximately 40 lakh families covered under the National Food Security Act will receive free quarterly food kits in addition to their regular wheat entitlement.

The Punjab government is set to present its Budget Estimates for the 2026–27 fiscal year on March 8, aligning the announcement with International Women’s Day in a symbolic and politically significant move. The state administration is widely expected to introduce its long-promised Rs 1,100 monthly allowance for women, a flagship welfare commitment with substantial fiscal implications. The Cabinet has approved the Vidhan Sabha’s budget session schedule from March 6 to March 16.

The pharmaceutical industry is sharpening its emphasis on quality assurance and innovation across the supply chain as global demand, regulatory scrutiny, and competitive pressures intensify. Companies are investing in advanced manufacturing, digital traceability, and resilient sourcing to ensure product integrity from raw materials to finished drugs. The shift reflects lessons learned from recent disruptions and a growing recognition that supply-chain excellence is a strategic differentiator, not merely a compliance requirement.

India and France have amended their Double Taxation Avoidance Convention to refine rules governing tax residency and income attribution. The revised framework is aimed at reducing ambiguity, preventing tax evasion, and ensuring fair taxation of cross-border income. By aligning residency-based taxation principles with evolving global standards, the amendment provides greater certainty for businesses, investors, and individuals operating between the two jurisdictions.

The alcohol industry in Goa has formally requested a deferment of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), citing operational challenges and potential disruption to supply chains. Industry stakeholders argue that the mandated system for collecting, sorting, and recycling beverage containers could impose significant logistical and financial burdens if implemented prematurely. Manufacturers and distributors have emphasized the need for a phased rollout, better infrastructure, and clarity on compliance norms.

India’s two-wheeler industry is entering a phase of measured yet resilient expansion, with analysts projecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8–9% over the medium term. The outlook reflects a gradual recovery in rural demand, improving affordability, and sustained urban mobility needs. Structural factors such as rising income levels, replacement demand, and expanding credit availability are expected to support volumes, while premium motorcycles and electric scooters emerge as key growth drivers.

Women across the world are playing an increasingly decisive role in shaping economic growth, governance, and social transformation. From boardrooms and startup ecosystems to politics, sports, and grassroots movements, women’s participation is no longer peripheral but central to decision-making. Recent developments highlight both progress and persistent gaps—in workforce inclusion, pay equity, access to capital, and safety. Policymakers, businesses, and civil society organizations are under growing pressure to translate commitments into measurable outcomes.