India Business

India’s pharmaceutical industry is undergoing a strategic transformation from volume-led expansion to value-driven growth, according to the Economic Survey 2025-26. The report emphasizes rising focus on innovation, complex generics, specialty drugs and global contract manufacturing as key drivers of sustainable growth. Strengthening regulatory compliance, increased investment in research and development and expanding global market access are reshaping the sector’s long-term trajectory. The survey also highlights the industry’s critical role in healthcare security and export growth.

Mindspace Business Parks REIT has reported a strong financial performance for the third quarter, with net profit rising 33% year-on-year to Rs. 180 crore. The growth was driven by stable occupancy levels, steady rental income, and disciplined cost management across its office portfolio. Despite a cautious commercial real estate environment, the REIT benefited from resilient demand for high-quality office spaces in key urban markets.

State Bank of India (SBI) successfully raised USD 250 million via an international bond issuance, reinforcing its liquidity position and supporting strategic financing initiatives. The bonds, structured to appeal to global institutional investors, reflect confidence in SBI’s credit profile and India’s banking sector stability. Proceeds are expected to bolster the bank’s capital base, fund lending operations, and diversify its funding sources. Analysts note that such issuances provide access to low-cost foreign capital while enhancing the bank’s international visibility.

Banking operations across Madhya Pradesh were severely disrupted following a large-scale strike by bank employees, affecting nearly 7,000 branches statewide. The protest, called by banking unions, led to the suspension of key services, including cash withdrawals, cheque clearances, and branch-based customer assistance. While digital banking platforms remained largely operational, the strike caused inconvenience to individuals, small businesses, and traders dependent on physical banking channels. Union leaders cited unresolved demands related to wages, staffing levels, and job security.

Asian Paints reported a 4.8% year-on-year decline in its Q3 net profit, registering Rs. 1,073.9 crore, impacted by rising input costs and margin pressures. While revenue growth remained resilient, elevated raw material prices and supply chain challenges weighed on profitability. Despite the profit contraction, the company continues to benefit from strong demand in both decorative and industrial coatings segments. Analysts highlight that disciplined cost management, product innovation, and channel expansion could mitigate near-term headwinds.

Banking services across the country were disrupted after employee unions staged a strike to press for long-standing demands, including the implementation of a five-day workweek. The protest affected branch operations, cash transactions and customer-facing services, prompting inconvenience for individuals and businesses alike. Union leaders said the action was aimed at accelerating negotiations with authorities and bank management, citing workload pressures and the need for improved work-life balance.

The recent reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on small cars has sparked a noticeable uptick in demand, offering a short-term lift to automakers and ancillary players such as tyre manufacturer CEAT Ltd. Lower acquisition costs have revived showroom footfalls and improved booking momentum, particularly in entry-level and compact segments. However, questions remain over the sustainability of this recovery amid rising ownership costs, tightening credit conditions, and shifting consumer preferences toward premium vehicles and electric mobility.

India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme continues to gain momentum as five manufacturers in the white goods segment have been selected for government support. The move underscores New Delhi’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and position India as a competitive global supply hub for air conditioners and LED components. By incentivizing incremental production and investment, the scheme aims to attract capital, encourage technology transfer, and generate employment.

Sona BLW Precision Forgings reported a marginal decline in net profit for the third quarter, reflecting cost pressures in a challenging automotive environment. The company posted a profit of Rs 150.16 crore, slightly lower than the year-ago period, even as operational performance remained steady. Demand from electric vehicle and export segments continued to support volumes, partially offsetting higher input and operating costs.

Quick-commerce firm Zepto has withdrawn its “10-minute delivery” branding following a government advisory that raised concerns over consumer safety and delivery workforce welfare. The move signals a strategic recalibration rather than a retreat from fast commerce, as the company seeks to align growth ambitions with regulatory expectations. Industry observers say the decision reflects increasing scrutiny of hyper-fast delivery promises and their operational implications.