Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo to Cut 250 Daily Flights in June Amid Fuel Cost Surge The Indian aviation sector is set to undergo significant capacity reductions as three major airlines—Air India, its low-cost subsidiary Air India Express, and IndiGo—plan to withdraw approximately 250 daily domestic flights starting in June. This decision follows a sharp rise in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, which has escalated operating costs and prompted airlines to adjust their schedules to mitigate financial strain. The move is expected to further increase airfares, compounding challenges from weakening demand and a traditionally slow travel season. Air India, which currently operates around 3,600 weekly domestic flights—equivalent to nearly 500 daily flights—will cut 22% of its domestic schedule during June and July. This reduction translates to roughly 110 daily flights being removed from service. IndiGo, the country’s largest airline by fleet size, operates nearly 2,200 daily domestic flights and will reduce its capacity by 5%, equivalent to about 110 flights per day. Air India Express, the low-cost carrier, will slash nearly 10% of its approximately 340 daily domestic flights, bringing its capacity down by around 34 flights. Together, these three airlines account for 90% of the domestic market share, meaning that nine out of every 10 air travelers in India use one of their services. The capacity cuts are a direct response to the sustained impact of high fuel prices, which have surged by 25% for domestic flights and nearly 100% for international operations due to the West Asia conflict. These increases have pushed airfares up by 40-50% on several routes, prompting airlines to impose a fuel surcharge of Rs 400 to Rs 450 per passenger.#air_india_express #indigo #kwait #air_india #west_asia
Fuel Price Hike: Will Fuel Prices Rise Again in the Country? The Petroleum Ministry Provided a Major Update The central government has made significant statements regarding the pricing of petrol and diesel. The Petroleum Ministry has clarified that it is not possible to announce the exact date of the next price increase at this moment. However, the ministry has emphasized that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, LPG, or natural gas in the country, and supply remains fully normal. Petroleum Ministry's Joint Secretary, Suja Sharma, stated that the government cannot predict any potential price hikes in the future. She urged citizens to avoid panic and not purchase excess fuel beyond their immediate needs. On May 16, government-owned oil companies increased petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre. Since then, discussions have begun across the country about the possibility of further price hikes. Concerns have been fueled by high global crude oil prices and rising tensions in West Asia, particularly between the United States and Iran, which have created instability in the oil market. The international oil market's price increases, combined with the depreciation of the Indian rupee against the dollar, have posed a significant challenge for India. The rupee's value has dropped to around 96 against the dollar, making oil imports more expensive. India relies heavily on imported oil to meet its domestic demand, and these factors have directly impacted fuel prices. The central government has assured that sufficient fuel is available nationwide, and the supply chain is functioning normally. The Petroleum Ministry has urged citizens to purchase only what they need and to use alternative fuels to reduce pressure on traditional energy sources.#indian_rupee #global_oil_prices #petroleum_ministry #west_asia #suja_sharma
Petrol and Diesel Prices May Rise if West Asia War Drags On, RBI Governor Warns The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra has expressed concerns that rising fuel prices could become a pressing issue if the ongoing conflict in West Asia persists. His remarks come amid growing speculation that the Indian government may need to increase the prices of petrol and diesel in the coming months. While the government has so far denied such claims, Malhotra warned that prolonged instability in the region could force India to raise retail fuel prices to manage its economic challenges. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently urged citizens to voluntarily reduce fuel consumption and delay gold purchases to safeguard India’s foreign exchange reserves. The government has also imposed higher import duties on gold and is considering additional measures to curb demand for imported goods. These steps aim to stabilize the economy amid global uncertainties, including the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Malhotra highlighted that if the conflict in West Asia extends beyond its current duration, the government may have to bear the cost of rising crude oil prices, which could eventually be passed on to consumers. He noted that inflation in India rose to 3.48% in April, slightly below expectations, as the government absorbed some of the burden of higher fuel costs. However, he warned that risks remain, particularly with supply chain disruptions affecting the country. The RBI has projected a 6.9% growth rate for the fiscal year, with inflation expected to average 4.6%. Economists, however, caution that the conflict could slow growth and push inflation higher than anticipated. The central bank has kept its policy repo rate at 5.25% since April, maintaining a cautious stance on monetary policy.#narendra_modi #reserve_bank_of_india #west_asia #rbi #sanjay_malhotra
Fact Check: Air India's International Flight Adjustments Clarified The claim circulating on social media that Air India has canceled all international flights until July 2026 is false. The airline has not suspended global operations entirely but has temporarily reduced services on certain international routes due to rising operational costs, airspace restrictions caused by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, and financial pressures. While some flights have been rescheduled or canceled, Air India continues to operate flights to major destinations in Europe, North America, Australia, and Asia, albeit with adjusted frequencies. The confusion began after reports emerged suggesting that the airline would scale back international operations through June and July 2026. These reports cited surging jet fuel prices and disruptions from geopolitical conflicts affecting global aviation routes. However, the airline clarified that only a portion of its network is impacted. Out of over 1,000 daily domestic and international flights, approximately 100 routes could face temporary reductions, cancellations, or schedule changes. This represents a partial reduction of around 10-12% in international services, not a complete shutdown. Air India's CEO, Campbell Wilson, reportedly informed staff that several international routes have become financially unsustainable due to sharply rising aviation turbine fuel prices, airspace restrictions in West Asia, and higher crew and operational costs. Flights that previously used shorter air corridors now take extended routes because of geopolitical tensions in the region. Some rerouted flights add 60 to 90 minutes to their travel time, significantly increasing fuel consumption. This has led to reduced frequency on long-haul routes from Delhi and Mumbai.#delhi #mumbai #air_india #west_asia #campbell_wilson
India Faces Lockdown Rumors Amid Modi's Fuel Conservation Appeal, Petroleum Minister Clarifies No New Lockdown Plans Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to conserve fuel and adopt measures such as working from home to mitigate potential risks linked to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. His appeal, which includes reducing petrol and diesel consumption, avoiding gold purchases for a year, and promoting electric vehicles, has sparked speculation about the possibility of a renewed lockdown. However, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has dismissed these concerns, asserting that no such plans are in place. Puri emphasized that India’s energy reserves are sufficient to meet demand, with the country holding 69 days of crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) stocks, as well as 45 days of LPG reserves. He highlighted that the government has already taken proactive steps to address regional instability, including increasing LPG production from 36,000 to 54,000 tonnes per day. Puri’s comments were made during the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) annual business summit, where he reiterated that the nation is well-prepared to handle any disruptions. Modi’s call for conservation follows heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran, which have raised fears of supply chain disruptions. The Prime Minister’s directive aims to reduce dependency on imported fuels and encourage sustainable practices. While some experts warn that prolonged geopolitical uncertainty could lead to stricter measures, Puri has ruled out a lockdown, stating that the government has already managed crises effectively without such interventions.#narendra_modi #west_asia #hardeep_singh_puri #confederation_of_indian_industry #confederations_of_indian_industry
Maharashtra CM Urges Fuel Conservation Amid Global Supply Crisis Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis warned on Sunday that India could face fuel shortages if citizens do not heed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for restraint in oil and gas consumption. Fadnavis cited disruptions to global supply chains caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has led to severe shortages and soaring prices in several countries. He emphasized that the situation requires careful management to avoid similar challenges in India. Fadnavis addressed the issue during a media interaction in Nagpur, responding to queries about Modi’s recent appeal for reduced fuel usage. The Prime Minister had urged Indians to use petrol, diesel, and gas with “great restraint,” stating that lower consumption would help conserve foreign exchange and mitigate the economic impact of the war. Modi also highlighted India’s efforts to bolster energy security through initiatives like solar power expansion, ethanol blending, and the growth of compressed natural gas (CNG) infrastructure. Fadnavis acknowledged that Modi’s measures have ensured stable fuel supplies so far, but warned that complacency could lead to shortages. “If we do not understand this difficulty and do not use these resources properly, then we too may have to face shortages,” he said. The CM’s remarks came amid heightened tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The blockade has disrupted fuel flows, driving prices sharply higher in countries like Pakistan, where fuel costs have reached around Rs450 per litre. The appeal for conservation aligns with Modi’s broader strategy to reduce India’s reliance on imported energy.#strait_of_hormuz #narendra_modi #devendra_fadnavis #west_asia #maharashtra_cm
Britannia flags fuel inflation, GST pricing disruption in Q4 Britannia Industries reported that rising fuel and freight costs, driven by the West Asia conflict, along with disruptions in wholesale channels caused by GST-linked pricing changes in the biscuit market, negatively impacted its growth during the March quarter. The company initiated calibrated price hikes and cost-control measures to counter these challenges. For the quarter ended March 31, Britannia’s consolidated profit rose 21.6% year-on-year to Rs 679.7 crore, while total income increased 6.2% to Rs 4,774.4 crore. For the full fiscal year 2026, total income grew 6.6% to Rs 19,375.6 crore, and profit for the period rose 16.5% to Rs 2,537 crore. Managing director and chief executive Rakshit Hargave noted that domestic business growth had averaged 9-9.5% before March, when international operations faced disruption linked to the West Asia conflict. The company’s international business was hit by vessel unavailability and declining demand in the region, while fuel costs and ocean freight rates surged after disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Britannia, which produces a significant portion of its products for markets in Oman and Dubai, began shifting export-oriented production to its Mundra facility to reduce reliance on West Asian shipping routes. The transition is expected to be fully operational by mid-May. Hargave highlighted that while wheat prices remained favorable, fuel and laminate costs had become inflationary. The company plans to implement calibrated price increases and grammage adjustments starting from the current quarter to offset rising input costs.#strait_of_hormuz #west_asia #britannia_industries #rakshit_hargave #mundra_facility
No Plan To Hike Petrol, Diesel Prices Despite Iran War Disruptions: Centre The Indian government has confirmed there are no immediate plans to increase retail fuel prices amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have disrupted global energy markets. Officials emphasized that petrol, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices remain stable, with sufficient domestic fuel availability to meet demand. The statement comes as the government continues to monitor the situation and take measures to minimize disruptions caused by the ongoing crisis in the region. Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, assured the public that fuel prices will remain unchanged for now. "LPG, petroleum, and diesel are available in sufficient quantities, and prices have not increased, so please do not panic," Sharma said. She highlighted that the government is prioritizing the supply of essential fuels to critical sectors such as hospitals, educational institutions, and industries like pharmaceuticals, steel, seeds, and agriculture to prevent major supply bottlenecks. While commercial LPG supplies have faced partial disruptions due to the crisis, availability has been restored to approximately 70 percent. Sharma noted that the government has ensured 100 percent supply for domestic LPG and piped natural gas (PNG) consumers, as well as for compressed natural gas (CNG) used in transportation. Additionally, the supply of 5-kg free trade LPG cylinders, commonly used by migrant laborers, has nearly doubled to support vulnerable sections of the population. The government’s reassurance follows reports of volatility in global oil markets, driven by uncertainty in West Asia, a key oil-producing region.#indian_government #west_asia #ministry_of_petroleum_and_natural_gas #sujata_sharma #lpg_supply
India’s Per Capita GDP Estimated Below Bangladesh in 2026: IMF The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Bangladesh’s per capita gross domestic product (GDP) will surpass India’s in 2026, according to its April 2026 World Economic Outlook report. The data reveals that Bangladesh’s per capita GDP at current prices is estimated at $2,911, compared to India’s $2,812. This marks a reversal of trends observed in previous years, as India had maintained a marginal edge over Bangladesh in 2025, with per capita GDP figures of $2,675 and $2,635 respectively. However, Bangladesh had previously outpaced India in 2023 and 2024, according to the IMF’s analysis. The IMF’s projections indicate that Bangladesh’s per capita GDP is expected to rise to $3,048 by 2027, while India’s is forecast to reach $3,074. Despite this, the organization notes that India is projected to maintain a lead over Bangladesh in per capita GDP until at least 2031. Meanwhile, India’s overall GDP for 2026 is estimated at $4.1 trillion, significantly higher than Bangladesh’s $510 billion. Per capita GDP, a key indicator of economic performance, measures a country’s economic output per person. The IMF highlights that the average per capita GDP in emerging markets and developing economies stands at approximately $7,500, while the global average is around $15,600. The report underscores the uneven development between nations, with India and Bangladesh remaining among the lower-income economies despite their large populations and economic potential. The IMF’s outlook also addresses broader global economic challenges. It warns that the war in West Asia poses a significant threat to global growth, disrupting commodity markets, inflation expectations, and financial conditions. The organization notes that while global growth is projected to slow to 3.#india #bangladesh #west_asia #imf #world_economic_outlook
How Transshipment Shielded Adani Ports from War Headwinds in March The ongoing conflict in West Asia has cast a shadow over global trade routes, yet Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd has managed to maintain its growth trajectory, thanks to strategic shifts in cargo transshipment. The port operator’s international business has remained resilient despite the geopolitical tensions, which have disrupted traditional shipping lanes and heightened risks for maritime operations. The conflict, which escalated in early February 2026, initially raised concerns about potential disruptions to cargo flows through the region. Adani Ports’ stock price, which had been under pressure, dropped by approximately 10% since the conflict began on 27 February. However, the company’s recent business updates revealed that its cargo volumes in March grew by 11% year-on-year to 46 million tonnes (MT), a figure that helped cushion the decline in its share price. This performance contrasted with the broader market’s pessimism, as investors feared the war would derail global trade. Adani Ports’ ability to adapt to the crisis stemmed from its reliance on transshipment, a process where cargo is rerouted through alternative ports to bypass conflict zones. By leveraging its infrastructure and partnerships, the company redirected shipments through less volatile routes, ensuring continuity in its operations. This strategy allowed it to maintain a steady flow of cargo despite the geopolitical instability, which has otherwise disrupted supply chains and increased shipping costs for many firms. The resilience of Adani Ports’ international business was further underscored by its full-year performance for FY26.#conflict #west_asia #adani_ports_and_special_economic_zone_ltd #transshipment #global_trade_routes
LPG flame still dim, delivery delays stretched to 20-30 days Nagpur: Despite repeated claims by the government and oil marketing companies (OMCs) that LPG supply is normalizing, residents and businesses across the city continue to face severe shortages of cylinders, with delivery delays extending to 20-30 days after booking. Consumers report that the situation has worsened over the past weeks, disrupting household routines and commercial operations. Many residents said they had to wait an additional 20-30 days beyond the mandatory 25-day gap between bookings, pushing the total waiting period to nearly 50 days. Some consumers noted that their bookings were canceled without delivery, while others received messages indicating cylinders were "delivered" despite not receiving them. This confusion has deepened frustration among those already struggling with limited availability. The crisis, which began in early March due to the West Asia conflict, initially caused long queues outside gas agencies. While the situation has marginally improved, several areas in the city still report supply shortages and sporadic long lines. Officials from the district administration admitted that supply has not yet returned to pre-crisis levels. Before the disruption, Nagpur received approximately 33,000 domestic cylinders and 1,200 commercial cylinders daily. Currently, domestic supply fluctuates between 18,000 and 25,000 cylinders, while commercial supply has plummeted to just 120 cylinders per day. A senior official from the Collectorate stated that during a recent review meeting, the newly appointed district collector issued strict instructions to gas agencies and companies to ensure citizens are not further affected.#nagpur #west_asia #lpg_dealers_association_of_india #mahendra_gavai #bablu_tiwari
Morgan Stanley Cuts India's GDP Growth Forecast to 6.2% Amid West Asia Tensions Morgan Stanley has revised its forecast for India's GDP growth for the fiscal year 2026-27, lowering the projected growth rate from 6.5% to 6.2%. The adjustment comes in response to ongoing tensions in West Asia, which have led to volatility in global oil and gas prices. The firm attributes the downward revision to rising energy costs and potential disruptions in supply chains, which could weigh on India's economic performance. The updated forecast highlights concerns over the impact of higher oil prices, which are expected to average $95 per barrel during the fiscal year. Morgan Stanley also notes that gas supply constraints could pose an additional challenge, further complicating India's energy landscape. The report warns that elevated energy costs, combined with reduced industrial output in certain sectors, are likely to increase production expenses and dampen economic activity. Previously, Morgan Stanley had projected a 7.4% growth rate for the first quarter of 2026 and a 7% growth rate for the full fiscal year 2026-27. However, the latest analysis suggests that the economic environment is becoming more challenging. The firm warns that if Brent crude oil prices surge to $150 per barrel for a quarter, the impact on the Indian economy could be severe. In such a scenario, GDP growth for the fiscal year 2026-27 could decline to as low as 5.7%, while inflation might rise above 6%. The current account deficit could also widen to 3% of GDP, exacerbating macroeconomic pressures. Morgan Stanley's report underscores the growing uncertainty surrounding global energy markets, which are being influenced by geopolitical tensions in West Asia.#india #morgan_stanley #west_asia #moody_s #oecd
Dubai Airports Update April 5: Air India, Air Asia to operate 32 West Asia flights; IndiGo requests flyers to “review flight status prior to arriving at the airport” Dubai Airports announced on April 5 that Air India and Air Asia will collectively operate 32 flights to and from the West Asia region, marking a significant step in maintaining connectivity amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Gulf. The update comes as Indian airlines continue to navigate challenges posed by regional conflicts, with Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo maintaining limited but essential operations to assist stranded passengers. IndiGo, one of India’s largest carriers, issued a direct advisory to travelers, urging them to “review flight status prior to arriving at the airport.” The airline emphasized the importance of staying informed about potential disruptions, advising passengers to arrive early, carry all necessary travel documents, and allocate extra time for security checks. These measures are part of broader contingency plans to address uncertainties in the region. The decision to operate 32 flights between Dubai and West Asia reflects a strategic effort to balance operational continuity with safety protocols. Air India and Air Asia, both key players in the Indian aviation sector, have been tasked with ensuring that critical routes remain open for passengers and cargo. However, the scale of operations remains constrained due to the volatile security environment, which has led to periodic flight cancellations and delays. Indian airlines have faced mounting pressure to adapt to the evolving situation. Despite the challenges, they have maintained a commitment to serving stranded passengers, particularly those affected by the conflict in the Gulf.#air_india #indi_go #west_asia #dubai_airports #air_asia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (March 29, 2026) addressed the nation during his monthly Mann Ki Baat program, highlighting the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in West Asia and urging citizens to avoid spreading rumors. He emphasized the need for unity in overcoming the crisis, which he linked to the region’s critical role in India’s energy security. Modi noted that the world, having emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic, was expected to progress toward renewed growth. However, he pointed out that conflicts continue to erupt in various parts of the globe, with a particularly intense war in the region neighboring India. He expressed concern for the millions of Indians living in Gulf countries, many of whom are family members or workers. Modi thanked the Gulf nations for their support to over 1 crore Indians, stressing the importance of solidarity during these difficult times. The Prime Minister highlighted the impact of the crisis on global energy prices, noting that the West Asian region remains a vital hub for India’s fuel needs. He called for collective action to address the challenges, warning against politicizing the issue and spreading misinformation. “Those who are spreading rumors are causing major harm to the country,” he said, urging citizens to rely solely on government-provided information. Modi also acknowledged several nation-building initiatives. He praised the Gyan Bharatam Survey, which aims to document manuscripts across the country, and encouraged people to share images of manuscripts via the Gyan Bharatam App. He noted that thousands of manuscripts have already been submitted, with each entry verified before being recorded. Another initiative highlighted was MY Bharat’s budget quest, which connects youth with the budget-making process.#gulf_nations #prime_minister_narendra_modi #west_asia #mann_ki_baat #gyan_bharatam_survey
Russia To Ban Gasoline Exports From April 1 To Prioritise Domestic Supply The Russian government announced on Friday that it will implement a ban on gasoline exports starting April 1, 2026, to prioritize domestic supply and stabilize fuel prices. The decision comes amid global market instability caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has led to significant fluctuations in oil and petroleum product prices. The announcement was made following a meeting chaired by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, who emphasized the need to address the challenges posed by the international crisis. Novak highlighted that while demand for Russian energy abroad remains strong, the current geopolitical tensions have disrupted global energy markets. The Russian government stated that the ban aims to ensure that domestic fuel prices do not exceed forecasted levels, a key objective set by President Vladimir Putin. According to the Ministry of Energy, oil refining rates have remained consistent with March 2025 levels, ensuring a stable supply of petroleum products. Industry companies have confirmed they hold sufficient reserves of gasoline and diesel, along with high refinery capacity utilization, to meet internal demand. The Ministry of Energy reported that domestic fuel markets are well-positioned to handle the ban, with refineries operating at full capacity and adequate stockpiles of essential fuels. Novak instructed the Ministry to draft a resolution formalizing the export ban, which will take effect on April 1, 2026. The measure is intended to protect domestic consumers from price volatility and ensure reliable fuel supply for local markets.#russia #vladimir_putin #west_asia #alexander_novak #ministry_of_energy
West Asia war spurs defence bets: 5 Indian stocks to watch The escalating conflict in West Asia has reignited global attention to geopolitical dynamics, with rising military budgets and strategic realignments creating new opportunities for defense sector players. As tensions persist, governments are accelerating defense spending, positioning countries like India to benefit from increased defense contracts and technological partnerships. This shift is not only reshaping military priorities but also influencing financial markets, where defense stocks are gaining traction amid heightened risk appetite and geopolitical uncertainty. The war in West Asia has already triggered a surge in oil prices, reflecting the region’s critical role in global energy markets. However, the broader economic implications extend beyond commodities. Prolonged instability in the region is expected to drive long-term investments in military infrastructure, surveillance technologies, and strategic alliances. For India, a key player in the Indo-Pacific, this presents a unique opportunity to expand its defense exports and strengthen its position as a regional security partner. Defense companies in India are already capitalizing on this trend, with several firms securing contracts for advanced weaponry, aerospace systems, and cybersecurity solutions. The government’s push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing, exemplified by initiatives like "Make in India," has further bolstered domestic production capabilities. This combination of geopolitical necessity and domestic industrial growth is positioning Indian defense firms to capture a larger share of global defense spending. Analysts suggest that the conflict could lead to a sustained increase in defense budgets, particularly among nations with strategic interests in the region.#india #west_asia #make_in_india #defense_sector #india_defense_companies
Gold Rate Today, March 26: Check 18, 22 and 24 Carat Gold Prices in Major Indian Cities The gold price in India on March 26, 2026, saw a rebound after weeks of decline, with 24-karat gold priced at ₹14,689 per gram, 22-karat gold at ₹13,465 per gram, and 18-karat gold at ₹11,017 per gram. These rates reflect increases of ₹22, ₹20, and ₹16 respectively compared to the previous day. The recovery came amid a surge in international bullion markets, which offset earlier downward trends driven by geopolitical tensions. Gold prices in India had faced pressure at the start of March 2026, influenced by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which began with US-Israeli military actions against Iran on February 28. The situation led to a 12-17% drop in gold and silver prices during the month. However, as of March 26, the market rebounded, with gold and silver rates stabilizing after a prolonged decline. The carat-wise gold rates per gram for the day are as follows: 24-karat gold: ₹14,689 per gram (up ₹22 from the previous day) 22-karat gold: ₹13,465 per gram (up ₹20) 18-karat gold: ₹11,017 per gram (up ₹16) These rates apply to varying quantities, with the price increasing proportionally for larger amounts. For example, 10 grams of 24-karat gold would cost ₹1,46,890, up ₹220 from the previous day’s ₹1,46,670. Similar trends are observed across all carat categories. Regional gold prices for major Indian cities on March 26, 2026, are detailed below: Chennai: 24K gold at ₹14,913, 22K at ₹13,670, 18K at ₹11,410 Mumbai: 24K at ₹14,689, 22K at ₹13,465, 18K at ₹11,017 Delhi: 24K at ₹14,704, 22K at ₹13,480, 18K at ₹11,032 Kolkata: 24K at ₹14,689, 22K at ₹13,465, 18K at ₹11,017 Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kerala, Pune, Vadodara, Ahmedabad: All cities report identical rates to Mumbai, with 24K gold at ₹14,689, 22K at ₹13,465, and 18K at ₹11,017.#kolkata #delhi #mumbai #chennai #west_asia
Bulls return to Dalal Street; analysts see Nifty heading towards 23,800 Indian stock markets showed a strong rebound on Wednesday, marking the second consecutive day of gains as investors regained confidence. The recovery came amid cooling crude oil prices and ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran to de-escalate tensions in West Asia. Analysts suggest the upward trend may continue, with the Nifty 50 index potentially rising to 23,800 in the coming days. Mumbai-based indices, including the NSE Nifty and BSE Sensex, closed higher after two sessions of gains. The Nifty surged 394 points, or 1.7%, to 23,306.45, while the Sensex climbed 1,205 points, or 1.6%, to 75,273.45. Over the past two sessions, the indices have recouped nearly 3.5% each, reversing a significant portion of the losses incurred since the start of the West Asia conflict. The market capitalization of Indian equities has gained approximately Rs 16.15 lakh crore during this recovery. The rebound follows a period of volatility triggered by the conflict, during which the Nifty and Sensex had fallen nearly 10.6% each from their levels on February 28. Since the war began, India’s market cap has declined by ₹32.87 lakh crore. However, the recent stabilization in global oil prices and optimism about diplomatic progress have bolstered investor sentiment. Analysts noted that the recovery is likely to persist as long as the Nifty remains above key support levels. Pankaj Pandey, head of fundamental research at ICICI Direct, stated that the de-escalation in the conflict suggests the worst may be behind us, though a formal ceasefire remains pending. He emphasized that markets are poised for further gains unless new adverse developments emerge.#nifty_50 #bse_sensex #west_asia #motilal_oswal #icici_direct
Centre extends LPG refill gap to 35 days amid supply strain, hits urban households The Indian government has extended the mandatory waiting period between LPG cylinder refills from 25 to 35 days, according to distributors. This change, announced on Tuesday, affects urban households with double-cylinder connections, which allow them to keep two LPG cylinders at home for uninterrupted supply. Customers outside the PM Ujjwala Yojana scheme, which provides free cooking gas to women below the poverty line, will now have to wait 35 days from the date of delivery to book a refill of a 14.2kg cylinder. The decision to extend the refill gap was made amid ongoing supply challenges, with distributors citing the war in West Asia as a key factor. A revised price chart for LPG has already been distributed to city-based suppliers, though the exact impact on pricing remains unclear. The earlier 25-day gap was implemented to manage supply logistics, but the extension suggests that the strain on availability has not eased. Commercial LPG cylinders, which are larger (19kg), face even greater supply pressures. The government approved an additional 20% allocation for commercial LPG to states and union territories, raising the total allocation to 50%. However, distributors noted that any relief may take at least two to three days to materialize on the ground. Small eateries, which rely heavily on commercial LPG, are struggling to stay afloat due to restricted access. Meanwhile, some domestic households have turned to firewood as an alternative. The policy change has sparked concern among households and vendors, with uncertainty about the long-term implications for fuel availability.#indian_government #west_asia #lpg_cylinder #pm_ujjwala_yojana #commercial_lpg
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Shares Key Points from Rajya Sabha Address on Ongoing Conflict in West Asia Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined the main themes of his address to the Rajya Sabha on the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He emphasized India’s commitment to restoring peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy, highlighting continuous engagement with all parties involved. Modi reiterated that maintaining stability in the region is a priority, stressing the importance of sustained communication to address the complex challenges faced by the area. Modi also addressed the critical need to ensure uninterrupted supply of oil and gas to India amid the turmoil. He acknowledged the efforts made to safeguard energy imports, noting that the nation is closely monitoring the outcomes of these initiatives. Additionally, he assured that measures have been taken to protect farmers from the adverse impacts of the crisis, particularly in the upcoming sowing season. Modi emphasized that preparations are in place to ensure the agricultural sector remains resilient. The Prime Minister described the current situation as a significant test for “Team India,” urging state governments to collaborate closely to achieve success. He underscored that the welfare of the people is paramount, stating that this principle defines India’s identity and strength. Modi’s remarks reflect a dual focus on regional stability and domestic preparedness, positioning India as a proactive actor in both spheres. The address also highlighted the importance of balancing geopolitical challenges with domestic priorities, ensuring that the nation’s resources and efforts are directed toward safeguarding its citizens’ interests.#india #rajya_sabha #west_asia #prime_minister_narendra_modhi #oil_gas
