
India’s Foreign Reserves Drop Below $700 Billion
India’s foreign exchange reserves declined by $276 million, falling just below the significant $700 billion threshold for the week ended October 3, according to the latest RBI data.
India’s foreign exchange reserves declined by $276 million, falling just below the significant $700 billion threshold for the week ended October 3, according to the latest RBI data.
The Department of Telecommunications launched the Digital Communication Theme for ESTIC 2025, highlighting India’s 6G vision and innovation-driven roadmap under Bharat 6G Alliance.
Arunachal Pradesh is set for a major economic boost with the launch of its first commercial coal mine at Namchik-Namphuk. The project, revived through a 2022 auction, guarantees over ₹100 crore in annual state revenue while adhering to strict environmental guidelines.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has revised India’s economic growth forecast for FY26 down to 6.5%. The ADB warns that new US tariffs on Indian exports will significantly weigh on overall growth, especially in the second half.
In a significant move to strengthen India’s tourism and cultural sectors, the government has introduced major GST cuts. Hotel stays under ₹7,500 will now be taxed at 5 per cent, buses at 18 per cent, and art and cultural goods at 5 per cent. These changes are expected to make travel more affordable, promote traditional craftsmanship, and boost employment across the hospitality and transport industries.
A new guidebook has been unveiled that maps 12,167 HSN codes to 31 different government ministries. This groundbreaking effort, led by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), is a major step toward a data-driven approach for manufacturing development and trade facilitation. The move is expected to streamline processes and empower India to achieve its “Viksit Bharat@2047” vision.
India and FAO launched a collaboration to strengthen Blue Port infrastructure. The first webinar emphasized AI, 5G, and smart technologies to modernize fishing harbours and enhance sustainability.
India and Iceland agreed to expand cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture. Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi’s delegation explored zero-waste models, deep-sea fishing, and technology transfer to strengthen India’s Blue Economy.
The GST Council’s 56th meeting slashed rates to 18% for vehicles and 5% for tractors, boosting affordability, employment, and sustainable mobility across India.
ICGEB New Delhi marked the first anniversary of the BioE3 Policy with a major event bringing together research institutes and industry. The programme highlighted innovations in climate-resilient agriculture, clean energy, and biotechnology’s role in India’s Net Zero mission.