Saturday, March 07
Ebru Ozdemir, a prominent figure in the engineering and construction sector, asserts that empowering women in the workforce is the most effective strategy for building a robust, inclusive, and future-ready economy. She emphasizes that gender-focused reskilling and upskilling are vital for the digital age, and integrating women into STEM fields is crucial for tackling global challenges and ensuring sustainable growth.
The IT industry body MAIT has urged the government to slash basic customs duty on key electronic components and boost tax incentives in the upcoming Union Budget. This move aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing, improve global competitiveness, and address supply chain vulnerabilities amid rising global uncertainties. MAIT also called for continued support for mobile manufacturing.
Indian businesses are feeling more optimistic, with the CII Business Confidence Index hitting a five-quarter high. Strong domestic demand, boosted by GST cuts and festive spending, is driving this positive outlook. Firms anticipate further demand growth and robust investment and hiring intentions, signaling continued economic momentum.
Ahead of the 2026-27 Union Budget, ICRA anticipates a dual focus on medium-term debt reduction and robust capital expenditure. The budget, aligning with the 16th Finance Commission, aims for a fiscal deficit of 4.3% of GDP. Significant infrastructure spending is expected, with capital expenditure projected to rise by 14% to Rs 13.1 trillion, before potential fiscal pressures emerge.
Despite a flat broader market, State Bank of India and Infosys propelled a Rs 75,855 crore gain in the market capitalisation of three top Indian firms. While Reliance Industries and Larsen & Toubro saw significant drops, Infosys's boosted guidance offered a positive outlook for IT stocks. The top ten companies' rankings remained unchanged.
Trump’s move to impose tariffs on European allies over Greenland underscores how trade measures can be wielded as political tools, regardless of partnerships or agreements. For India, the message is clear: trade deals cannot substitute for strategic autonomy, which must remain non-negotiable.
President Trump announced a 10% tariff on goods from several European nations, escalating to 25% if Denmark does not agree to sell Greenland by June 1, 2026. He cited security concerns and inadequate "remuneration" from allies for decades of US protection, demanding Denmark "give back" for past subsidies.
Vande Bharat sleeper launch today: PM Narendra Modi flagged off Indian Railways' first Vande Bharat sleeper train set today. The new air-conditioned train will run between Howrah and Kamakhya, providing a premium and faster overnight travel option.
