From groundbreaking tech partnerships and policy reforms to market surges and industry milestones—explore the most significant business updates shaping India’s economic landscape this week!
- Reliance Jio Partners with SpaceX’s Starlink to Enhance Internet Connectivity
Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio has signed a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to introduce Starlink satellite internet services in India. This partnership aims to provide high-speed internet access to remote regions, leveraging Jio’s extensive retail network to distribute Starlink equipment. The collaboration awaits government approval for Starlink’s operations in the country.
Reuters - India Plans to Impose 15% Safeguard Duty on Steel Imports
To address the surge in steel imports, particularly from China, India plans to implement a safeguard duty of up to 15%. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies is concluding its investigation, with the Commerce Ministry set to decide on the implementation shortly. This move aims to protect domestic steel producers from unfair competition.
LiveMint - Bharti Airtel’s Free Cash Flow Surges Amid Tariff Hikes
Bharti Airtel’s free cash flow (FCF) has surged to INR 292 billion in the first nine months of FY25, driven by tariff hikes and reduced capital expenditure post-5G rollout. The company has prepaid approximately INR 670 billion in high-cost spectrum debt since FY22, improving its leverage and financial stability.
Times of India - Indian Stock Market Records Best Week in 2025
The Indian stock market recorded its best week in 2025, with both the Sensex and Nifty indices gaining nearly 2%. The Nifty ended at 22,552.50, while the Sensex closed at 74,332.58. This positive trend follows several weeks of sharp declines that had significantly impacted investor wealth.
India Today - IREDA’s Investment Proposal in Nepal Hydro Project Rejected by RBI
The Reserve Bank of India has not accepted the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency’s (IREDA) request for investment in equity shares for the development and implementation of the 900 MW Upper Karnali Hydro Electric Power Project in Nepal. IREDA plans to approach the RBI again regarding this investment.
Indiainfoline - India Approves Legislation to Boost Oil and Gas Exploration
India has passed new legislation to promote oil and gas exploration, aiming to attract more investments by stabilizing policies, allowing international arbitration, and extending lease periods. This initiative seeks to reduce India’s heavy reliance on imported crude oil, which accounted for nearly 90% of consumption from April to December 2024.
Financial Times - TRAI Proposes Five-Year Licenses for Satellite Broadband Spectrum
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plans to recommend a five-year period for satellite broadband spectrum licenses to evaluate market adoption. This proposal contrasts with Starlink’s request for a 20-year permit and aims to understand market stability and allow spectrum price revisions.
Reuters - India’s Telecom User Base Reaches 1.2 Billion
India’s telecom user base has touched 1.2 billion in December 2024, with Reliance Jio leading the market. The growth is attributed to affordable data plans and the rapid expansion of 5G services across the country, enhancing digital connectivity and access to online services. - MSMEs Encouraged to Leverage Markets for Fundraising
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India are being encouraged to leverage capital markets to raise funds. The National Stock Exchange’s Managing Director emphasized the importance of market access for MSMEs to support their growth, innovation, and contribution to the Indian economy. - Companies Rework Employee Benefits to Meet Diverse Needs
Indian companies are reworking employee benefits to cater to diverse workforce needs. The trend includes offering flexible work arrangements, mental health support, and personalized benefit packages, aiming to enhance employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity in a competitive job market. - India’s GDP Growth Projected at 6.3-6.8% for 2025
The Economic Survey 2025 projects India’s GDP growth at 6.3-6.8%, reflecting a stable economic outlook. The growth is expected to be driven by robust domestic consumption, infrastructure development, and favorable government policies supporting various sectors of the economy. - Government Plans to Reduce Fiscal Deficit to 4.5% by 2025
The Indian government plans to reduce the fiscal deficit to 4.5% of GDP by 2025. The strategy includes increasing tax revenues, rationalizing subsidies, and enhancing public expenditure efficiency to ensure fiscal sustainability and economic stability. - India’s Exports Reach Record High in March 2025
India’s exports have reached a record high in March 2025, driven by strong performance in sectors like engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. The growth reflects the competitiveness of Indian products in global markets and the effectiveness of export promotion policies. - Digital Payments in India Surge Amid Cashless Economy Push
Digital payments in India have surged, with transactions reaching new heights amid the government’s push for a cashless economy. The adoption of platforms like UPI has made digital transactions more accessible, contributing to financial inclusion and transparency. - India’s Renewable Energy Capacity Crosses 150 GW
India’s renewable energy capacity has crossed 150 GW, marking a significant milestone in its transition to sustainable energy sources. The growth is led by solar and wind energy projects, aligning with the country’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. - Automobile Sales Rebound with Double-Digit Growth
India’s automobile sales have rebounded with double-digit growth, driven by pent-up demand and new model launches. The passenger vehicle segment, in particular, has seen significant recovery, indicating a positive consumer sentiment and economic revival. - E-commerce Platforms Witness Record Sales During Festive Season
E-commerce platforms in India have witnessed record sales during the festive season, with consumers increasingly preferring online shopping. Attractive discounts, a wide range of products, and convenient delivery options have contributed to the e-commerce boom. - Real Estate Sector Witnesses Surge in Demand Amid Economic Recovery
India’s real estate sector has seen a sharp rise in demand, particularly in metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Residential sales have grown by 20% in Q1 2025, driven by lower interest rates, increased disposable income, and a renewed focus on premium housing. Developers are launching new projects to cater to rising consumer interest.
- India’s E-commerce Sector Witnesses Unprecedented Growth
India’s e-commerce industry has experienced unprecedented growth, with sales increasing by 35% year-on-year. This surge is attributed to increased internet penetration, a growing middle class, and the convenience of online shopping. Major players like Flipkart and Amazon India are expanding their operations to meet the rising demand. - Government Launches Initiative to Boost Electric Vehicle Adoption
The Indian government has launched a new initiative to promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption, including subsidies for EV buyers and incentives for manufacturers. This move aims to reduce carbon emissions and decrease dependence on fossil fuels, aligning with India’s commitment to sustainable development. - Pharmaceutical Exports Reach New Heights
India’s pharmaceutical exports have reached a record high, growing by 20% compared to the previous year. The increase is driven by demand for generic medicines and vaccines, solidifying India’s position as the “pharmacy of the world.” The industry continues to explore new markets to sustain this growth. - Hospitality Industry Shows Signs of Recovery
After a challenging period due to the pandemic, India’s hospitality industry is showing signs of recovery. Occupancy rates in hotels have increased by 15%, and domestic tourism is on the rise. Industry stakeholders are optimistic about sustained growth in the coming months. - Agricultural Exports Witness Significant Growth
India’s agricultural exports have grown by 25%, driven by high demand for products like rice, wheat, and spices. Government initiatives to improve supply chains and provide better support to farmers have contributed to this positive trend. - Telecom Sector Sees Increased Investment
The telecom sector in India has attracted significant investments, with companies focusing on expanding 5G networks and improving rural connectivity. These developments are expected to enhance digital inclusion and support the country’s digital economy initiatives.
25. Education Technology Firms Experience Rapid Growth
EdTech companies in India have seen rapid growth, with a 40% increase in user engagement. The shift towards online learning and digital classrooms has opened new opportunities for these firms, leading to increased investments and expansion plans.
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