InCred Asset Management has Crossed ₹1,000 Crore in investments in listed healthcare companies, becoming one of India''s largest dedicated Healthcar...
Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman outlines 5Rs of responsive tax governance; Calls for greater tax certainty and ...
MBA campus placements across industry-linked management programmes report recruitment activity spanning finance, analytics, technology, supply chain, healthcare and marketing roles. Chandigarh University reports MBA placement activity during 2025 and 2026 across banking, information technology, financial technology, healthcare, retail, analytics, consumer goods and automobile sectors. It describes placements in flagship, applied finance and analytics, and industry-collaborated MBA programmes, including marketing, human resources, operations, supply chain, business analytics, digital marketing, financial technology, data science and healthcare management. The release identifies industry collaborations and participating recruiters, and is issued under a PRNewswire arrangement with PTI disclaiming editorial responsibility.
General Counsel leadership now integrates commercial decisions, regulatory risk, legal-team design, and technology adoption within corporate management. Corporate legal departments are evolving from compliance-focused functions into strategic business partners. The General Counsel's role encompasses commercial decision-making, regulatory and reputational risk, acquisitions, market entry, contracts, disputes, crisis management and technology adoption. Increased regulatory complexity and the growth of legal capability centres require proactive legal functions with appropriately structured teams, processes, workflow allocation, and use of technology and artificial intelligence.
Healthcare portfolio management services disclose equity strategy performance, benchmark methodology, fee treatment and the absence of regulatory performance verification. InCred Healthcare Portfolio is identified as an investment approach/product under an Equity Strategy pursuant to a SEBI circular. Its disclosed performance is benchmarked against the BSE 500 TRI, calculated using the Time Weighted Rate of Return method prescribed by SEBI, and stated to be net of fees and expenses. Returns for shorter horizons are described as absolute returns. The performance information is expressly stated not to have been verified by SEBI, and SEBI has not certified its accuracy or adequacy.
UPI-enabled flexi benefits wallets support employee-selected tax-efficient allowances with category controls, compliance monitoring and employer reporting. A UPI-enabled flexi benefits wallet is described as allowing employees to allocate employer-provided allowances among eligible categories and make payments through the relevant wallet at UPI-accepting merchants. Tax-efficient treatment is stated to depend on the prescribed conditions applicable to each benefit category. Merchant-category-code controls are intended to restrict expenditure to eligible purposes, while centralised allocation, transaction visibility and reporting support employer compliance. The arrangement is stated to operate through a Reserve Bank of India licensed prepaid payment instrument framework.
Section 301 forced-labour measures place Indian imports in a lower tariff tier while preserving specified product exclusions. Section 301 forced-labour import measures impose an additional ad valorem duty on imports from India, with India placed in a lower additional-tariff tier than initially proposed. Specified exports that attract no additional duties, and goods already subject to Section 232 measures, remain outside the Section 301 additional duty. A substantial portion of Indian exports is therefore excluded, while the remaining exports are subject to the additional duty. The textile-specific mechanism has not yet been operationalised, and engagement continues in relation to that mechanism and bilateral trade agreement negotiations.
FCV tobacco market stability remains under review through coordinated measures to protect growers and maintain transparent auction operations. FCV tobacco market stability was reviewed with emphasis on protecting growers' interests and considering long-term measures for the sector. The delegation inspected Tobacco Board auction operations, interacted with growers on prevailing market conditions, and noted the transparent and orderly conduct of auctions. The Government is monitoring developments and examining appropriate measures with the State Government, Tobacco Board and stakeholders to safeguard FCV tobacco farmers' interests.
Corporate Mitra Scheme supports MSMEs through accredited professionals delivering affordable compliance, financial, taxation, accounting and governance assistance. The Corporate Mitra Scheme seeks to strengthen MSMEs by connecting them with accredited para-professionals providing affordable compliance and business-support services. Corporate Mitras are envisaged to assist with regulatory compliance, finance, taxation, accounting and governance, allowing enterprises to focus on growth. The scheme also trains young graduates in industry-relevant skills and creates employment opportunities. IICA Shillong serves as the nodal agency for coordination, stakeholder liaison, promotion and awareness in the North Eastern Region.
Tax administration must deliver timely lawful service, protect public assets, and uphold integrity in tax collection. Tax administration should assist common citizens by handling matters within departmental authority without unnecessary delay, while remaining within applicable rules. Government departments should protect public land from illegal occupation and expedite lawful land transfers, permissions, construction arrangements and procurement for departmental premises and accommodation. Integrity is the essential principle for officials performing tax-collection functions.
Investment fraud and forged residence certificates prompted chargesheets over alleged misappropriation, fabricated revenue records, land purchases and employment access. Criminal chargesheets concerned alleged investment fraud through false promises of high returns and alleged misappropriation of investor funds, involving a company stated to be unregistered with SEBI, RBI and the relevant Registrar of Companies. A separate chargesheet concerned alleged conspiracy to procure permanent resident certificates using forged revenue records, with the certificates allegedly used for land purchases and government employment. Forensic examination reportedly found that the relevant revenue documents were not genuine according to official records.
Money-laundering allegations in online rummy gaming prompt prosecution proceedings and asset attachment over suspected cheating of users. Money-laundering proceedings concerning online real-money rummy operations include a prosecution complaint against Gameskraft Technologies, RummyTime Technologies, founder-directors and associated persons. The allegations concern proceeds of crime said to arise from cheating users through rummy applications and from an addictive environment encouraging repeated wagering. The proceedings also involve provisional attachment, seizure and freezing of financial holdings, equity interests and immovable properties alleged to be connected with suspected proceeds of crime. The founder-directors' arrests were declared invalid by the Karnataka High Court, while the investigating agency proposes to challenge that order.
Banking financial performance reflected loan and deposit growth, improved asset quality, stronger margins and prudent contingency provisioning. Quarterly financial performance reflected growth in customer business, loans and deposits, expansion in lending portfolios, an improved CASA ratio and lower cost of funds. Asset quality improved through reductions in gross and net non-performing assets, while profitability indicators improved in relation to net interest margin, cost efficiency, provisions, net profit and return on assets. The bank received credit-guarantee claims for its microfinance portfolio and created a contingency provision for macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty. Capital adequacy and common equity tier-one ratios were also reported.
Forced-labour import tariffs place Indian goods under an additional duty while exemptions preserve access for specified exports. A 10 per cent Section 301 additional import duty applies to specified Indian goods over and above ordinary most-favoured-nation duty, following a forced-labour-related investigation. Generic pharmaceuticals, smartphones, other specified products, and goods already subject to Section 232 sectoral duties remain outside the additional levy. The textile-specific mechanism has not yet been operationalised for India, while tariff-rate quota concessions using US-origin cotton and fibre were announced for certain other economies. India continues engagement on a bilateral trade agreement and tariff access for garments using American inputs.
Copper Clad Laminate expansion advances through policy and rights-issue approvals, supporting domestic electronics manufacturing and strategic growth initiatives. The company reported progress on a proposed Copper Clad Laminate manufacturing project, including in-principle approval under the Gujarat Electronics Policy and substantial project completion. The facility is intended to support domestic electronics manufacturing and reduce import dependence. It also reported upgraded credit ratings, enhanced rated bank facilities, and stock-exchange in-principle approvals for a proposed rights issue supporting expansion and strategic growth initiatives.
US forced-labour tariffs place India in a lower tier while preserving exclusions for specified imports and Section 232 products. US Section 301 forced-labour measures impose an additional 10 per cent tariff on imports from India, with India placed in a lower tariff tier than initially proposed. Generic pharmaceuticals, smartphones and certain specified products outside additional duties remain excluded, as do products already covered by Section 232 measures, including steel, aluminium and auto parts. The textile-specific mechanism has not yet been established or operationalised, and engagement continues in connection with bilateral trade agreement negotiations.
Money-laundering investigation examines alleged fictitious expenses, circular vendor payments, and consultancy payments without services or deliverables. A money-laundering investigation alleges misappropriation through fictitious expense entries, unsupported vouchers, and inflated vendor invoices used to withdraw funds in cash. The Enforcement Directorate further alleges that payments described as software or IT consultancy expenses were made to Exalogic Solutions Pvt Ltd and Veena T without services or deliverables. The report cites statements concerning the alleged sham payments, Exalogic's dependence on company funds, and subsequent transfers from its account. The PMLA case is based on a prosecution complaint concerning suspected financial irregularities.
Tax certainty and taxpayer-centric administration drive simplified compliance, reduced litigation, digital service delivery, and stronger voluntary tax compliance. Tax administration reform under the Income-tax Act, 2025, rules and forms is directed toward a simpler, transparent and taxpayer-centric system. Key priorities include reducing compliance costs and litigation through tax certainty, faster return processing, refunds, grievance redressal, voluntary compliance and timely appeal disposal. Digital initiatives, including PAN 2.0, ITBA 2.0, IEC 3.0, Kar Saathi and SAKSHAM NUDGE, are intended to simplify compliance and improve taxpayer experience. Capacity building in technology, international taxation, transfer pricing, digital assets and cybersecurity supports this reform agenda.
Trade Practice Investigation: Tech-company antitrust fines prompt proposed tariffs and trade sanctions under federal trade law mechanisms. A formal investigation into alleged unfair trade practices has been announced in response to European regulatory fines imposed on major United States technology companies. The stated concern is that digital antitrust penalties are unfairly directed at United States businesses, with possible tariffs on European Union imports indicated. The proposed response is linked to Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, permitting import taxes and other sanctions against unjustifiable, unreasonable or discriminatory trade practices.
Import tariffs and energy costs heighten inflation risks, pressuring consumers, corporate profits and monetary-policy expectations amid market volatility. Fresh tariffs on imports, rising energy prices and Middle East conflict are identified as concurrent pressures on global financial markets. The tariff measures apply to nearly all imports into the United States and are paid by importing companies, which typically pass the additional costs to consumers. Higher energy costs and tariffs may increase inflationary pressure, reduce household discretionary spending and affect corporate profitability, while influencing monetary-policy expectations. Investors also questioned whether substantial artificial-intelligence investment can support technology-sector valuations.
Responsive tax governance promotes taxpayer convenience, correction of bona fide errors, tax certainty, prompt refunds and prevention of avoidable litigation. Responsive tax governance requires convenience for honest taxpayers, correction of bona fide errors and firm consequences for deliberate tax evasion. The Income Tax Act, 2025 is intended to simplify the legal framework, reduce uncertainty and lower compliance costs, supported by stronger electronic filing infrastructure and prompt refund processing. Tax certainty should promote voluntary compliance and shift the focus from litigation management to litigation prevention through consistent guidance, simplified procedures, technology, standardised processes, effective grievance resolution and reduction of recurring taxpayer difficulties.
Examination integrity safeguards prompt monitoring, enforcement action and proposed stricter penalties for paper leaks and institutional failures. Examination integrity measures include reported termination of agency officials, contemplated legal and criminal action, proposed stricter punishment for paper leaks, and Supreme Court monitoring of preventive steps. The Supreme Court also prohibited unauthorised posting or uploading of audio-video court proceedings on social media and digital platforms without prior administrative permission. The updates further address taxpayer facilitation alongside firm action against evasion, trade measures connected with forced-labour concerns, and potential legal action concerning university communications to students.
Government has made changes in the Investment Pattern for Non-Government Provident Funds, Superannuation Funds and Gratuity Funds. A Notification to this effect was issued by Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, here today. The Investment Pattern is reviewed from time to time and revisions are effected based on the developments in the financial market and economy. The investment pattern was last revised on 24th January, 2005. Subsequently, it was decided to revise the investment pattern to make it more flexible and give the trustees of these funds more autonomy and discretion. Accordingly, the proposed revised pattern was put up on the website of the Ministry of Finance in draft form in September, 2007 inviting comments. A large number of comments were received and these have been examined by the Government.
Based on this feedback, the revised investment pattern was finalised and notified today. It explicitly recognises the fiduciary responsibility of the Trustees and the need for the exercise of due diligence by them and gives them greater flexibility in terms of a wider variety of financial instruments as well as greater freedom to actively manage the portfolio. The changes suggested in the new investment pattern include:
(i) merger of Central Government Securities, State Government Securities and units of gilt Mutual Funds into a single category and allowing investment up to 55% of the investible funds;
(ii) providing a flexible ceiling for various category of instruments instead of fixed investment ceiling as at present;
(iii) providing new category of instruments, such as, rupee bonds of multilateral funding agencies, money market instruments ;
(iv) permitting investment in term deposit receipts of not less than one year duration issued by scheduled commercial banks subject to the specified financial criteria; and
(v) permitting direct investment up to 15% of the investible funds in shares of companies on which derivatives are available in the Bombay Stock Exchange or National Stock Exchange.
Further, it has been provided that,-
(i) The Trustees of these funds will have freedom to exit from a rated financial instrument when their rating falls below investment grade as confirmed by one credit rating agency;
(ii) The Trustees have been given freedom of trading of securities, subject to the turnover ratio (i.e., the value of securities traded in the year divided by average value of the portfolio at the beginning and end of the year) not exceeding two.
(iii) Though it is expected that throughout the year the investments are in conformity with the investment pattern, the same may be achieved by the end of the financial year. Trusts will have the flexibility of exceeding the investment ceiling up to 10% of the limit prescribed during the year.
This investment pattern would come into force from 1st April, 2009, that is, from the financial year 2009-10.
BSC/SS/GN-196/08
Investment pattern reform grants trustees greater fiduciary discretion and wider permissible instruments, with staged implementation.
Notification revises the investment pattern for Non Government Provident Funds, Superannuation Funds and Gratuity Funds, consolidating gilt instruments into one category with an elevated ceiling, replacing fixed category ceilings with flexible limits, and adding eligible instruments including rupee bonds of multilateral agencies, money market instruments and qualifying bank term deposits; limited direct equity investment in companies with listed derivatives is permitted. Trustees are recognised as fiduciaries with duties of due diligence and are granted powers to exit downgraded rated instruments, trade within a turnover limit, and temporarily exceed ceilings subject to year end compliance.
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