Economy National

GST Cess Collections May Fall Short of Rs 1.37 Lakh Crore Target

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2025

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) cess collections for the current fiscal year are expected to fall short of the estimated Rs 1.37 lakh crore required for compensating states. This shortfall has raised concerns about fiscal sustainability for state governments relying on GST compensation. The Expected Shortfall According to recent estimates, while the GST cess […]

Economy

ITR-2, ITR-3 Revision to Enable Section 87A Rebate Claims

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2025

The Income Tax Department is set to correct errors in the ITR-2 and ITR-3 forms to allow eligible taxpayers to claim the Section 87A tax rebate for the financial year 2023-24. This move comes as welcome news for individual taxpayers who qualify for the rebate under specific income conditions but have faced difficulties due to […]

Economy National

Gold’s Stellar Performance in 2024: A 26% Gain

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2025

Gold prices soared in 2024, delivering an impressive 26% return to investors. The surge in the yellow metal’s value was fueled by persistent economic uncertainties, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical tensions that drove demand for safe-haven assets. As the year closed, gold prices settled around $2,100 per ounce, marking one of the strongest annual performances in

National

India’s Export Milestone: Over $800 Billion in 2024

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2025

India’s goods and services exports are projected to surpass $800 billion in 2024, reflecting robust growth across key sectors and significant contributions from policy reforms. This forecast, presented by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), highlights the country’s expanding trade potential amidst global economic challenges. Breakdown of Export Growth Goods

Defence National

Indian Navy Boosts Fleet with Two Warships and a Submarine

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2025

The Indian Navy is set to bolster its maritime capabilities with the commissioning of two advanced warships and a submarine, marking a significant step in enhancing its operational readiness. The induction is part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its naval fleet and maintain a robust presence in strategically critical waters. Strengthening Maritime Security The […]

Defence National

Historic Change: Service Chiefs to Share Aides Across Forces

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2025

In a landmark move aimed at bolstering jointness and synergy among the Indian Armed Forces, the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force will, for the first time, have Aides-de-Camp (ADCs) from sister services. This unprecedented step is expected to strengthen inter-service coordination and reflect the growing emphasis on joint operational capabilities. A Symbol […]

Economy National

FPI Selling Hits ₹1.2 Lakh Crore in 2024, Second-Highest in a Decade

By BPN News Desk December 31, 2024

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) pulled out ₹1.2 lakh crore from Indian equities in 2024, making it the second-worst year for outflows in the last decade. The massive sell-off reflects global economic concerns, rising interest rates, and weakening investor sentiment in emerging markets like India. Key Drivers Behind the Outflows Several factors contributed to the

Defence National

Indian Navy Advances Submarine Capabilities with AIP Technology

By BPN News Desk December 31, 2024

The Indian Navy has taken a significant step forward in bolstering its underwater capabilities with the integration of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology into its Project-75 submarines. This move is expected to enhance the operational endurance and stealth of India’s naval fleet, providing a strategic edge in maritime defense. AIP Technology: A Game-Changer for

National

Health Insurers Settle ₹1.2 Lakh Crore Claims in FY24

By BPN News Desk December 31, 2024

In a notable development, health insurers in India have settled 71% of the claims raised in FY24, amounting to a substantial ₹1.2 lakh crore. The data reflects the rising cost of healthcare in the country and the growing reliance on health insurance as a safety net for medical expenses. Significant Settlements Amid Rising Claims The […]

Government Policies National

Centre Urges States to Ease Women’s Work Laws

By BPN News Desk December 31, 2024

In a significant move to promote gender equality in the workforce, the central government has advised state governments to prioritize deregulation of laws that hinder women’s participation in workplaces. The call for reform aims to create a more inclusive and enabling environment for women across sectors. Focus on Easing Workplace Restrictions The Centre highlighted the