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India Mobile Congress 2026 Showcases AI, 5G and Future Technologies

India Mobile Congress 2026 in New Delhi brings together global technology leaders to explore AI, 5G, 6G, robotics and digital innovation By News National Editorial Team India Mobile Congress 2026 Highlights AI, 5G and Next-Generation Connectivity New Delhi, October 9, 2026: India Mobile Congress 2026 is continuing in New Delhi, bringing together telecommunications companies, technology developers, startups, policymakers and investors to discuss the future of digital connectivity and emerging technologies. The 10th edition of the event is being held from October 7 to 10 at Yashobhoomi, the India International Convention and Expo Centre in Dwarka, New Delhi. The congress is jointly organised by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India. According to India's Press Information Bureau, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the event on October 8. The programme is designed to showcase developments in telecommunications, digital infrastructure and technology-led economic growth. AI, 5G and 6G take centre stage The congress provides a platform for discussions about fifth-generation mobile networks, future 6G connectivity, artificial intelligence-powered networks, semiconductors, cybersecurity and quantum communication. These technologies are increasingly important as businesses, public services and consumers rely on faster connectivity and digital platforms. AI-enabled networks could help operators manage traffic more efficiently, while future connectivity standards are expected to support applications requiring greater capacity and lower latency. However, the commercial benefits of these technologies will depend on infrastructure investment, security, affordability and the ability to deploy new services at scale. Wider focus on emerging technologies The 2026 edition also highlights smart mobility, industrial robotics, transport technology and stadium experiences. These areas demonstrate how telecommunications infrastructure can support applications beyond conventional mobile calls and internet access. Industrial robotics can help automate manufacturing and logistics operations, while connected transport systems may improve the exchange of information between vehicles, infrastructure and control centres. Such applications require reliable networks and strong cybersecurity protections. The event's theme, “Scale Without Boundaries,” reflects the emphasis on expanding digital capabilities and developing technologies that can serve a broader range of users and industries. International participation and business opportunities Organisers have highlighted participation from more than 100 countries. The gathering offers technology companies, startups and investors opportunities to exchange ideas, demonstrate products and explore partnerships. For Indian companies, the event provides a platform to present domestic technology capabilities and pursue opportunities in international markets. For global participants, it offers a view of India's expanding telecommunications ecosystem and demand for digital services. The commercial impact of announcements made during the congress will depend on subsequent investment, product deployment, customer adoption and export orders. Exhibition demonstrations alone do not establish that a technology has reached large-scale commercial use. What happens next? The congress runs through October 10. Its remaining programme provides opportunities for visitors to explore technology demonstrations, attend discussions and learn about developments across telecommunications and connected industries. As digital infrastructure becomes more central to economic activity, events such as India Mobile Congress offer a forum for assessing the opportunities and challenges surrounding the next generation of connectivity. Sources: Press Information Bureau, Government of India: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2320798&lang=1&reg=3 Press Information Bureau, event announcement: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2319977&lang=2&reg=48 Editorial note: This report distinguishes the event's published programme from future commercial outcomes; it does not imply that every technology discussed is already commercially available.

Navi Pillay Wins 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for International Justice

Navi Pillay has won the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her work promoting international law, human rights and accountability for serious crimes. By News National Editorial Team South African-born jurist Navanethem “Navi” Pillay has won the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her work promoting peace, international law and accountability for serious crimes. The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced the award on October 9, recognising Pillay's long career in human rights and international justice. She has served as a judge in South Africa, worked at international criminal tribunals and held the position of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Pillay's career developed against the background of apartheid in South Africa. As a lawyer, she defended political prisoners and challenged discriminatory practices before becoming the country's first non-white woman to serve as a High Court judge. Her international work has included roles connected to the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Criminal Court. She has also chaired a United Nations commission of inquiry concerning the occupied Palestinian territory. Its findings and related legal allegations have generated substantial international controversy. The Nobel Committee described the rule of law as essential to peaceful relations between nations and to accountability for abuses. The award comes at a time when international courts, human rights institutions and the enforcement of international law face significant political pressure. The prize recognises Pillay's contribution to international justice, while also drawing attention to wider debates about the effectiveness and impartiality of international legal institutions. The Nobel Peace Prize does not itself determine the outcome of individual legal cases; those questions remain subject to the relevant legal processes. Sources: Official Nobel Peace Prize announcement; Associated Press — Navi Pillay wins Nobel Peace Prize

GST Council Approves Major Reforms and Withdrawal of GST Arrest Powers

The GST Council approved major process reforms, including withdrawal of GST arrest powers and raising the prosecution threshold to ₹5 crore. By News National Editorial Team The 57th Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting on October 8 approved a broad package of reforms aimed at simplifying tax administration, reducing compliance burdens and creating a more trust-based GST system. One of the most significant recommendations is the complete withdrawal of GST arrest powers by proposing the omission of Section 69 of the Central GST Act. The Council also recommended increasing the monetary threshold for prosecution from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore. The changes are intended to distinguish serious tax fraud from procedural or lower-value disputes. Faster registration and refunds The Council recommended several measures to make GST registration more automated and reduce unnecessary interaction between taxpayers and tax officials. It proposed clearer documentation requirements, improved online forms and a more user-friendly GST portal. Refund processing is also set for changes. The recommendations include automatic sanction of eligible excess cash-ledger refunds and reducing the period for issuing an acknowledgement or deficiency memo from 15 days to 10 days. Relief for smaller taxpayers The Council also proposed late-fee relief for smaller taxpayers under specified conditions and changes intended to reduce the cost of accessing appeals. Several measures concern input tax credit, exports, e-commerce suppliers and movement of goods. For e-way bills, the Council recommended that interception of goods vehicles should generally be based on specific intelligence and authorised at a senior level. What businesses should know The reforms could reduce administrative friction for companies, exporters, small businesses and other GST-registered taxpayers. However, the recommendations are not automatically law simply because the Council approved them. The government will need to make the relevant statutory amendments, notifications or circulars for the measures to take legal effect. Sources PIB — Government releases and GST Council recommendations Reuters — India eases punitive rules under GST regime Indian Express — GST Council meeting and reforms

BRS Plans Hyderabad Protest on October 10 Over Election Commission

Telangana's BRS plans a Hyderabad protest on October 10, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. By News National Editorial Team The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has announced plans to hold a protest in Hyderabad on October 10, 2026, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid continuing political opposition to voter-list revisions. The planned demonstration comes as controversy over the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision exercise continues in several parts of India. Opposition parties have questioned how names have been added to or removed from electoral rolls and have called for greater transparency in the process. Telangana Today listed the BRS protest among the state's leading political developments on October 9. The party's planned action reflects a wider political dispute over the revision exercise and the responsibilities of election authorities. The key issue is whether the electoral-roll process has been conducted accurately, transparently and in accordance with election rules. Allegations by political parties should be distinguished from verified findings. Assessing individual cases requires official voter records, documented objections and information about available appeals. The protest could affect traffic and public movement in parts of Hyderabad, depending on the location, size and route of the gathering. Residents should monitor local police advisories for any restrictions or diversions. The planned demonstration also illustrates how electoral administration has become a major political issue ahead of future contests. The credibility of the process depends not only on accurate voter lists but also on public access to corrections and effective remedies for eligible voters whose details are disputed. Sources: Telangana Today — Latest Telangana news

Delhi Traffic Alert Diversions Announced for October 10 Protest

Delhi Traffic Police announced possible diversions across key roads on October 10 as security preparations continue ahead of a planned Jantar Mantar protest. By News National Editorial Team Delhi Traffic Police Warns of Diversions Across Central Delhi New Delhi, October 10, 2026: Motorists in the national capital have been advised to plan their journeys carefully as Delhi Traffic Police prepares for possible traffic diversions connected with a planned protest at Jantar Mantar. The official traffic advisory, dated October 9, states that vehicle movement may be affected on designated stretches of Delhi on October 10, depending on the prevailing law-and-order situation. Diversions were scheduled to begin at 6 am, with traffic personnel expected to adjust arrangements as circumstances change. Areas around Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street, Connaught Place and government buildings in central New Delhi may experience restrictions or delays. Previous reporting by the Times of India identified several locations where diversions could affect motorists, including Mandi House, Dhaula Kuan, Jhandewalan and sections around Connaught Place. The planned protest concerns allegations relating to electoral-roll revisions and demands directed at Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Delhi Police denied permission for the demonstration and said preventive measures were necessary to manage public safety, traffic and public order. The Supreme Court separately questioned broad restrictions affecting Metro and railway services, emphasising that transport should be regulated proportionately rather than brought to a complete halt. The court proceedings and revised Metro plan may influence how authorities manage access and movement during the day. Commuters travelling to offices, hospitals, railway stations or commercial areas should allow additional time and follow traffic signs and instructions from police personnel. Where possible, motorists should check live traffic information before leaving and avoid entering restricted stretches without a necessary reason. The traffic advisory remains dependent on real-time conditions. Routes that are open at one point may be diverted if crowd movement or security requirements change. Residents should therefore rely on current official updates rather than old social media messages or unverified lists of road closures. Delhi Traffic Police has published the advisory through its official website. Travellers can check the latest notice at https://traffic.delhipolice.gov.in/en/news-alertadvisory/advisory or contact the traffic helpline at 1095. Sources: Delhi Traffic Police official advisory: https://traffic.delhipolice.gov.in/en/%F0%9F%9A%A8traffic-advisory-view-cjp-protest-%F0%9F%9A%8C The Times of India: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/delhi-traffic-police-issues-advisory-ahead-of-october-10-protests-check-affected-routes/articleshow/134839256.cms Update note: Confirm current road restrictions and diversions through the official traffic advisory before publication.

Pending Dues of Retired RTC Workers Must Be Released Immediately

Pending Dues of Retired RTC Workers Must Be Released Immediately, Unanimous Demand at “Chalo Indra Park” Demanding the immediate release of pending dues and other legitimate benefits owed to retired workers of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC), who served the organisation for several years before retirement, the Bahujan Workers Union (BWU), affiliated with the Telangana Rajyadhikara Party (TRP), organised a “Chalo Indra Park” programme on Saturday at the Indra Park Dharna Chowk in Hyderabad under the leadership of BWU Greater Hyderabad Zone Honorary President Shri TVR.   Shri Teenmaar Mallanna (MLC) & President Telangana Rajyadhikara Party (TRP) attended the programme as the "Chief Guest", while Amjed Ullah Khan (Spokesman) Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT) and Shri Devulla Sammaiah (Founder President of BC Federal Front) attended as distinguished guests. They addressed the thousands of retired RTC workers who participated in the programme and assured them of their support. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Teenmaar Mallanna (MLC) said it was unfortunate that RTC workers, who had played a crucial role in the movement for the achievement of Telangana State, were now forced to sit under tents at Indra Park Dharna Chowk and fight for their hard-earned dues accumulated during their lifetime of service.He said the government and the RTC management must seriously consider the situation of retired workers who are being subjected to difficulties by not being paid their pending dues.He stated that the Bahujan Workers Union, affiliated with the TRP, had come forward to fight solely for the welfare of workers.Shri Teenmaar Mallanna assured that during the upcoming Monsoon Legislative Council sessions, he would raise the issue of the pending dues of retired RTC workers, bring it to the attention of the government, and make every effort for the release of their dues.   Shri Amjed Ullah Khan (Spokesman) MBT, while addressing the dharna, said that the government must immediately address the major demands of RTC employees and retired workers.He demanded that the pending dues of retired employees, amounting to Rs. 800 crore, be cleared immediately. He also demanded that the pending Dearness Allowance (DA) from 2017 to 2021, amounting to Rs. 400 crore, be released immediately to the employees.He further pointed out that the benefits of employees who were forced to opt for VRS (Voluntary Retirement Scheme) are still pending, and demanded that all such pending benefits be cleared without any further delay.Shri Amjed Ullah Khan said that the Telangana Rajyadhikara Party has been continuously fighting on public issues and that MBT would stand together with TRP in every good initiative undertaken for the people.He stated that they would consider every problem faced by RTC workers as their own and announced that whenever a call is given for achieving the legitimate demands of retired workers, MBT would stand with them and extend its full support.   Shri TVR (Honarary President BWU Greater Hyderabad Zone) said that the union would continue to intensify its struggle in coordination with union leaders and retired workers’ associations until the pending dues of retired RTC workers are fully released.He urged the government and the RTC management to find a solution to the issue at the earliest possible opportunity.He assured the retired workers, saying, “Do not lose heart. The Bahujan Workers Union will stand by you in the fight for your legitimate rights.” “Pay Our Dues While We Are Still Alive”   Thousands of retired RTC workers who participated in the programme raised slogans in one voice, demanding, “Pay our dues while we are still alive.” Their slogans reverberated across the Indra Park Dharna Chowk premises.They urged the government to stop delaying the payment of their pending dues and immediately release the amounts owed to them for their years of service to the RTC organisation. Retired workers’ association leaders, along with BWU State Chairman Shri Sampath Mudiraj, State President Shri Sajid Mohammed, State General Secretary Shri Suddala Suresh, State Vice-Presidents Shri Kumar Kurma and Shri Srinivas, Publicity Secretary Suresh, BWU State leader Shri Srinivas, as well as BWU Retired Wing members Giri, Mahesh, Nageshwar Rao, SAVN Rao, Renuka Chari, and others participated in the programme.A large number of retired depot managers, supervisors and RTC workers who had retired from various positions attended the programme and made it a success.  

Andhra Pradesh Approves Policy to Attract Foreign Universities

Andhra Pradesh Cabinet approved a 2026 policy to attract foreign universities and private institutions, expanding global education opportunities Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Approves Policy to Attract Foreign Universities By News National Editorial Team The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has approved a new policy aimed at attracting foreign higher educational institutions and leading private universities to establish campuses in the state. The policy, approved under the Andhra Pradesh Policy for Promotion of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions and Private Universities, 2026, is intended to expand access to international-standard education within Andhra Pradesh. Focus on global education The state government says the policy will encourage international academic partnerships, research, innovation and investment. The objective is also to give students more opportunities to access global-standard education without having to travel abroad for every higher-education programme. The government expects the policy to help strengthen Andhra Pradesh's higher-education ecosystem. Other Cabinet decisions The Cabinet also approved measures relating to the Thalliki Vandanam scheme, welfare education and student support. An additional 58,601 students are expected to be brought under the scheme, according to the state government. The Cabinet also approved a Centre of Excellence at the AP Tribal Welfare Residential School at Marikavalasa in Visakhapatnam, aimed at providing residential coaching for IIT-JEE and NEET to tribal intermediate students. A 10% increase in monthly diet charges for students staying in welfare hostels and residential institutions was also approved. Sources New Indian Express — Andhra Pradesh foreign university policy

CJP Rally Row Grows Over Voter-List Revisions

Delhi Police denied permission for a planned CJP protest over voter-list revisions as security preparations and legal scrutiny intensified. By News National Editorial Team A political protest planned in New Delhi for October 10 has triggered a dispute over electoral-roll revisions, police restrictions and the right to peaceful assembly. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), along with student groups and opposition supporters, has called for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to resign over concerns surrounding the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists. Delhi Police has denied permission for the proposed gathering at Jantar Mantar. The controversy centres on the removal of names from electoral rolls during the voter-verification exercise. Reuters reported, citing Election Commission data, that approximately 130 million names had been removed during the exercise, including entries relating to people who had moved, could not be traced or were reported dead. The overall figure does not by itself establish that all removals were incorrect. Opposition parties have questioned the process and alleged that it could unfairly affect eligible voters, while the BJP and the Election Commission have rejected claims of election manipulation. CJP said it intended to proceed with its protest despite the denial of permission. Authorities cited concerns about public order and compliance with protest procedures. The dispute prompted heightened security preparations across the capital, with barricades and restrictions affecting movement in some areas. Reports also described the detention or interception of some activists travelling towards Delhi; the circumstances and numbers should be confirmed through official records before more specific claims are published. The issue reached the Supreme Court, which questioned whether broad restrictions on public transport were proportionate. The court’s intervention focused on balancing security requirements with the public’s access to essential services. It also asked authorities to consider whether an alternative venue with suitable facilities should be designated for peaceful demonstrations. The court’s directions should not be interpreted as granting permission for the proposed CJP gathering at Jantar Mantar. The developments highlight a wider challenge for democratic institutions: how to address election-related grievances while maintaining public order and protecting the rights of commuters and peaceful demonstrators. The key questions are whether voter-list concerns receive transparent review, whether restrictions remain proportionate and whether future protests can be managed without unnecessary disruption. As of the reports reviewed for this article, the planned gathering’s final outcome had not been independently confirmed. Readers should look for subsequent statements from Delhi Police, the Election Commission and the Supreme Court before drawing conclusions about what happened on the day. Sources: Reuters · Hindustan Times · The Indian Express

Indian Stock Market Rebounds as IT Shares Rise After TCS Results

India's Sensex and Nifty rebounded on October 9 as IT shares gained following TCS results, while oil prices and economic uncertainty remained concerns. By News National Editorial Team Indian stock markets rebounded on Friday, October 9, recovering from an extended period of losses as information technology shares gained following quarterly results from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The Nifty 50 rose 1.3% to close at 22,520.45, while the BSE Sensex advanced 1.23% to 72,472.33, according to Reuters. The recovery helped both benchmarks finish the week higher, although investor sentiment remained cautious. IT stocks were among the main contributors to the market's gains. TCS results highlighted contributions from artificial intelligence-related business and international operations, giving investors reasons to reassess growth prospects in the technology sector. However, the recovery does not necessarily signal a sustained market rally. Higher crude oil prices, concerns about inflation and uncertainty over monetary policy continued to influence investor decisions. Reuters reported that crude prices had risen to around $103 a barrel amid tensions in the Gulf region. For Indian investors, the coming weeks may depend on corporate earnings, global oil prices, foreign investment flows and expectations for economic growth. A prolonged rise in energy prices could increase costs for fuel-importing India and put pressure on companies with limited ability to pass expenses to customers. Market participants should distinguish between a short-term rebound and a longer-term improvement in business conditions. Individual shares can also move differently from benchmark indices, depending on earnings, valuations and company-specific developments. Sources: Reuters — Indian shares rebound after extended losses

INDIA Bloc Intensifies Protest Against CEC Gyanesh Kumar

INDIA bloc parties intensified protests against CEC Gyanesh Kumar over voter-list revision, while the Election Commission rejects opposition allegations. INDIA Bloc Intensifies Protest Against CEC Over Voter-List Revision By News National Editorial Team The opposition INDIA bloc intensified its campaign on October 8, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and continuing its objections to voter-list revision. Security was strengthened around Delhi's Jantar Mantar as opposition MPs and leaders prepared for a major demonstration. The dispute centres on allegations concerning the electoral-roll revision process and the opposition's wider concerns over what it describes as irregularities in voter lists. Opposition demands action Opposition leaders have accused the Election Commission of failing to adequately address their concerns and have used the slogan of “vote chori” during protests. The Election Commission has rejected the allegations and has separately clarified its protocol for meetings with political delegations. The Commission has said that no political party had formally sought an appointment before a specified time during the earlier dispute. Political confrontation continues The protests represent another escalation in the political confrontation between opposition parties and the election authorities. The issue is significant because electoral-roll accuracy is directly connected with voter participation and election credibility. At the same time, allegations made by political parties should not be treated as established facts unless independently verified or confirmed through an authoritative investigation. The continuing dispute is expected to remain a major political issue as parties debate voter-list revision, electoral safeguards and the role of the Election Commission. Sources Indian Express — October 8 India news and opposition protest Election Commission/PIB releases

US Green Card Suspension Impact on Indian IT Professionals

The US suspended PERM processing for eight tech companies. India criticised the move as concerns grow for Indian IT professionals. By News National Editorial Team Date: October 9, 2026 The United States has suspended new and pending applications under its employment-based Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) programme for eight major technology companies, including Indian IT firms Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, Wipro, HCLTech and Cognizant. The move has raised concerns about permanent residency options for Indian technology professionals working in the United States. The other companies named in reports of the suspension are Capgemini, Microsoft and Adobe. US officials have cited alleged misuse of the programme and concerns about protecting American workers. These are government allegations; they should not be presented as proven wrongdoing by every affected company. What Does the Suspension Mean? PERM is a labour-certification step used in many employer-sponsored green card applications. Employers generally need to demonstrate that qualified US workers are not available for the relevant job under the applicable rules and that employing a foreign worker will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed US workers. The suspension prevents the affected companies from submitting new PERM applications or having pending applications processed under the action. It does not mean that every immigration application filed by these companies has been suspended. PERM is also distinct from the H-1B temporary work visa programme. The suspension does not, by itself, cancel existing H-1B visas or green cards, although it may delay the permanent-residency process for eligible employees. Why Indian IT Professionals Are Concerned For some Indian professionals, employer-sponsored permanent residency is an important part of their long-term plans in the United States. A delay in PERM processing could affect the next steps in their immigration cases and make it harder to plan their future employment and residence. The consequences will vary according to each person's visa status, application stage and eligibility for other immigration options. Employees should not assume that their current status has been cancelled or that every route to permanent residency is closed. Those with pending cases or approaching visa limits should seek advice from a qualified US immigration attorney. India Criticises the US Decision India's Ministry of External Affairs said on October 9 that the US measures do not advance the shared ambitions of the two countries. It emphasised that the movement of skilled professionals benefits both economies through innovation, research, productivity, competitiveness and job creation. The ministry also criticised US Vice President JD Vance's description of foreign workers as “foreign indentured servants,” calling the terminology deeply offensive because of its historical and colonial connotations. The response reflects India's concern about the treatment of its skilled workforce and the importance of talent mobility to India-US economic cooperation. TCS said it did not expect the suspension to affect its workforce strategy or customer engagements. The company reiterated its plan to hire 15,000 workers in the United States over the next five years and said its PERM applications had been in single digits over the previous two years. Microsoft also rejected the suggestion that its hiring practices involved the alleged misuse described by US officials. It said around 80% of its approximately 6,000 H-1B applications in the previous fiscal year related to extending or changing the status of existing employees. It added that the remaining applications concerned people already legally in the United States, with new hires through those applications representing about 1% of its US workforce. These are company statements and should be distinguished from the US government's allegations and investigations. The immediate questions concern how long the suspension will remain in place, how pending applications will be handled and whether the affected companies will be able to resume PERM processing. The decision highlights the tension between US efforts to protect domestic employment and the technology industry's reliance on international expertise. For Indian professionals, the practical effects will depend on the implementation of the suspension and their individual immigration circumstances. For India and the United States, the challenge will be to address labour-market concerns while preserving the skilled talent exchanges that support business, research and innovation. Sources Reuters — US PERM green card programme suspension News on AIR — Suspension affecting eight major technology companies The Indian Express — India's response to the US decision The Economic Times — TCS and Microsoft responses

India Ends Special IGST Exemption for Banks Importing Gold and Silver

India has ended a special IGST exemption for banks importing precious metals, aiming to align tax treatment across import channels. By News National Editorial Team India has ended a special tax exemption previously available to banks importing gold, silver and platinum, bringing their import tax treatment into line with other routes used to bring precious metals into the country. Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava said banks had been paying 3% integrated goods and services tax (IGST) on imports of these metals since April 1, 2026. The government informed the GST Council about the change, according to Reuters. The earlier exemption had been introduced in 2017. Since then, India's bullion market has developed, including through formal trading platforms such as the India International Bullion Exchange in GIFT City. Importers using bullion exchange routes were subject to customs duty and 3% IGST, creating a difference in tax treatment compared with banks. The government said the change was intended to ensure tax parity between the different import channels. The 3% IGST is generally available as input tax credit when eligible banks supply the imported metals to domestic jewellers or trading units. This means the tax paid upfront should not automatically be interpreted as a permanent 3% cost increase for banks that can claim the credit in full. The policy change may affect import procedures and working-capital timing, but its broader impact will depend on how the tax credit operates in individual transactions and on market conditions. Gold and silver prices are also influenced by international bullion prices, currency movements, import duties, domestic demand and investor sentiment. Consumers should not assume that the tax change alone will cause retail prices to rise or fall by a fixed amount. Sources: Reuters — India withdraws bank tax benefit on precious-metal imports; Moneycontrol — Banks paying 3% IGST on gold imports