Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said excise duty on tobacco will replace the GST compensation cess, ensuring no extra tax burden. Forty-one percent of revenue will go to states, maintaining the same tax incidence while supporting state finances post-Covid
The government has tightened import rules for certain platinum jewellery by shifting it from the ‘Free’ to ‘Restricted’ category until April 30, 2026. Importers will now require DGFT licences. Similar curbs were earlier imposed on specific silver jewellery from Thailand
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said India now negotiates trade agreements from a position of strength, focusing on balanced partnerships. Robust foreign reserves, low inflation, and renewable energy targets reinforce the country’s growing global economic confidence and investment attractiveness
RSS leader Ramlal said India can convert the US 50 per cent tariff challenge into an opportunity. He urged self-reliance, adoption of swadeshi products, investor-friendly policies, and stronger law and order to attract industry and boost exports
