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New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): The Government of India has taken a series of targeted reforms to improve trade facilitation and strengthen the functioning of Norms Committees under the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), in line with its broader commitment to Ease of Doing Business for exporters.

Pic Credit: Pexel 

The reforms aim to make decision-making faster, more transparent, and more efficient for export-related processes. By improving the functioning of Norms Committees, the government seeks to reduce delays in approvals and simplify procedural requirements faced by exporters.

These committees play a key role in setting and reviewing input-output norms, which determine the quantity of raw materials required for producing export goods. Streamlining their functioning is expected to help exporters receive quicker clarifications and approvals, thereby improving operational efficiency.

The initiative is also intended to strengthen India’s export ecosystem by reducing compliance burden and improving predictability in trade procedures. This is expected to benefit businesses, especially small and medium exporters, by making processes more responsive and business-friendly.

Overall, the reforms reflect the government’s continued focus on improving trade facilitation, enhancing administrative efficiency, and supporting exporters in accessing global markets more effectively.

New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): The Government of India has announced that more than 55,200 startups were recognised in FY2025–26, marking the highest annual figure since the launch of the Startup India initiative in 2016.

Launched on 16 January 2016, the Startup India programme was designed to build a strong ecosystem for innovation, encourage private investment, and support entrepreneurs through targeted policy measures and financial incentives.

Strong expansion in jobs and ecosystem growth

Since its inception, the initiative has supported the creation of over 2.23 lakh recognised startups as of March 2026, which together have generated more than 23.36 lakh direct jobs across the country.

The latest data shows a sharp year-on-year rise, with startup recognitions increasing by 51.6% compared to FY2024–25. During the same period, direct employment generated by startups rose by 36.1%, reflecting their growing contribution to India’s job market.

Startups are now present across all States and Union Territories, with major hubs including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Gujarat leading in both startup numbers and employment generation.

Women-led participation and inclusivity

The ecosystem has also become more inclusive, with over 1.07 lakh startups having at least one woman director or partner, accounting for nearly 48% of all recognised startups, highlighting increasing participation of women in entrepreneurship.

State-wise startup distribution highlights

Leading states continue to dominate the startup landscape:

• Maharashtra leads with over 38,000 startups
• Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh each have over 21,000 startups
• Delhi and Gujarat also remain key innovation hubs

These states also account for a large share of employment generated by startups, reinforcing regional centres of innovation.

Government support and funding push

The government continues to strengthen the ecosystem through flagship schemes such as:

• Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS)
• Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
• Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)

Under FFS, over ₹7,000 crore has been disbursed to Alternative Investment Funds, which have further invested in more than 1,420 startups. A new expanded fund with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore has also been introduced to sustain long-term startup financing.

Under SISFS, over ₹605 crore has been approved for more than 3,400 startups, while CGSS has facilitated loans worth over ₹1,250 crore to improve access to credit for emerging businesses.

Innovation and intellectual property growth

Startup-led innovation has also accelerated significantly, with more than 19,400 patent applications filed. Patent filings have seen strong growth, rising sharply in FY2025–26 compared to the previous year, reflecting increasing focus on technology and intellectual property creation.

Outlook

The rapid expansion of India’s startup ecosystem underscores its growing role as a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and employment generation. With continued policy support and rising entrepreneurial activity, startups are increasingly shaping India’s transition toward a knowledge-driven and innovation-led economy.

Amity University Uttar Pradesh Noida campus organized a Panel Discussion on “Nari Shakti Vandan Act 2023: Road Map for Women’s Political Representation in India”, as part of the awareness campaign on the “Nari Shakti Vandan Act 2023” (Women’s Reservation Bill, 2023). 

Addressing the gathering during the Panel Discussion, Ms Kummu Joshi Bhatnagar, Chairperson, Mohan Chandra Joshi Industries, Founder and President at Jagriti Leela Memorial Foundation, averred, “The Act recognizes the role of women and is a great step towards women empowerment. This is one of the most important decisions of the 21st century with the provision of giving 33 percent reservation to women in the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and Vidhan Sabha., which is crucial to increase the participation of Indian women in politics. The Act will come into force after the new delimitation, under which the participation of women in local bodies will increase, all political parties will have to give tickets to 33 percent women, along with organizing more training programs for young and aspiring women. This Act will bring balance in the political system, including steps towards inclusive democracy and the development of the country.”

Dr Seema Nath, Assistant professor, Computer Science, Vivekananda College, University of Delhi, said, “The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam 2023 is a historic step that will enhance women’s participation in democracy. Educational institutions should inform girl students about their constitutional rights, honour women scholars and alumni and promote women leadership. Students must cast their vote and should be aware of their constitutional rights. In addition, they must come forward and work for the society.”

Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Bansal, Addl. Pro Vice Chancellor, said, “The Act represents a meaningful step towards advancing women’s empowerment and encouraging their active participation in nation-building. At Amity, women leadership is always promoted and more than 50% of the Head of Institutions and faculty members are women.”

Ms Sejal Jhakmola, Senior Policy Associate, Manthan, stated, “Women are not given their due in many places, specially in the rural areas and even today, the concept of Sarpanch Pati is prevalent in many rural areas, where all the decisions of the female Sarpanch are taken by her husband. It must be ensured that the avenues open to women under this Act increase their participation in the decision-making process. Today, the share of women in Parliament is 10 to 15 per cent, which needs to be increased. The country can become develop when women participation increases in various areas and they play their role as  policy-makers.” 

Welcoming the guest, Prof. (Dr.) Laxmi Ahuja, Officiating Dean Students Welfare, AUUP, said, “The Panel Discussion will help in promoting awareness and understanding of the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act and highlight its significance in strengthening women’s political representation in India.”

New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): Gold demand in India is expected to remain resilient ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, supported by cultural traditions, shifting consumer preferences, and continued interest in precious metals as a safe-haven asset amid global uncertainty.

The outlook comes as gold prices have risen significantly over the past year, with industry estimates indicating an increase of around 14–16% year-to-date and a much sharper rise compared to the same festive period last year. Despite higher prices, demand has not weakened, but has instead adjusted in form and buying patterns.

Market participants note that Akshaya Tritiya continues to be one of the most important gold-buying occasions in India, symbolising prosperity and long-term value creation. While volatility in global markets has influenced short-term sentiment, periods of price stability and mild corrections are encouraging steady retail participation.

Industry voices highlight a clear shift in consumer behaviour. Traditional jewellery demand remains strong, but buyers are increasingly opting for lightweight jewellery, coins, and bars, where value is closely tied to purity and metal content. Investment demand is also expanding, with growing interest in digital gold and gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), reflecting a more structured approach to wealth creation.

Silver is also gaining attention, supported not only by investment demand but also by industrial usage in sectors such as renewable energy and electronics, adding a new layer of long-term demand strength.

Platforms are also leveraging festive sentiment to engage consumers. Financial services companies such as BharatPe have introduced campaign-based initiatives like the ‘Akshaya Tritiya Gold Mahotsav’, offering rewards and incentives on digital gold purchases, reflecting the increasing digitisation of gold investment.

Experts expect near-term price fluctuations to continue, influenced by global macroeconomic conditions, currency movements, and geopolitical developments. However, the broader outlook for precious metals remains supported by sustained central bank buying, portfolio diversification trends, and gold’s continued role as a hedge against uncertainty.

Overall, the market outlook suggests that while buying patterns are evolving, gold and silver continue to hold a strong position in both cultural and investment portfolios across India.

New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): Jefferies has projected a significant expansion in India’s renewable energy capacity, estimating it could reach around 359 GW between FY25 and FY30. The outlook reflects a growing emphasis on energy security, evolving demand patterns, and continued policy support for clean energy development.

According to the report, India’s power demand is expected to recover strongly, with growth potentially reaching around 6% by FY27, supported by improving industrial activity and broader economic normalization. Seasonal and climatic factors are also expected to influence consumption trends in the coming years.

Weather conditions linked to a likely El Niño phase during the upcoming monsoon season could further impact electricity usage. Lower rainfall typically increases demand from households and agriculture, where electricity is widely used for cooling, irrigation, and pumping activities.

While renewable energy remains a central pillar of India’s long-term energy strategy, the country continues to expand thermal capacity to ensure grid stability and meet rising demand. Additional thermal power projects are planned over the next decade to support a balanced and reliable energy mix.

The report also highlights strong momentum in domestic solar manufacturing, supported by government-led initiatives such as rooftop solar programs and agricultural solar pump schemes. These initiatives are increasing installed capacity while encouraging greater use of locally manufactured components.

Policy measures aimed at strengthening domestic production of key solar materials, including ingots and wafers, are expected to further deepen backward integration in the renewable energy supply chain. However, the capital-intensive nature of these investments may favour companies with strong financial capacity.

Overall, the report suggests that India’s energy transition will be shaped by a combination of rising demand, policy support, manufacturing growth, and the need to maintain energy security in a changing global environment.

New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): India and Austria have jointly introduced a bilateral fast-track mechanism aimed at improving investment flows and strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.

The newly launched system is designed to support businesses and investors by providing a structured platform to address challenges, streamline processes, and enhance the overall ease of doing business. It will enable companies from both countries to raise concerns, seek quicker resolutions, and engage directly with relevant authorities.

The mechanism is expected to reduce procedural delays and create a more efficient and predictable investment environment. It also encourages the exchange of suggestions between the two sides to further improve regulatory frameworks and business conditions.

A fast-track mechanism refers to a dedicated system that accelerates approvals and resolves issues faced by investors in a timely manner. By simplifying procedures and improving coordination, it helps businesses operate more smoothly and with greater confidence.

This initiative marks a significant step toward deepening bilateral economic ties and fostering greater collaboration between businesses in India and Austria.

Apr 18 (BNP): Global financial markets saw a strong upswing after tensions between the United States and Iran showed signs of easing, lifting investor confidence across regions.

Oil prices declined sharply as fears of supply disruptions eased, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global crude shipments. The earlier spike in prices, driven by geopolitical uncertainty, began to reverse as stability returned to the region.

Equity markets responded positively to the development. Major indices in the United States recorded notable gains, with technology and consumer sectors leading the rally. Lower oil prices also raised expectations of reduced inflationary pressure, further supporting market sentiment.

European and Asian markets followed the upward trend, reflecting a broader sense of relief among investors. Sectors sensitive to fuel costs, such as aviation and logistics, performed well, while energy stocks came under pressure due to falling crude prices.

Despite the optimism, market participants remain watchful. The sustainability of the current rally depends on how long the geopolitical calm holds, as any renewed tensions could quickly impact oil prices and global equities.