By Harish Thapar , 19 March 2026

Agilisium has announced a strategic investment of Rs. 50 crore to drive artificial intelligence adoption across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical technology sectors. The initiative focuses on embedding AI capabilities within enterprise operations through a specialized workforce model known as Forward Deployment Experts (FDX). By reskilling over 1,000 professionals globally, the company aims to bridge the gap between AI potential and real-world implementation.

By Harish Thapar , 19 March 2026

India’s ceramic tile industry is facing renewed financial pressure as geopolitical tensions in West Asia disrupt exports, supply chains, and production economics. The sector, valued at approximately Rs. 53,000 crore, is projected to record a 1–2 percent decline in revenue this fiscal year, marking a second consecutive downturn. Export disruptions—particularly in the Middle East, a key market—have intensified due to logistical bottlenecks and rising freight costs following regional instability.

By Harish Thapar , 18 March 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 March 2026 released the 22nd installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme in Guwahati, Assam, transferring approximately Rs 20,500 crore to over 9.7 crore farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This central sector scheme provides Rs 6,000 annually to landholding farmers, distributed in three equal installments. 

By Neena Sachdeva , 18 March 2026

Bharat Gas customers across India can now book LPG cylinder refills conveniently through multiple digital platforms, eliminating the need to visit gas agencies physically. BPCL, the distributor of Bharat Gas, offers several options including IVRS calls, SMS, WhatsApp, the Bharatgas mobile app, and its official website. Once a booking is made, customers receive an SMS confirmation containing the booking reference and expected delivery schedule.

By Harish Thapar , 18 March 2026

India’s equity markets experienced a turbulent week, with the benchmark BSE Sensex falling 4,354.98 points (5.51%) and the NSE Nifty 50 dropping 1,299.35 points (5.31%). Investor sentiment was dampened by rising crude oil prices, escalating inflation concerns, and geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The combined market capitalisation of India’s top 10 companies shrank by Rs 4.48 lakh crore, with HDFC Bank witnessing a decline of Rs 61,715 crore, making it one of the biggest losers.

By Keshav Sharma , 18 March 2026

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey emphasized the deepening and resilience of India’s capital markets in a media briefing, even as global economic uncertainties continue to influence market dynamics. Pandey urged retail investors to avoid impulsive reactions to short-term fluctuations, emphasizing patience and long-term strategies. 

By Neena Sachdeva , 18 March 2026

India’s basmati rice exports are expected to remain stable in the current and next financial year despite geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Export volumes are projected to grow by up to 2 percent from the 6.06 million tonnes recorded in FY25. While shipments to Iran—traditionally a major buyer—may decline due to regional uncertainties, rising demand from markets such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen is expected to offset the impact. 

By Keshav Sharma , 18 March 2026

Tata Motors has announced a price increase of up to 1.5 percent across its commercial vehicle portfolio, effective April 1. The adjustment reflects rising commodity prices and escalating input costs affecting the automotive manufacturing sector. The extent of the increase will vary depending on model and variant. The move highlights the broader cost pressures facing automakers amid fluctuating raw material prices and supply chain challenges. 

By Harish Thapar , 18 March 2026

India’s banking sector has written off loans worth Rs. 9.75 lakh crore over the past 11 financial years, reflecting a prolonged effort to clean up stressed balance sheets. The write-offs peaked in FY20 at Rs. 1.59 lakh crore before gradually declining to Rs. 47,568 crore in FY25. Financial authorities emphasize that loan write-offs do not absolve borrowers of their repayment obligations; banks continue recovery efforts through legal and asset reconstruction mechanisms. 

By Harish Thapar , 18 March 2026

The Tripura government has announced a 5 percent increase in dearness allowance (DA) for state government employees and pensioners, raising the total DA level to 41 percent. The revised rate will come into effect from April 1 and will benefit more than 1.8 lakh individuals, including over 1.02 lakh employees and 81,000 pensioners. The decision reflects the state’s ongoing effort to narrow the compensation gap between its workforce and central government employees. However, the move will also place an additional fiscal burden of approximately Rs.