Trending News in India: March 2025
India is currently experiencing a dynamic period across various sectors, including economics, finance, technology, and social trends. This comprehensive overview delves into the most significant developments shaping the nation’s landscape as of March 25, 2025.
Economic Developments
India Pursues Historic Trade Deal with the United States
In an effort to avert impending U.S. tariffs of up to 12% on exports such as gems, petroleum, metals, and pharmaceuticals, India is actively negotiating a landmark trade agreement with the United States. The Modi administration has engaged in multiple high-level discussions to finalize this bilateral trade deal before the April 2 deadline. Agriculture remains a contentious area due to its protected status in India. Successfully concluding this agreement is crucial to prevent significant tariffs that could impact India’s fiscal stability and export sector. Concurrently, India is exploring trade negotiations with other nations, including Australia, the UK, and the EU, with the potential U.S. deal serving as a template for future agreements.
Reserve Bank of India’s $10 Billion Forex Swap Oversubscribed
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducted a $10 billion, three-year dollar/rupee buy-sell swap auction aimed at enhancing rupee liquidity within the banking system. The auction witnessed bids exceeding twice the offered amount, with a cut-off rate established at 5.86 rupees. Through this mechanism, the RBI will inject approximately $10.04 billion worth of rupees, with the transaction set to reverse in three years. This initiative is part of the RBI’s broader strategy to address liquidity shortages in the banking sector, which were estimated at 2 trillion rupees ($23.27 billion) as of the previous week.
Financial Sector Updates
SEBI to Review Conflict of Interest Provisions
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced the formation of a committee to reassess conflict of interest regulations for its members. This decision follows allegations against the former chief concerning investigations into the Adani Group. The committee aims to update the 17-year-old guidelines and enhance disclosure requirements for SEBI members. Additionally, SEBI has approved raising the asset threshold for foreign portfolio investors requiring detailed disclosures to 500 billion rupees ($5.84 billion) and introduced stricter rules for senior positions within market institutions.
Bank of America Appoints New India Country Head
Bank of America is set to appoint Vikram Sahu as the new country executive for its India operations. Currently leading global equity research in New York, Sahu will succeed Kaku Nakhate, who has helmed the bank’s India operations for 15 years. Sahu is expected to relocate to India in the second quarter to assume his new role, pending approval from the Reserve Bank of India.
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Market Movements
Power Grid Corporation Outperforms Market
Shares of Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. experienced a 3.14% increase, reaching 291.90 Indian rupees. This performance outpaced the broader BSE SENSEX Index, which rose by 1.40% to 77,984.38. Despite this uptick, Power Grid Corp.’s share price remains 20.29% below its 52-week peak of 366.20 rupees recorded on September 25th. Competitors displayed mixed results, with Tata Power Co. Ltd. rising by 1.00% and Gujarat Industries Power Co. Ltd. climbing by 3.22%.
Asian Paints Records Modest Gains
Asian Paints (India) Ltd. shares increased by 0.95% to 2,322.00 Indian rupees, underperforming the broader market. The BSE SENSEX Index saw a 1.40% rise to 77,984.38 during the same session. Asian Paints remains 31.59% below its 52-week high of 3,394.00 rupees achieved on September 16th. Competitors had varied performances, with Shalimar Paints Ltd. rising by 1.22% and Akzo Nobel India Ltd. decreasing by 0.64%.
Technological Advancements
Surge in Digital Transactions and Associated Scams
India’s rapid adoption of digital payments has led to widespread use across various sectors, from street vendors to service providers. However, this surge has also resulted in an increase in digital financial crimes. The finance ministry reported a significant rise in high-value cyber fraud cases, with scammers employing advanced techniques such as artificial intelligence and deepfake technology. While awareness campaigns and regulatory measures are underway, experts advocate for enhanced cybersecurity protocols and stricter regulations to combat these sophisticated scams.
India’s Transition to 5G-Enabled Smart Cars
India is poised to fully embrace 5G-enabled “smart cars” by 2025, integrating artificial intelligence and cloud connectivity across various vehicle segments. This shift is driven by consumer demand for enhanced features and experiences, positioning India as a potential global leader in the 5G machine-to-machine (M2M) market. Major manufacturers are already incorporating advanced technologies, making previously luxurious features standard in upcoming vehicles.
Rising Onion Prices Impact Households
Onion prices in Trending News in India have surged to Rs 70-80 per kilogram, straining household budgets and causing distress among consumers. Vendors attribute the price hike to inflation and increased sourcing costs, while consumers express concerns about the affordability of this essential ingredient. Despite the inflated prices, onions remain a staple in Indian cuisine, compelling people to purchase them regardless of the cost.
