Commenting on the Union Budget 2026, Mr. Gaurav Pandey, Co-Chairman, FICCI Committee on Urban Development and Real Estate, and Managing Director & CEO of Godrej Properties, said the budget continues a strong focus on infrastructure-led growth, marked by a record capital expenditure of INR 12.2 lakh crore.
He noted that the sustained emphasis on urban development, connectivity, and city-led growth reflects the government’s long-term vision for economic expansion. Measures such as the Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund, expansion of transport corridors, and support for city economic regions are expected to have a positive impact on real estate demand over the medium term. Mr. Pandey further stated that the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and long-term growth creates a stable macroeconomic foundation, strengthening confidence across sectors and supporting sustained economic expansion.
Indian consumers went on a festive shopping spree this Dhanteras, with total spending crossing ₹1 lakh crore, led by an overwhelming demand for gold and silver despite all-time high prices. According to data released by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), ₹60,000 crore worth of gold and silver was sold — a 25% rise from last year’s Dhanteras.
Gold prices peaked at ₹1,32,000 per 10 grams, a record-high that slightly corrected in major markets like Delhi and Mumbai ahead of the big day. Despite the surge, the gold buying frenzy continued, although volumes dipped 10–15% compared to last year. However, the overall transaction value rose sharply, driven by strategic buyers focused on investment over weight.
Silver proved to be the star of Dhanteras 2025. With prices skyrocketing by nearly 55% year-on-year to ₹1,80,000 per kilogram, demand didn’t wane — in fact, it shifted. Industry data shows a 35–40% increase in silver coin sales, particularly from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, as buyers chose budget-conscious and ceremonial purchases over heavy gold investments. The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) described silver’s rise as a “smart, value-focused investment,” especially for gifting and puja purposes.
Pankaj Arora, National President of the All India Jewellers and Goldsmith Federation, noted an “unprecedented rush” across jewellery markets, particularly in Delhi, where gold and silver sales alone crossed ₹10,000 crore.
Beyond bullion, festive shopping remained upbeat across other segments. Utensils accounted for ₹15,000 crore in sales, while electronics and electrical items saw ₹10,000 crore in purchases. Decorative items and religious materials also contributed an additional ₹3,000 crore.
According to GJC Vice Chairman Avinash Gupta, “Average transaction value rose 20–25% despite volume dips. Most encouraging is the surge in silver coin sales in smaller towns — a reflection of value-seeking, resilient consumers.”
Dhanteras 2025 confirmed that Indian consumers remain deeply committed to tradition, and willing to adapt their buying strategy in response to market trends. Even with volatility in bullion prices, sentiment stayed strong — reaffirming gold and silver’s timeless status as both cultural and economic assets.
India has reported a substantial Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection of ₹1.96 trillion (₹1,96,000 crore), or approximately $22.4 billion, for the month of July 2025. This impressive figure marks one of the highest collections since the introduction of the GST system in 2017.
The robust revenue performance reflects sustained economic activity, increased domestic consumption, and a wider tax base with improved compliance. It also highlights the effectiveness of ongoing measures by the Goods and Services Tax Council and the Ministry of Finance to curb tax evasion and simplify tax processes.
Analysts attribute the rise to enhanced reporting systems, digitization of returns, increased audits, and sectoral reforms that are helping plug revenue leakages.
According to the Ministry of Finance, revenues from domestic transactions—including services and goods—showed notable growth year-on-year, while settlement of IGST among states also contributed to the total inflow.
The GST regime, often regarded as the biggest tax reform in India, was launched to unify the country’s complex indirect tax structure and improve transparency. Over the years, it has emerged as a reliable barometer for India’s formal economic activity.
As the country progresses toward its 2025–26 fiscal goals, consistent GST performance will remain crucial for infrastructure spending, welfare programs, and debt management.
In a significant financial development, Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank) has presented a dividend cheque of ₹325 crore to Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, for the fiscal year 2024-25.
The cheque was handed over by Smt. Harsha Bangari, Managing Director of India Exim Bank, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to financial prudence, profitability, and support for India’s global trade and development finance objectives.
As a premier export credit agency, Exim Bank plays a vital role in enhancing India’s international trade competitiveness. The dividend payout is reflective of the bank’s consistent performance and its role in aiding the country’s economic diplomacy through structured finance, project exports, and development initiatives across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
The Ministry of Finance has appreciated the continued commitment of public sector banks and financial institutions in delivering value to the nation, both in terms of financial contributions and their strategic roles in key sectors.
This substantial dividend follows Exim Bank’s broader mission of strengthening India’s external sector and enhancing the global footprint of Indian businesses.
