Here’s How You Can Avail 50% Tax Deduction for Donating to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir

Donations to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir may qualify for income tax deduction. This is under the old I-T regime. Individuals using the old tax regime can claim up to 50% deduction under Section 80G. This applies when donating to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra. Cash contributions cannot exceed ₹2000. Donations in kind are not eligible for tax exemption.

Eligibility For Donating Based on Trust Website

The Trust website details eligibility. 50% of voluntary contributions are eligible for deduction. This is under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act. This applies only to funds for renovation or repair of the Mandir. Donations for other activities do not qualify. This includes religious events or social welfare initiatives.

Section 80G Provisions

The grand temple was recognised in 2020. It is a historically significant public place of worship. This makes it eligible for deductions under Section 80G (2) sub-clause 9 (b). The Income Tax Act specifies contributions for renovation or repairs. These are notified temples and are eligible for a 50% deduction. This is the net qualifying amount.

Limits on Deductible Amount

The qualifying limit is capped at 10% of the donor’s Adjusted Gross Total Income. Gross total income is calculated after subtracting deductions. This includes Sections 80C to 80U, excluding 80G. It also excludes income subject to capital gains from the GTI.

Mode of Payment Restriction

Section 80G mandates a restriction on the mode of payment. No deduction is allowed for sums exceeding ₹2,000. This applies unless the sum is paid by modes other than cash. This means donations via UPI, cheque, demand draft, NEFT, IMPS are allowed. Cash donations exceeding ₹2,000 are not eligible for deduction.

Conclusion

Donations to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir may offer tax benefits. This is under the old tax regime and Section 80G. Specific conditions apply to eligibility and mode of payment. Understanding these rules is crucial for claiming deductions.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Will the 8th Pay Commission (CPC) Be Applicable to BSNL Employees?

The All India BSNL Pensioners’ Welfare Association (AIBSNLPWA) has requested the government of India to revise BSNL retirees’ pension as per the terms of reference of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC). Past CPC’s recommendations have often been extended to former BSNL employees.

Push for BSNL Employees’ Inclusion in 8th Pay Commission

The AIBSNLPWA has argued that BSNL employees receive pensions in line with the CCS (Pension) Rules, 2021. As per news reports, BSNL employees, especially those retirees who were formerly employed with the Department of Telecommunications, are likely to be covered under the 8th CPC.

8th Pay Commission May Revamp Pay Structure for BSNL Employees

The 8th Pay Commission is gearing up to overhaul the salary structure for all central government employees. A key reform being considered is an update to the Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) scheme. This could potentially grant BSNL employees at least 5 promotions throughout their service.

DA Merger and Interim Relief Demanded

There’s a long-standing request to merge the Dearness Allowance (DA) with the basic salary. Additionally, central government employees are pushing for some form of temporary financial relief to tide them over until the 8th Pay Commission’s recommendations are implemented.

Potential Salary Hike for BSNL Employees

Currently, central government employees’ salaries are determined by the 7th Pay Commission, implemented in 2016. The upcoming 8th Pay Commission will use a ‘fitment factor’ to revise salaries. This factor, which multiplies the current basic pay, is reportedly under consideration to increase from 2.57 to 2.86.

If this happens, the minimum basic pay for BSNL employees at Level 1 could rise from ₹18,000 to ₹51,480. Salary and pension adjustments are expected across all ten levels of employment.

When Can BSNL Employees Expect the 8th Pay Commission?

The 8th Pay Commission, which typically convenes every 10years, is anticipated to be implemented starting January 1, 2026. This commission’s recommendations could potentially benefit roughly 5 million central government employees. This includes around 6.5 million pensioners, and possibly, BSNL employees.

Conclusion

The AIBSNLPWA is demanding the inclusion of BSNL pensioners in the 8th CPC. While not yet confirmed, there’s optimism for their inclusion. This can potentially lead to major revisions in pensions for BSNL employees. The 8th CPC is expected in 2026 and can provide major economic relief for BSNL employees.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Tilaknagar Industries Will Add Amara Artisanal Pink Vodka To Its Distribution Portfolio

Tilaknagar Industries (TI) will distribute AMARA Artisanal Pink Vodka. AMARA is a new spirit from Spaceman Spirits Lab (Spaceman). Spaceman also makes SAMSARA Gin. TI will distribute AMARA via a royalty arrangement. This covers Spaceman brands in India and abroad.

Expanding TI’s Portfolio

AMARA enhances TI’s product range. TI’s brands include Monarch Legacy Edition Brandy. Others are Mansion House Flandy and Courrier Napoleon Brandy. Spaceman’s brands will use TI’s distribution network. These are SAMSARA Gin, SITARA Rum, and AMARA Vodka. This starts in Q1 FY26.

The collaboration will boost Spaceman’s sales. It covers premium craft spirits in India and abroad. TI will expand its luxury portfolio. It will include Brandy, Gin, Rum, and Vodka. This will generate additional business for TI.

Vodka Market Growth in India

India’s vodka consumption surged in 2023. It grew by 16.5%. This significantly outpaced historical trends. Value vodka holds most of the market. Premium and ultra-premium categories are growing fast. Super-premium vodka grew by 19.6% annually. This was from 2022 to 2023.

Market Potential and AMARA’s Positioning

Craft spirits are gaining popularity globally. Flavored craft spirits lead premium market innovations. India is catching up. Younger consumers and urban bars are embracing colorful cocktails. The shift towards premiumization favors AMARA’s launch. AMARA is India’s first artisanal luxury pink vodka. It is positioned in the super-premium category. AMARA will compete with global vodka brands. It aims to be known for smoothness and quality.

Spaceman’s Vision and AMARA’s Unique Features

Consumers seek elevated experiences. They want occasion-driven consumption and unique flavors. They also desire ultra-premium spirits. AMARA brings craftsmanship and innovation to vodka. AMARA is five-times distilled. It is made from Bangalore Blue Grapes and Deccan Plateau rice. It is infused with fruits and floral notes. These include strawberries and rose petals. It undergoes pink ruby filtration. This enhances its brilliance and smoothness.

Pricing and Market Rollout

AMARA is priced between ₹2,500 and ₹4,500. This depends on state taxes. It will be available in select stores and bars. Initial rollout includes Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan will follow. International supplies will start in the second half of FY26. Markets include Global Travel Retail and UAE. UK and Singapore are also included.

Spaceman Spirits Lab and TI’s Investment

Spaceman Spirits Lab is known for innovation. They push boundaries in craft spirits. SAMSARA gin was a success. Spaceman has a reputation for luxury experiences. TI invested in Spaceman in September 2024. The investment was ₹13.15 crore. This will increase TI’s stake to 20%. The investment supports Spaceman’s expansion.

Conclusion

TI will distribute Spaceman’s AMARA vodka. This expands TI’s premium portfolio. AMARA targets the growing premium vodka market. TI’s investment supports Spaceman’s growth.

On Tuesday, March 25, Tilaknagar Industries share price opened at ₹243.50. It fell by 3.22% and closed at ₹243.50 at 3.30 PM on the NSE.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. (write in all articles related to stocks).

Top Gainers and Losers on March 25, 2025: Vinyl Chemicals and HEG Limited Lead Top Gainers

On March 25, 2025, the BSE Sensex was up 0.042% at 78.017.19, while the Nifty 50 was up 0.044% at 23,668.65. The top gainers and losers for the day are:

Top Gainers of the Day

Symbol Open High Low LTP %chng
VINYLINDIA 254.25 303.21 254.25 303.21 20
KEYFINSERV 252 299.37 245.9 299.37 20
HEG 434.6 510.4 433.2 481.65 11.56
MCLOUD 54.5 62 53.7 59.88 9.31
BLUEDART 6,035.85 6,670.00 5,999.90 6,530.00 8.73

Vinyl Chemicals (India) Limited

The share price of Vinyl Chemicals (India) Limited opened at 254.25, reached a high of 303.21, and closed at 303.21, marking a 20% increase in its price.

Keynote Financial Services Limited

Keynote Financial Services Limited opened at 252, hit a high of 299.37, and closed at 299.37, showing a 20% rise in its price.

HEG Limited

HEG Limited’s share opened at 434.6, touched a high of 510.4, and closed at 481.65, reflecting an 11.56% increase.

Magellanic Cloud Limited

Magellanic Cloud Limited opened at 54.5, reached a high of 62, and closed at 59.88, showing a 9.31% increase.

Blue Dart Express Limited

Blue Dart Express Limited opened at 6,035.85, reached a high of 6,670.00, and closed at 6,530.00.

Top Losers of the Day

Symbol Open High Low LTP %chng
NAGREEKEXP 31.98 32 26.6 26.6 -14.17
MADHAV 47 50.9 41.65 41.65 -11.1
SARDAEN 535.3 537.65 475.2 477 -10.82
KESORAMIND 5.47 5.47 5.47 5.47 -10.03
KIRLPNU 1,374.10 1,374.10 1,226.15 1,236.90 -10.03

Nagreek Express Limited

Nagreek Express Limited opened at 31.98, reached a high of 32, and closed at 26.6, reflecting a significant decline of 14.17%.

Madhav Marbles & Granites Limited

Madhav opened at 47, hit a high of 50.9, and closed at 41.65, showing a drop of 11.1%.

Sarda Energy & Minerals Limited

Sarda Energy & Minerals opened at 535.3, peaked at 537.65, and closed at 477, marking a decrease of 10.82%.

Kesoram Industries Limited

Kesoram Industries opened, reached the high, and closed all at 5.47, indicating a 10.03% decline.

Kirlokhari Pnu Limited

Kirlokhari Pnu opened at 1,374.10, hit a high of 1,374.10, and closed at 1,236.90, showing a 10.03% decrease.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

 

Varun Beverages Announces Record Date for Dividend Distribution: Check Details Here!

Varun Beverages share price gained attention during early trading hours today. The company has fixed Friday, April 4, 2025, as the record date for dividend distribution. News reports suggest that the company will offer a final dividend of ₹0.50 per share. This is for the year ending of December 2024. The face value of each share is ₹2.

Varun Beverages Share Performance and Trading Volume

In today’s trading session, Varun Beverages share price surged slightly. It was up 0.07% at ₹531.45 on BSE. Its turnover reached ₹4.48 crore. The stock has risen notably from its 52-week low. It rose 26.60% from ₹419.40 on March 3, 2025.

Dividend Approval and Payment Details

As per news reports, the Board of Directors finalised the record date today via a circular resolution at 9:42 AM. The AGM for approval of the final dividend is scheduled for Thursday, April 3, 2025. Payment will likely begin on Monday, April 7, 2025.

The record date is set to fix the eligibility of shareholders for dividend receipt. The dividend will be paid to those shareholders who are listed on the company’s records and depository lists before April 4, 2025.

Strong Financial Results for Q4 2024

Varun Beverages witnessed a notable growth in net profits. The company’s net profits rose by 40.3% during the December 2024 quarter. It jumped to ₹185.1 crore from ₹131.9 crore in Q4 2023.

Its revenue from operations also surged by 40.3% from ₹2,731 crore to ₹3,818 crore. EBITDA also grew by 38.7% to ₹580 crore. This is a significant increase from ₹418 crore in Q4 of FY 2023.

About Varun Beverages

Varun Beverages is a major beverage company that operates as PepsiCo’s franchisee. It produces and distributes a wide range of beverages. This includes carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) and non-carbonated beverages (NCBs). It also produces packaged drinking water brought under PepsiCo trademarks.

Conclusion

Varun Beverages has announced April 4, 2025 as the dividend record date. The company has reported strong quarterly financial results. Its share price has exhibited a modest increase. The company is a major operator in India’s beverage industry.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. (write in all articles related to stocks).

JTL Installs New Tech for Steel Tube Production in Maharashtra

JTL Industries has deployed Direct Forming Technology (DFT) at its production facility in Mangaon, Maharashtra. This upgrade will significantly enhance its existing steel tube production capacity. DFT will accelerate the direct creation of various hollow section sizes without requiring roll changes. This will speed up production by eliminating setup time.

Benefits of DFT to JTL Industries

Unlike traditional methods, DFT relies on computerised automation. This accelerates production time while ensuring better precision. It also minimises material wastage and facilitates cost-cutting. With the installation of DFT, JTL will now be able to produce high-strength steel tubes and profiles for both domestic and international markets.

Expanded Product Range and Reduced Downtime

As per news reports, DFT will expand JTL’s existing product range from 1,200 to 2,000 SKUs. The facility will now produce larger rectangular and square tubes with higher material thickness. The adoption of DFT by JTL is estimated to reduce its downtime by 33% and cut associated costs by 25%.

Financials of JTL Industries 

Over the past 3years, JTL Industries has recorded a 77.69% profit growth. It has also recorded a revenue growth of 67.29%. It has also maintained an ROE (return on equity) of 35.78% and has reduced its debt by ₹85.05 crore. However, it has reported negative cash flow from operations.

About JTL Industries 

JTL Industries Limited is a part o f the Jagan Group. It was founded in 1991 as a maker of ERW Black Pipes. It is based in Chandigarh and has 4 manufacturing plants across India. It produces galvanised steel pipes, solar mounting structures, and large steel tubes.

JTL Industries boasts a manufacturing capacity of over 586,000 MTPA. It serves all of India and exports to over 20 countries. With a wide product range, a skilled workforce, and a large dealer network, JTL is recognised as a Star Export House and holds ISO 9001:2015 certification.

As of 2.34 PM on March 25, JTL Industries share price was down 3.69% and was trading at ₹79.94 on the NSE. It closed at ₹79.50 at 3.30 PM.

Conclusion

JTL Industries has installed an advanced technology at its Managoin steel tube production plant in Maharashtra. This will enhance its production capacity and existing product range. However, its share price declined by 3.69% today.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

How Much Will You Take Home Monthly If Your CTC Is 10 LPA?

A job offer boasting a ₹10 lakh annual salary will certainly take you over the moon. However, it’s still vital to understand how much of that translates into your actual monthly paycheck. To plan your finances effectively, let’s break down the different parts of your salary and estimate what you’ll be taking home each month.

Understand Your Salary Structure

Your total compensation package is known as CTC (Cost to Company). It is made up of various elements. These can include your base pay, HRA (for accommodation), gratuity, special allowance, medical allowance, insurance coverage, bonuses, and contributions towards your Provident Fund (PF), among other things.

However, the entire CTC amount doesn’t land in your bank account each month. Several deductions, such as contributions to your EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund), professional taxes, and income taxes, will be subtracted from this total.

Figuring Out Your Actual Paycheck

To understand what you’ll actually receive each month, follow these straightforward steps to calculate your take-home, also known as in-hand or net salary.

Step 1: Calculate Your Gross Salary

Gross Salary = CTC (Cost to Company) – (Your EPF Contribution + Gratuity Amount)

Step 2: Determine Your Taxable Income

Taxable Income = Gross Salary + Income from Other Sources – Deductions

To arrive at your taxable income, subtract various allowances (like HRA, LTA, and conveyance), professional tax, medical expenses, insurance premiums, and your tax-saving investments from your gross salary. This will give you your basic monthly salary.

Understanding Income for Tax 

When calculating income tax, remember to include earnings from all sources, such as:

  • Your regular salary from your employer
  • Profits from selling shares or property (capital gains)
  • Income from any house property you own (like rent or interest paid on a home loan)
  • Income from your own business or profession
  • Other income sources (like interest from savings accounts, fixed deposits, or bonds)

Common Deductions

  • House Rent Allowance (HRA): You can significantly reduce your taxable income based on your rent and where you live. The exempt amount is the lowest of: the HRA you received, the rent you paid minus 10% of your basic salary, or 50% of your basic salary if you reside in a metro city (like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkata), but only 40% if you live in a non-metro city. This difference reflects the higher cost of living and rental expenses typically found in major metropolitan areas, directly impacting your potential savings.
  • Standard Deduction: A fixed deduction of ₹50,000 is available each year. This replaces the previous transport and medical allowances.
  • Leave Travel Allowance (LTA):You can claim LTA for domestic travel twice within 4 years, as long as you provide valid bills.
  • Other Salary Components:Certain parts of your salary, like medical reimbursements and telephone bill reimbursements, might also be exempt from tax.

Final Monthly In-Hand Salary Calculation

Below is a structured salary breakdown based on the estimated calculations.

Component Amount (₹)
Cost to Company (CTC) 10,00,000
Bonus Included in CTC 1,00,000
Monthly Deductions Professional Tax: 100

Employer PF: 4,500

Employee PF: 4,500

Total Monthly Deductions 9,100
Total Annual Deductions 1,09,200
Net Take-Home Monthly 74,233
Net Take-Home Annual 8,90,800

Keep in mind that this salary breakdown is a general illustration. Your actual take-home pay will differ due to company-specific policies and deductions for things like income tax. Furthermore, your choice between the new tax regime (with potentially lower rates but fewer exemptions) and the old tax regime (with potentially higher rates but more available deductions) will significantly affect your final paycheck.

Conclusion

While a 10 LPA CTC initially seems substantial, after accounting for deductions, the estimated monthly in-hand salary is around ₹74,233. However, it’s crucial to remember that individual factors and company rules can greatly influence this amount. For a precise understanding of your salary structure and deductions, always consult with a financial advisor and carefully examine your offer letter.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

EPF Payments: List of Banks Offering Digital Provident Fund Payment Facilities

Online payment has been the mandatory method for EPF contributions by all registered employers since September 2015. Employers can use the EPF’s official portal or their bank’s website if the bank offers this facility.

Benefits of Making EPF Contributions

Contributing to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) offers several key benefits. Firstly, it provides tax advantages, with both employee contributions and the interest earned being tax-free under specific conditions. Furthermore, even inactive accounts continue to accrue interest.

Secondly, the EPF ensures a lifelong assured pension under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) after 10 years of contributory membership, offering financial security post-retirement.

Beyond retirement benefits, the EPF also provides insurance coverage through the EDLI scheme, offering a lump-sum payout to the nominee in case of the employee’s death during service. While long-term stability is encouraged, the scheme also allows for premature partial withdrawals for specific needs after a stipulated period of service.

Finally, the EPF offers relatively high returns through a diversified investment portfolio, though slightly lower than the NPS, and ensures that the accrued balance is transferred to the nominee upon the employee’s demise.

Which Banks Offer Digital Payment Facilities for PF Contribution?

1. Axis Bank 15. Bank of Maharashtra 29. IDBI Bank 43. Standard Chartered Bank
2. State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur 16. State Bank of Mysore 30. Karnataka Bank 44. Ratnakar Bank
3. Bank of Baroda 17. BNP Paribas 31. Punjab & Maharashtra Coop. Bank 45. Tamilnad Mercantile Bank
4. State Bank of Hyderabad 18. State Bank of Patiala 32. RBS (The Royal Bank of Scotland) 46. Shamrao Vithal Co-op. Bank
5. Bank of India 19. Canara Bank 33. Punjab and Sind Bank 47.TNSC Bank
6. State Bank of India 20. State Bank of Travancore 34. Saraswat Bank 48. South Indian Bank Ltd
7. 35 Syndicate Bank 21. Catholic Syrian Bank 35. Punjab National Bank 49. YES Bank
8. City Union Bank 22. Vijaya Bank 36. Deutsche Bank 50. Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait
9. UCO Bank 23. Development Credit Bank 37. ICICI Bank Limited 51. Karur Vysya Bank
10. Corporation Bank 24. Allahabad Bank 38. Central Bank of India 52. Indian Bank
11. Union Bank of India 25. Federal Bank 39. Indian Overseas Bank 53. Kotak bank
12. Cosmos Bank 26. Andhra Bank 40. Dena Bank 54. IndusInd bank
13. United Bank of India 27. HDFC Bank Limited 41. Jammu and Kashmir Bank 55. Lakshmi Vilas Bank
14. Janta Sahkari Bank 28. Oriental Bank of Commerce 42. Dhanlaxmi Bank 56. ING Vysya Bank

How to Make Digital EPF Payment?

  1. Log in to the EPFO portal using your ECR credentials.
  2. Verify your establishment details.
  3. Go to ‘Payment’ and select ‘ECR Upload’.
  4. Prepare and upload your ECR text file.
  5. Wait for file validation.
  6. Note the TRRN generated upon successful validation.
  7. Verify the TRRN and prepare the challan.
  8. Enter admin charges and finalize the challan.
  9. Click ‘Pay’ against the TRRN.
  10. Choose ‘online’ payment mode and your bank.
  11. Complete payment on the bank’s website.
  12. Receive transaction ID and confirmation on the EPFO page.

*ECR stands for Electronic Challan cum Return. It includes details like salary disbursal rate, rate of contribution, and wage month.

*TRRN stands for Temporary Return Reference Number (TRRN).

Conclusion

Online EPF payments have been made compulsory since 2015. They offer substantial convenience and can be done through numerous listed banks or the EPFO portal. This ensures timely PF contributions for employees while offering them insurance coverage, tax benefits, and pension security simultaneously.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) Rollout in 2025; Will Provide Guaranteed Pensions

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) begins April 1, 2025. It is a part of the National Pension System (NPS). It provides guaranteed pension benefits. It also includes government contributions. It ensures financial security post-retirement and provides investment flexibility.

Get Guaranteed Pension Based on Service Under The UPS

UPS provides structured pension payouts based on service years. Those with over 25 years of service receive 50% of their last 12 months’ average basic salary. Similarly, employees with nearly 10-25 years get proportionate amounts of pensions. Longer service yields typically higher payouts.

UPS is designed to provide more predictability than NPS. It will provide a guaranteed pension of at least ₹10,000 per month for individuals who have spent 10+ years in service. UPS ensures financial stability after retirement.

Government Contributions and Investment Options

Under the UPS, employees contribute nearly 10% of their basic salary plus DA. The government will match this contribution with a similar amount. Total investment is nearly 20%. These contributions are invested in government-prescribed schemes.

Employees have the freedom to choose private pension fund managers (PFMs) who offer a variety of investment choices. Employees can select one of the options aligning with their financial goals. An additional 8.5% contribution is invested in a common pool. Fund managers manage this pool based on performance.

Inflation Protection and Spousal Benefits

UPS is directly linked to DA to maintain purchasing power post-retirement. Pension payouts increase gradually to accommodate for inflation. This ensures that pensioners maintain thei living standards. Spouses are also entitled to receive 60% of the total pension amount. This offers considerable stability to retirees’ families.

Pension Withdrawals and State Adoption

Just like a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP), pension can be withdrawn from the accumulated corpus post-retirement. If the corpus depletes, pension payments continue from a government pool. Thus, retirees always receive regular payouts. The remaining funds stay invested.

Challenges and Employee Actions

Annuity service providers (ASPs) are excluded. The 8.5% common pool investment strategy is pending. The government will provide more details. Eligible employees enrol via the Protean CRA portal. They can also submit physical forms.

Conclusion

UPS seeks to provide secure pension payments to central government employees. It will offer inflation protection and guaranteed benefits. State-level adoption will vary. Employees should prepare for enrollment.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Loan Threshold for MSMEs Under the Digital Footprint Model Raised to ₹10 Crore

The Indian government has urged public sector banks (PSBs) to offer loans up to ₹10 crore to MSMEs. This will accelerate seamless credit flow to small and medium enterprises.

The government launched a digital footprint-based credit assessment model for MSMSE on March 6. Under this, it is encouraging banks to offer high-value loans MSMEs. This is a notable shift away from small-size loans. For instance, the current loan limit is ₹25 lakh to ₹5 crore.

How PSBs Lend to MSMEs? 

The State Bank of India (SBI) has historically lent the most to MSMEs. As per various news reports, it lends nearly ₹5 crore to MSMEs annually.

However, this is sharply different from MSME lending by other banks. On average, other PSBs process ₹25 lakh to ₹2 crore loans for small and medium enterprises. Under the new initiative, the Indian government aims to bolster MSME growth to drive overall exports. Lendings will be based on the digital footprint of the MSME.

Monitoring and Future Plans

The Indian government has not enforced any targets for increasing MSME lending under the scheme. This is because its systems need some time to stabilise. However, it will continue to monitor MSME loan percentages of PSBs. Government officials agree that some challenges persist. However, they will be worked upon gradually.

Addressing Partnership Account Issues

One of the several issues encountered by MSMEs is difficulties in accessing partnership account data. While proprietor accounts allow for efficient credit settlement, banks are not able to analyse partnership accounts carefully. This is because proprietor accounts are owned by one individual, while partnership accounts are owned by 2 or more people.

Various public sector banks have requested RBI to create a solution. This will enhance MSME lending as a percentage of their loan amount.

Benefits of the Digital Model

The digital footprint-based credit assessment model is a notable enhancement. It surpasses traditional asset or turnover-based assessments. It covers MSMEs that do not have formal accounting systems. As of now, the present MSME credit gap ranges from ₹15 lakh crore to ₹45 lakh crore.

Conclusion

The government wants to increase its export competitiveness. It aims to expand digital MSME lending to streamline credit flow. By addressing issues in partnership accounts and encouraging banks to lend to MSMEs, it aims to boost economic growth and international export capabilities.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.