Swiggy Introduces Pyng: A New Services Marketplace for Professional Expertise

Swiggy, best known for its food and grocery delivery services, has now stepped into the services marketplace with the launch of Pyng. This newly introduced platform is designed to help users find and connect with a wide range of professional experts. Unlike its core offerings, Pyng is tailored to meet the growing demand for specialised personal and professional services.

A Response to Evolving Urban Needs

Nandan Reddy, cofounder and head of innovation at Swiggy, highlighted the shift in lifestyle dynamics as a driving factor behind Pyng’s launch. “As our lives become increasingly fast-paced, the demand for professional assistance — from tax planners and counsellors to yoga trainers — is growing across both personal and professional spheres,” Reddy said.

With Pyng, Swiggy aims to provide a reliable and clutter-free space for users to access trusted experts. This move reflects the company’s vision of becoming more integrated into the daily lives of consumers, beyond just meals and groceries.

A Standalone App Approach

In keeping with its evolving strategy, Swiggy has launched Pyng as an independent mobile application. This follows its earlier move in January to create a dedicated app for Instamart, its quick-commerce grocery arm. The decision signals Swiggy’s intention to segment its offerings for different user needs, providing focused experiences rather than combining them within a single platform.

How Pyng Differs from Urban Company

While Pyng might draw comparisons to Urban Company, it operates with a distinct focus. Urban Company largely caters to on-demand handyman services such as electricians, plumbers, and beauticians. In contrast, Pyng positions itself as a gateway to white-collared service professionals — including health coaches, wealth advisors, and event organisers. Both platforms do share a common investor in Prosus, though their target segments differ in execution.

Competitive Landscape

Swiggy’s move places it in a growing yet fragmented market for on-demand services. Flipkart, for instance, also maintains a presence in the at-home service space, albeit with limited scale and visibility. As the need for verified professionals in lifestyle and financial domains rises, platforms like Pyng may attract a user base seeking convenience, trust, and expertise under one roof.

Share Price Movement

As of 12:51 pm on April 15, Swiggy’s share price was trading 1.14% higher at ₹336.35 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 the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Allied Blenders & Distillers in Liquor Scam: Share Price Down Over 6% Amid AP SIT Probe: Report

Allied Blenders & Distillers Ltd (ABDL) is a prominent player in India’s Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) industry. The company is publicly listed and known for its wide portfolio of alcoholic beverages. Among its flagship brands are Officer’s Choice Whisky, Officer’s Choice Blue, ICONiQ White, and Sterling Reserve. ABDL also produces vodka, brandy, rum, and gin, catering to a broad consumer base across the country.

Recent Share Price Performance

As of 12:24 PM, the share price of Allied Blenders & Distillers Ltd saw a decline of over 6%, slipping below the ₹300 mark. This drop comes despite favourable market conditions and broader indices trading in the green.

In the month of April so far, the stock has fallen by over 2%. More strikingly, for the calendar year 2025, the stock has registered a decline of more than 30%, raising investor concerns over the company’s short-term outlook.

Impact of Andhra Pradesh Liquor Scam Investigation

As per the news report, the significant fall in the stock price has coincided with developments in an ongoing investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up by the Andhra Pradesh government. The SIT is probing a liquor scam that allegedly took place during the previous administration.

In a major turn of events, the SIT reportedly unearthed evidence of widespread malpractices involving Allied Blenders & Distillers Ltd. Following this, orders were issued to freeze the company’s bank accounts in order to trace the suspected money trail linked to the alleged irregularities.

AP SIT Orders and Freezing of Bank Accounts

According to a news report, a formal letter from the Andhra Pradesh SIT to the concerned banks instructing them to freeze the accounts of ABDL has been circulated. The freezing of accounts is a part of ongoing efforts to establish the financial transactions that may have played a role in the suspected scam.

Such enforcement actions can often raise concerns about a company’s financial operations, liquidity, and business continuity, especially when public disclosures are still developing.

Conclusion

The ongoing probe and subsequent freezing of bank accounts have added pressure to an already declining stock price of Allied Blenders & Distillers Ltd. While the investigation unfolds, the market is likely to keep a close watch on further regulatory updates and their impact on the company’s financial and operational health.

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.

Odisha launches Ayushman Bharat; how to apply online and offline – know the procedure

In a landmark event, Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda and Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi jointly launched and distributed co-branded health cards under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana to beneficiaries in Odisha. This initiative marks a significant step towards universal health coverage in the state.

According to the Health Minister, the integration will bring around 1 crore families, totalling approximately 3.52 crore citizens, under the umbrella of quality and cashless healthcare services.

Ayushman Bharat’s National Impact and Odisha’s Alignment

Since its inception, Ayushman Bharat has impacted lives across the nation. Over 8.19 crore people have availed treatment under the scheme, with the government incurring a cumulative expenditure of ₹1.26 lakh crore to ensure access to essential healthcare.

One of the most noteworthy achievements of the scheme is the reduction in out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure, which has dropped from 62% to 38%, enabling citizens to seek treatment without financial burden.

By aligning the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana with AB-PMJAY, Odisha is streamlining the benefits for its people under a unified platform, improving both accessibility and administrative efficiency.

Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana Also Rolled Out

Alongside the co-branded health cards, the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana was also launched in Odisha. This new initiative is tailored to address the healthcare needs of the elderly population, ensuring broader coverage and inclusive access.

Who Is Eligible for the Scheme in Odisha?

The eligibility criteria to register for the Ayushman Bharat scheme in Odisha include the following:

  • Applicants must be permanent residents of Odisha.

  • Senior citizens aged above 70 years are eligible.

  • Individuals must belong to economically weaker sections.

These parameters ensure that the scheme reaches those who need it the most and supports Odisha’s commitment to equitable healthcare.

How to Register Online for the Ayushman Bharat Card in Odisha

Although Odisha has not yet rolled out a state-specific online application, it is expected to follow the national process outlined below:

  1. Visit the official Ayushman Bharat website.

  2. Enter your mobile number, solve the captcha, and click login.

  3. Search using state, district, Aadhaar number, scheme name, PMJAY ID, or Family ID.

  4. Click on the ‘Action’ button to proceed.

  5. Fill out the registration form and upload the required documents.

  6. Review the information and click ‘Submit’ to complete the process.

How to Register Offline at a Health Centre

For those who prefer offline registration, the process is as follows:

  1. Visit the nearest Health and Wellness Centre (HWC).

  2. Consult the official and provide the necessary documents.

  3. Complete biometric authentication using your UID card.

  4. Upon successful registration, receive the physical Ayushman Bharat card.

Conclusion

The co-branded health card initiative reflects a collaborative healthcare model between the Centre and the State. By eliminating duplicity and integrating state-level and central-level schemes, Odisha aims to make healthcare delivery seamless and efficient.

As this initiative unfolds, it symbolises not just a distribution of cards but a vision of healthier communities and an empowered public healthcare infrastructure.

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.

24×7 ID Rule for US Immigrants: What H-1B Workers and Green Card Holders Must Know

A new directive under President Donald Trump’s executive order, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, came into effect. This rule mandates that all immigrants, including legal visa holders and green card holders, must carry proof of their immigration status at all times. The regulation is part of a broader push to enforce immigration laws and address the issue of illegal residency in the United States.

Legal Background: The Alien Registration Requirement (ARR)

The legal roots of this directive trace back to the Alien Registration Act of 1940. Though the original legislation required non-citizens to register with the government, its implementation over the decades has been inconsistent. The recent rule change marks a renewed focus on strict compliance, turning what was once an overlooked policy into a central pillar of immigration enforcement.

Key Provisions of the New Rule

Mandatory Registration

All non-citizens aged 14 and above who intend to stay in the US for 30 days or more are now required to register using Form G-325R. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for registering minors under the age of 14.

Timeline for Registration

Those arriving in the United States on or after 11 April must complete their registration within 30 days of arrival. Failing to do so may result in legal penalties, including fines or imprisonment.

Reporting Address Changes

Any change in residential address must be reported within 10 days. Failure to comply with this provision can result in a fine of up to $5,000.

Re-Registration on Turning 14

Children who are already in the country and turn 14 must re-register and provide biometric details, including fingerprints, within 30 days of their birthday.

Impact on Various Immigrant Groups

Undocumented Immigrants

This policy most significantly impacts undocumented immigrants, who will be required to formally register and carry proof of identity and legal status.

Legal Immigrants

Holders of valid work or student visas, such as those on H-1B or F-1 visas, and green card holders are already considered registered. However, they are now required to carry valid documentation with them at all times.

Indian Nationals in the US

Indian nationals form a significant portion of the US immigrant population, with an estimated 5.4 million individuals residing in the country. Among them, approximately 220,000 are undocumented. Indian citizens on H-1B visas or studying in US institutions are not required to register again, but they must adhere to the new requirement of always carrying legal identification.

Consequences of Failing to Comply

Legal Penalties

Non-compliance with the registration mandate can lead to fines or imprisonment for up to six months, depending on the severity and frequency of violations.

Risk of Deportation

It is important to note that registration does not guarantee permission to remain in the United States. Individuals who cannot provide valid documentation or who are found to be in violation of immigration laws may face deportation proceedings.

Government’s Enforcement Strategy

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under the direction of Secretary Kristi Noem, has been tasked with ensuring strict enforcement of the rule. The administration has made it clear that there will be “no sanctuary for noncompliance”, emphasising the priority given to this measure in the broader context of immigration control.

Conclusion: A Stricter Regulatory Landscape

The implementation of the new rule underscores a shift towards more stringent immigration policies in the United States. While the rule formalises requirements that have existed on paper for decades, its renewed enforcement could have wide-ranging implications for all non-citizens residing in the country—regardless of their legal status.

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.

Foxconn Eyes Greater Noida for Major Expansion: 300 Acres for First North India Facility

Foxconn, a key global supplier for Apple, is reportedly exploring the development of a large-scale manufacturing facility in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. According to a news report, the company is in early discussions with government authorities and is considering acquiring a 300-acre plot along the Yamuna Expressway. This initiative could potentially mark Foxconn’s first footprint in North India and further cement India’s position in the global electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

Greater Noida: Emerging Electronics Manufacturing Cluster

As per the report, Greater Noida is fast evolving into a formidable electronics manufacturing cluster, similar to Chennai. The region offers a favourable blend of infrastructure readiness, logistical connectivity, and a maturing supplier ecosystem. These elements are crucial in attracting global electronics manufacturing services (EMS) firms such as Foxconn.

The company’s interest in this area is also seen as part of its broader strategic objective — to create a diversified manufacturing base amid growing global uncertainties and supply chain disruptions.

Foxconn’s Proposed Land Acquisition Under YEIDA

The land identified for the new facility reportedly falls under the jurisdiction of the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA). It lies in the same industrial zone where the HCL-Foxconn joint venture has already secured 50 acres for an outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) facility, which is currently pending government approval, as per the report.

This area is strategically located near the upcoming Noida International Airport in Jewar and is flanked by major expressways, making it an ideal logistical hub for large-scale manufacturing operations.

Expanding Footprint in India: A Strategic Shift

Foxconn’s interest in Greater Noida reflects its wider strategy of geographical diversification within India. The Taiwanese conglomerate already operates manufacturing units in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana. Recently, it exited operations from Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, indicating a reallocation of resources to more promising or strategic regions.

According to the report, expanding in India provides Foxconn not only with a risk mitigation strategy but also with access to emerging opportunities in EMS, which are increasingly shifting away from China due to global geopolitical dynamics.

Global Tariff Shifts and Geopolitical Backdrop

The company’s plans come at a time when global supply chains are undergoing significant realignment. The United States has recently imposed a range of tariffs on imports — from 10% to 50% — with China facing a steep 145% tariff. India’s exports have also been affected, with a 26% tariff imposed, while a 90-day pause has been granted to several other countries.

Such developments highlight the urgency for manufacturers to create alternative production hubs, and India, with its favourable policies and growing industrial base, appears to be a key beneficiary.

Apple’s Manufacturing Momentum in India

Foxconn’s expansion coincides with Apple’s increasing commitment to manufacturing in India. According to recent reports, Apple is now producing iPhones worth $22 billion annually in the country. Bloomberg earlier noted that approximately 20% of the global iPhone production now comes from India. For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, India exported iPhones worth ₹1.5 trillion (approximately $17.4 billion), showcasing the country’s rising importance in Apple’s supply chain.

Conclusion

While details regarding the final products to be manufactured at the proposed Greater Noida facility remain unconfirmed, the move signals a deeper integration of India into the global electronics manufacturing landscape. The proposed 300-acre site, with its proximity to key infrastructure and its location within a growing EMS cluster, positions Foxconn to potentially play a pivotal role in shaping North India’s industrial future.

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.

 

Curbing Cyber Fraud: Banks Push for Swift Account-Freezing Powers to Combat Cyber Fraud

Cyber fraud is on the rise in India, with banks increasingly facing challenges from mule accounts—bank accounts used by fraudsters to move and disguise illicit funds. These accounts often belong to unsuspecting individuals or are opened using forged documents. Despite identifying and freezing thousands of such accounts annually, banks report that fraudsters continually create new ones, exploiting loopholes in the system.

Legal Roadblocks in Freezing Illicit Accounts

Currently, banks rely on internal triggers to block or monitor suspicious accounts. However, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), they lack the statutory power to freeze accounts independently. Freezing a customer’s bank account requires permission from a court or law enforcement authority, leading to delays that fraudsters take advantage of to shift funds and erase digital footprints.

IBA’s Working Group Suggests Regulatory Reform

A working group formed by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) has suggested that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) consider granting banks immediate authority to freeze mule accounts involved in suspicious transactions. The report notes that this would streamline banks’ ability to act quickly and reduce the time lost in securing external permissions, which is often critical in tracking cyber fraud.

Strengthening Verification of Vulnerable Accounts

The report also recommends bolstering account verification mechanisms. One proposal involves using the Election Commission’s database to cross-check individuals who open accounts using voter ID cards and Form 60, which is typically used when a Permanent Account Number (PAN) is unavailable. To reduce misuse, banks may also consider capping the number of transactions allowed on such accounts.

Integrating Technology to Detect Illicit Activity

To stay ahead of evolving criminal tactics, the report stresses the importance of a technology-led approach. By incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into transaction monitoring systems, banks can detect suspicious patterns, pre-empt fraud, and enhance their response to emerging threats. These technologies can help address current gaps and refine the systems used to identify mule activity.

A Collaborative, Multi-Pronged Strategy

Tackling cyber fraud and mule accounts will require more than just new rules. The report calls for a unified approach involving financial institutions, regulatory bodies, law enforcement agencies, and technology firms. It highlights the need for significant investment in technology infrastructure, continuous staff training, and active information sharing across stakeholders.

Conclusion

The working group’s findings outline a strategic blueprint to curb the proliferation of mule accounts and protect the banking system. While the proposed reforms require regulatory approvals and system-wide collaboration, they reflect a growing consensus on the need to fortify the financial ecosystem against cyber fraud.

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.

Maharashtra Railways to Receive ₹1.73 Lakh Crore Investment: Kavach 5.0 and AC Trains

A major leap in railway infrastructure was announced in Mumbai under the initiative “Better Infrastructure, Better Technology, Better Trains,” as Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw and Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis jointly addressed the media. The press briefing highlighted Indian Railways’ commitment to improving suburban and regional transport through strategic investment and technological advancements.

Better Infrastructure: Easing Congestion, Enhancing Connectivity

A significant ₹17,000 crore worth of projects is currently underway across Maharashtra, covering more than 300 km of new railway lines. These projects aim to decongest existing routes, improve service frequency, and better accommodate the growing demand from daily suburban commuters, particularly in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

Better Technology: Kavach 5.0 to Strengthen Rail Safety

In a bid to modernise railway operations and enhance commuter safety, the introduction of Kavach 5.0—an advanced train collision prevention and signalling system—was announced for the Mumbai Suburban Railway. This system is expected to significantly reduce inter-train headway, allowing more trains to run at shorter intervals without compromising safety.

Better Trains: 238 New AC Rakes for Mumbai Suburban Network

To offer a more comfortable and reliable journey for daily commuters, Indian Railways will introduce 238 new air-conditioned suburban rakes. These rakes are specifically designed to cater to the unique travel patterns of Mumbai’s population, promising greater passenger comfort and operational efficiency.

Mumbai One Card: Seamless Public Transport Access

The Maharashtra CM also announced the upcoming Mumbai One Card, an integrated smart card that will allow passengers to access multiple modes of transport—including suburban trains, metro, mono-rail, and BEST buses—making daily commutes significantly more convenient across the MMR.

Strategic Expansion: Doubling of Gondia–Ballarshah Line

A key highlight of the infrastructure roadmap is the ₹4,819 crore doubling of the Gondia–Ballarshah railway line, spanning 240 km. This strategic corridor connects Vidarbha and Marathwada and aims to reduce congestion, speed up both passenger and freight services, and strengthen Maharashtra’s rail links with Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

The project also includes the modernisation of 29 stations, construction of 36 major bridges, 338 minor bridges, and 67 road under-bridges, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Station Redevelopment Under Amrit Bharat Scheme

Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, 132 stations across Maharashtra are being redeveloped with modern facilities. This is part of a larger initiative covering 1,300 stations nationwide, many of which are already nearing completion.

Upcoming Highlights: Creative Tech Institute and Themed Tourist Train

Mumbai will also be home to India’s first Indian Institute of Creative Technology, envisioned as a globally competitive hub for the creative industry. Meanwhile, IRCTC will soon launch the ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Glorious Maratha Tour’—a 10-day curated heritage tour aboard the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train, showcasing the rich cultural history of Maharashtra.

Investment Outlook: ₹1.73 Lakh Crore Allocation for Maharashtra

Indian Railways has committed an unprecedented ₹1,73,804 crore to Maharashtra’s railway infrastructure. This significant allocation reflects the state’s pivotal role in India’s transport network and economic growth strategy.

Conclusion

With new-age safety systems like Kavach 5.0, air-conditioned trains, integrated mobility solutions, and regional corridor upgrades, Maharashtra’s railway infrastructure is poised for a major transformation. The projects announced today not only promise to improve daily commuting for millions but also aim to catalyse regional economic growth and integration in the years to come.

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.

India Showcases BioE3 Policy and Biorefinery Innovations at Global Clean Energy Meet

At the Mission Innovation Annual Gathering 2025, held in Seoul, South Korea, from April 9th to 11th, India took centre stage by presenting its progressive policies and advancements in clean energy. The event, a key platform for global collaboration in accelerating clean energy technologies, saw active Indian participation led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India.

India co-leads the Mission Integrated Biorefinery alongside the Netherlands under Mission Innovation (MI) 2.0. This multilateral initiative, born out of COP21 and inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, continues to foster innovation-led pathways for a sustainable energy future.

Spotlight on the BioE3 Policy

During the gathering, India’s BioE3 Policy—Biotechnology for Environment, Energy, and Economy—was extensively discussed. This policy plays a crucial role in shaping a low-carbon, innovation-driven bio-manufacturing ecosystem. It focuses on advancing clean manufacturing technologies for fuels, chemicals, and materials, contributing significantly to climate action and energy transition goals.

India’s BioE3 approach was reviewed at multiple roundtable discussions and praised by Mission Innovation members and Technical Advisory Groups for its alignment with global climate priorities.

India’s Integrated Biorefinery Strategy

As part of the Integrated Biorefinery Mission, the DBT presented India’s efforts in developing sustainable, biomass-based solutions for energy and industry. This includes the integration of Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Bioenergy (CCUB) techniques aimed at reducing carbon emissions while producing value-added outputs.

The emphasis was on using biotechnology to manufacture low-carbon fuels and chemicals, thereby bridging environmental responsibility with economic growth.

Strengthening Global Collaborations in Bio-manufacturing

The Indian delegation participated in in-depth discussions on Research, Development, and Demonstration (RD&D) opportunities. These focused on collaborative efforts in biomass-based manufacturing, aiming to unlock breakthroughs in bio-based materials and fuels.

In addition to the gathering, the Indian team visited Hanyang University and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology, where bilateral sessions on biotechnology and bio-manufacturing were held. These visits, facilitated by the Indian Embassy in Seoul, reinforced India’s commitment to international cooperation in clean technology development.

Conclusion

The discussions underscored that bio-innovations in fuels, chemicals, and materials offer immense potential for Mission Innovation member countries to achieve their decarbonisation targets. India’s proactive stance and comprehensive strategies under the BioE3 and Integrated Biorefinery missions serve as a model for global cooperation in the clean energy transition.

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.

Old Car? No Fuel in Delhi Soon as ANPR Cameras Go Live at Fuel Stations – Read More

What Are End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs)?

End-of-Life Vehicles, or ELVs, refer to vehicles that have exceeded their legally permitted road life. In Delhi, petrol vehicles older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10 years fall under this category. The policy aims to remove these ageing, high-polluting vehicles from the streets as part of the city’s broader fight against air pollution.

Delhi’s Upcoming Crackdown: The Fuel Ban Explained

According to recent reports, Delhi is on the brink of implementing a ban that will stop petrol and diesel stations from selling fuel to ELVs. The infrastructure for this move is nearly complete. Out of approximately 500 fuel stations, around 485—including CNG outlets—have installed Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems. These systems are crucial to enforcing the rule by identifying vehicles as soon as they arrive at fuel stations.

How Will the System Work?

Once a vehicle enters a fuel station, ANPR cameras will scan its number plate. This data will then be cross-checked with the mParivahan database to determine if the vehicle has outlived its permissible age. If it qualifies as an ELV, the system will flag it and fuel will not be dispensed. The process is expected to be automated and operational in real-time.

Timeline and Current Status

The fuel sale ban was initially scheduled for April 1, 2024, but was delayed due to pending infrastructure. Now, with only 15 stations left to equip, authorities indicate the rollout could begin within two weeks. Final approval from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is awaited, which is expected soon.

Who Will Be Affected?

This enforcement applies not just to Delhi-registered vehicles but to all vehicles entering the city’s fuel stations, irrespective of their registration state. The universal application is aimed at ensuring compliance and preventing ELVs from sourcing fuel within Delhi’s borders.

What Are the Concerns?

While the policy’s intent is clear, its implementation raises several questions:

  • Public Awareness: There are concerns about whether citizens are adequately informed about the new rule and its implications. 
  • Operational Challenges: Questions have been raised about the efficiency of real-time verification and the potential for disputes at fuel stations. 
  • Vehicle Disposal: Although over 42,000 ELVs have been impounded between 2023 and 2025, there’s limited clarity on how many have actually been scrapped. 
  • Infrastructure Gaps: Delhi currently lacks a dedicated ELV scrapping facility, which may slow down the transition.

Exemptions and Clarifications Awaited

Experts have pointed out the need for clear communication around exemptions. For instance, vintage vehicles or those holding special permits may need to be excluded from the enforcement, but no formal guidelines have been released yet.

Conclusion: The Bigger Picture

As of September 2024, Delhi had over 6 million ELVs on record—a staggering number in a city already grappling with air quality concerns. The ANPR-based fuel ban is part of a larger strategy to control vehicular emissions, reduce road congestion, and push for cleaner alternatives. However, its success will depend heavily on execution, public cooperation, and clarity in policy enforcement.

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.

AMCs with Highest Cash Holdings in March 2025 Revealed – PPFAS, Motilal Oswal, and Quant Lead

In March 2025, significant variations were observed in the cash allocations held by mutual fund houses. Among the top 20 funds, PPFAS Mutual Fund reported the highest cash holding at 21.9%, followed by Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund at 17.8% and Quant Mutual Fund at 10.3%. 

On the lower end of the spectrum, Mirae Asset Mutual Fund maintained a minimal cash position at 1.3%, while Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund held 2.5%. 

Rise in Equity Value Across Major Fund Houses

According to the same report, the total equity value of the top 20 asset management companies (AMCs) experienced a 7.5% month-on-month (MoM) rise, contributing to a 23.5% year-on-year (YoY) increase in March 2025. This growth reflects the broader upward trend in equity markets during the period.

Among the top 10 AMCs, the highest MoM gains in equity value were recorded by:

These figures point to a healthy increase in investor interest and potentially favourable market conditions in March.

Overview of Mutual Fund Industry Performance in FY25

The Indian mutual fund industry concluded FY25 on a strong note, reporting a 23% YoY increase in total assets under management (AUM). AUM rose by approximately ₹12.3 lakh crore, bringing the total to ₹65.7 lakh crore as of March 2025.

This robust growth was supported by multiple fund categories, with equity funds leading the way. The category-wise contribution to this AUM expansion was as follows:

This diversification highlights broad-based participation across various investment strategies.

Conclusion

The data from March 2025 offers a glimpse into the asset allocation strategies of leading mutual fund houses, particularly regarding cash holdings. While some fund managers opted for higher liquidity, possibly anticipating market opportunities or volatility, others continued to maintain aggressive equity positions. Meanwhile, the growth in AUM underscores continued investor confidence in mutual fund products, with equity and liquid funds driving momentum into the new fiscal year.

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. 

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