Purbalee Dutta

The launch of GST 2.0 on September 22 marked a transformative moment for Indian consumers, sparking enthusiasm across markets even before the Navratri festivities began. The automobile sector witnessed record-breaking figures as the new tax regime removed the compensation cess on cars and reduced GST on sub-4 metre vehicles to 18%. Maruti achieved its highest-ever single-day performance in 35 years with 80,000 inquiries and 30,000 deliveries, while bookings for small cars soared 50% above typical festive levels. Hyundai and Tata Motors also saw strong numbers, with Hyundai billing 11,000 vehicles and Tata delivering 10,000 cars with 25,000 inquiries. E-commerce platforms…

Ola Electric Mobility extended its winning run for the third consecutive session on August 28, climbing 4% to hit the day’s high of ₹52.80 per share, even as broader market sentiment remained weak. The recent rally comes after the company announced that its Gen 3 scooter range has received Production Linked Incentive (PLI) certification. With a 12% gain over the past three sessions, the stock has reacted positively to the development. Ola informed the exchanges that its Gen 3 scooters are now certified under the government’s PLI scheme for auto and component manufacturing, making it eligible for incentives of 13–18%…

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd has begun production of its electric SUV, the e-Vitara, at its Gujarat plant, marking the company's entry into the EV segment. Unlike domestic rivals like Tata and Mahindra, who started by focusing on local sales, Maruti is prioritizing exports, targeting 100 countries, including Japan and Europe. The company aims to sell 70,000 units in FY26, primarily in international markets. This strategy follows a slowdown in domestic growth, with Maruti’s market share dropping nearly 9% over five years, and just 3% sales growth in FY25. Toshihiro Suzuki, president of Suzuki Motor Corporation, announced plans to invest over…

In a major move affecting health insurance holders, over 15,000 hospitals in northern India will suspend cashless treatment for Bajaj Allianz General Insurance policyholders from September 1, 2025. This decision, announced by the Association of Healthcare Providers–India (AHPI), includes major hospital chains like Max Healthcare, Medanta, and PSRI. The AHPI cited outdated reimbursement rates, rising medical inflation, delayed settlements, and arbitrary payment cuts as key reasons for the action. Despite repeated appeals, Bajaj Allianz has not updated its reimbursement tariffs, which AHPI says are no longer viable due to rising healthcare costs. Patients can still receive treatment at these hospitals,…