Business

Union Budget: Citizens Breathe Easier with Income Tax Exemption Threshold Raised to Rs 12 Lakh

Published

1 year ago

February 3, 2025

People expressed their relief and appreciation for the budget announcement made by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday, particularly the increase in the personal income tax exemption threshold to Rs 12 lakh. This change has been highlighted as one of the most significant aspects of the budget for 2025.

In a conversation with the newspaper, Nikhil Kumar, a corporate professional, shared that the raised tax threshold has alleviated his concerns, as he previously fell within the taxable income bracket. He noted that this adjustment will allow him to retain more of his earnings and encourage savings.

Similarly, a young professional commented that with his income now exempt from taxes, he feels free to spend more on personal interests. The threshold for salaried taxpayers will stand at Rs 12.75 lakh, factoring in a standard deduction of Rs 75,000.

An elderly man, who preferred to remain unnamed, expressed his approval of the government’s decision, highlighting the rising costs of living due to new technologies and expenses. With the increased tax limit, he believes individuals will find themselves with greater purchasing power.

According to the government, the new tax structure is designed to significantly reduce the tax burden on the middle class, enabling them to retain more disposable income, thus fostering household consumption, savings, and investments.

Additionally, a representative from the private sector noted the government’s initiative to exempt 36 life-saving drugs and medicines from Basic Customs Duty (BCD), which will particularly benefit individuals with chronic medical conditions that necessitate ongoing treatment. Furthermore, six life-saving medications will now be subject to a concessional customs duty of 5 percent, while specified drugs under Patient Assistance Programs will be fully exempt from BCD. The government has also added 37 additional medicines and introduced 13 new patient assistance programs.

The Finance Ministry has introduced an Urban Challenge Fund worth Rs 1 lakh crore aimed at implementing initiatives for ‘Cities as Growth Hubs,’ ‘Creative Redevelopment of Cities,’ and ‘Water and Sanitation.’ An allocation of Rs 10,000 crore is proposed for the fiscal year 2025-26.

When asked about this, a woman working in the IT sector mentioned that given the current challenges posed by a growing metropolitan population and the development of suburban areas, such provisions will be beneficial. Proper maintenance and infrastructure of cities are crucial for enhancing overall quality of life.

Business

Fuel Prices Hiked by Rs.3 per Litre across India

Published

2 days ago

May 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices have been increased by Rs.3 per litre across the country from today. Oil marketing companies revised the rates due to the rise in global crude oil prices.

After the hike, petrol price in Bengaluru has reached Rs.106.17 per litre, while diesel now costs Rs.94.10 per litre.

The increase comes amid fluctuations in international crude oil prices and tensions in West Asia, including the Iran conflict. The fall in the value of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has also increased import costs.

The fuel price hike is expected to affect transportation and daily essentials. Transport charges for goods may rise, leading to higher prices of vegetables, fruits, milk, and other items. Bus, auto, and taxi fares may also increase.

Earlier, fuel prices were reduced before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In 2022, the Centre had also cut excise duty to control inflation after the Covid pandemic.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; Demand for Ornaments Remains Strong

Published

2 weeks ago

May 4, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been reported at high levels today. The rate for 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.14,962 per gram. The price for 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is Rs.13,715 per gram. Meanwhile, 18 karat gold (75% purity) is being sold at Rs.11,222 per gram.

Mangaluru is well known for its deep cultural connection with gold. The city has a long tradition of buying and wearing gold ornaments. This tradition continues strongly even today.

Local jewellers say that demand for gold remains steady despite high prices. Many people still prefer to invest in gold for safety and long-term value. Gold is also an important part of weddings and festivals in the region.

Apart from its love for seafood, Mangaluru is also famous for its gold market. The gold trade in the city has a long history and continues to grow.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making a purchase. They can also use a gold rate calculator to get exact pricing based on weight and purity.

Experts say that gold prices may change depending on global market trends. Customers should stay updated and make careful decisions while buying gold.

Business

Pune FDA Seizes 3,800 Kg of Adulterated Mango Pulp in Major Crackdown

Published

1 month ago

April 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

In a major action against food adulteration, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Pune has seized over 3,800 kilograms of mango pulp mixed with unsafe food colours.

The raid was carried out after officials received confidential information about illegal production activities in the district. Acting quickly, an FDA team traced the source to a manufacturing unit in Urse village in Maval taluka.

During the inspection, officers found that the mango pulp was being prepared using unauthorised food colours and other banned substances. These materials are not allowed under food safety rules and can be harmful to consumers.

The unit was reportedly operated by Mohammad Ekramul, also known as Akram Gulam. Authorities said the facility was violating multiple food safety regulations.

Officials immediately seized the adulterated stock and stopped further production at the site. The FDA has also begun investigating the supply chain to identify where the products were being distributed.

Authorities warned that strict action will be taken against those involved in food adulteration. They also urged the public to stay cautious while buying food products, especially during the mango season.

Further investigation into the case is currently underway.