India is actively engaged in discussions with the US for a Bilateral Trade Agreement, with Union Minister Piyush Goyal indicating ongoing contact at various levels. Meanwhile, India is pursuing a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union, with both sides expressing optimism for an equitable and balanced pact, aiming for completion by year-end.

The Union Cabinet has greenlit four crucial railway projects totaling Rs 24,634 crore, set to boost infrastructure across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh. These initiatives will add approximately 894 km of track, enhancing connectivity for millions and improving freight movement for vital commodities. The projects aim to streamline operations and reduce congestion on key corridors.

Gold and silver markets are experiencing a "super bull run" ahead of Diwali 2025, with prices surging over 47% and 52% respectively this year. Analysts predict continued growth, driven by global uncertainties, central bank policies, and strong festive demand, with gold potentially reaching Rs 1.22 lakh and silver Rs 1.50 lakh.

GST reduction on 375 items boosted consumer spending. Navratri sales reached a decade high. Government officials cited industry data. Families upgraded vehicles and bought white goods. This turned festive cheer into record consumption. Brands and retailers reported sales growth. This provided a boost for India's consumption-driven economy. Car bookings also saw an increase.

Government efforts to boost India's electronics component ecosystem attracted over Rs 1.1 lakh crore in investment proposals. This amount is almost double the initial target. The applications could generate Rs 10.3 lakh crore in new production. Many global and domestic firms submitted proposals. This initiative aims to establish India as a global electronics component supplier.

RBI is implementing measures to internationalise the rupee, aiming to reduce dollar dependence. New reference rates for major trading partner currencies will facilitate rupee-based trade, cutting transaction costs. Additionally, expanded rupee lending to regional partners and investment options for SRVA balances will bolster the rupee's global use and India's de-dollarisation efforts.

The Union Cabinet has approved a six-year, Rs 11,440 crore Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, aiming for self-sufficiency by 2030-31. This initiative will boost domestic production through improved seeds, area expansion, and 100% assured procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masoor. The program targets 350 lakh tonnes production, seeking to reduce import dependency and enhance farmer incomes.

The Reserve Bank of India has constituted a new six-member Payments Regulatory Board (PRB) to supervise the nation's payment systems. Chaired by the RBI Governor, the PRB includes three central government nominees, a significant change from its predecessor, the BPSS. This board is mandated to meet at least twice annually for effective oversight.

Gold prices in the national capital soared to a record Rs 1.20 lakh per 10 grams today, climbing Rs 500. A weaker dollar and anticipated US Federal Reserve rate cuts fueled this surge, alongside investor jitters over a potential US government shutdown. Silver also hit a new peak. Globally, bullion retreated slightly from record highs as traders booked profits.

Donald Trump's H-1B visa fee increase to $100,000, intended to safeguard US jobs, is reportedly backfiring. US companies are now accelerating the shift of high-value work, including AI and product development, to India's booming Global Capability Centers. This move could turbocharge India's rise as a global innovation hub, despite potential future tax hurdles.