Easy Filing Before Deadline Key Highlights New Delhi: Salaried taxpayers who have not yet received Form 16 from their employer can still file their Income Tax Return (ITR) before the 31 July 2026 deadline. Tax experts say Form 16 is a useful document, but it is not mandatory for filing an income tax return if all the required financial information is available through other official documents. Taxpayers can prepare and file their ITR using documents such as salary slips, Form 26AS, Annual Information Statement (AIS), Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS), bank statements, interest certificates and investment proofs. These records help calculate total income, tax deductions and tax liability accurately. The process begins by downloading Form 26AS and AIS from the Income Tax portal and verifying the information with salary slips and bank records. Taxpayers should also include interest earned from savings accounts, fixed deposits and other investments while calculating their gross total income. After applying deductions and selecting the applicable tax regime, the taxable income can be calculated before filing the return online. While filing the return, taxpayers should carefully verify the pre-filled information available on the Income Tax portal and ensure that PAN, Aadhaar, bank account details and income figures match their documents. After submitting the return, e-verification must be completed to make the filing valid. Although waiting for Form 16 is generally recommended because it contains employer-reported salary and TDS details, taxpayers do not need to delay filing if the document has not been issued. Accurate calculation using official records can help avoid errors, reduce the chances of receiving tax notices and ensure timely processing of refunds. For those who still wish to obtain Form 16, it can also be downloaded through the TRACES portal, subject to availability.
EPFO Interest Check Guide
Check Balance Via UMANG Key Highlights New Delhi: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has started crediting 8.25% annual interest for the financial year 2025-26 into members’ Provident Fund (PF) accounts. While many account holders have already received the updated balance, others can easily check whether the interest has been credited using the UMANG App or other digital services. The UMANG App offers one of the easiest ways to check PF balance and interest status from home. Members need to download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and log in using the mobile number registered with their EPFO account. After logging in, users should open the Service Directory, select EPFO, and click on the View Passbook option. Entering the Universal Account Number (UAN) and verifying the OTP sent to the registered mobile number will display the updated PF balance, including the credited interest. Apart from the UMANG App, EPFO members can also check their balance through SMS, missed call services and the e-Passbook portal. For the SMS service, users must send “EPFOHO UAN HIN” to 7738299899 from their registered mobile number. The system then sends the latest PF balance details via SMS. Members can also log in to the EPFO portal using their UAN and password to access the e-Passbook, which provides a detailed record of contributions, interest credited and current account balance. According to EPFO, interest is calculated on the monthly running balance in members’ accounts and is credited annually. With multiple online options now available, account holders can conveniently verify whether the latest interest amount has been deposited without visiting an EPFO office.
US Lowers India Tariff
Section 301 Duty Reduced Key Highlights New Delhi: The United States has reduced the proposed additional tariff on Indian imports under its Section 301 investigation, placing India in the lower tariff category with an additional 10% duty, down from the 12.5% initially proposed in June 2026. The revised measures were announced by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) on July 23. The decision follows a USTR investigation into the policies and enforcement of forced labour import restrictions across 60 economies, including India. According to the Government of India, continuous engagement through written submissions, public hearings and bilateral consultations helped secure a lower tariff rate for Indian exports. A significant portion of India’s exports to the United States will remain unaffected by the new duty. Products such as generic pharmaceuticals, smartphones and several other specified goods continue to be exempt from the additional tariff. Similarly, steel, aluminium and auto parts, which are already covered under separate Section 232 measures, will not attract the new 10% duty. The government estimates that nearly 45% of India’s exports to the U.S. will remain outside the scope of the Section 301 tariff. The remaining 55% of exports will be subject to the additional 10% duty, though India will continue to enjoy a comparatively lower tariff burden than many other countries covered under the investigation. The USTR has also proposed a separate textile-specific mechanism, but the framework has not yet been finalised or implemented. India said discussions on the issue are continuing as part of the ongoing negotiations for the India-U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The Government of India reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade ties with the United States and stated that efforts are underway to conclude the Bilateral Trade Agreement at the earliest. Officials believe the lower tariff rate provides Indian exporters with a competitive advantage while broader trade negotiations continue between the two countries.
India’s Hydrogen Train Milestone
Diesel Replaced By Hydrogen Key Highlights New Delhi: India has achieved a major milestone in sustainable transportation as the country’s first hydrogen-powered train successfully completed more than 1,200 kilometres of operations between Jind and Sonipat after being flagged off on July 17, 2026. The project has already replaced the use of over 3,200 litres of diesel, showcasing the potential of hydrogen-powered rail transport in reducing fossil fuel consumption and emissions. Unlike conventional diesel locomotives, the hydrogen train generates electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen inside fuel cells. The electricity produced powers the train, while the only by-product released into the atmosphere is water vapour, making it one of the cleanest rail technologies currently available. The system produces no smoke and no direct carbon emissions during operation. Developed entirely by Indian Railways, the indigenous hydrogen train consists of 10 coaches and is powered by two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars capable of producing a combined 2,400 kW of power. The propulsion system is supported by advanced lithium iron phosphate batteries and high-pressure hydrogen cylinders, ensuring efficient and reliable performance throughout the journey. To support the project, Indian Railways has established its first dedicated green hydrogen storage facility at Jind. The facility can store nearly 3,000 kilograms of hydrogen, with storage pressure reaching up to 500 bar and dispensing pressure of 350 bar, ensuring a continuous fuel supply for train operations. Safety has been a key focus of the project. The train is equipped with multiple independent monitoring systems capable of detecting hydrogen leaks, excessive heat, flames and smoke. Automatic shut-off mechanisms, continuous ventilation systems and internationally compliant safety standards have been integrated to ensure secure operation under all conditions. Following the successful completion of the Jind-Sonipat operations, Indian Railways plans to begin trial runs on the Delhi route, marking the next phase of the country’s hydrogen rail programme. Officials believe the project will lay the foundation for a complete indigenous hydrogen rail ecosystem while strengthening India’s commitment to clean, sustainable and zero-emission transportation. The successful deployment of the hydrogen train is expected to play a crucial role in reducing dependence on diesel-powered locomotives, promoting green hydrogen adoption and positioning India among the global leaders in clean railway technology.
DRI Busts Major Gold Smuggling
27 Kg Gold Seized Key Highlights New Delhi: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has intensified its nationwide crackdown on organised gold smuggling networks, seizing more than 27 kg of foreign-origin gold and arresting 12 people in a series of intelligence-led operations across India. Investigators uncovered several sophisticated smuggling techniques, including gold hidden inside aircraft lavatory ceiling panels, specially designed vehicle cavities, modified utensils, handbags, waist belts, and body concealment. One of the biggest operations took place at Mumbai Airport, where DRI officers intercepted three passengers arriving from Addis Ababa. After a detailed aircraft inspection, officials recovered 12 kg of gold bars concealed inside the ceiling panels of the aircraft’s rear lavatory. Investigations revealed that the passengers had hidden the gold for later retrieval by airport staff. In another operation in Uttar Pradesh, officials intercepted a woman travelling on the Brahmaputra Mail and seized 5 kg of foreign-origin gold bars concealed inside a specially designed waist belt and her handbag. She admitted that the gold had been smuggled into India through Bangladesh. A separate investigation at Mumbai Airport exposed another smuggling racket involving 3.7 kg of gold dust in wax form, which was hidden inside an aircraft lavatory and later collected by cleaning staff. Five people, including handlers and airport workers, were arrested in the operation. At Kolkata Railway Station, DRI officers recovered 4.6 kg of smuggled gold concealed inside specially fabricated utensils. The investigation found that the consignment had entered India through Myanmar. Additional operations at Cochin Airport and Guwahati resulted in the seizure of around 2 kg of gold concealed inside a passenger’s body and a specially modified car, respectively. The DRI stated that these coordinated operations demonstrate the growing sophistication of organised gold smuggling syndicates and reaffirm the agency’s commitment to dismantling illegal cross-border smuggling networks across the country.
India Israel FTA Advances
Second Round Ends Key Highlights New Delhi: India and Israel have successfully concluded the second round of negotiations for their proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking another step toward strengthening bilateral economic ties. The negotiations, held in New Delhi from July 20 to July 23, included detailed discussions on trade in goods and services, rules of origin, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, intellectual property rights, customs procedures, trade facilitation, and broader economic cooperation. According to the Commerce Ministry, both delegations engaged in constructive and forward-looking discussions aimed at reducing differences and identifying common ground across multiple negotiating chapters. Officials said both countries remain committed to concluding a balanced, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement that will expand trade, investment, and economic cooperation. India and Israel enjoy complementary strengths across several sectors, and policymakers believe the proposed FTA will create new opportunities for businesses and enhance bilateral trade. Merchandise trade between the two countries stood at approximately USD 3.93 billion during FY2025-26.
Experts Back Safer Roads
Low-Cost Measures Urged Key Highlights New Delhi: Road safety experts have urged authorities to adopt practical, affordable, and evidence-based measures to reduce India’s rising number of road accidents. Speaking at a conference organised by the India chapter of the International Road Federation (IRF), experts highlighted that simple engineering improvements can dramatically improve road safety without requiring massive infrastructure investments. Professor Emeritus Geetam Tiwari of IIT Delhi said enhanced road markings for better night-time visibility can significantly improve safety in urban areas. IRF President Emeritus K.K. Kapila said most urban crashes occur because of everyday design flaws on regular roads. He noted that low-cost interventions such as raised pedestrian crossings, roundabouts, improved street lighting, traffic calming measures, and safer junction designs have been proven globally to reduce accidents by 20% to 80%. Experts also stressed the importance of adopting international best practices while leveraging new technologies to improve traffic management and road user safety.
Tata Consumer Q1 Profit Up
Revenue Grows 12% Key Highlights New Delhi: Tata Consumer Products Ltd (TCPL) reported a strong start to FY27, posting a 28.77% rise in consolidated net profit to ₹427.19 crore for the June quarter compared with ₹331.75 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations climbed 12% year-on-year to ₹5,348.88 crore, supported by healthy volume growth across its domestic branded portfolio. Total income rose 12.46% to ₹5,420.82 crore, while total expenses increased 10.9% to ₹4,828.61 crore. The company’s branded business delivered revenue growth of 14.3%, led by tea, coffee, packaged foods, and beverages. India’s branded business expanded 13.26%, while international branded revenue increased 17.25%, driven by strong demand in the US and continued market share gains in the UK. Coffee sales grew 24%, Tata Sampann recorded an impressive 58% revenue growth, and the Ready-to-Drink portfolio, including Tata Gluco+, Tata Copper+, and Himalayan Natural Mineral Water, grew 41%. Acquired brands Capital Foods and Organic India also continued their strong momentum, posting revenue growth of 40% and 27%, respectively. Tata Starbucks, the company’s joint venture with Starbucks Corporation, reported 11% revenue growth and expanded its footprint to 498 stores across India. Managing Director & CEO Sunil D’Souza said the company delivered another quarter of double-digit revenue growth, translating into nearly 29% growth in consolidated net profit.
Gmail Introduces Selfie Login
Password-Free Access Arrives Key Highlights New Delhi: Google has unveiled a new Selfie Video Sign-in feature for Gmail and Google Accounts, introducing an additional identity verification method that can help users access their accounts even if they forget their password or lose their primary device. The new feature allows users to register a short selfie video during setup. While enabling the feature, users will be asked to look into the device’s camera and move their head in different directions, similar to the facial enrollment process used by modern smartphones. When signing in, users can choose the Selfie Video Sign-in option, where the system captures a new live video and compares it with the previously registered facial data. The verification process also includes live facial movement checks to ensure that the person attempting to log in is physically present, helping prevent spoofing attempts using AI-generated images or deepfake videos. The feature is expected to improve account recovery, especially in situations where users have forgotten their password, changed devices, or lost access to their registered phone. Once authenticated, users can regain access to Gmail and other Google services more easily without relying solely on traditional recovery methods. Google says the selfie video is encrypted and stored securely, with users retaining full control over their biometric data. According to the company, the stored video is used only for identity verification unless users explicitly choose otherwise, and it can be deleted from the Google Account settings at any time. The Selfie Video Sign-in feature will roll out gradually through the Security & Sign-in section of Google Accounts, offering users an additional layer of convenience and security for accessing their accounts.
KENT Launches Smart RO
IoT Water Purifier Debuts Key Highlights New Delhi, July 24: KENT RO Systems has expanded its smart home appliance portfolio with the launch of the KENT Sapphire IoT, a next-generation connected water purifier designed to offer intelligent monitoring, app-based control, and advanced purification for Indian households. The new purifier integrates IoT technology, allowing users to monitor water quality, purifier performance, filter life, and maintenance requirements directly through a connected digital platform. It also automatically registers service requests in case of technical issues and sends timely alerts for filter and membrane replacement. The purifier features an advanced digital display that provides real-time information on water purity, mineral content, and filter status, giving users complete visibility into the purification process. At the core of the KENT Sapphire IoT is a multi-stage purification system comprising RO, UV, UF, TDS Control, Alkaline and Active Copper technologies. The system removes harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, fluoride, arsenic, pesticides, bacteria and viruses while retaining essential minerals in drinking water. The purifier also produces alkaline water with a pH above 8.0, enriched with copper, while a built-in UV LED storage tank disinfection system helps keep stored water safe over time. Designed for families with higher daily water consumption, the Sapphire IoT offers a purification capacity of up to 20 litres per hour. KENT is offering the purifier with a one-year warranty and three years of extended free service, supported by its nationwide service network. The product is certified by NSF (USA) and BIS (India), ensuring compliance with international and domestic quality standards. Priced at an MRP of ₹28,000, the KENT Sapphire IoT is aimed at consumers looking for a premium, connected, and health-focused water purification solution.
