30, Apr 2026
First-Time Borrowers Reach 4.4 Crore Despite Stricter Lending Norms
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): The number of first-time borrowers in India has increased to around 4.4 crore, even as lending conditions have become stricter, according to a recent report.
The report indicates that access to credit continues to expand across the country, driven by growing financial inclusion and wider adoption of formal banking services. This trend has persisted despite tighter lending norms introduced by financial institutions.
It also highlights that more individuals are entering the formal credit system for the first time, reflecting improved awareness and easier access to loans through digital platforms and organised financial channels.
Overall, the findings suggest a steady deepening of India’s credit market, with a rising number of new borrowers participating in the formal financial ecosystem.
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- By Neel Achary
30, Apr 2026
New Study Shows Mental Health Campaigns and Digital Tools Reduce Risk in Slums
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): A recent study has found that community-based anti-stigma programmes, along with a digital mental health support tool, have helped reduce risks of depression, self-harm, and suicide among adolescents living in urban slum areas.
The research covered 60 slum clusters across New Delhi and Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, focusing on improving awareness and access to mental health care for vulnerable teenagers.
India has one of the largest adolescent populations in the world, and a significant share of young people face mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, according to global health estimates.
Researchers observed that adolescents in urban slums are particularly at risk due to factors such as poverty, low awareness about mental health, and limited access to professional support services.
The study suggests that combining community outreach efforts with digital tools can help strengthen mental health support systems in underserved communities.
30, Apr 2026
PhonePe Surpasses 700 Million Registered Users in India
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): Digital payments platform PhonePe has crossed 700 million registered users as of April 29, 2026, marking a major milestone in its growth journey in India.
The company said the achievement reflects its wide user base and expanding presence across digital payments and financial services. It attributed the growth to increasing customer trust, strong distribution reach, and a focus on simple and reliable payment solutions.
PhonePe also highlighted the rapid pace of its expansion, noting that while it initially took 136 days to add its first million users, it is now adding a million users in just a few days. Between FY23 and FY25, the platform reported steady growth momentum, supported by rising adoption of digital payment services across the country.
30, Apr 2026
ETF Inflows Reach Record High in FY26, Led by Gold and Silver Demand
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in India have recorded a sharp rise in investments, with inflows reaching a record ₹1.8 lakh crore in FY26, driven largely by growing interest in gold and silver-backed funds, according to a report.
The surge reflects increased investor preference for safe-haven and commodity-linked assets amid global economic uncertainty and market volatility. Precious metal ETFs, in particular, have seen strong traction as investors look for stability and diversification.
The report highlights that the strong inflows mark a significant jump compared to previous years, indicating rising participation from both retail and institutional investors in ETF products.
30, Apr 2026
Gold Prices Surge Past 1.50 Lakh per 10 Grams on Global and Geopolitical Factors
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): Gold prices advanced in futures trade on Thursday, climbing by ₹1,791 to cross the ₹1.50 lakh mark per 10 grams, supported by firm international trends and safe-haven buying.
The rise came after the US Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, which boosted demand for gold amid ongoing global uncertainty. Continued geopolitical tensions in West Asia also added to investor interest in the precious metal.
On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold contracts for June delivery gained 1.2% to settle at ₹1,50,841 per 10 grams, with a trading volume of over 9,200 lots.
Domestic commodity markets will remain closed for the morning session on Friday on account of Maharashtra Day.
30, Apr 2026
Noida is surpassing Gurugram as a smart choice for homebuyers
New Delhi, Apr 30: Due to lower prices, better planning, and rapid infrastructure growth, boosting demand for both investment and living.The property market in Delhi-NCR is showing a shift in balance. While Gurugram was once the first choice for premium housing, Noida is now emerging rapidly. Due to affordable prices, better urban planning, and strong connectivity, this city is attracting both end-users and investors.
Budget-Friendly Options
Properties in Noida and Greater Noida are still at levels where the middle class can easily buy homes. In the same budget, buyers get larger areas, better layouts, and modern amenities here. In contrast, high prices in Gurugram are limiting buyer access.
Infrastructure Edge
Noida’s planned development is its biggest strength. Sector-based design, wide roads, and expressway networks keep the city organized. The Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, Yamuna Expressway, and under-construction international airport are elevating its connectivity.
In comparison, Gurugram faces traffic pressure and unplanned expansion as major challenges.
Policy Boost
New building policies and regulatory changes are promoting high-rise construction in Noida. This will create more housing units on limited land, balancing the market in the coming times.
Job and Rental Surge
Expansion of IT parks, data centers, Film City, and industrial hubs is rapidly increasing job opportunities in Noida. This is directly impacting rental demand.
Meanwhile, high prices in Gurugram are limiting investment returns, while Noida offers better entry opportunities.
Expert Opinions
Nirala World CMD Suresh Garg said,
“Noida is emerging as a balanced real estate market with affordable prices and superior infrastructure benefits. Compared to Gurugram, planned development and new policies are clearly visible here, giving homebuyers more space, better amenities, and long-term value. Its strategic location, expressway network, and Delhi-Meerut Expressway strengthen it further. The under-construction Jewar International Airport is establishing it as a major business and residential hub. New policies and easy approvals promote green spaces and planned development. With low entry costs, stable growth, and better rental returns, Noida is becoming a wiser investment option than Gurugram.”
Exotica Group MD Dinesh Jain explained that commercial and IT projects are developing rapidly in Noida due to better connectivity. Expressway networks and the under-construction airport are turning it into a major business hub. Compared to Gurugram, planned development and less congestion create a more attractive environment for investors.
Renox Group Chairman Shailendra Sharma said that the pace and level of infrastructure development in Noida-Greater Noida is making it NCR’s most emerging real estate destination. Despite rising construction investments creating jobs, prices here remain balanced compared to Gurugram, offering better value and future growth for end-users and investors.
RG Group Director Himanshu Garg noted that new phases of old projects are becoming more practical options for buyers. Their locations are established, and prices are affordable compared to new launches. This is why end-users and investors are showing more interest in such projects in Noida.
Vision Business Park Co-Founder Atul Vikram Singh stated that Noida’s sector-based development and strong infrastructure make it a balanced, future-ready city. Features like better planning, wide roads, and low density make it a more organized living option than Gurugram.
Shri KB Group Founder Rakesh Singhal stated that property prices in Gurugram have already reached high levels, while Noida is still in a growth phase. Affordable rates, new policies, and rapid infrastructure make it more promising for investment with better returns expected.
Diligent Builders COO Lieutenant Colonel (Retd.) said
Ashwini Nagpal said, “While infrastructure pressure is evident in Gurugram, Noida still has room for expansion. Planned development, better traffic management, law and order, and growing infra make it better than neighboring cities for work-life balance. This is why homebuyers see long-term stability and better lifestyle here.”
30, Apr 2026
India’s FDI Expected to Surpass Dollar 90 Billion in FY26 on Strong Investor Interest
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India is expected to exceed $90 billion in the financial year 2025–26, reflecting strong global investor confidence in the country’s economy.
According to senior government officials, India has already received over $88 billion in gross FDI between April 2025 and February 2026. This steady inflow points to an estimated growth of around 10% compared to the previous year.
Officials noted that key sectors driving this investment include manufacturing, computer services, financial services, and communication services. Major investment sources continue to be Singapore, the United States, Mauritius, Japan, and the Netherlands.
The overall increase in inflows is expected to push FDI closer to 2% of India’s GDP, marking sustained long-term interest from global investors. The government, through ongoing policy reforms and facilitation measures, continues to focus on improving the investment climate and encouraging further foreign participation in the economy.
30, Apr 2026
RAKEZ to spotlight industrial growth and investment opportunities at Make it in the Emirates 2026
Ras Al Khaimah, Apr 30: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is set to participate in the fifth edition of the Make it in the Emirates exhibition, taking place at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from 4 to 7 May 2026, reinforcing its role in advancing the UAE’s industrial landscape and attracting high-value investments.
As part of its participation, RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad will join a panel discussion titled “Industrial Zones as Engines of Growth: Powering the UAE’s Industrial and Investment”, where he will share insights on how integrated economic zones are enabling sustainable industrial expansion and supporting long-term investor confidence.
The economic zone will also mark the occasion by signing lease agreements with companies across manufacturing and industrial sectors, highlighting continued demand for Ras Al Khaimah as a base for business growth.
During the exhibition, RAKEZ will showcase its comprehensive ecosystem designed to support investors across diverse industrial sectors. This includes advanced infrastructure, tailored solutions, and value-added services that enable businesses to establish, operate, and scale efficiently. With around 1,000 manufacturing companies operating within RAKEZ across sectors such as packaging, F&B, automotive, aviation, construction, and defence, the economic zone continues to contribute to Ras Al Khaimah’s broader manufacturing base of around 3,400 companies.
Companies operating within RAKEZ benefit from a cost-competitive environment, with development costs approximately 10% lower and operating costs around 50% lower than the regional average. In addition, seamless connectivity through ports and airports ensures efficient global market access, while an ecosystem built around sustainability supports businesses in translating ESG ambitions into practical operations. Networking platforms and B2B matchmaking initiatives further enable collaboration and growth within the business community.
Commenting on RAKEZ’s participation, Ramy Jallad said: “Our presence at Make it in the Emirates reflects the growing role we play in shaping the UAE’s economic future. What we are seeing today is a strong shift towards long-term, value-driven investment, where businesses are looking for stability, efficiency, and the ability to scale with confidence. At RAKEZ, we continue to focus on creating an environment where manufacturers and industrial players can operate with clarity, expand sustainably, and connect to global markets with ease.”
He added: “Through our integrated ecosystem and close engagement with our business community, we are enabling companies at every stage of their journey to grow and evolve. This is aligned with the UAE’s broader industrial vision and our ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives such as Operation 300bn.”
As RAKEZ continues to strengthen its presence at national platforms, its participation in Make it in the Emirates 2026 underscores its commitment to attracting high-quality investments, supporting industrial growth, and enabling local manufacturers to expand regionally and globally.
Industrialists are invited to connect with the RAKEZ team at Make It In the Emirates from 4 to 7 May at Stand 7-EN22 in Hall 7 at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi.
30, Apr 2026
Govt Plans Rail Connectivity for Poonch, Rajouri and Uri: Vaishnaw
Jammu, Apr 30 (BNP): Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that the government is working on plans to extend railway connectivity to remote and border areas of Jammu and Kashmir, including Poonch, Rajouri, and Uri in Baramulla district.
He informed that detailed project reports for these proposed rail links have already been prepared. The next step, he said, will be to move ahead with implementation to improve connectivity in these strategically important regions.
Vaishnaw made the announcement after inaugurating the first direct Vande Bharat Express service between Srinagar and Jammu. He highlighted that expanding rail infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir is aimed at improving travel convenience, strengthening regional connectivity, and supporting overall economic development in the area.
30, Apr 2026
AI and Design Trends Reshape India’s Smartphone Buying Choices
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): A recent industry report highlights a clear shift in how Indian consumers are choosing smartphones, with artificial intelligence features and design aesthetics playing a major role in purchase decisions.
The report indicates that buyers are no longer focusing only on price or basic specifications. Instead, they are increasingly drawn to smartphones that offer smarter AI-based features such as enhanced photography, improved battery optimisation, voice assistance, and personalised user experiences. These upgrades are making everyday phone use more convenient and interactive.
Alongside technology, design has become equally important. Consumers are showing strong preference for slim builds, premium finishes, and modern looks that match their lifestyle and personal style. This change reflects a growing demand for devices that combine functionality with visual appeal.
The findings also suggest that many customers are now willing to spend more for smartphones that deliver a better overall experience. This trend points to a gradual shift in the Indian smartphone market towards more premium and feature-rich devices, as user expectations continue to evolve.
