Indian banks face widespread closures this week due to festivals and annual account settlements. Several states will see branches shut on March 31 for Mahavir Jayanti. April 1 sees a nationwide closure for accounting, with exceptions. Further closures are scheduled for April 2 and 3 for Maundy Thursday and Good Friday respectively.

Pakistan may resort to fuel rationing at petrol pumps if the US-Iran conflict escalates, finance minister Muhammad Aurangzeb warned. While currently managing demand through price adjustments and targeted subsidies, the government acknowledges this approach’s limits. Disruptions to oil flows via the Strait of Hormuz, crucial for Pakistan’s imports, have already caused significant price hikes and…

The US has slapped a hefty 123.04% anti-dumping duty on Indian solar cells and modules, citing “critical circumstances.” This, combined with existing duties, makes US shipments unviable. However, Indian solar firms have already diversified exports to Europe and West Asia, mitigating the immediate impact. The industry plans to challenge the “flawed” findings.

India aims for 100% ethanol blending to boost energy self-reliance amid West Asian oil supply concerns, according to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. He highlighted the nation’s heavy reliance on oil imports and the environmental benefits of alternative fuels. Gadkari also discussed the potential of green hydrogen and the circular economy for job creation.

Accessing cooking fuel just got simpler for migrant workers, students, and daily wage earners. The government now allows 5-kg Free Trade LPG cylinders to be sold without address proof, requiring only a valid ID. This move aims to make energy more accessible, removing bureaucratic hurdles for vulnerable sections.

Pakistan grapples with soaring fuel prices, prompting free public transport in Islamabad and Punjab for 30 days. Despite a revised petrol price, public anger persists. The government aims to ease economic burdens amid global energy disruptions and IMF pressure, with similar measures seen in Karachi and Bangladesh.