Business

Consumer electronics prices are set to rise again by April’s end, marking the third increase in four months. Manufacturers are passing on sustained cost pressures from plastics, memory chips, and currency fluctuations to consumers. This wave of hikes, with appliances and smartphones seeing significant jumps, could strain demand.

Indian banks are open this Saturday, April 18, 2026, as it’s the third Saturday of the month. Customers can visit branches for routine services, while digital banking remains fully operational. Note that locker access and high-value transactions still require an in-person visit. This follows the RBI’s holiday structure where only second and fourth Saturdays are

Central government employees will see a 2% Dearness Allowance increase, approved by the Cabinet. This comes as employee bodies push for significant pay structure reforms under the proposed 8th Pay Commission, seeking a higher fitment factor and expanded family definitions for pay calculations.