Morning Brief - 12 April 2026

India News

1. Delhi to Stop Petrol-Powered Two-Wheelers Starting in 2028

To combat rising urban pollution, the Delhi government plans to stop the registration of new petrol two-wheelers by 2028. This policy pushes for a total transition to electric vehicles, mandating that delivery fleets and private commuters switch to cleaner energy.

2. Ladakh Citizens to Receive Specialized Aadhaar Cards

Residents of Ladakh are being issued specialized Aadhaar cards that officially distinguish their identity from Jammu and Kashmir. These updated documents feature Ladakh-specific administrative codes, cementing the region's unique status as a distinct Union Territory within the national database.

3. "In the Economy, the Law Has a Bigger Role," Says Chief Justice of India

The Chief Justice emphasized that a robust legal framework is the backbone of a stable economy. By ensuring contract enforcement and protecting investor rights, the law provides the necessary certainty for businesses to thrive amidst global market fluctuations and digital shifts.

Business & Finance

4. Diesel Export Duty Increased by ₹34

The government has hiked the windfall tax on diesel exports by ₹34 per liter to regulate domestic supply. This move ensures that local fuel demands are met first, while capturing excess profits from refiners benefiting from high international oil prices.

5. Indians Hold More Gold Than the Top 10 biggest Banks of the world Combined.

Indian households and institutions possess an extraordinary gold reserve, estimated to exceed the combined holdings of the world’s ten largest central banks. This cultural preference for gold acts as a massive, decentralized economic cushion, currently valued in the trillions.

6. Exports Worth ₹93,000 Crore Halted Due to War

Ongoing geopolitical conflicts have severely disrupted international trade routes, resulting in a ₹93,000 crore standstill for Indian exports. Shipping hurdles in high-risk zones and soaring insurance costs have created significant bottlenecks for manufacturers and traders across the country.

7. Crude Oil Hiked by $10 USD; India to Pay ₹1.28 Lakh Crore Extra

With global crude oil prices rising by $10 per barrel, India’s import bill is set to increase by approximately ₹1.28 lakh crore. This surge places immense pressure on the national budget to maintain a steady energy supply for the population.

World

8. Trump Administration Dismisses Green Cards of Individuals of Iranian Origin

In a move centered on national security, the Trump administration has moved to revoke or dismiss Green Cards for certain individuals of Iranian origin. This policy targets specific affiliations and official ties, marking a significant hardening of US immigration and diplomatic stances.

Technology

9. Artemis II Astronauts Return After 10 Days in Space

The Artemis II crew has successfully completed their 10-day lunar flyby mission, marking a triumphant return to Earth. This mission serves as a critical proof-of-concept for NASA’s deep-space capabilities, bringing humanity one step closer to a permanent presence on the Moon.