Budget FY26: Full BCD exemption on zinc and lead to strengthen domestic manufacturing

In the Budget FY'26 , the government announced a full Basic Customs Duty (BCD) exemption on zinc, lead, and 12 other critical minerals. This builds on the Budget FY'25 measures, aiming to enhance domestic processing, ensure mineral availability, and create jobs. India imported 151,107 t of lead and 73,947 t of zinc scrap in CY'24, highlighting the need for domestic manufacturing growth.