Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), one of India's leading oil and gas companies, has announced a final dividend of Rs. 5 per equity share for the financial year 2024-25, subject to shareholder approval. This announcement comes as part of the company's commitment to rewarding its shareholders.

Dividend Details

The Board of Directors of BPCL has recommended a final dividend of 50% on the face value of Rs. 10 per equity share, translating to Rs. 5 per share. This decision was made during the board meeting held on April 29, 2025. The dividend payout is subject to approval by shareholders at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for August 2025.

Key Dates and Eligibility

• Record Date: July 31, 2025
• Shareholder Eligibility: Shareholders holding BPCL equity shares as of the record date will be eligible for the dividend.
• Document Submission Deadline: August 4, 2025, by 4:00 P.M.

Tax Implications and Compliance

In line with the Income Tax Act, 1961, as amended by the Finance Act, 2020, dividends paid or distributed by the company on or after April 1, 2020, are taxable in the hands of shareholders. BPCL will be required to deduct Tax at Source (TDS) at prescribed rates for various categories of shareholders. Key points regarding TDS:

1. For resident individual shareholders:

   • TDS rate: 10% if dividend exceeds Rs. 10,000 annually
   • No TDS if dividend is below Rs. 10,000 in a fiscal year
   • Exemption available on submission of Form 15G/15H

2. For non-resident shareholders:

   • TDS rate: 20% plus applicable surcharge and cess
   • Option to avail benefits under Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)

Shareholder Action Required

1. Update Personal Information: Ensure that PAN, residential status, category, email address, and residential address are updated with the Depository Participant or Registrar and Transfer Agent.

2. Bank Account Details: Register/update complete bank account information for electronic dividend payment.

3. Document Submission: For tax exemptions or lower TDS rates, submit relevant documents including Form 15G/15H online by August 4, 2025.

4. Non-Resident Shareholders: Provide necessary documentation for availing DTAA benefits, including Tax Residency Certificate and Form 10F.

Electronic Payment and PAN-Aadhaar Linking

BPCL emphasized that dividends will be paid only through electronic mode. Shareholders are advised to ensure their PAN is linked with Aadhaar and to file their income tax returns to avoid higher tax deduction rates.

The company has set up online portals for document submission and has provided detailed guidelines to ensure smooth processing of dividend payments and tax compliance. Shareholders are encouraged to take necessary actions within the stipulated timelines to ensure proper dividend credit and optimal tax treatment.

This dividend announcement reflects BPCL's strong financial position and its commitment to creating value for its shareholders, even as it navigates the dynamic energy sector landscape.

In a development that could bring relief to consumers across India, the country's Oil Minister has indicated a possible decrease in fuel prices in the coming months. This statement comes amidst ongoing concerns about the impact of fuel costs on household budgets and the broader economy.

Minister's Optimistic Outlook

India's Oil Minister has expressed optimism regarding the potential for fuel price reductions. The Minister believes that if crude oil prices maintain stability over the next two to three months, it could pave the way for lower fuel prices at the pump.

Conditions for Price Reduction

The key factor highlighted by the Minister is the stability of crude oil prices in the global market. A sustained period of stable prices, specifically over the next 60 to 90 days, is seen as crucial for enabling a reduction in domestic fuel prices.

Implications for Consumers

If the Minister's projections materialize, it could spell good news for Indian consumers who have been grappling with high fuel costs. Lower fuel prices could potentially ease inflationary pressures and provide some financial relief to households and businesses alike.

Market Dynamics

It's important to note that fuel prices in India are influenced by various factors, including:

• International crude oil prices
• Exchange rates
• Domestic taxes

The government's ability to reduce prices will largely depend on the interplay of these factors in the coming months.

Cautious Optimism

While the Minister's statement offers a glimmer of hope, it's crucial to understand that this is not a guarantee. The global oil market is subject to various geopolitical and economic factors that can cause price fluctuations. Consumers and industry stakeholders will likely be keeping a close eye on crude oil price trends in the upcoming months.

As the situation develops, further updates from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas will be key in understanding the trajectory of fuel prices in India. For now, the Minister's statement suggests a cautiously optimistic outlook for consumers, contingent on favorable global oil market conditions.