Stock exchanges are places where shares, bonds, and other securities are bought and sold. In India, stock exchanges play a big role in helping people invest and companies raise money.

What Is a Stock Exchange?

A stock exchange is a marketplace where buyers and sellers come to trade stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments. It is regulated by SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) to make sure all trading is safe and fair.

Major Stock Exchanges in India (2025)

There are two main stock exchanges in India that are very active:

1. BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange)

• Started in: 1875

• Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

• Index: SENSEX

• Importance:

  • Oldest stock exchange in Asia

  • More than 5,000 companies listed

  • Known for fast and electronic trading

2. NSE (National Stock Exchange)

• Started in: 1992

• Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

• Index: NIFTY 50

• Importance:

  • Largest stock exchange in India by trading volume

  • First exchange to use electronic trading system

  • Popular for F&O (Futures and Options) trading

Other Recognized Stock Exchanges in India

These exchanges are recognized by SEBI but are either inactive or have limited activity:

3. Calcutta Stock Exchange (CSE)

• Location: Kolkata, West Bengal

• Started in: 1908

• Status: Very low activity

4. India International Exchange (India INX)

• Location: GIFT City, Gujarat

• Started in: 2017

• Importance:

  • India’s first international exchange

  • Allows trading for global investors 22 hours a day

  • Supports trading in equities, currencies, commodities, etc.

5. NSE IFSC

• Location: GIFT City, Gujarat

• Started in: 2016

• Importance:

  • International arm of NSE

  • Focuses on global investors and international products

Defunct or Closed Stock Exchanges

Many stock exchanges were active earlier but closed down due to lack of volume or SEBI orders. Some of them include:

• Delhi Stock Exchange

• Bangalore Stock Exchange

• Pune Stock Exchange

• Hyderabad Stock Exchange

• Jaipur Stock Exchange

These exchanges stopped functioning because trading moved to NSE and BSE.

Difference Between BSE and NSE

Who Regulates Stock Exchanges in India?

All stock exchanges in India are regulated by SEBI. SEBI ensures:

• Fair trading

• Investor protection

• No fraud or manipulation

• Transparency in market

Conclusion

In 2025, India has two major stock exchanges – BSE and NSE – which handle most of the trading. There are also international exchanges like India INX and NSE IFSC for global trading. Understanding these exchanges helps investors know where and how to invest safely in the stock market.

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