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Meet Uday Shankar: The 15-Year-Old AI Prodigy Revolutionizing Technology

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a world where artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming industries, a 15-year-old prodigy from Kerala is making waves with his remarkable contributions to the field. Uday Shankar, hailed as the “Wizard of AI,” has an inspiring story that showcases his unwavering passion for science and technology, even when it meant stepping away from traditional education.

Uday’s journey into the tech world began when he made the bold decision to drop out of school in the eighth grade to fully dedicate himself to his love of AI and software development. Despite this unconventional path, Uday’s brilliance shone through as he quickly rose to prominence, earning the prestigious role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Urav Advanced Learning System Pvt Ltd, an AI start-up based in Kochi, Kerala.

As the CTO of Urav, Uday oversees the technical branch of the company, guiding its vision and development. Under his leadership, Urav has become a hub for innovation, offering certificate programs in cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality, and game development. Uday’s expertise has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum, particularly in advanced Python coding and Unity 3D game development courses for young learners.

Uday’s path is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. With the support of his parents, Dr. Ravi Kumar and Srikumari, Uday has pursued his education through open schooling, allowing him to balance his academic aspirations with his role at Urav. He has earned certificates from prestigious institutions like IIT Kanpur and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, further solidifying his reputation as a young genius in the tech world.

But Uday’s accomplishments don’t stop there. He has authored four research papers, secured three patents, and developed an impressive portfolio of about fifteen games, nine computer programs, and seven apps. His innovative spirit was recognized with the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Ignited Mind Children Creativity and Innovation Award 2030, an honor that underscores his impact on the field of AI.

One of Uday’s most notable projects is the development of an app called “Hi Friends,” which was inspired by a personal experience. When Uday struggled to communicate with his grandmother in Palakkad, he saw an opportunity to create an AI-based solution. The app allows users to create avatars of loved ones and communicate with them in any language, opening up new possibilities for AI in multilingual communication. This breakthrough led to the creation of a multilingual kiosk that could be used in public transportation systems like trains and metros.

Uday’s innovation extends beyond AI communication tools. He founded his start-up, Urav, four years ago after teaching himself Python programming online. Among his other notable projects is “Clean Alka,” an AI chatbot that interacts with users to generate images, and “Bhashini,” a patented app that allows users to manage multiple languages seamlessly. In his commitment to social impact, Uday has also developed a free app designed to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating public spaces.

Uday Shankar’s story is a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to innovation. His journey from a young tech enthusiast to a leading figure in AI is a testament to the boundless potential of youth when passion and talent are nurtured. As Uday continues to push the boundaries of technology, his work promises to inspire countless others to follow their dreams and make their mark on the world.

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‘Creamy Layer’ in Reservations: Kharge Advocates for Legislative Override of Supreme Court Verdict

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The ongoing debate over the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on sub-categorization within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) reservations has ignited significant political discourse. At the heart of this controversy is the concept of the “creamy layer” within these communities—a notion that has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.

Supreme Court’s Judgment: A Double-Edged Sword?

Earlier this month, a seven-judge bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, delivered a landmark judgment permitting states to sub-classify communities within the SC and ST lists based on empirical data. While this decision was largely hailed as a step towards ensuring more equitable distribution of resources, it also introduced the controversial idea of applying the “creamy layer” concept to these historically marginalized groups.

Justice BR Gavai, in a concurring judgment, argued that states should evolve a policy to identify the creamy layer within SCs and STs and deny them the benefits of reservation. This suggestion has sparked a heated debate, with many, including Kharge, condemning the idea as fundamentally flawed and detrimental to the very purpose of reservations.

Kharge’s Stand: Protecting the Essence of Reservation

Mallikarjun Kharge has been vocal in his opposition to the Supreme Court’s observation regarding the creamy layer. He asserts that this concept, if implemented, would undermine the original intent of reservations, which was to combat the entrenched social discrimination and untouchability that members of SC and ST communities have faced for centuries.

“By bringing the creamy layer concept, you are effectively denying benefits to those who have been the most marginalized,” Kharge stated, highlighting the persistent social inequalities that continue to plague these communities. He argued that the basis for reservation has always been to address untouchability and social injustice, not economic status.

Kharge’s critique extends beyond the judiciary to the legislative domain. He believes that the government should have proactively brought forth legislation to nullify the Supreme Court’s observations on the creamy layer, thereby preserving the integrity of the reservation system. “If the government can push through other bills in a matter of hours, there is no reason why they couldn’t have addressed this issue in the same session,” he remarked.

The Broader Implications: A Call for Unity

Kharge’s comments come at a time when the political landscape is fraught with discussions on the future of reservations in India. He has called for a unified stance against the creamy layer concept, urging all stakeholders to ensure that this part of the judgment does not gain traction. According to Kharge, the ongoing privatization of public sector jobs, coupled with existing vacancies that are not being filled, further exacerbates the challenges faced by SC and ST communities in securing employment.

Government’s Position: A Reaffirmation of Constitutional Provisions

In response to the Supreme Court’s judgment, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has reiterated its commitment to the constitutional provisions laid down by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The government has maintained that there is no provision for a creamy layer in SC and ST reservations as per the Constitution, signaling its intent to uphold the current framework.

A Complex Issue with No Easy Answers

The debate over the creamy layer in SC and ST reservations touches on deeply entrenched social issues that go beyond mere economic criteria. While the Supreme Court’s judgment seeks to address disparities within these communities, it has also opened up a complex discussion on the future of affirmative action in India.

As the Congress continues its consultations with intellectuals, experts, and NGOs, the political and social ramifications of this judgment will likely be felt for some time. Kharge’s firm stand against the creamy layer concept highlights the broader concern that any dilution of the reservation policy could undermine decades of progress towards social equality.

In a country where untouchability and discrimination are still realities for many, the battle to protect the essence of reservations is far from over.

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BlogBusinessFeaturedIndia

RBI Holds Repo Rate Steady: A Positive Signal for Homebuyers and Real Estate Investors

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a move that bodes well for the real estate sector, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6.5% for the ninth consecutive time. This decision, announced on August 8, aligns seamlessly with the recent announcement on August 7 regarding indexation benefits on the sale of property, offering a double boost to the real estate market.

The RBI’s choice to maintain the current policy rate offers much-needed stability to the housing market, particularly at a time when food inflation remains a concern. With the repo rate holding steady, home loan EMIs will remain manageable for both current and prospective homeowners, a development that could drive an uptick in home sales, especially in the price-sensitive affordable housing segment.

“The monetary policy committee decided by a 4:2 majority to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.5%. Consequently, the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains at 6.25%, and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the bank rate at 6.75%,” said RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das during the policy announcement.

Real estate experts are optimistic about the potential impact of this decision. Anuj Puri, Chairman of ANAROCK Group, noted, “Maintaining interest rates offers consistency in borrowing costs, which will prompt more aspiring homebuyers to consider taking the plunge—thus driving demand in the housing market. With interest rates staying steady, EMIs will remain manageable, potentially leading to increased home sales.”

The RBI’s decision also coincides with the recent announcement of indexation benefits, which is expected to have a positive impact on the property market. The indexation benefits allow for adjustments to the purchase price, taking inflation into account, which in turn reduces capital gains tax upon the sale of property. This tax advantage makes real estate investments more appealing, further spurring demand and capital flow into the housing sector.

Samantak Das, Chief Economist and Head of Research and REIS, India, JLL, emphasized the significance of the RBI’s steady approach: “The RBI’s intention in keeping rates unchanged is to ensure a stable interest rate environment and price stability, which is crucial for sustained growth. However, future rate cuts in India will primarily be influenced by domestic factors.”

Looking ahead, experts believe that the sentiment in the real estate sector is likely to remain positive throughout the upcoming festive season. The combination of stable interest rates and recent government initiatives, such as the rationalization of stamp duty charges and concessions for women homebuyers, is expected to further support this momentum.

Vimal Nadar, Senior Director and Head of Research at Colliers India, remarked, “Strong visibility in financing charges should help homebuyers and developers alike in the upcoming festive season. The partial withdrawal of the applicability of the revised LTCG tax arising out of the sale of land and buildings retrospectively provides elbow room to affect housing sales with minimal tax outgo. This is likely to buoy investor and homeowner sentiment, benefiting the real estate sector at large.”

Real estate developers have welcomed the RBI’s decision, viewing it as a positive signal for the industry. G Hari Babu, National President of NAREDCO, expressed confidence in the stable environment created by the unchanged repo rate and the RBI’s forecast of 7.2% GDP growth for FY25. “With steady borrowing costs, home loans become more affordable, which is likely to boost demand in the housing market, especially during the upcoming festive season,” he said.

The RBI’s balanced approach to economic management, amidst global economic uncertainties, has reassured investors and provided a stable backdrop for the real estate sector to thrive. As the festive season approaches, the current status quo on the repo rate is expected to further support the momentum in the housing market, creating a conducive environment for both homebuyers and developers.

In conclusion, the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate steady is a welcome development for the real estate sector, offering stability and predictability in borrowing costs. Combined with recent government initiatives, this move is likely to boost demand in the housing market, particularly in the affordable segment, and position real estate as a strong avenue for long-term wealth growth.

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BlogFeaturedSports

Neeraj Chopra – India’s Golden Boy Shines Bright in Paris Olympics

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

August 6, 2024, has been etched in history as “Neeraj Chopra Day” by the official Olympics X handle, celebrating India’s golden boy who stormed into the men’s javelin final with a spectacular season-best throw of 89.34 meters. Neeraj Chopra, the defending champion and independent India’s only medalist in athletics, showcased his unparalleled prowess by topping the qualification round on Tuesday with just one attempt.

In Qualification B, Neeraj set the tone early, launching his first javelin far beyond the automatic qualification mark of 85 meters, ensuring his spot in the final. The final showdown is scheduled for Thursday at 11:55 pm IST, where the stakes and anticipation are higher than ever.

Reflecting on his performance, Neeraj remarked on the contrasting conditions between Tokyo and Paris. “In Tokyo, we threw in the sunshine and here it’s a bit cooler and the humidity is much lesser. Tokyo was much warmer and more humid than Paris. The big difference is that there are crowds here,” he shared.

Neeraj’s journey from a sunny Tokyo to a cooler Paris has been marked by relentless focus and determination. “Being the defending champion is motivation, and I need to be prepared. The mind should be focused on doing the job at hand,” Neeraj stated, underscoring his resolve to maintain his winning streak.

Despite his impressive throw in the qualification round, Neeraj remains cautious and grounded. “The final will be a cracker, the Tokyo final mark has already been surpassed by qualification. We were a little relaxed today. The burden and pressure will be much more in the final,” he noted, acknowledging the heightened competition ahead.

Addressing concerns about his fitness, Neeraj opened up about his recent injury struggles. “I have had a few issues with my groin, and that is why I did not take part in a lot of competitions. It is important to stay fit and reach the final,” he said, emphasizing the significance of maintaining peak physical condition.

As India rallies behind its golden boy, the anticipation for Thursday’s final builds. Neeraj Chopra’s remarkable entry into the finals not only cements his legacy but also inspires millions, reinforcing the spirit of determination and excellence. With the world watching, Neeraj is poised to deliver yet another unforgettable performance, marking another chapter in his illustrious career.

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BlogFeaturedIndia

India ‘s Per Capita Income to Reach a Quarter of U.S. Levels in 75 Years, Warns World Bank

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

India, one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, faces a daunting challenge as the World Bank projects it will take 75 years for its per capita income to reach a quarter of U.S. income levels if current trends persist. This stark warning was issued as part of the World Bank’s ‘World Development Report 2024,’ which highlights the risks of the “middle income trap” for 108 countries, including India and China.

The Middle-Income Trap and India’s Economic Aspirations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set an ambitious vision for India to become a developed economy by 2047, marking the centennial of its independence. However, the World Bank’s report casts a shadow over this vision, suggesting that achieving such a transition in the next 25 years, akin to Korea’s economic miracle, would be extraordinarily challenging.

Indermit Gill, the World Bank’s chief economist, emphasized that many middle-income countries, including India, still rely on outdated economic policies focused primarily on expanding investment. He likened this to “driving a car just in first gear and trying to make it go faster,” warning that without a shift in strategy, these countries are unlikely to achieve the prosperity they aspire to by mid-century.

A Grim Outlook for Middle-Income Economies

According to the World Bank’s analysis, nations like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa face significant hurdles in their quest to join the ranks of high-income countries. Historically, countries tend to hit a “trap” at about 10% of annual U.S. GDP per capita, currently around $8,000. This threshold often marks the point where growth stalls, and only a select few nations have managed to break through it since 1990, often due to unique circumstances like EU integration or the discovery of new natural resources.

The Need for a New Economic Playbook

The World Bank’s report stresses that the traditional playbook for economic development, which relies heavily on investment, is no longer sufficient. Instead, Mr. Gill advocates for a phased approach: starting with a focus on investment, followed by the integration of new technologies from abroad, and finally adopting a balanced strategy that includes investment, technology infusion, and innovation.

This new approach is essential given the myriad challenges facing middle-income countries today, including aging populations, rising debt, geopolitical tensions, and the need for sustainable development. “With growing demographic, ecological, and geopolitical pressures, there is no room for error,” Mr. Gill cautioned.

Conclusion

As India aims to transform itself into a developed economy by 2047, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. The World Bank’s sobering analysis underscores the need for a radical shift in economic strategy to avoid the middle-income trap and achieve long-term prosperity. By embracing a balanced approach that combines investment, technological adoption, and innovation, India and other middle-income countries can hope to overcome these obstacles and secure a brighter economic future.

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BlogBusinessFeaturedIndiaLifestyle

Gartex Texprocess India New Delhi witnesses a grand opening today. Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Shri Giriraj Singh graced the inauguration

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi,1st August 2024: The 11th New Delhi edition of Gartex Texprocess India commenced today with a grand opening at the state-of-the-art expo centre, Yashobhoomi, IICC, Dwarka, New Delhi. Chief Guest, Shri Giriraj Singh, Minister of Textiles highlighting FDIs and joint venture as huge opportunities in the sector.

The show floor is packed with more than 180 exhibitors presenting 600+ brands from countries like India, China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, USA and to showcase the advancements from the world of textiles and garment manufacturing industry.

The 11th edition of the show was inaugurated today in the presence of the esteemed dignitaries of the textile industry, which included:

  1. Chief Guest: Shri Giriraj Singh, Minister of Textiles, Government of India
  2. Mr. Elgar Straub, Managing Director, VDMA Textile Care, Fabric & Leather Technologies
  3. Mr. Sharad Jaipuria, President, Denim Manufacturers Association & Chairman & Mnaging Director of Ginni International Ltd
  4. Mr Simon Lee, Managing Director of Hyosung Group ( Hyosung corporation India Pvt Ltd & Hyosung India Pvt Ltd)
  5. Mr Aamir Akhtar, Group President & CEO Textiles, Jindal Worldwide Limited

Addressing the gathering the Chief Guest, Shri Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, expressed: “I see a very good programme organised with the knowledge sessions, product display and B2B networking opportunities. I thank all the companies associated with garment, machinery, fabrics and denims industry for this.” His address emphasised on encouraging the joint ventures, FDI and collaborative progress within the textile manufacturing between suppliers and manufacturers and brands. He also mentioned that that after agriculture, if there is any sector that has employment potential then it is textiles. Indian government will work in collaboration with the agriculture and textile department to drive the sector ahead. He also emphasised that ‘handlooms’ is one significant sustainable fabric.

Gartex Texprocess India has consistently been at the forefront of showcasing innovations and emerging trends in the textile and garment industry. This edition is featuring an array of innovative product launches from various brands catering to denims, machinery manufacturing, sewing machines, fabrics, trims, accessories and more.

Mr. Raj Manek, Executive Director and Board Member of Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, expressed his enthusiasm on the inauguration of the 11th New Delhi edition. He said: “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response to the 11th edition of Gartex Texprocess India from the industry stakeholders. The Indian government’s focus has been on manufacturing and it gives us the immense pleasure to witness the advancements in textiles and garment manufacturing solutions, denims and more from 200+ exhibitors. This reflects the vibrant and dynamic spirit of this sector.”

Mr. Gaurav Juneja, Director of MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, added: “The impressive turnout and participation from leading brands and international exhibitors highlight the significance of Gartex Texprocess India in driving the future of the textile and garment manufacturing industry. We look forward to positive and successful show with business discussions, networking, knowledge sharing and innovations across three days. “

Day two dedicated to denims will present knowledge rich sessions from Denim industry experts who will discuss everything right from denim manufacturing to its sustainable solutions. The sessions will touch upon areas like laundry automation, sustainability, innovations in denims and how can AI tools be utilized to identify the denim trends as well as lifecycle assessment of denims. These discussions will offer the attendees a lot of crucial insight on denims that will help professionals explore their knowledge, practices and processes.

Organized by MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd and Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd, the three-day trade fair will continue to showcase industry trends and innovations till 3rd August 2024.

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Adani Green Energy’s Khavda Plant: A Game-Changer Set to Propel Stock to New Heights

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) is poised for a remarkable surge, with Jefferies forecasting a potential 75% rally in its stock price. The catalyst for this significant growth is the Khavda Renewable Energy (RE) plant in Gujarat, which promises to revolutionize the renewable energy sector and drive Adani Green’s stock to unprecedented heights.

The Khavda RE Plant: A Massive Undertaking

The Khavda RE plant is a colossal project, sprawling over an impressive 538 square kilometers—an area nearly five times the size of Paris. This ambitious initiative is set to position Adani Green at the forefront of the renewable energy industry, showcasing its capability to execute large-scale projects with unparalleled speed and efficiency.

Within just 12 months of breaking ground, AGEL has already operationalized the first 2 GW of the Khavda plant’s capacity. This swift progress is a testament to the company’s dedication and operational excellence. By the end of the fiscal year 2025, AGEL plans to add a total of 6 GW capacity, with Khavda contributing a significant portion of this expansion. The long-term vision for Khavda is even more ambitious, with the entire 30 GW RE capacity slated for completion by 2029, setting a global benchmark for large-scale renewable energy projects.

Jefferies’ Bullish Outlook

Jefferies, a leading global brokerage firm, has set a target price of ₹2,130 per share for Adani Green Energy, indicating a 17% potential upside from the previous close. However, in a more optimistic scenario, Jefferies envisions the stock soaring to ₹3,180 per share—a staggering 75% increase from the current price of ₹1,830.

This bullish outlook is underpinned by several key factors:

  • Industry Tailwinds: The renewable energy sector is experiencing strong tailwinds, driven by global efforts to combat climate change and transition to sustainable energy sources.
  • Power Demand Growth: Increasing power demand, particularly in developing economies, is set to fuel the growth of renewable energy companies like AGEL.
  • Capacity Expansion Targets: AGEL’s ambitious target of achieving 50 GW capacity by 2030 positions it as a major player in the renewable energy market.

The Road Ahead

Adani Green Energy’s Khavda plant is not just a project; it’s a game-changer that exemplifies the company’s strategic vision and execution prowess. As AGEL continues to expand its capacity and capitalize on industry trends, its stock is poised for substantial growth.

Investors and industry observers alike are closely watching Adani Green’s progress, eager to see how the Khavda project unfolds and propels the company toward its lofty goals. With a combination of strategic foresight, operational excellence, and favorable market conditions, AGEL is well on its way to becoming a dominant force in the renewable energy sector.

In conclusion, Adani Green Energy’s Khavda plant is set to redefine the renewable energy landscape, offering immense potential for growth and setting a new standard for large-scale energy projects. As Jefferies’ optimistic projections suggest, the future looks bright for AGEL and its stakeholders.

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BlogFeaturedWorld

China and India Pledge to Strengthen Ties Amid Global Challenges

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar met in Vientiane on July 25, 2024. The high-level talks underscored the importance of China and India, two neighboring giants with ancient civilizations, in navigating the complex international landscape and addressing global challenges together.

Wang Yi emphasized the need for China and India to enhance dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and build trust. He highlighted that both nations, as major developing countries and emerging economies, should responsibly handle differences and focus on mutually beneficial cooperation. This, he said, would not only promote stable and sustainable bilateral relations but also serve broader global interests.

“China-India relations have a significant impact beyond the bilateral scope,” Wang Yi remarked. “Improving our relations should reflect the strategic vision of our nations as major emerging economies. We must handle our differences with political wisdom and tackle global challenges with solidarity and cooperation.”

Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar echoed these sentiments, noting the shared history and interests of the two countries. He stressed that maintaining stable and predictable bilateral relations is crucial for regional peace and the promotion of a multipolar world. “India and China, with our vast populations and rich histories, have broad converging interests despite the challenges posed by the situation in the border areas. We are committed to taking a strategic and open perspective to find solutions and return our relations to a positive track,” Jaishankar said.

Both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas and pledged to make progress in consultations on border affairs. They also expressed their readiness to enhance communication within various multilateral frameworks, including the East Asia cooperation platform, SCO, G20, and BRICS, to jointly practice multilateralism and uphold the rights and interests of developing countries.

This meeting marks a significant step in fostering cooperation between China and India, two pivotal players on the global stage, as they navigate through shared challenges and work towards a more stable and prosperous future.

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Modi Initiates Construction of World’s Highest Tunnel in Ladakh

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to initiate the construction of the Shinku La tunnel in Ladakh, marking a significant step towards enhancing all-weather connectivity from Manali in Himachal Pradesh to Leh via the Nimmu-Padam-Darcha axis. This event, referred to as the “first blast,” will be conducted remotely from the Kargil war memorial in Dras on Friday, where Modi will also pay tribute to Indian soldiers on the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War.

The Shinku La tunnel, situated at an altitude of 15,800 feet, will surpass China’s Mila tunnel (15,590 feet) to become the highest tunnel in the world. Expected to be completed in four years, this 4.1 km-long tunnel will significantly enhance military mobility and logistics support for deployed forces in the Ladakh sector by providing a reliable alternative route. Once operational, the tunnel will reduce the distance between Manali and Leh by 60 km, bringing it down from 355 to 295 km.

The Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road, which will integrate with the tunnel, is already nearing completion, having achieved connectivity between Nimmu and Darcha in March 2024. This road is being blacktopped, and its strategic importance cannot be overstated. It provides a shorter and more reliable route compared to the traditional Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh routes, crossing only one high pass at 16,615 feet.

The timing of this development is crucial as the military standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh continues into its fifth year, with ongoing negotiations aiming to restore the status quo ante of April 2020.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), which is spearheading the construction, has significantly improved strategic mobility along the border with China. Over the past three years, BRO has completed 330 projects worth ₹8,737 crore. Additionally, BRO is on the verge of completing a critical project to provide alternative connectivity to Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO), India’s northernmost military base near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The new 130-km road from Sasoma in the Nubra Valley to DBO near the Karakoram Pass is nearing completion. This route will serve as an alternative to the existing 255-km Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi (DS-DBO) road, which runs close to the LAC. The strategic push for improved border infrastructure has been bolstered by increased spending and the adoption of advanced technologies and techniques.

In line with this infrastructure push, the BRO has been allocated a capital outlay of ₹6,500 crore in the defence budget for 2024-25, marking a 30% increase from the previous fiscal year and a 160% increase from FY 2021-22. This substantial investment underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s strategic capabilities and ensuring robust support for military operations in the region.

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Finance Minister Announces Price Cuts on Mobile Phones and Precious Metals in Budget 2024

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In the Union Budget 2024-2025 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, several key measures have been introduced that will impact the prices of various goods, making some items cheaper and others costlier. This budget, the first of the BJP-led NDA government, aims to shape India’s economic landscape, affecting everything from infrastructure development to social welfare programs.

Cheaper Items

The finance minister announced measures leading to the reduction in prices for mobile phones, gold, silver, and copper. Here’s a detailed list of items that have become cheaper:

  • Mobile Phones and Chargers: Basic Customs Duty reduced to 15%.
  • Gold and Silver: Customs duty reduced to 6%, and platinum to 6.4%.
  • Cancer Treatment Medicines: Three specific medicines exempted from Basic Customs Duty.
  • Solar Panels: Expansion of the list of exempted capital goods used in their manufacturing.
  • E-Commerce: TDS rate reduced from 1% to 0.1%.
  • Ferronickel and Blister Copper: Basic Customs Duty removed.
  • Shrimp and Fish Feed: Customs duty on various inputs exempted or reduced to 5%.
  • Leather and Textile Sectors: BCD on real down filling material reduced to enhance export competitiveness.
  • Ammonium Nitrate: Basic Customs Duty reduced from 7.5% to 10%.
  • Oxygen-Free Copper: Duty removed for the manufacture of resistors.
  • Critical Minerals: Customs duties fully exempted on 25 critical minerals for sectors like nuclear energy, renewable energy, space, defence, telecommunications, and high-tech electronics.

Costlier Items

Conversely, some items will see a price increase due to higher customs duties:

  • Ammonium Nitrate: Customs duty increased to 10%.
  • Non-Biodegradable Plastics: Duty increased to 25%.
  • Telecom Equipment: Specified equipment’s basic customs duty raised to 15% from 10%.
  • High-Value Goods: TCS of 1% on notified goods valued over ₹10 lakh.

Tax Changes

The finance minister also announced several changes to tax deductions:

  • Standard Deduction: Increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000 for salaried employees under the new tax regime.
  • Family Pension: Tax deduction increased from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 for pensioners.

In last year’s budget, there were significant cuts in import taxes on various components, including camera lenses, to promote mobile phone manufacturing in India. The tax rate on lithium-ion batteries, essential for phones and electric vehicles, was also reduced to make manufacturing in India more cost-effective.

The Economic Survey 2024 predicts India’s GDP to grow between 6.5-7% this year, with retail inflation declining to 5.4% during 2023-24 from 6.7% previously. The survey, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emphasized ‘Service’ and ‘growth’.

Like recent budgets, Budget 2024 was delivered in a paperless format. An Interim Union Budget 2024 was previously presented on February 1, in anticipation of the general elections.

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