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Revolutionizing Democracy: ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bills to Be Tabled in Lok Sabha

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a move that could redefine India’s democratic landscape, the government is set to introduce two pivotal bills in the Lok Sabha on Monday, December 16. The proposed legislations—The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill and The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill—are key steps toward implementing the ambitious “One Nation, One Election” policy. These bills mark a major leap toward synchronizing the Lok Sabha and state legislative assembly elections.

What Are the Bills About?

The cornerstone of this initiative is The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, which aims to amend constitutional provisions to facilitate simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. This would eliminate the need for staggered polls and streamline the electoral process across the nation. Complementing this is The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, designed to align laws concerning Union territories with legislative assemblies to the overarching framework proposed by the constitutional amendment.

A Cabinet-Approved Vision

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave its nod to these draft legislations on Thursday. This approval reinforces the BJP’s commitment to its long-standing “One Nation, One Election” vision, which aims to enhance administrative efficiency and reduce election-related costs.

Notably, the high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind had earlier suggested that simultaneous elections could also encompass local bodies such as municipalities and panchayats. However, the Cabinet has decided not to include these elections in the current framework, choosing instead to focus on aligning national and state-level elections.

A Step Toward Electoral Uniformity

If enacted, these bills would mark a watershed moment in India’s democratic journey, as the concept of simultaneous polls seeks to harmonize the electoral calendar. The proposed model has the potential to reduce the frequency of elections, thereby allowing governments to focus more on governance.

This landmark legislation reflects the government’s commitment to exploring transformative reforms that could redefine how the world’s largest democracy conducts its elections.

Stay tuned as these monumental bills are tabled in Parliament, paving the way for a robust debate on the future of India’s electoral system.

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BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

Parliament Winter Session : Key Bills Await Passage Amid Opposition Protests

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As the third week of the Winter Session of Parliament progresses, the legislative focus sharpens on three pivotal bills—the Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Despite persistent disruptions, these bills are poised for passage, marking significant legislative milestones.

However, the session has been anything but smooth. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed repeated adjournments today, halting substantive discussions and intensifying the already charged political atmosphere.

Key Bills on the Table

  1. Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    This bill proposes critical updates to streamline operations, enhance passenger safety, and modernize infrastructure. With India’s railways serving as a lifeline for millions, the amendments aim to bolster efficiency and economic growth.
  2. Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    Amid growing concerns over climate-induced disasters, this bill seeks to strengthen institutional frameworks and ensure timely response mechanisms. It underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing disaster resilience nationwide.
  3. Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    Focused on reforming outdated banking regulations, this bill aims to enhance financial stability and foster innovation in the banking sector. It could also pave the way for increased private sector participation.

Protests Continue to Disrupt Proceedings

The first two weeks of the Winter Session were marked by opposition protests, led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, on issues ranging from the Manipur unrest to Sambhal violence. The protests have significantly disrupted parliamentary proceedings, drawing accusations from the BJP, which claims the opposition is attempting to “derail” the economy and “disrupt” democracy.

Global Context Shapes Discussions

Amid domestic turbulence, international matters have also surfaced in the session. Last week, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Palestine conflict, condemning terrorism and hostage-taking while emphasizing the need for restraint to avoid civilian casualties.

Session Outlook: Challenges Ahead

With the Winter Session set to conclude on December 20, the passage of these three bills is critical. However, the persistent adjournments highlight the widening political divide in Parliament.

  1. Opposition Stance: The opposition remains steadfast in demanding accountability on key issues, ensuring that debates extend beyond legislative matters.
  2. Government Focus: The ruling party aims to push through its legislative agenda despite the protests, emphasizing the importance of these bills for national development.

The Winter Session underscores the vibrant yet tumultuous nature of Indian democracy. As Parliament grapples with protests and legislative priorities, the focus remains on navigating this challenging period to achieve meaningful outcomes for the nation.

With key bills awaiting passage, the coming days will be critical in shaping India’s policy framework and setting the tone for its governance trajectory.

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BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

Sparks Fly in Parliament Amid Heated Debates and Protests

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As the Winter Session of Parliament continues in full swing, the political landscape of India has turned turbulent, with sharp exchanges and vocal opposition protests dominating the proceedings. The session, which began on November 25 and is scheduled to conclude on December 20, has seen an array of contentious debates, walkouts, and accusations, reflecting the charged atmosphere in both Houses.

Lok Sabha Adjourned Amid Uproar

The Lok Sabha witnessed an abrupt adjournment for the day as opposition protests gained momentum. The raucous session underscored deep divisions between the ruling BJP and opposition parties, with the BJP accusing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of attempting to “derail the economy” and “disrupt democracy.”

The allegation, a stark escalation in political rhetoric, comes amid the BJP’s claim that the opposition is orchestrating a calculated effort to destabilize the government. Gandhi and the Congress have yet to respond substantively, but the drama suggests this issue may linger as a dominant theme in the weeks ahead.

Rajya Sabha Grapples with Cash-for-Influence Row

In the Rajya Sabha, proceedings were disrupted by a brewing controversy over an alleged cash-for-influence scandal, leading to a heated exchange between members. Opposition leaders demanded clarity and accountability, while the treasury benches dismissed the allegations as baseless.

Adding to the complexity, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the House, offering a nuanced statement on the Israel-Palestine conflict. He reiterated India’s condemnation of terrorism and hostage-taking while emphasizing the importance of proportionality in military responses to minimize civilian casualties. His remarks came against the backdrop of global concern over escalating violence in the region.

Key Highlights of the Winter Session So Far

  1. Prolonged Opposition Protests: The opposition parties have staged multiple demonstrations, accusing the government of mishandling key national issues, from economic policy to allegations of corruption.
  2. BJP’s Counterattack: The ruling party has launched its own offensive, accusing the opposition of engaging in disruptive politics rather than constructive debate.
  3. Foreign Policy Clarity: Minister Jaishankar’s remarks on the Israel-Palestine conflict reflect India’s balanced stance, reaffirming its commitment to peace while condemning terrorism unequivocally.

What Lies Ahead?

With almost a month remaining in this stormy Winter Session, the road ahead promises to be contentious. The opposition’s strategy to corner the government on various fronts, combined with the BJP’s robust counterarguments, ensures that debates will be intense.

As both Houses grapple with protests, policy discussions, and international issues, this session is poised to set the tone for the upcoming election year. Amid the chaos, the public hopes that Parliament will also focus on addressing key legislative agendas that impact everyday lives.

Conclusion: Democracy in Action

While the ongoing drama in Parliament might seem tumultuous, it reflects the vibrant—and often noisy—essence of Indian democracy. As leaders lock horns over pressing national and global issues, this session highlights the challenges and responsibilities of governance.

Stay tuned as the Winter Session 2024 continues to unfold with new twists, fiery exchanges, and critical decisions shaping the future of the nation.

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BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

Chaos in Parliament: Week Two Begins With Adjournments Over Key Issues

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The second week of the Parliament Winter Session began with little progress as both Houses of Parliament witnessed adjournments amidst fervent protests by Opposition members. Demands for discussions on issues ranging from allegations against the Adani Group to the ongoing situation in Manipur dominated proceedings, leaving the day largely unproductive.

A Week of Disruptions Continues

The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha convened on December 2, 2024, only to be adjourned without addressing substantial business. This marked the continuation of a week marred by disruptions. The Opposition, united under the INDIA bloc, remains steadfast in its insistence on prioritizing these pressing issues for discussion.

Focus on Adani Allegations

In the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Manickam Tagore submitted an adjournment motion notice calling for an urgent investigation into allegations made by the U.S. Justice Department against Gautam Adani. The allegations, centered on bribery and corruption, have triggered a political firestorm in India. Tagore emphasized the need to address these claims in the “public interest,” urging immediate parliamentary debate.

Manipur and Law-and-Order Issues Dominate Rajya Sabha

Meanwhile, in the Rajya Sabha, several leaders raised adjournment and suspension notices to discuss critical issues:

  • Manipur Violence: DMK MP Tiruchi Siva sought attention on the ongoing violence in Manipur, emphasizing the need for parliamentary intervention in the crisis.
  • Delhi’s Law-and-Order Concerns: AAP MP Sanjay Singh filed a notice under Rule 267 to address the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the national capital.
  • Arrest of ISKCON Monks in Bangladesh: AAP MP Raghav Chadha highlighted the arrest of ISKCON monks, calling for a dedicated discussion on the implications of these events.

Opposition Strategies: Seeking the Speaker’s Intervention

In a significant move, floor leaders of the INDIA alliance convened a meeting at the Congress Parliamentary Party office under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. After deliberations, the leaders decided to approach the Speaker to seek his intervention in ensuring the smooth functioning of Parliament.

The INDIA bloc’s united front underscores its commitment to holding the government accountable on issues that it deems critical for the nation.

Persistent Deadlock

Despite multiple attempts to bring order to proceedings, the Parliament’s Winter Session continues to face a deadlock. The lack of productive debate over essential matters has drawn criticism from various quarters, with analysts noting the need for collaborative efforts to ensure parliamentary efficiency.

A Long Road Ahead

As the Winter Session progresses, it remains to be seen whether a breakthrough can be achieved. The growing list of unresolved issues, combined with intensifying Opposition demands, sets the stage for potentially contentious debates in the days to come.

With public interest and national concerns hanging in the balance, all eyes are on how both Houses navigate the current impasse. Will the government and Opposition find common ground, or will the session continue to be overshadowed by disruptions? The answers will shape the trajectory of this critical parliamentary season.

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BlogFeaturedIndiaIndia Parliament

TMC Charts a People-Centric Path in Parliament Winter Session

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, has reiterated its commitment to focusing on the pressing issues that affect everyday citizens during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament. Unlike its opposition counterparts, the TMC has deliberately chosen not to center its agenda solely on the Adani case, instead prioritizing concerns such as the deprivation of central funds to West Bengal, unemployment, inflation, and the ongoing crisis in Manipur.

TMC’s Strategic Stance: A Different Approach to Opposition Politics

Deputy Leader of TMC in Lok Sabha, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, stated on Wednesday that while the party aims to hold the government accountable, it does not support disruptions in parliamentary proceedings over a single issue.

TMC wants Parliament to run. We don’t want one issue to disrupt proceedings. Accountability must be sought for the government’s multiple failures, Dastidar emphasized, underscoring the party’s people-first philosophy.

While the Congress has aggressively pushed for a probe into allegations of fraud and bribery against the Adani Group in the U.S., TMC has opted for a broader focus on governance and policy lapses.

Key Issues on TMC’s Agenda

During its working committee meeting earlier this week, TMC finalized a list of issues to be raised in Parliament, reflecting its resolve to prioritize public welfare:

  1. Deprivation of Central Funds: The alleged withholding of MGNREGA and other central funds for West Bengal remains at the forefront.
  2. Inflation and Unemployment: Addressing the economic challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
  3. Fertilizer Shortages: Highlighting the impact of agricultural supply chain issues on farmers.
  4. Manipur Violence and Northeast Crisis: Bringing attention to the unrest in the region and its implications.
  5. Pending Aparajita Bill: Advocating for the clearance of the West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment Bill, which seeks stringent punishment for rape convicts.

The Aparajita Bill, unanimously passed by the West Bengal Assembly, proposes capital punishment for rape resulting in the victim’s death or a vegetative state, along with life imprisonment without parole for other perpetrators. The TMC has sought an audience with President Droupadi Murmu to discuss its pending approval.

Maintaining Independence Within the INDIA Bloc

Although the TMC is part of the INDIA opposition bloc, it continues to maintain an independent strategic outlook. Dastidar noted that while the party aligns with the bloc on broader objectives, its electoral strategy and parliamentary focus remain distinct.

TMC wins on its own and doesn’t rely on alliances to challenge the BJP, she said, affirming the party’s self-reliance.

This independence was evident when the TMC chose to skip two key opposition meetings this week—one on Monday to discuss the Adani JPC demand and another on Wednesday to strategize for the session.

A Focus on Governance and People’s Welfare

By shifting its attention to issues like the Aparajita Bill and the economic challenges faced by citizens, TMC underscores its intention to prioritize governance over political theatrics. The party also pointed out that the Northeast’s plight and delayed central funds require immediate attention, far outweighing the political buzz around the Adani case.

As Parliament reconvenes, the TMC’s stance stands out as a commitment to accountability and actionable governance. While opposition politics continues to evolve, TMC’s strategy reflects a focus on tangible outcomes for citizens, staying true to its slogan of Maa, Mati, Manush (Mother, Land, People).

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Parliament Winter Session: Day 2 Marked by Adjournments and Anticipation

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The Winter Session of the Indian Parliament continued into its second day, brimming with anticipation for key discussions on pressing national issues. However, both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha witnessed disruptions, leading to an early adjournment for the day.

This session, which began on November 25, holds significance as it coincides with the 75th Constitution Day. While November 26 was reserved for commemorating this landmark occasion, parliamentary proceedings have yet to gain substantial momentum.

Key Highlights from Day 2

Despite the adjournment, the day was slated to focus on discussions about the Waqf Bill, the Wayanad landslide, and the Sambhal violence. These critical topics reflect the diverse challenges currently faced by the nation, encompassing legislative reforms, natural disaster management, and law and order concerns.

On the opening day of the session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his hopes for constructive and meaningful debates. In a sharp critique of the opposition, he remarked, “Those who have been repeatedly rejected by the people disrespect Parliament and democracy.” His call for healthy discussions set the tone for what was expected to be a dynamic session, though the disruptions that followed have so far slowed progress.

The Constitution Day Connection

November 26, celebrated as Constitution Day, marked the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution. The day serves as a reminder of India’s democratic framework and the responsibilities it places on lawmakers to act in the best interest of the people.

Prime Minister Modi, during his address, highlighted the enduring relevance of the Constitution, urging members to channel their energies toward addressing the concerns of citizens. The adjournments, however, underscored the challenges of maintaining decorum and productivity in the nation’s highest legislative bodies.

What Lies Ahead?

As the Winter Session progresses, all eyes remain on Parliament to address key legislative proposals and national issues. The Waqf Bill, aimed at reforming the administration of Waqf properties, is expected to ignite spirited debates. Similarly, the Wayanad landslide and Sambhal violence will likely bring regional and humanitarian concerns to the forefront.

The disruptions on Day 2 serve as a reminder of the need for consensus and cooperation among lawmakers to fulfill their democratic mandate. Citizens hope for a return to constructive deliberations, in line with the spirit of the Constitution, as the session unfolds.

This Winter Session is not just an opportunity for legislative action but also a test of the Parliament’s ability to navigate contentious issues while upholding the sanctity of democratic discourse. As proceedings resume, the focus will undoubtedly shift toward delivering on the promises of accountability, governance, and progress.

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Jharkhand and Maharashtra Polls: A Day of Decisions for Over 1.23 Crore Voters

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As the vibrant festival of democracy unfolds, Maharashtra’s 288 constituencies are witnessing intense electoral action in the 2024 Assembly Elections. Meanwhile, Jharkhand embarks on its second polling phase across 38 seats. Adding to the democratic fervor, by-elections are underway in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Kerala, and Uttarakhand, making this an eventful day for Indian democracy.

Maharashtra: A State in the Spotlight

Maharashtra, often lauded as a progressive and prosperous state, takes center stage with a fierce battle between the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Heavyweights such as Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, contesting from Kopri-Pachpakhadi, and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, defending Nagpur South West, are among the prominent candidates. NCP leader and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar aims to retain the Pawar family bastion of Baramati.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, after casting his vote, described the day as a “festival of democracy,” urging citizens to vote for development. Meanwhile, allegations of money distribution and other political mudslinging have added drama to the electoral landscape. Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole accused the BJP of engaging in dishonest practices, vowing to address these issues systematically.

By 9 AM, Maharashtra recorded a voter turnout of 6.6%, reflecting cautious early enthusiasm.

Jharkhand: A Test of Alliances

In Jharkhand, 528 candidates are contesting across 38 seats. Chief Minister Hemant Soren, along with his family members, leads the JMM alliance in a stiff competition against the BJP-led NDA. Over 1.23 crore eligible voters, including 61 lakh women, hold the key to the state’s future.

By-Elections Across India

By-elections are in full swing across 15 Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Kerala, and Uttarakhand. Key seats in Punjab include Gidderbaha and Barnala, while Uttar Pradesh sees contests in regions like Ghaziabad and Phulpur.

Security Measures in Maharashtra

Mumbai, a critical battleground, has seen the deployment of over 30,000 police personnel to ensure a smooth voting process. This includes five additional commissioners of police, 20 deputy commissioners, and three Riot Control Platoons, reflecting the administration’s commitment to maintaining order.

Political Heavyweights and Public Participation

With prominent leaders such as Aaditya Thackeray, Amit Thackeray, and Nana Patole in the fray, the stakes are higher than ever. Former Union Minister Milind Deora and state BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule also add to the high-profile nature of these elections.

As voting progresses, the day promises to shape the future of key states while showcasing the power of democracy in action. All eyes now turn to the voter turnout and the results that will define the political landscape in Maharashtra and beyond.

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Jammu & Kashmir Election Results 2024: A New Era Awaits Amid Historic Vote Count

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

Today marks a pivotal moment in the political landscape of Jammu & Kashmir as the counting of votes in the 2024 Assembly elections begins, following a 10-year electoral hiatus and the first election since the abrogation of Article 370. With high stakes and anticipation running high, the results will decide the formation of the new government in the Union Territory.

The elections, held in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, saw a voter turnout of 63.88%, as per the Election Commission of India. This is the first assembly election since the historic revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in August 2019, which resulted in the bifurcation of the state into the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Political heavyweights are in a tight contest, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aiming for a solo victory, while the Congress-National Conference (NC) alliance looks to secure a majority. This is a significant election for the region, as it will establish the first full-fledged government after years of President’s Rule and administrative control.

A Fierce Battle for Power

The election has seen the Congress and the National Conference (NC) teaming up to contest the elections together, in contrast to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and BJP, who decided to go their separate ways this time. The BJP’s decision to part ways with the PDP in 2018 led to the fall of Mehbooba Mufti’s government and brought the region under Governor’s Rule, a situation that has persisted since then.

Now, with a revamped political landscape, all eyes are on the alliances and solo contenders, especially with predictions suggesting a strong lead for the Congress-NC alliance in a poll of polls. However, the unpredictability of Jammu and Kashmir politics makes it a nail-biting wait until the final results are declared.

A Historic Vote Post-Article 370

This election holds tremendous significance, as it marks the first electoral exercise after the abrogation of Article 370, which stripped Jammu & Kashmir of its special autonomy. The move divided the former state into two Union Territories, a decision that drastically altered the region’s political and administrative framework. The ongoing elections are not only about governance but also about setting the course for Jammu and Kashmir’s future in this new era.

What’s Next for Jammu & Kashmir?

As the counting progresses with tight security measures in place, the fate of Jammu & Kashmir’s political future rests in the hands of its voters. Will the Congress-NC alliance make history, or will the BJP secure a majority to form a government? Only time will tell, and as always, exit polls should be taken with caution. The final results, expected later today, will determine the leadership that will steer Jammu & Kashmir into a new chapter of development and stability.

Stay tuned for the latest updates as the results continue to unfold!

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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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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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