The Union Cabinet has accepted recommendations from a high-level panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind for holding simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies. This policy aims to streamline the electoral process. Three bills, including two constitutional amendments, will be required for implementation. An implementation group will be formed to discuss the recommendations further.
AAP’s Cabinet dilemma: Bring in fresh faces or keep Team Kejriwal (18-09-2024)
Atishi is set to take oath as the new chief minister on September 21, along with a new Cabinet. Discussions are ongoing about the composition of the Cabinet, focusing on representation for women, Scheduled Castes, Purvanchalis, and minorities. The changes come as AAP aims to strengthen its position ahead of the 2025 Delhi assembly elections.
Cong files police complaint over threats to Rahul Gandhi (18-09-2024)
The Congress lodged a police complaint and organized widespread protests against BJP leaders, including Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, over remarks targeting Rahul Gandhi. Demonstrations occurred nationwide, with protesters burning effigies and clashing with police. The complaint alleges these statements threaten Gandhi’s safety and public peace amid elections in Jammu & Kashmir and Haryana.
Lt foods (daawat) (18-09-2024)
LT Foods scheduled to meet with Saurabh Mukherjea’s Marcellus Investment.
High on spirits, Naidu govt removes hiccups in Andhra liquor flow (18-09-2024)
Starting October 1, Andhra Pradesh will privatise liquor vends, extend shop hours, introduce low-priced liquor, and establish premium stores. The new policy aims to increase excise revenue by over ₹2,000 crore and streamline sales. The government will exit liquor sale and retail privatisation through a draw of lots.
US Fed slashes interest rates by 50 bps in first cut since 2020 (18-09-2024)
The Federal Reserve has announced a half-point rate cut before the end of this year and an additional percentage point cut in 2025. This decision will lower borrowing costs for consumers and businesses. The Fed is confident that inflation is moving towards its 2 percent target, with balanced risks to employment and inflation goals.
Combination of pink and white: Tensions between Eknath Shinde-Ajit Pawar? (18-09-2024)
Tensions are evident between Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy Ajit Pawar, despite their alliance. In an off-the-record chat, Shinde suggested his white attire could overshadow Pawar’s pink coats aimed at attracting women voters. Pawar, responding diplomatically, noted he was also in white and concurred with Shinde’s sentiment.
NTPC Green Energy files draft papers for around Rs 10,000 crore IPO (18-09-2024)
Senior management of the company confirmed the development, but the spokesperson declined to comment
Net direct tax mop up rises 16% to Rs 9.95 lakh cr (18-09-2024)
Net direct tax collection grew 16.12 per cent to over Rs 9.95 lakh crore so far this fiscal on higher advance tax mop up. Refunds worth over Rs 2.05 lakh crore were issued, a 56.49 per cent jump over the same period last fiscal. The net personal income tax (PIT) collection grew 19 per cent to Rs 5.15 lakh crore between April 1 and September 17.