Synopsis: Virtual hearings started during the pandemic provided much relief. However, now focus should be on other measures like the establishment of circuit benches. Background: The pandemic saw the initiation of virtual proceedings in the Supreme Court. It was because the physical hearing was not possible due to COVID-19 restrictions. This new method ensured fair… Continue reading Significance of Circuit Benches
Author: Kunal Khureja
Appointment of Ambassadors – in US and India
Synopsis: The US administration needs to make a choice between appointing career diplomats or big contributors for appointing the new ambassadors. In India as well, there is a practice of appointing diverse people as ambassadors. Background: The US administration under Joe Biden will be appointing new ambassadors as per the spoil system. The system allows… Continue reading Appointment of Ambassadors – in US and India
Governance Issues facing Private Education Institutions
Synopsis: The private educational institutions are failing to deliver optimum results. Thus, the role of the state in providing accessibility in educational institutions can’t be ignored. Background:’ The two renowned faculties of Ashoka university (Pratap Bhanu Mehta and Arvind Subramanian) have recently resigned. Allegedly, the owners of the institution were cautious of their outspoken criticism… Continue reading Governance Issues facing Private Education Institutions
The New EPF Tax Rules Should be Re-examined
Synopsis: A new EPF Tax Rules under EPF(Employees Provident Fund) contributions is under the proposal. The intended objective is to prevent abuse of process by HNIs (High net individuals), however, there are some concerns that demand re-examination. Background Before the budget announcement, the EPF contributions were taxable beyond the permissible tax-free limit (1.5 lakh per… Continue reading The New EPF Tax Rules Should be Re-examined
Issues with UGC’s New Undergraduate History Curriculum
Synopsis: Recently, the UGC (University Grants Commission) suggested a new undergraduate history curriculum. However, it falls short to meet its desired objectives and requires reconsideration. Background: The UGC released a new document on the undergraduate history curriculum, named Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF), 2021. The document suggestes changes as per the changing domestic and international… Continue reading Issues with UGC’s New Undergraduate History Curriculum
Sustainable Agriculture demands Optimum Water Management
Synopsis: The declining availability and accessibility of water necessitates strengthening the water management measures. In this regard, the focus should be drawn on Sustainable Agriculture. Background On March 22 (World Water Day), Prime Minister launched the ‘Catch the rain Campaign’ under Jal Shakti Abhiyan. The campaign focuses on robust rainwater conservation including the use of… Continue reading Sustainable Agriculture demands Optimum Water Management
Why India should adopt Net-Zero Emission Target?
Synopsis: India should adopt the net-zero emission target like others. It will lead to simultaneous attainment of net-zero emission and economic growth. Some temporary challenges may arise, but they can be tackled with robust policy measures. Background: Recently 58 countries have made a commitment to attain net-zero emission by 2050. They currently emit more than… Continue reading Why India should adopt Net-Zero Emission Target?
Discrimination in taxing provident fund (PF)
Synopsis: The Finance Minister has enhanced the Provident Fund(PF) limit up to 5 lakhs from the previously proposed 2.5 lakh. This is a discriminatory proposal for taxing PF and should be reconsidered. Background: The finance bill 2021 was passed with 127 amendments. This included a proposal to tax income on PF contributions over Rs. 2.5… Continue reading Discrimination in taxing provident fund (PF)
Similarities between Disinvestment and fiscal deficit
Synopsis: Selling of Public assets (Disinvestment) has similar macroeconomic results to fiscal deficit. Both increase wealth inequalities in the society and hence should be avoided. Background The government has set a target of 1.75 lakh crore rupees from the disinvestment of PSUs in the current financial year. The only rationale shown by the government behind… Continue reading Similarities between Disinvestment and fiscal deficit
Water conservation is must for preventing another pandemic
Synopsis: NITI Aayog has expressed concerns over the poor water quality in India. This gives a conducive environment for the spread of another pandemic through the water. Thus, it requires an effective mechanism for water conservation. Background: NITI Aayog, Water Aid, and others have found that over 70% of India’s surface and groundwater is contaminated… Continue reading Water conservation is must for preventing another pandemic
