India's tax policy has evolved significantly since the 1970s, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's government imposed a 97.5% income tax rate to promote economic equality. This policy led to massive tax evasion and a shrinking tax base, prompting reforms. By Budget 2025, a more progressive tax framework is anticipated, focusing on growth and taxpayer relief.
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India and Bangladesh recognize each other as strategically important neighbors with strong military relations. Army chiefs from both nations emphasize cooperation and discourage animosity. Military ties, including officers attending courses, continue robustly, although joint exercises are on hold due to the current situation in Bangladesh.
Delhi's lieutenant governor ordered an anti-corruption probe into AAP's claims that BJP attempted to poach its candidates by offering Rs 15 crore and ministerial positions. BJP refuted the allegations and requested investigation into the claims, stating that they are creating panic amidst elections without substantial proof. AAP leaders met with Kejriwal ahead of assembly election results to discuss strategies.
Police in New Delhi arrested Zoya, wife of jailed gangster Hashim Baba, for drug trafficking in the Welcome area. She was caught with 225 grams of heroin during a police trap. Baba, imprisoned since last year for a gym owner's murder, had earlier implicated gangster Lawrence Bishnoi in the crime. The two developed ties in Tihar Jail in 2021 and remained in contact despite being moved to different jails, allegedly using illicit communication channels to continue criminal activities.
Between 2022 and 2024, 20.8 lakh kg of narcotic drugs were destroyed in India, with annual figures showing a decline. The Narcotics Control Bureau intercepted 96 Darknet trafficking cases between 2020 and 2024. There were also increases in seizures of opium and cannabis-based drugs, while seizures of psychotropic substances and cocaine witnessed a decline.
In a coordinated effort, the CBI helped arrest two fugitives wanted in massive fraud cases. Janarthanan Sundaram was deported from Thailand and intercepted in Kolkata, while Virendrabhai Manibhai Patel was detained in Ahmedabad after returning from the US. Both were handed over to their respective state police.
The Election Commission of India has directed political parties to label AI-generated or synthetic content used in campaigns on social media with notations like ‘AI-generated’ or ‘synthetic’ to ensure transparency and accountability, informing voters about the nature of digital content shared online.
Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud discussed his tenure, emphasizing his commitment to constitutional principles and judicial impartiality. He touched on handling political pressures, dynasty allegations, and addressed key issues like the Ayodhya verdict and Article 370, defending the judiciary's integrity.
After 10 years, the women and child development ministry is set to present its tableau at the Republic Day parade, focusing on 'women-led development'. The tableau will highlight the role of Indian women in the 'Viksit Bharat' vision and mark significant milestones such as the 10th anniversary of the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' scheme and 50 years of anganwadi services.
Bank of Baroda reported a robust 11.7% year-on-year rise in global business, reaching Rs. 25.6 lakh crore by the end of December 2024, driven by a significant increase in retail lending. Domestic deposits and advances experienced substantial growth, with retail advances surging by 19.5%.
Maharashtra’s women and child development minister, Aditi Tatkare, has urged beneficiaries of Ladki Bahin Yojana who are getting double benefits or do not qualify for the scheme to return the money. The government is working with agencies to identify ineligible beneficiaries and remove their names from the list. Over 4,000 beneficiaries have voluntarily opted out.