President Trump commented on a purported $21 million USAID allocation to boost voter turnout in India, suggesting potential interference. He previously implied this was a kickback during the Biden administration. Trump's claims are often marked by exaggerations and misleading information, including about India's trade surplus.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid homage to Balasaheb Thackeray on his birth anniversary. The Prime Minister said that Balasaheb Thackeray is widely respected and remembered for his commitment to public welfare and Maharashtra's development.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued a new guidance note on the Principal Purpose Test (PPT) for claiming tax treaty benefits, which will be applied prospectively. The grandfathering provisions under the India-Cyprus, India-Mauritius, and India-Singapore DTAAs remain unaffected by this new PPT provision and will continue to be governed by the specific provisions in their respective treaties.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut criticized the lack of coordination in the INDIA bloc post-Lok Sabha elections and attributed the issue to Congress. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah also echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the need for clarity on the alliance’s future amid rising tensions between Congress and the AAP ahead of the Delhi assembly elections.
A parliamentary panel has flagged delays in implementing the Jal Jeevan Mission, which now has an extended deadline to 2028. It also highlighted the lack of consensus among states on inter-linking river projects and inadequate flood forecast systems requiring technological upgrades.
The Rajya Sabha discussed a private member's bill to amend the POCSO Act 2012, aiming to introduce victim-centric reforms and stricter punishment for child sexual predators. The bill proposes clear reporting timelines, structured compensation procedures, and mandatory stakeholder training to ensure effective implementation and support for child victims.
Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend Mauritius's 57th National Day celebrations as the guest of honor. Modi's visit highlights the strong ties between Mauritius and India, coming soon after his trips to Paris and the United States.
The Rajasthan Assembly session turned chaotic as BJP MLA Gopal Sharma called Congress MLA Rafiq Khan a 'Pakistani,' sparking strong objections. The Assembly Chairperson had to intervene to restore order. The Indian Supreme Court recently noted using such terms might be inappropriate but not necessarily unlawful.
The Punjab council of ministers approved amendments to the mining policy, which aims to curb illegal mining and enhance supply. The pilgrimage scheme for senior citizens and a school mentorship program by IAS/IPS officers were also approved to promote religious heritage and student development.
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.
Domestic flights in India were the most packed globally in 2024, with an 86.4% passenger load factor. Despite supply chain constraints and grounded aircraft due to engine issues, India recorded its highest ever domestic air travellers at 163 million. Globally, overall air travel demand and efficiency reached record levels.