The government has raised the price cap on natural gas from legacy fields, resulting in a 4% increase in effective prices from April 1. This change affects state-run ONGC and Oil India Ltd., with notable implications for city gas operators and consuming industries, although government subsidies will protect fertilizer units.
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External affairs minister S Jaishankar met Congressman Michael Waltz during his US visit, discussing bilateral partnerships. Waltz is set to become National Security Advisor on January 20, under President-elect Donald Trump. Jaishankar also engaged with the Indian Embassy and Consuls General in Washington, DC.
Tourists at Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh had a close call when a frozen lake they were on collapsed. Quick-thinking bystanders rescued them. Union minister Kiren Rijiju warned travelers of such dangers and urged precautions. The incident, caught on video, underscores the importance of proper preparation and experienced guides in winter tourism.
Sharad Pawar praised the RSS for its ideological commitment while urging his party to rally behind progressive leaders' ideals. Reflecting on election losses, he stressed improving communication with OBCs and bridging caste divides, particularly in Marathwada. Pawar announced a revamp and plans to allocate 50% of election tickets to new faces in the NCP.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen experienced India's advanced UPI digital payments system during her visit. She was impressed by its efficiency. PM Modi had earlier highlighted UPI's significance by comparing daily transactions in India to the EU's population. The visit underscored strengthening India-EU ties.
Shashi Tharoor revealed he was named after Lord Shiva's crescent due to his birth on Mahashivratri. He shared this personal detail amidst speculations of tension with Congress leadership, following his recent interactions and dissatisfaction over his role. Tharoor's recent actions, including praise for Kerala's Left government, indicate ongoing friction within the party.
Congress will hold 'Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim and Jai Samvidhan' rally in Karnataka's Belgaum on 21st January to demand Union Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation over his statement on BR Ambedkar, KC Venugopal, AICC General Secretary (Organisation), said.
The Karnataka cabinet approved amendments to strengthen penalties against cooperative societies and pawnbrokers charging excessive interest rates, following concerns by the state governor. The changes, related to a recent microfinance regulatory ordinance, increase imprisonment terms and fines. The cabinet also discussed the transfer of development rights dispute involving the Mysuru royal family, after a Supreme Court ruling.
The Indian government is monitoring China's plans for a hydropower project on the Brahmaputra river in Tibet and taking measures to protect its interests. Discussions with China occur through an expert-level mechanism and diplomatic channels to ensure downstream states are not adversely affected. Impact assessments on major tributaries in North-East India are also being conducted.
Mumbai ITAT ruled in favor of M Gulati, confirming his non-resident status as he spent 210 days abroad. The tribunal clarified that both employment and job search periods abroad qualify for non-residency. This ruling means non-residents are not taxed on overseas income, benefiting expatriates seeking employment abroad.
India targets placing 100,000 workers annually in countries like Japan and Israel within two years, with Germany open to 90,000 skilled workers yearly. NSDC aims to expand its skilling programs, upskill 25 million more, and focus on digital transformation, training, and employment opportunities.