EC to States No Inter-District Officer Transfers

Expressing concern over cases where officers were moved to adjacent districts within the same constituency, the EC strengthened its transfer policy to maintain a fair electoral environment. In a statement, the EC clarified that the enhanced policy aims to prevent officials from disrupting the level playing field during elections.

According to the Election Commission’s policy, officers posted in their home district or those who have completed three years at one location should be transferred before elections.

“Plugging the loopholes in the existing instructions, the Commission has directed that, except for the States/UTs that comprise up to two Parliamentary constituencies, all States shall ensure that officers who are transferred out of the district are not posted within the same Parliamentary constituency. It has been reiterated that the transfer policy of the Commission must be adhered to in both letter and spirit and not just being camouflaged to show compliance,” the EC statement said.

The EC emphasized that this rule applies to transfers already initiated based on its prior instructions.

Also Read: EC to States No Inter-District Officer Transfers

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DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

This includes 16 C295 aircraft made in India for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, produced by Airbus Defence and Space in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). The approval also covers equipment capable of countering low-flying drones and over-the-horizon UAVs for mechanized forces.

These decisions highlight the significance of obtaining equipment from Indian suppliers to encourage self-reliance.

Also Read: DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

Under the Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured (IDDM) category, the DAC has approved the purchase of a new generation of Anti-tank mines with seismic sensors and remote deactivation features for added safety.

Furthermore, the DAC has granted approval for the procurement of the Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munition System to improve operational efficiency and dominance in the Tactical Battle Area, especially for engaging targets Beyond Visual Line of Sight by the Mechanised Forces.

Acknowledging the need to reinforce Air Defence Systems, the DAC has approved the acquisition of Air Defence Tactical Control Radar under the Buy Indian-IDDM category. This decision underscores the importance of detecting slow, small, and low-flying targets, as well as enhancing surveillance, detection, and tracking capabilities.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence on Friday, approval has been given for the purchase of Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance and Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft through the Buy and Make category. This move aims to strengthen surveillance and interdiction capabilities of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) over the vast maritime area.

Also Read: DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

To address potential threats, the Indian Navy will receive Active Towed Array Sonar and Heavyweight Torpedoes under the Buy Indian category, including support for 24 MH60R aircraft through the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) route with the US Government.

In addition to equipment procurement, approval has been granted for the purchase of Flight Refueler Aircraft to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force.

Financial Express Online previously reported that the US aerospace Boeing Company has offered the KC-46 tanker, a derivative of the Boeing 767 passenger aircraft, to the Indian Air Force (IAF), which is seeking quotes for mid-air refuelers.

The Ministry of Defence is also considering the European aerospace major Airbus’ A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT).

Meanwhile, the Brazilian Aerospace major Embraer has offered its C390 Millennium Military Transport Aircraft, which also has the capability to be used as a mid-air refueler.

Also Read: DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

Additionally, state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Israel Aerospace Industries have signed a MoU to work under the Make in India initiative to convert a civil aircraft into a Multi-Mission Tanker Transport (MMTT) aircraft.

Interestingly, one of the QUAD member countries, Japan, is acquiring the KC-46 Tanker for its Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).

Unlike the Airbus’ MRTT, which is a derivative of the twin-engine A330 passenger aircraft of Airbus, the KC-46 tanker has the ability to carry cargo and passengers and can be used in humanitarian relief efforts. The KC-46 refueling certification covers US Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and JASDF aircraft.

Also Read: DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

Why is the IAF looking for new mid-air refuelers?

India currently has six Russian Illyushin-78 tankers, first inducted into service in 2003. These have now aged and require a lot of maintenance and servicing.

The need for tankers is also felt as they add range-enhancing capability to fighters, allowing pilots to carry out strikes at longer ranges and stay in-flight without requiring landing and refueling.

Also Read: DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

The IAF has the new Rafale fighters from France, and the Indian Navy will soon receive the Marine version of these fighter jets, which have long-range capability because they can be refueled midair. The same is the case with the Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas’ Mk 1A, which has the capability of mid-air refueling.

Furthermore, approval has been granted for the procurement of Software Defined Radios for the ICG under the Buy Indian-IDDM category, fulfilling the requirement for high-speed communication with secure networking capability for seamless information exchange between the ICG and Indian Navy units.

In an effort to encourage a friendly defense start-up ecosystem and promote the procurement of advanced technologies from start-ups and MSMEs, the DAC has approved amendments to the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020.

Also Read: DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

These adjustments include changes in benchmarking, cost computation, payment schedule, and procurement quantity to provide incentives and a supportive business environment for start-ups and MSMEs under iDEX and TDF schemes, aligning with the government’s initiative of ‘Ease of Doing Business.’

In conclusion, the recent approvals by the Defence Acquisition Council mark a significant step towards enhancing India’s defense capabilities and promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

These decisions underscore the government’s commitment to modernizing the armed forces and fostering innovation in the defense sector. With a renewed focus on indigenous development and technology, India is well-positioned to meet the challenges of the future and emerge as a global leader in defense innovation.

Also Read: DAC Nods to Projects Worth Rs 84560 Cr More C295 Aircraft

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Supreme Court Ends Electoral Bonds Impact on Modi’s BJP

This move is not good news for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), as they were the biggest users of this system introduced in 2017.

The system, called Electoral Bonds, got challenged by the opposition and a civil society group. They argued that it kept the public from knowing who was giving money to political parties.

Here’s how it worked: a person or company could buy bonds from the State Bank of India and donate them to a political party.

According to the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), a group working on election funding in India, people and companies bought 165.18 billion rupees ($1.99 billion) worth of bonds up to November 2023.

Also Read: Supreme Court Ends Electoral Bonds Impact on Modi’s BJP

The Chief Justice, D.Y. Chandrachud, leading a five-judge bench, said, “Political contributions give a seat at the table to the contributor … this access also translates into influence over policy making.” They declared the scheme unconstitutional and banned issuing new bonds.

The BJP, in response, stated they are committed to ongoing reforms in electoral funding and will follow the court’s decision.

Previously, individuals could donate any amount in cash, and companies had limits based on their revenue. The bond system removed those limits, but the court brought back restrictions on corporate donations.

The court directed the State Bank of India not to issue more bonds, share identity details of buyers, and provide information on redeemed bonds by each political party.

The government had defended the policy, saying it reduced cash use in political funding by giving donors a confidential way to contribute. However, the court emphasized that corporate contributions can have a more significant impact on the electoral process.

Until March 2023, the BJP had received over half of the 120.1 billion rupees’ worth of bonds sold since their introduction, totaling 65.66 billion rupees.

(Information derived from REUTERS)

Also Read: Supreme Court Ends Electoral Bonds Impact on Modi’s BJP

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ED Summons TMC Leader Mahua Moitra: FEMA Case 2024

Moitra Faces Accusations of Targeting Government for Gifts

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has accused Moitra of targeting the Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha, allegedly in exchange for gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani. Additionally, he claims Moitra compromised national security for monetary gains. In December, Moitra was expelled from Lok Sabha over these allegations.

Also Read: ED Summons TMC Leader Mahua Moitra

Moitra Denies Wrongdoing and Submits Responses to CBI

To ED Summons TMC Leader Mahua Moitra, Moitra, consistently denying any wrongdoing, submitted her responses to a CBI questionnaire on Thursday regarding corruption allegations in her parliamentary inquiries. The CBI is currently reviewing her responses and will subsequently submit a report to the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal, which initiated the matter.

The CBI is conducting a preliminary inquiry into the accusations against Moitra based on Lokpal’s reference. As part of its investigation, the agency has reportedly spoken to lawyer Jai Dehadrai and businessman Darshan Hiranandani.

(Information sourced from PTI)

Also Read: ED Summons TMC Leader Mahua Moitra

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Impact and Concerns Related Bharat Bandh on Feb 16

Harinder Singh Lakhowal, the General Secretary of BKU Lakhowal, revealed the strategy during a meeting in Ludhiana regarding Gramin Bharat Bandh.

Also Read: Impact and Concerns related Bharat Bandh on Feb 16

Bharat Bandh Timing and Details

On February 16, the day-long strike will occur from 6 AM to 4 PM, including a massive chakka jam on major roads from 12 PM to 4 PM.

Protesting farmers from Punjab, joined by counterparts from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, initiated the ‘Chalo Delhi’ march on February 13 after an inconclusive meeting with the Union government. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have called for the protest to address their demands, including a law ensuring a minimum support price (MSP) for crops.

Dr Darshan Pal, SKM National Coordination Committee (NCC) member, stated that the Gramin Bharat Bandh was planned in December. On this day, villages will remain closed, and agricultural activities, MNREGA, and rural works will be suspended.

Also Read: Impact and Concerns related Bharat Bandh on Feb 16

Impact on Emergency Services

Emergency services like ambulances, death-related activities, marriages, medical shops, newspaper supply, students going for board exams, and airport passengers will have passage. However, trading and crop procurement will be halted.

Impact on Various Sectors

1. Transportation services are expected to face disruptions during Bharat Bandh.
2. Farming operations in rural India may be affected as farmers participate in the strike.
3. Activities under MNREGA are likely to halt.
4. Private and government offices, village shops, and rural industrial and service sector establishments are likely to be closed on February 16.

Exempted Services during Bharat Bandh

Services exempted from the strike include ambulance operations, newspaper distribution, essential services for weddings, medical shops, and board exam-related activities for students.

Also Read: Impact and Concerns related Bharat Bandh on Feb 16

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Big Changes by 17th Lok Sabha PM Modi Key Highlights 2024

Speaking on the last day of the final session of the 17th Lok Sabha, he emphasized that the past five years were dedicated to reform, performance, and transformation in the country. PM Modi highlighted numerous game-changing reforms that took place during this period.

According to PM Modi, the country is on the path of change, citing significant events such as the revocation of Article 370, addressing the issue of Triple Talaq, and hosting the prestigious G20 meeting.

Also Read: Big Changes by 17th Lok Sabha PM Modi Key Highlights 2024

He listed various accomplishments of the government, including the Data Protection Bill, stringent anti-terrorism laws, removal of outdated laws, and the Women’s Reservation Bill. The achievements also encompassed the inauguration of the new parliament building and the opening of the parliament library to the public.

In reference to the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic, PM Modi acknowledged that the last five years witnessed the “biggest crisis of the century.” He commended Speaker Om Birla for ensuring that parliamentary work continued without hindrance while upholding the dignity of the House.

The highlight of the period, however, was the abolition of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read: Big Changes by 17th Lok Sabha PM Modi Key Highlights 2024

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Apply For Rooftop Solar Scheme Of Modi Government

#1. Understanding the Rooftop Solar Plan

Launched in 2014, the program aims to boost India’s residential rooftop solar capacity by providing financial assistance and incentives. The goal is to achieve 40 GW capacity by March 2026, with the current capacity reaching 10.4 GW by November 2023.

Also Read: Apply For Rooftop Solar Scheme Of Modi Government

#2. Criteria for Free Solar Rooftop Scheme 2024

The Free Solar Rooftop Scheme 2024 requires a minimum area of 10 square meters for a 1-kilowatt solar panel. The initiative offers a 40% subsidy for panels from 1 to 3 kilowatts and a 20% subsidy for panels from 4 to 10 kilowatts. Implementing solar systems in workplaces can reduce energy bills by 30% to 50%.

#3. How to Apply?

Visit https://solarrooftop.gov.in/, go to “Apply for Rooftop Solar,” fill in details, and proceed. Download SANDES App, register using QR codes, and complete the application with your mobile number, OTP, and email ID. Use your registered customer account number and mobile number to apply on the National Solar Rooftop Portal.

#4. Interim Budget 2024-2025

The 2024-25 interim Budget allocates Rs 26,376 crore for the New and Renewable Energy Ministry, showing a commitment to green energy. Key allocations include Rs 8,500.35 crore for the Solar Power (Grid) scheme and increased funding for initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission and Bio Energy Programme.

The budget also focuses on rooftop solarization, aiming to provide 300 units of free monthly electricity to one crore households. Challenges include lack of awareness, high installation costs, and regulatory hurdles in net metering.

Also Read: Apply For Rooftop Solar Scheme Of Modi Government

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Highlighting the community’s often-overlooked status, Kejriwal emphasized their equal rights and the need for inclusion in society.

Kejriwal mentioned that the proposal is set for Cabinet approval, and the initiative will be implemented promptly.

Also Read: Free Bus Travel for Transgender Community in Delhi

Free Bus Travel for Transgender Community in Delhi: CM Delhi

Expressing his views in a tweet along with a video announcement, Kejriwal stated, “The transgender community is largely neglected in our social environment. This should not happen; they are also human beings and they also have equal rights.”

In the video, he acknowledged the historical lack of substantial measures for the transgender community, expressing hope that the decision to provide free bus travel would greatly benefit them.

In order to Free Bus Travel for Transgender Community in Delhi, Women in Delhi already enjoy free bus travel following the initiative that started in October 2019.

Earlier in the day, a senior Delhi transport department official revealed plans to extend the free travel facility to the transgender community, leveraging data from the social welfare department for identification.

Also Read: Free Bus Travel for Transgender Community in Delhi

High Court’s Deadline for Delhi Govt to Recognize Third Gender in Bus Travel

Last year, the Delhi High Court directed the city government to decide on recognizing the transgender community as the third gender in bus tickets. This decision followed a contempt plea highlighting the lack of action despite the court’s earlier order.

The petitioner, in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), called for the inclusion of the term “third gender” on bus tickets and complimentary travel for transgender individuals on DTC buses. The plea emphasized that no response had been received despite making a representation to the authorities in August 2022.

The Women and Child Development Department of the Delhi government had already implemented measures for the welfare of transgender people, including introducing a “third gender” category in job application forms and establishing monitoring cells to protect them from abuse.

According to the 2011 Census, the transgender community’s population in Delhi was recorded at 4,213, with only 1,176 individuals enrolled as voters.

(With PTI inputs)

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Govt Initiates Major Secretary-level Bureaucratic Reshuffle

Another significant appointment is Reeta Vasishta, in-charge of the Central Agency Section, Ministry of Law & Justice, who has been approved as the Member Secretary of the 22nd Law Commission of India.

Sanjay Jaju, a Telangana cadre IAS officer, has replaced Apurva Chandra as I&B Secretary. Chandra will continue as the Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare.

To Govt initiates major secretary-level bureaucratic reshuffle, Anil Malik, a 1991-batch Haryana cadre officer, has been appointed as the Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, succeeding Indevar Pandey.

Pandey, a 1988-batch West Bengal cadre officer, who retires this month, has been appointed as a Technical Member in the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT).

Sumita Dawra, a 1991-batch IAS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, will take over as Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Employment after the superannuation of Arti Ahuja.

Ashish Kumar Bhutani, an Assam cadre IAS officer of the 1992 batch, has been appointed as the Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation. The ACC has also approved the temporary upgrade of the posts of four IAS officers to the level of Special Secretary.

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Comparing Old vs New Income Tax Rules: Key Amendments

The government has raised the tax rebate limit from Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 7 lakhs in the old tax system. As a result, individuals earning up to Rs 7 lakhs don’t have to pay any taxes under the new tax system.

Streamlined Tax slabs

Comparing Old vs New Income Tax Rules: Budget 2024 – In the 2023 Budget amendments, the tax exemption limit was increased to Rs 3 lakhs, accompanied by revised tax slabs.

☞ Income up to Rs 3,00,000: Nil
☞ Income from Rs 3,00,001 to Rs 6,00,000: 5%
☞ Income from Rs 6,00,001 to Rs 9,00,000: 10%
☞ Income from Rs 9,00,001 to Rs 12,00,000: 15%
☞ Income from Rs 12,00,001 to Rs 15,00,000: 20%
☞ Income above Rs 15,00,001: 30%

Old Tax Regime Overview

As per Comparing Old vs New Income Tax Rules last year, Under the old tax system, taxpayers had access to more than 70 exemptions and deductions, like Home Rent Allowance (HRA) and Leave Travel Allowance (LTA). These deductions helped lower taxable income and reduce the amount of taxes owed.

Section 80C was a highly popular and generous deduction that allowed taxpayers to reduce their taxable income by up to Rs. 1.5 lakh.

Income Tax Slabs 2023-24 (Old Regime)

☞ Up to Rs 250,000: Nil
☞ Rs 250,001 to Rs 500,000: 5%
☞ Rs 500,001 to Rs 1,000,000: 20%
☞ Above Rs 1,000,000: 30%

Additional Considerations for Old Tax Regime

For individuals who are 60 years or older (senior citizens), the minimum taxable income limit is Rs 300,000. For those who are 80 years or older (super senior citizens), the minimum taxable income limit is Rs 500,000.

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