India introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 to simplify the tax structure and reduce the tax burden. Recent data shows that the gross GST collection for October 2024 rose by 9% to ₹1.87 lakh crore, a record second-highest figure. However, a recent proposal by the Group of Ministers (GoM) on GST Rates Rationalisation suggests a new 35% GST slab on products like aerated drinks and tobacco, which has raised concerns. The proposal aims to target 'sin' products such as thos

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan recently criticized former CM YS Jagan for allegedly running the state’s temples like a business operation, shortly after the discovery of adulterated ingredients in the famous Tirumala Laddu. However, with the new TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams) board now in place, led by the experienced BR Naidu, significant changes are being made to improve the operations and environment at the Tirumala temple. Under the new leadership, the TTD has focused on res

In its ongoing efforts to reform public policies, the NDA government has now turned its focus on the education sector. Following changes in policies related to sand and liquor, the government is now preparing to revive an initiative aimed at reducing student dropouts in government junior colleges. IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh has announced plans to reinstate a government-funded mid-day meal scheme, initially introduced by the TDP in 2018. The program was designed to encoura

The National Pension Scheme (NPS) Vatsalya, launched on September 18, 2023, has seen a positive response from Indian parents looking to invest in their children's future. As of November 17, 2023, the scheme has attracted 66,495 subscribers, with Maharashtra leading the pack with 9,219 accounts. Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka follow closely with over 6,500 subscribers each. In total, 18 states have seen over 1,000 accounts opened, demonstrating the scheme’s growing appeal. Th

BR Naidu, a prominent media figure and owner of TV5 Media, has traditionally been a reserved individual, rarely making public appearances despite leading a major media channel. However, his recent appointment as the Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has marked a change in his approach. Naidu has become more vocal and has started participating in media interviews, shedding light on his long-standing association with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and his aspirations for the TT

Andhra Pradesh’s IT and Education Minister, Nara Lokesh, has announced an ambitious vision to create a distinctive "Andhra Pradesh model" of education, which he claims will surpass the existing educational frameworks of Delhi and Kerala. His reforms aim to bring revolutionary changes to the state's education system, spanning from KG to PG levels, with a focus on quality and holistic development. Lokesh emphasized that his approach would break awa

Donald Trump and his running mate JD Vance’s campaign promises to overhaul U.S. immigration policy on their first day in office have raised serious concerns, especially among Indian-American communities. Trump has vowed to curb the process of naturalized citizenship, and his pledge to introduce a sweeping immigration reform on "Day 1" could impact millions of children born in the United States to immigrant parents. Under Trump’s proposed executive order, childr

In a significant policy shift, the Netherlands government has proposed to limit the use of English in universities to manage the growing influx of international students. Education Minister Eppo Bruins outlined his vision in a letter to parliament, stating a desire to re-establish Dutch as the primary language in higher education. Bruins emphasized the necessity for both international and Dutch students to invest in Dutch language proficiency, asserting, "I want to make Dutch t

Introduction to the Proposal: The concept of 'One Nation One Election' has garnered significant attention under the NDA government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously noted that frequent elections impact economic development negatively. Building on this, Union Minister Amit Shah has confirmed the government's intention to implement this reform by the end of their third term, potentially starting in 2029. Detai

Government Support for Amaravati Farmers: In a significant move, the Andhra Pradesh government has provided crucial support to farmers in the Amaravati region who donated their land for capital development during the 2014-15 period. The Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) has deposited funds directly into the accounts of these farmers, ensuring they receive the compensation owed to them. Extended Rent for Contributing Farm

Recent media reports suggesting new restrictions on laddu distribution at the Tirumala temple have sparked confusion among devotees. A prominent news channel claimed that pilgrims would soon face limits on the number of laddus they could receive, causing widespread concern. However, Tirumala Executive Officer (EO) Venkaiah Chowdary has swiftly addressed these claims, labeling them as unfounded rumors. Chowdary explained that there has been no drastic change in the laddu distribution

The TDP government is set to reintegrate and expand the role of volunteers previously active during the YCP administration. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced a significant increase in the honorarium for these volunteers, raising it from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 per month. This move aims to recognize their pivotal role and ensure their continued involvement in government activities. Under the new plan, volunteers will not only handle the distribution of pensions but will

According to a recent survey conducted between August 1 and August 10 across 12-20 districts in Telangana, over 72% of residents expressed satisfaction with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s Congress government. The survey highlights that the public appreciates the government's effective administration and commitment to welfare and development. Notably, the Congress government has been praised for its free travel scheme for women on RTC buses, which has received an overwhelmingly po

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has responded to a surge of complaints regarding alleged fraudulent activities linked to the previous YCP government’s housing scheme. Many grievances raised during the Praja Darbar program highlight accusations that public representatives under the YCP administration engaged in illicit land grabs under the guise of housing development. This has prompted CM Naidu to direct the vigilance department to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the transactions