Indonesia is facing a backlash over an online campaign backing palm oil at a time when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesians-choked-by-forest-fire-haze-pray-for-rain-249464">forest fires</a>, often linked to slash-and-burn land clearance, have spread choking smoke across the region, raising a growing concern about damage to health.

The Southeast Asian country is the world's biggest producer of the edible oil and is often vilified abroad for the destruction of forests to make way for plantations, and for the fires that are often started to clear the land.

While Indonesia's neighbours complain about the impact of the smoke drifting in, the criticism at home, where the smoke is usually much more severe, has been more muted.

But that might be changing if the reaction to a government campaign launched to support the palm oil industry is anything to go by.

"We plant palm to fulfil Indonesia's needs, including to develop biodiesel and to lift Indonesia's hopes," the cheery Good Palm campaign said on its Twitter account - @SawitBaikID.

But the campaign, launched by the government and the state Palm Crop Estate Fund agency, could not have come at a worse time.

Fires, at their most serious since 2015 because of an El Nino weather pattern causing an extended dry spell, have been sending clouds of acrid smoke up over Sumatra, parts of Borneo islands and beyond for more than a month.

The government, once again trying to deflect the anger of its neighbours, has sent in more than 9,000 workers to try to beat down and douse the flames.

The smoke, or haze as it is known, has forced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-airports-closed-as-indonesia-fires-spark-fears-for-singapore-f1-250388">schools and airports to shut</a>, while tens of thousands of people have suffered from respiratory problems.

In one widely reported case, a four-month-old girl from a haze-hit village on Sumatra island died this week.

Doctors said she bore signs of lung infection, though they have yet to give the official cause of death.

"The government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations," wrote one Twitter user - @agnarendra.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SawitBaik?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SawitBaik</a> is definitely a misplaced campaign amidst the forest fires in Indonesia and the government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations <a href="https://t.co/RUieFY0Z6M">https://t.co/RUieFY0Z6M</a>
— Ariq (@agnarendra) <a href="https://twitter.com/agnarendra/status/1173809736090652672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Put out the fire

Sheany, a journalist based in Bali, who uses only one name, said it was "bizarre" that the authorities were launching their campaign to make palm oil look good at this time.

"So many Indonesians living in those areas are choking," she said.

In another sign of changing attitudes towards palm oil, some supermarkets in the capital, Jakarta, have begun displaying products with "palm oil-free" labels, to the anger of government officials.

Dono Boestami, head of the Palm Crop Estate Fund, defended the campaign to support palm oil, noting the "huge contribution" it makes to the economy.

Authorities say the fire has scorched 328,000 hectares (810,000 acres) of land since January but it is not clear how much of that has been to make way for palm plantations.

Greenpeace Indonesia said 80% of cleared forests had been turned into becoming palm and pulpwood plantations.

Referring to the Good Palm campaign, Greenpeace called for tighter controls of the palm oil industry.

Environmentalists say poor farmers are often blamed for the fires when the plantation companies egg them on, knowing they can expand later into the land that has been cleared.

Police say many of the fires are started in the forest and scrub next to plantations, which are often untouched.

The chairman of Indonesia's palm oil association, Joko Supriyono, said the companies should not be blamed for fires they do not start.

"There are reports from our members that fires on their concessions were because of widespread fires outside of the concessions," he told foreign correspondents on Tuesday.

President Joko Widodo has not responded directly to the backlash. This week, he attended Islamic prayers for rain in an area shrouded in heavy haze.

"We have done everything we can, but the correct way is to prevent this from ever happening. Whenever there's a fire, it should be put out," Widodo said in a statement.

Indonesia is facing a backlash over an online campaign backing palm oil at a time when forest fires, often linked to slash-and-burn land clearance, have spread choking smoke across the region, raising a growing concern about damage to health.

Indonesia is facing a backlash over an online campaign backing palm oil at a time when forest fires, often linked to slash-and-burn land clearance, have spread choking smoke across the region, raising a growing concern about damage to health. The Southeast Asian country is the world's biggest producer of the edible oil and is often vilified abroad for the destruction of forests to make way for plantations, and for the fires that are often started to clear the land. While Indonesia's neighbours complain about the impact of the smoke drifting in, the criticism at home, where the smoke is usually much more severe, has been more muted. But that might be changing if the reaction to a government campaign launched to support the palm oil industry is anything to go by. "We plant palm to fulfil Indonesia's needs, including to develop biodiesel and to lift Indonesia's hopes," the cheery Good Palm campaign said on its Twitter account - @SawitBaikID. But the campaign, launched by the government and the state Palm Crop Estate Fund agency, could not have come at a worse time. Fires, at their most serious since 2015 because of an El Nino weather pattern causing an extended dry spell, have been sending clouds of acrid smoke up over Sumatra, parts of Borneo islands and beyond for more than a month. The government, once again trying to deflect the anger of its neighbours, has sent in more than 9,000 workers to try to beat down and douse the flames. The smoke, or haze as it is known, has forced schools and airports to shut, while tens of thousands of people have suffered from respiratory problems. In one widely reported case, a four-month-old girl from a haze-hit village on Sumatra island died this week. Doctors said she bore signs of lung infection, though they have yet to give the official cause of death. "The government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations," wrote one Twitter user - @agnarendra. #SawitBaik is definitely a misplaced campaign amidst the forest fires in Indonesia and the government should stop using the 'palm oil is a very productive crop' card to justify their negligence on the poor management of existing palm oil plantations https://t.co/RUieFY0Z6M — Ariq (@agnarendra) September 17, 2019 × Put out the fire Sheany, a journalist based in Bali, who uses only one name, said it was "bizarre" that the authorities were launching their campaign to make palm oil look good at this time. "So many Indonesians living in those areas are choking," she said. In another sign of changing attitudes towards palm oil, some supermarkets in the capital, Jakarta, have begun displaying products with "palm oil-free" labels, to the anger of government officials. Dono Boestami, head of the Palm Crop Estate Fund, defended the campaign to support palm oil, noting the "huge contribution" it makes to the economy. Authorities say the fire has scorched 328,000 hectares (810,000 acres) of land since January but it is not clear how much of that has been to make way for palm plantations. Greenpeace Indonesia said 80% of cleared forests had been turned into becoming palm and pulpwood plantations. Referring to the Good Palm campaign, Greenpeace called for tighter controls of the palm oil industry. Environmentalists say poor farmers are often blamed for the fires when the plantation companies egg them on, knowing they can expand later into the land that has been cleared. Police say many of the fires are started in the forest and scrub next to plantations, which are often untouched. The chairman of Indonesia's palm oil association, Joko Supriyono, said the companies should not be blamed for fires they do not start. "There are reports from our members that fires on their concessions were because of widespread fires outside of the concessions," he told foreign correspondents on Tuesday. President Joko Widodo has not responded directly to the backlash. This week, he attended Islamic prayers for rain in an area shrouded in heavy haze. "We have done everything we can, but the correct way is to prevent this from ever happening. Whenever there's a fire, it should be put out," Widodo said in a statement.

Indonesia's 'Good Palm' drive enflames anger as smoke clouds skies

The palm oil industry was responsible for at least 39 per cent&nbsp;of forest loss on the biodiversity-rich island of Borneo between 2000 and 2018, data from a research firm based in Indonesia shows.

The data comes as forest clearance <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-forest-fires-surge-stoking-global-warming-fears-249212">fires in Borneo and parts of Indonesia</a> spread smog across Southeast Asia, causing air quality to drop to unhealthy levels in neighbouring Singapore and Malaysia.

Some palm oil farmers have been accused of using slash-and-burn methods to clear land for planting.

The palm oil industry has long been blamed for encroaching on rain forests in Borneo, endangering wildlife such as orangutans and pygmy elephants.

Borneo, shared by Brunei and top palm oil producers Indonesia and Malaysia, lost 6.3 million hectares (15 million acres) of forest cover between 2000 and 2018, the data from the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), shows.

"This is a conservative number," David Gaveau, a climate scientist at CIFOR, told Reuters of the data, published this month via the centre's Borneo Atlas tool. "It does not include all forest areas impacted by plantation development."

Palm oil companies accounted for about 2.4 million hectares (6 million acres) of the loss while pulpwood firms accounted for 461,319 hectares (1.1 million acres).

Palm oil was responsible for 35 per cent of forest loss in the Indonesian part of Borneo, and 46 per cent on the Malaysian side.

Indonesia and Malaysia produce about 85 per cent of the world's palm oil, which is used in everything from soaps, lipstick to pizza and biodiesel.

CIFOR determined the amount of deforestation caused by companies by calculating the area of forest cleared and converted to industrial plantations within the same year.

The data does not include plantations farmed by smallholders, who account for 40 per cent of palm oil production globally, industry estimates show.

Gaveau said the conversion from forest area to plantations has slowed since 2012, because of lower prices for palm oil and Indonesia's bans on new plantations.

The forest loss from the expansion of palm oil plantations fell to 22 per cent last year, from 28.5 per cent the previous year, the data showed.

A spokeswoman for Malaysia's ministry in charge of palm oil said the government had adopted policies to cap oil palm cultivation area at 6.5 million hectares (16 million acres).

The country's total area planted with oil palm amounted to about 5.8 million hectares (14 million acres) by 2018.

The government also plans to end conversion of forest reserves to palm oil plantations, the spokeswoman said.

A spokesman of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), said palm plantations were developed in areas outside forests but pointed to differences in the areas provinces set aside for development and those reserved for forest.

"Uncertainty of spatial planning at the province level is a source of legal uncertainty in palm plantation business," said Tofan Mahdi, the spokesman.

Officials of Indonesia's agriculture ministry declined to comment, while forestry officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The palm oil industry was responsible for at least 39 per cent of forest loss on the biodiversity-rich island of Borneo between 2000 and 2018, data from a research firm based in Indonesia shows.

The palm oil industry was responsible for at least 39 per cent of forest loss on the biodiversity-rich island of Borneo between 2000 and 2018, data from a research firm based in Indonesia shows. The data comes as forest clearance fires in Borneo and parts of Indonesia spread smog across Southeast Asia, causing air quality to drop to unhealthy levels in neighbouring Singapore and Malaysia. Some palm oil farmers have been accused of using slash-and-burn methods to clear land for planting. The palm oil industry has long been blamed for encroaching on rain forests in Borneo, endangering wildlife such as orangutans and pygmy elephants. Borneo, shared by Brunei and top palm oil producers Indonesia and Malaysia, lost 6.3 million hectares (15 million acres) of forest cover between 2000 and 2018, the data from the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), shows. "This is a conservative number," David Gaveau, a climate scientist at CIFOR, told Reuters of the data, published this month via the centre's Borneo Atlas tool. "It does not include all forest areas impacted by plantation development." Palm oil companies accounted for about 2.4 million hectares (6 million acres) of the loss while pulpwood firms accounted for 461,319 hectares (1.1 million acres). Palm oil was responsible for 35 per cent of forest loss in the Indonesian part of Borneo, and 46 per cent on the Malaysian side. Indonesia and Malaysia produce about 85 per cent of the world's palm oil, which is used in everything from soaps, lipstick to pizza and biodiesel. CIFOR determined the amount of deforestation caused by companies by calculating the area of forest cleared and converted to industrial plantations within the same year. The data does not include plantations farmed by smallholders, who account for 40 per cent of palm oil production globally, industry estimates show. Gaveau said the conversion from forest area to plantations has slowed since 2012, because of lower prices for palm oil and Indonesia's bans on new plantations. The forest loss from the expansion of palm oil plantations fell to 22 per cent last year, from 28.5 per cent the previous year, the data showed. A spokeswoman for Malaysia's ministry in charge of palm oil said the government had adopted policies to cap oil palm cultivation area at 6.5 million hectares (16 million acres). The country's total area planted with oil palm amounted to about 5.8 million hectares (14 million acres) by 2018. The government also plans to end conversion of forest reserves to palm oil plantations, the spokeswoman said. A spokesman of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), said palm plantations were developed in areas outside forests but pointed to differences in the areas provinces set aside for development and those reserved for forest. "Uncertainty of spatial planning at the province level is a source of legal uncertainty in palm plantation business," said Tofan Mahdi, the spokesman. Officials of Indonesia's agriculture ministry declined to comment, while forestry officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Palm oil to blame for 39 per cent of forest loss in Borneo since 2000: Study

Amazon.com, Walmart-owned Flipkart and other e-commerce portals in India scrambled on Thursday to pull listings of vaping products a day after the federal government imposed a nationwide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-bans-e-cigarettes-citing-health-hazards-250374">ban on electronic cigarettes</a>.

Warning of an "epidemic" among young people, India banned the sale, production, import and advertising of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organization-says-e-cigarettes-undoubtedly-harmful-238779">e-cigarettes</a>, dealing a blow to plans of companies such as Philip Morris International and Juul Labs to sell the products in India.

Websites such as Vapestop and Litejoy, which offered vaping products online, discontinued their operations and ran disclaimers related to the government order.

Vaping products, however, were still available on Amazon's India site, while Flipkart and Softbank-backed Snapdeal removed e-cigarettes which were available earlier in the day, Reuters found.

"Online advertising and sales are banned. E-commerce service providers should take down the advertisements and sale offers immediately," Vikas Sheel, a senior health ministry official told Reuters, when asked about the online listings.

Amazon's India site was selling the "Honey Badger" vape device, which resembles a USB flash drive, for 2,799 rupees ($39.35), with flavoured refills. Flipkart had also listed the product earlier.

Amazon said e-cigarettes are not allowed to be listed or sold on&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://Amazon.co.in&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1568981438627000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEneKHjksBQXERzXjN7RgagedFjaA" href="http://amazon.co.in/" target="_blank">Amazon.co.in</a>&nbsp;as per its policy and it takes action if it learns about sellers evasively listing a prohibited product.

A source with direct knowledge said that Amazon was working to quickly remove the listings.

Flipkart in a statement said it was aware of the ban order and was working with sellers to remove all such products.

Snapdeal, another leading e-commerce website in India, said the e-cigarette category had been disabled.

On Wednesday, India's health ministry said use of e-cigarettes had increased exponentially and acquired epidemic proportions in developed countries, especially among youth and children.

India's ban was issued through an executive order, which has been in force since Wednesday night, a health ministry spokeswoman said.

Pro-vaping groups in India have criticized the government's decision, saying it would deter people from switching from conventional cigarettes to less harmful alternatives.

Amazon.com, Walmart-owned Flipkart and other e-commerce portals in India scrambled on Thursday to pull listings of vaping products a day after the federal government imposed a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes.

Amazon.com, Walmart-owned Flipkart and other e-commerce portals in India scrambled on Thursday to pull listings of vaping products a day after the federal government imposed a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes. Warning of an "epidemic" among young people, India banned the sale, production, import and advertising of e-cigarettes, dealing a blow to plans of companies such as Philip Morris International and Juul Labs to sell the products in India. Websites such as Vapestop and Litejoy, which offered vaping products online, discontinued their operations and ran disclaimers related to the government order. Vaping products, however, were still available on Amazon's India site, while Flipkart and Softbank-backed Snapdeal removed e-cigarettes which were available earlier in the day, Reuters found. "Online advertising and sales are banned. E-commerce service providers should take down the advertisements and sale offers immediately," Vikas Sheel, a senior health ministry official told Reuters, when asked about the online listings. Amazon's India site was selling the "Honey Badger" vape device, which resembles a USB flash drive, for 2,799 rupees ($39.35), with flavoured refills. Flipkart had also listed the product earlier. Amazon said e-cigarettes are not allowed to be listed or sold on Amazon.co.in as per its policy and it takes action if it learns about sellers evasively listing a prohibited product. A source with direct knowledge said that Amazon was working to quickly remove the listings. Flipkart in a statement said it was aware of the ban order and was working with sellers to remove all such products. Snapdeal, another leading e-commerce website in India, said the e-cigarette category had been disabled. On Wednesday, India's health ministry said use of e-cigarettes had increased exponentially and acquired epidemic proportions in developed countries, especially among youth and children. India's ban was issued through an executive order, which has been in force since Wednesday night, a health ministry spokeswoman said. Pro-vaping groups in India have criticized the government's decision, saying it would deter people from switching from conventional cigarettes to less harmful alternatives.

Flipkart, Amazon, others rush to pull vaping devices after India ban

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Wednesday that his government would try to revive Afghanistan peace talks that recently broke down between the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-now-dead-us-taliban-talks-lacked-strategic-vision-248969">United States and the Taliban</a> militant group.

"I assure you that we will use full force so that these dialogues proceed further. It is unfortunate that these peace talks were suspended," Khan said at a ceremony at Pakistan's Torkham border crossing with Afghanistan.

"We will try our best to revive the Afghan peace process."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/american-trust-in-pakistan-and-taliban-difficult-to-comprehend-249470">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> abruptly cancelled secret talks with the Taliban at his Camp David retreat that were planned for September&nbsp;8 and has since said the talks are "dead."

Khan is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly this month.

Khan also said there was "no chance of talks" with India about its clampdown on the disputed territory of Kashmir until it lifted a curfew for people there.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Wednesday that his government would try to revive Afghanistan peace talks that recently broke down between the United States and the Taliban militant group.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Wednesday that his government would try to revive Afghanistan peace talks that recently broke down between the United States and the Taliban militant group. "I assure you that we will use full force so that these dialogues proceed further. It is unfortunate that these peace talks were suspended," Khan said at a ceremony at Pakistan's Torkham border crossing with Afghanistan. "We will try our best to revive the Afghan peace process." US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled secret talks with the Taliban at his Camp David retreat that were planned for September 8 and has since said the talks are "dead." Khan is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly this month. Khan also said there was "no chance of talks" with India about its clampdown on the disputed territory of Kashmir until it lifted a curfew for people there.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan aims to restart Afghan peace talks

Thai opposition MPs demanded Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-parliament-votes-for-coup-leader-to-stay-on-as-prime-minister-225013">Prayut Chan-O-Cha</a> resign following weeks of the uproar over the ex-junta head's omission of a vow to uphold the constitution during his inauguration, raising questions of his legitimacy.

The mastermind of a 2014 coup, Prayut headed the junta regime for five years before a disputed March election tilted to the military formally ushered him in as a civilian premier.

But the new government has struggled to maintain a foothold as it is dogged by scandals from a cabinet member being accused of serving time in jail for drug-dealing in Australia to Thais angered by a slow response to floods in the rice bowl northeast.

Questions over his administration's legitimacy have also been raised after it was revealed Prayut and his cabinet had pledged loyalty to the king but failed to recite allegiance to the constitution when he was sworn in as civilian premiere in July.

The Constitutional Court last week had declined to deliberate on his omission.

But in parliament Wednesday, opposition lawmakers called for his resignation, saying the incomplete oath showed his "ignorance of the constitution", and questioned whether he can be trusted to uphold the rule of law.

It has "destroyed public confidence as well as his credibility", Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, secretary-general of the youth-driven Future Forward Party, said.

"Prayut's incomplete oath-taking makes the public doubt whether he will uphold and comply with the constitution," he said.

The omission could also mean that the ex-junta chief "may have thought of staging another coup", said Thai Liberal Party leader Sereepisuth Temeeyaves.

Prayut was present for part of the parliament session, held only for one day without a vote before MPs go for recess on Thursday.

Speaking briefly after listening to MPs hammer him for several hours, Prayut proclaimed "respect for all the principles in the constitution".

Coups and street protests have plagued Thailand's politics for almost two decades, with the putsch-happy army pressing the reset button on previous administrations.

But political divisions remain deep as Thais in the latest March election have shown a weariness towards a conservative arch-royalist elite, choosing instead to vote in MPs vowing to remove the military from politics. 
&nbsp;

Thai opposition MPs demanded Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha resign following weeks of the uproar over the ex-junta head's omission of a vow to uphold the constitution during his inauguration, raising questions of his legitimacy.

Thai opposition MPs demanded Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha resign following weeks of the uproar over the ex-junta head's omission of a vow to uphold the constitution during his inauguration, raising questions of his legitimacy. The mastermind of a 2014 coup, Prayut headed the junta regime for five years before a disputed March election tilted to the military formally ushered him in as a civilian premier. But the new government has struggled to maintain a foothold as it is dogged by scandals from a cabinet member being accused of serving time in jail for drug-dealing in Australia to Thais angered by a slow response to floods in the rice bowl northeast. Questions over his administration's legitimacy have also been raised after it was revealed Prayut and his cabinet had pledged loyalty to the king but failed to recite allegiance to the constitution when he was sworn in as civilian premiere in July. The Constitutional Court last week had declined to deliberate on his omission. But in parliament Wednesday, opposition lawmakers called for his resignation, saying the incomplete oath showed his "ignorance of the constitution", and questioned whether he can be trusted to uphold the rule of law. It has "destroyed public confidence as well as his credibility", Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, secretary-general of the youth-driven Future Forward Party, said. "Prayut's incomplete oath-taking makes the public doubt whether he will uphold and comply with the constitution," he said. The omission could also mean that the ex-junta chief "may have thought of staging another coup", said Thai Liberal Party leader Sereepisuth Temeeyaves. Prayut was present for part of the parliament session, held only for one day without a vote before MPs go for recess on Thursday. Speaking briefly after listening to MPs hammer him for several hours, Prayut proclaimed "respect for all the principles in the constitution". Coups and street protests have plagued Thailand's politics for almost two decades, with the putsch-happy army pressing the reset button on previous administrations. But political divisions remain deep as Thais in the latest March election have shown a weariness towards a conservative arch-royalist elite, choosing instead to vote in MPs vowing to remove the military from politics.

Thai MPs call for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to resign following oath omission

“Don’t find fault, find a remedy”, said Henry Ford famously. This quote exemplifies the visionary, problem-solving leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chose to bring in the biggest indirect tax reform in post-independent India by implementing the GST.

The Manmohan Singh government sat lazily on the Kelkar committee recommendations for almost 10 years. The obnoxious attempt by Modi baiters to compare GST execution in India, with say, Singapore, is futile.

Within a year of implementing GST, Singapore witnessed skyrocketing inflation at 8.4 per cent, whereas the average retail inflation in India has consistently been below 4 per cent in the post-GST era.

Post the path-breaking GST, 1,186 goods comprising 97.69 per cent of the 1,214 goods that are widely used and were earlier taxed at almost 28-31 per cent, are now taxed at just 18 per cent or even lower.

In the last 100 days of Modi’s second term, landmark steps were taken that showcased Modinomics at its best. The decision to cut Employees’ State Insurance Act (ESIC) contribution from 6.5 per cent to 4 per cent, which will benefit 3.6 crore employees and 12.85 lakh employers, the step to develop 17 iconic tourist sites as world-famous tourist spots were among them. 
 
Also, the decision to set up 75 new government medical colleges by 2021 to boost medical education, aim to give scholarships in next five years to 5 crore underprivileged students of which 50 per cent are girls, under the “Go Tribal” scheme, removing “angel tax” to boost start-ups, Rs 6,000 per annum income support, which will benefit over 5 crore small and marginal farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana having been the turning points. 
 
Other schemes include a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to small traders and shopkeepers in the unorganised sector after they attain 60 years of age under the PM Shram Yogi MandhanYojana, reducing corporate tax rate to 25 per cent for MSMEs with a turnover up to Rs 400 crore, bill to repeal 58 archaic laws including outdated labour laws and more importantly, passing the Code on Wages Bill 2019, which will benefit over 500 million workers across the country.&nbsp;

Manmohanomics had abdicated all responsibilities to more than 70 GOMs and EGOMs that ruled by proxy as part of Sonia Gandhi’s kitchen cabinet between 2004-2014, compromising both the legitimacy and the credibility of the Prime Minister’s office.

In sharp contrast, good governance under Narendra Modi has taken a whole new dimension with 30 new bills being cleared in the just-concluded monsoon session of the Parliament.

India moving up by a good 65 places at rank 77 in the World Bank’s global Ease of Doing Business (EODB) rankings in the first four years of Modi’s first term is a case in point.&nbsp;

Apart from this, be it launching Rupay cards in Abu Dhabi and Bhutan or powering the India story at G20, G7, SCO, BRICS or more recently at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Modinomics has mastered the subtle art of marrying international diplomacy, soft power and economic linkages. Besides the world’s biggest healthcare scheme like Ayushman Bharat covering over 17,000 hospitals — which have till date benef Undoubtedly, if there is one scheme that has revolutionalised the lives of millions of women, it is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) with the number of beneficiaries touching the 8-crore mark recently.&nbsp;

The gas sector is an excellent example of Modi government’s governance motto of “Reform, Perform, Transform”. What a pity that despite ruling India for the better part of the last 70 plus years, neither the Congress, nor its family retainers did anything to strengthen the gas ecosystem or to reduce India’s dependence on traditional fuel sources. Realising the vulnerabilities of India’s fuel economy, the Modi government put in place various initiatives to empower India’s gas based-economy, including plans to set up 5,000 compressed bio-gas plants by 2022-23, to convert agri-waste into bio-CNG.

All these efforts will help fulfil India’s global commitment of reducing emission intensity by 33-35 per cent and producing minimum 40 per cent electricity from non-conventional sources by 2030.

By early 2019, the Modi government had achieved all of these — electrification of over 2.5 crore households under the Saubhagya Yojana; over 1.9 lakh km of roads built under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, vaccination of well over 3.28 crore people under the Indradhanush scheme, building 9.56 crore toilets under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, commissioning of over 33 crore LED bulbs that saved over Rs 17,000 crore; making 5,36,724 villages Open Defecation Free (ODF); distribution of over Rs 5.37 lakh crore via DBT to the rural and urban poor; covering 5,441 schools under Atal Tinkering Labs; due recognition to 14,706 start-ups; 23.66 lakh registered users under the Swayam scheme; benefits to 2.38 crore pensioners under the Jeevan Pramaan scheme and 1.24 crore people under the Atal Pension Yojana; extending paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for pregnant women.&nbsp;

It has also established over 13,000 Kaushal Vikas Kendras; disbursed over Rs 35,000 crore to Indian armed forces and veterans under the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme; extended accident insurance to over 13.98 crore people under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha BimaYojana (PMSBY), life cover to over 5.47 crore Indians under the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and insurance to over 14.39 crore farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana ( PMFBY); distributed over 17.17 crore Soil Health Cards (SHCs); distributed over Rs. 1.69 lakh crore as subsidies via Aadhaar; over 1.35 crore farmers covered under e-NAM for better pricing of farm produce, set up of over 3.8 lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs), versus just 84,000 that existed in 2014. The government also opened over 36 crore Jan Dhan accounts, of which more than 50 per cent&nbsp;belong to women, to ensure universal financial inclusion. Modinomics is endearingly Glocal-Global in its approach without losing its local flavour and that is precisely what makes it so relevant in contemporary times.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-modinomics-cogently-unplugged-2790290">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

“Don’t find fault, find a remedy”, said Henry Ford famously. This quote exemplifies the visionary, problem-solving leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chose to bring in the biggest indirect tax reform in post-independent India by implementing the GST.

“Don’t find fault, find a remedy”, said Henry Ford famously. This quote exemplifies the visionary, problem-solving leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chose to bring in the biggest indirect tax reform in post-independent India by implementing the GST. The Manmohan Singh government sat lazily on the Kelkar committee recommendations for almost 10 years. The obnoxious attempt by Modi baiters to compare GST execution in India, with say, Singapore, is futile. Within a year of implementing GST, Singapore witnessed skyrocketing inflation at 8.4 per cent, whereas the average retail inflation in India has consistently been below 4 per cent in the post-GST era. Post the path-breaking GST, 1,186 goods comprising 97.69 per cent of the 1,214 goods that are widely used and were earlier taxed at almost 28-31 per cent, are now taxed at just 18 per cent or even lower. In the last 100 days of Modi’s second term, landmark steps were taken that showcased Modinomics at its best. The decision to cut Employees’ State Insurance Act (ESIC) contribution from 6.5 per cent to 4 per cent, which will benefit 3.6 crore employees and 12.85 lakh employers, the step to develop 17 iconic tourist sites as world-famous tourist spots were among them. Also, the decision to set up 75 new government medical colleges by 2021 to boost medical education, aim to give scholarships in next five years to 5 crore underprivileged students of which 50 per cent are girls, under the “Go Tribal” scheme, removing “angel tax” to boost start-ups, Rs 6,000 per annum income support, which will benefit over 5 crore small and marginal farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana having been the turning points. Other schemes include a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to small traders and shopkeepers in the unorganised sector after they attain 60 years of age under the PM Shram Yogi MandhanYojana, reducing corporate tax rate to 25 per cent for MSMEs with a turnover up to Rs 400 crore, bill to repeal 58 archaic laws including outdated labour laws and more importantly, passing the Code on Wages Bill 2019, which will benefit over 500 million workers across the country. Manmohanomics had abdicated all responsibilities to more than 70 GOMs and EGOMs that ruled by proxy as part of Sonia Gandhi’s kitchen cabinet between 2004-2014, compromising both the legitimacy and the credibility of the Prime Minister’s office. In sharp contrast, good governance under Narendra Modi has taken a whole new dimension with 30 new bills being cleared in the just-concluded monsoon session of the Parliament. India moving up by a good 65 places at rank 77 in the World Bank’s global Ease of Doing Business (EODB) rankings in the first four years of Modi’s first term is a case in point. Apart from this, be it launching Rupay cards in Abu Dhabi and Bhutan or powering the India story at G20, G7, SCO, BRICS or more recently at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Modinomics has mastered the subtle art of marrying international diplomacy, soft power and economic linkages. Besides the world’s biggest healthcare scheme like Ayushman Bharat covering over 17,000 hospitals — which have till date benef Undoubtedly, if there is one scheme that has revolutionalised the lives of millions of women, it is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) with the number of beneficiaries touching the 8-crore mark recently. The gas sector is an excellent example of Modi government’s governance motto of “Reform, Perform, Transform”. What a pity that despite ruling India for the better part of the last 70 plus years, neither the Congress, nor its family retainers did anything to strengthen the gas ecosystem or to reduce India’s dependence on traditional fuel sources. Realising the vulnerabilities of India’s fuel economy, the Modi government put in place various initiatives to empower India’s gas based-economy, including plans to set up 5,000 compressed bio-gas plants by 2022-23, to convert agri-waste into bio-CNG. All these efforts will help fulfil India’s global commitment of reducing emission intensity by 33-35 per cent and producing minimum 40 per cent electricity from non-conventional sources by 2030. By early 2019, the Modi government had achieved all of these — electrification of over 2.5 crore households under the Saubhagya Yojana; over 1.9 lakh km of roads built under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, vaccination of well over 3.28 crore people under the Indradhanush scheme, building 9.56 crore toilets under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, commissioning of over 33 crore LED bulbs that saved over Rs 17,000 crore; making 5,36,724 villages Open Defecation Free (ODF); distribution of over Rs 5.37 lakh crore via DBT to the rural and urban poor; covering 5,441 schools under Atal Tinkering Labs; due recognition to 14,706 start-ups; 23.66 lakh registered users under the Swayam scheme; benefits to 2.38 crore pensioners under the Jeevan Pramaan scheme and 1.24 crore people under the Atal Pension Yojana; extending paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for pregnant women. It has also established over 13,000 Kaushal Vikas Kendras; disbursed over Rs 35,000 crore to Indian armed forces and veterans under the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme; extended accident insurance to over 13.98 crore people under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha BimaYojana (PMSBY), life cover to over 5.47 crore Indians under the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and insurance to over 14.39 crore farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana ( PMFBY); distributed over 17.17 crore Soil Health Cards (SHCs); distributed over Rs. 1.69 lakh crore as subsidies via Aadhaar; over 1.35 crore farmers covered under e-NAM for better pricing of farm produce, set up of over 3.8 lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs), versus just 84,000 that existed in 2014. The government also opened over 36 crore Jan Dhan accounts, of which more than 50 per cent belong to women, to ensure universal financial inclusion. Modinomics is endearingly Glocal-Global in its approach without losing its local flavour and that is precisely what makes it so relevant in contemporary times. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

In its second term, government has taken landmark steps that showcased Modinomics at its best

Global regulators will question Facebook on Monday about its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebooks-libra-has-to-build-anti-money-laundering-anti-terror-financing-design-us-treasury-248861">Libra cryptocurrency</a>, amid concerns from European Union governments over the threat the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-needs-very-high-standard-for-libra-coin-us-treasury-steven-mnuchin-236268">digital currency</a>&nbsp;poses to financial stability, the Financial Times reported on Sunday.

Officials from 26 central banks, including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-question-facebook-over-plans-on-libra-cryptocurrency-236514">US</a>&nbsp;Federal Reserve and the Bank of England, will meet with representatives of Libra in Basel on Monday, the FT said, citing officials.

Libra's founders have also been invited to answer key questions about the currency's scope and design, FT said.

Facebook did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment outside regular business hours.

Countries including France and Germany have publicly criticised the social media giant's Libra project, saying it posed risks to EU states' sovereignty.

Global regulators will question Facebook on Monday about its Libra cryptocurrency, amid concerns from European Union governments over the threat the digital currency poses to financial stability, the Financial Times reported on Sunday.

Global regulators will question Facebook on Monday about its Libra cryptocurrency, amid concerns from European Union governments over the threat the digital currency poses to financial stability, the Financial Times reported on Sunday. Officials from 26 central banks, including the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of England, will meet with representatives of Libra in Basel on Monday, the FT said, citing officials. Libra's founders have also been invited to answer key questions about the currency's scope and design, FT said. Facebook did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment outside regular business hours. Countries including France and Germany have publicly criticised the social media giant's Libra project, saying it posed risks to EU states' sovereignty.

Global regulators to question Facebook's Libra amid EU concerns: Report

El Salvador's government deployed at least 800 police to its borders with Honduras and Guatemala on Thursday (September 12) in a bid to thwart U.S.-bound migrants, officials announced.

El Salvador sends hundreds of police to border to thwart migrants

Launching a slew of development projects and schemes on Thursday in election-bound Jharkhand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-is-now-global-threat-has-deep-roots-in-pakistan-pm-modi-249021">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Thursday said the government will take more substantial steps in the coming days saying "picture abhi baaki hai" (more is to come).

"My government has launched a slew of development projects in the first 100 days. However, a lot still needs to be done. Picture abhi baaki hai," he said addressing a public meeting.

At the function, he launched the 'Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyaparik Mandhan Yojana'&nbsp;and 'Swarojgar'&nbsp;pension schemes, inaugurated the new building of the Jharkhand Assembly and a multi-modal terminal at Sahibganj in the afternoon today.

"All-round development is not only our priority but also our commitment. Development is our promise and intention too. The country has never seen such rapid pace of development that it is witnessing now," he further stated.

The Prime Minister also announced that the Centre will soon inaugurate a major project for the uplift of tribal children and added that several Eklavya model residential schools will be set up across the country.

It should be noted that these schools will provide upper primary, secondary, and senior secondary level education to Scheduled Tribe students in tribal-dominated areas.

"Today for the development and education of tribal children and youth, we are starting a very big project. We are setting up 462 Eklavya model residential schools across the country," he said.

The Prime Minister also talked about the work undertaken by the government for improving the connectivity of the region, "Even in terms of connectivity, a lot of work is being done in Jharkhand. Now, the roads are being built in areas where people never walked during the night."

"Our government is working towards providing social security to each and every Indian," the Prime Minister added.

He promised to make India corruption-free and said that the guilty will be shown their place.

"A massive crackdown on corruption has begun. Those people who will try to loot the public will be shown their right places."

Launching a slew of development projects and schemes on Thursday in election-bound Jharkhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the government will take more substantial steps in the coming days saying "picture abhi baaki hai" (more is to come).

Launching a slew of development projects and schemes on Thursday in election-bound Jharkhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the government will take more substantial steps in the coming days saying "picture abhi baaki hai" (more is to come). "My government has launched a slew of development projects in the first 100 days. However, a lot still needs to be done. Picture abhi baaki hai," he said addressing a public meeting. At the function, he launched the 'Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyaparik Mandhan Yojana' and 'Swarojgar' pension schemes, inaugurated the new building of the Jharkhand Assembly and a multi-modal terminal at Sahibganj in the afternoon today. "All-round development is not only our priority but also our commitment. Development is our promise and intention too. The country has never seen such rapid pace of development that it is witnessing now," he further stated. The Prime Minister also announced that the Centre will soon inaugurate a major project for the uplift of tribal children and added that several Eklavya model residential schools will be set up across the country. It should be noted that these schools will provide upper primary, secondary, and senior secondary level education to Scheduled Tribe students in tribal-dominated areas. "Today for the development and education of tribal children and youth, we are starting a very big project. We are setting up 462 Eklavya model residential schools across the country," he said. The Prime Minister also talked about the work undertaken by the government for improving the connectivity of the region, "Even in terms of connectivity, a lot of work is being done in Jharkhand. Now, the roads are being built in areas where people never walked during the night." "Our government is working towards providing social security to each and every Indian," the Prime Minister added. He promised to make India corruption-free and said that the guilty will be shown their place. "A massive crackdown on corruption has begun. Those people who will try to loot the public will be shown their right places."

Government launched slew of development projects in first 100 days, a lot still needs to be done: PM Modi

Britain will make a decision soon about whether to allow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-denies-us-allegations-of-technology-theft-247310">Huawei equipment </a>to be used in its 5G networks but China must play by the rules if it gets access to Western markets, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said.

Asked when a decision would be made by the United Kingdom on Huawei, Wallace said on Wednesday: "The government will come to its position soon. We will get to a decision pretty soon.

He added: "We will not allow anything to compromise our sensitive networks in the UK but our technical advice is that there are places we can go to mitigate any security risk.

"This is more than just technical, this is also about behaviour," he told reporters.

"It wasn't that long ago that the United Kingdom and other nations called out China publicly for some of its cyber activity. And if we are going to allow countries access to our markets, I think we should all expect a code of behaviour which is fair play."

Britain will make a decision soon about whether to allow Huawei equipment to be used in its 5G networks but China must play by the rules if it gets access to Western markets, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said.

Britain will make a decision soon about whether to allow Huawei equipment to be used in its 5G networks but China must play by the rules if it gets access to Western markets, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said. Asked when a decision would be made by the United Kingdom on Huawei, Wallace said on Wednesday: "The government will come to its position soon. We will get to a decision pretty soon. He added: "We will not allow anything to compromise our sensitive networks in the UK but our technical advice is that there are places we can go to mitigate any security risk. "This is more than just technical, this is also about behaviour," he told reporters. "It wasn't that long ago that the United Kingdom and other nations called out China publicly for some of its cyber activity. And if we are going to allow countries access to our markets, I think we should all expect a code of behaviour which is fair play."

Will decide on Huawei soon but China must play by rules: UK

What is dengue, and why is it so widespread this year?

Beijing karaoke bars are closing, toy weapon sales are banned and every delivery package is being scanned: the capital is taking no chances weeks ahead of a massive military parade to mark Communist China's 70th anniversary.

Beijing has been preparing for the big celebration well ahead of the October 1 event, with several large screens installed at Tiananmen Square, where tanks and other army hardware will be shown off.

Security was already tighter than usual to enter Beijing's massive square as guards sifted through every bag in the long line of local tourists heading for a visit on Thursday. An AFP journalist was not allowed to go through.

Several kilometres away, the Workers Stadium has been closed off, with temporary high walls covered in fake grass surrounding the facility normally used by Chinese football team Beijing Guoan.

A security guard told AFP that the government "wants to use the stadium for the 70th-anniversary preparations."

All businesses inside the stadium, including a gym and restaurants, have been told to close between September 5 and the October 1 national day.

"The government has notified us to close up," said Joey Xu, manager of Puerta 20, a restaurant inside the stadium.

"Our staff will be offered paid vacation. But the government isn't compensating businesses for their losses," he said.

Other businesses near the stadium are also closing up from mid-September.

"Authorities fear that businesses around the stadium that operate late into the night, especially ones with loud patrons like ours, could cause disturbances," said a manager at Mei Karaoke bar who only offered his last name, Zhang.

The parade comes as a trade war between Beijing and Washington threatens to drag down the global economy and follows three months of anti-government civil unrest in Hong Kong.

The parade is expected to showcase some of the most advanced weaponry of the Chinese army, in an attempt to drum up patriotic fervour.

Other plans for the anniversary celebration include an awards ceremony, fireworks, souvenir stamps and coins, an official documentary, and a musical.

Roads around Tiananmen Square and Changan Avenue, where soldiers will march, will be closed Saturday and Sunday for a rehearsal of the massive parade.

Slow post and no drones

Beijing's army of delivery staff who carry hot meals and other packages across the city within minutes have been told to reject parcels from anyone who cannot produce valid identity documents.

It forms part of a broader campaign to tighten postal security ahead of the 70th celebrations.

The State Post Bureau last month said all packages coming into Beijing will have to be X-rayed and individually stamped to prove they have been inspected.

Hobbyists who want to buy drones, toys with "countdown mechanisms" similar to ticking time-bombs or fake landmines that can be "detonated" with a remote-control device will also have to wait till after the October 1 event to place their orders.

Delivery of these items are "strictly prohibited" between September 15 and October 2, the postal bureau said in a statement.

And while Beijing has stepped up inspections of potentially troublesome items offline, China's Twitter-like platform Weibo has also started deleting online content that "insults" national heroes or "distorts" the history of the nation or the Communist Party.

China's biggest microblogging platform said Wednesday it has removed 14,299 posts and disabled 1,475 accounts that have "spread historical nihilism", a party euphemism for narratives that challenge the official version of events.

Weibo, which had more than 486 million monthly active users as of June, said the "cleanup" would run until the end of September.

Beijing karaoke bars are closing, toy weapon sales are banned and every delivery package is being scanned: the capital is taking no chances weeks ahead of a massive military parade to mark Communist China's 70th anniversary.

Beijing karaoke bars are closing, toy weapon sales are banned and every delivery package is being scanned: the capital is taking no chances weeks ahead of a massive military parade to mark Communist China's 70th anniversary. Beijing has been preparing for the big celebration well ahead of the October 1 event, with several large screens installed at Tiananmen Square, where tanks and other army hardware will be shown off. Security was already tighter than usual to enter Beijing's massive square as guards sifted through every bag in the long line of local tourists heading for a visit on Thursday. An AFP journalist was not allowed to go through. Several kilometres away, the Workers Stadium has been closed off, with temporary high walls covered in fake grass surrounding the facility normally used by Chinese football team Beijing Guoan. A security guard told AFP that the government "wants to use the stadium for the 70th-anniversary preparations." All businesses inside the stadium, including a gym and restaurants, have been told to close between September 5 and the October 1 national day. "The government has notified us to close up," said Joey Xu, manager of Puerta 20, a restaurant inside the stadium. "Our staff will be offered paid vacation. But the government isn't compensating businesses for their losses," he said. Other businesses near the stadium are also closing up from mid-September. "Authorities fear that businesses around the stadium that operate late into the night, especially ones with loud patrons like ours, could cause disturbances," said a manager at Mei Karaoke bar who only offered his last name, Zhang. The parade comes as a trade war between Beijing and Washington threatens to drag down the global economy and follows three months of anti-government civil unrest in Hong Kong. The parade is expected to showcase some of the most advanced weaponry of the Chinese army, in an attempt to drum up patriotic fervour. Other plans for the anniversary celebration include an awards ceremony, fireworks, souvenir stamps and coins, an official documentary, and a musical. Roads around Tiananmen Square and Changan Avenue, where soldiers will march, will be closed Saturday and Sunday for a rehearsal of the massive parade. Slow post and no drones Beijing's army of delivery staff who carry hot meals and other packages across the city within minutes have been told to reject parcels from anyone who cannot produce valid identity documents. It forms part of a broader campaign to tighten postal security ahead of the 70th celebrations. The State Post Bureau last month said all packages coming into Beijing will have to be X-rayed and individually stamped to prove they have been inspected. Hobbyists who want to buy drones, toys with "countdown mechanisms" similar to ticking time-bombs or fake landmines that can be "detonated" with a remote-control device will also have to wait till after the October 1 event to place their orders. Delivery of these items are "strictly prohibited" between September 15 and October 2, the postal bureau said in a statement. And while Beijing has stepped up inspections of potentially troublesome items offline, China's Twitter-like platform Weibo has also started deleting online content that "insults" national heroes or "distorts" the history of the nation or the Communist Party. China's biggest microblogging platform said Wednesday it has removed 14,299 posts and disabled 1,475 accounts that have "spread historical nihilism", a party euphemism for narratives that challenge the official version of events. Weibo, which had more than 486 million monthly active users as of June, said the "cleanup" would run until the end of September.

Security squeeze in China’s capital ahead of communist celebration

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Friday rejected calls for a switch to a parliamentary republic made by opposition activists at recent public protests but promised to give the Central Asian nation's parliament a greater role.

Tokayev took over the oil-rich former Soviet republic this year when his predecessor Nursultan Nazarbayev resigned after nearly three decades in power, and some groups have urged him to dismantle the highly centralised political system.

"I am convinced that Kazakhstan must remain a presidential republic, but the parliament will assume a worthy role in the political system," Tokayev said at a meeting with opposition activists and public figures picked by his government to join a newly-established National Council of Public Confidence.

Tokayev said he wanted to boost political competition by amending electoral laws and give the parliament a bigger say in major decisions.

The Nur Otan party led by Nazarbayev holds more than 80 seats in the 107-seat lower house of parliament, which mostly rubberstamps legislation drafted by the government. The next parliamentary election is due next year.

Nazarbayev's daughter Dariga Nazarbayeva is the speaker of parliament's upper house.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Friday rejected calls for a switch to a parliamentary republic made by opposition activists at recent public protests but promised to give the Central Asian nation's parliament a greater role.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Friday rejected calls for a switch to a parliamentary republic made by opposition activists at recent public protests but promised to give the Central Asian nation's parliament a greater role. Tokayev took over the oil-rich former Soviet republic this year when his predecessor Nursultan Nazarbayev resigned after nearly three decades in power, and some groups have urged him to dismantle the highly centralised political system. "I am convinced that Kazakhstan must remain a presidential republic, but the parliament will assume a worthy role in the political system," Tokayev said at a meeting with opposition activists and public figures picked by his government to join a newly-established National Council of Public Confidence. Tokayev said he wanted to boost political competition by amending electoral laws and give the parliament a bigger say in major decisions. The Nur Otan party led by Nazarbayev holds more than 80 seats in the 107-seat lower house of parliament, which mostly rubberstamps legislation drafted by the government. The next parliamentary election is due next year. Nazarbayev's daughter Dariga Nazarbayeva is the speaker of parliament's upper house.

Kazakh President rejects calls for parliamentary republic

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday conducted a special drive carrying out 150 surprise checks in various government departments across the country on suspicion of corruption.

Based on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative of ease of living, the special drive has been conducted primarily at such points where common citizens or small businessmen feel maximum pinch of corruption in the government machinery.

The departments covered in the special drive by the probe agency include medical, transport, coal mines, transport, GST department, fire, food corporation.

The drive will sensitise all stakeholders about possible avenues of corruption and the difficulties common citizens face while seeking services from such departments, they said.&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday conducted a special drive carrying out 150 surprise checks in various government departments across the country on suspicion of corruption.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday conducted a special drive carrying out 150 surprise checks in various government departments across the country on suspicion of corruption. Based on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative of ease of living, the special drive has been conducted primarily at such points where common citizens or small businessmen feel maximum pinch of corruption in the government machinery. The departments covered in the special drive by the probe agency include medical, transport, coal mines, transport, GST department, fire, food corporation. The drive will sensitise all stakeholders about possible avenues of corruption and the difficulties common citizens face while seeking services from such departments, they said.

CBI conducts anti-corruption drive in various government departments

Will Surplus Transfer Hurt RBI's Financial Resilience? Is A Stimulus Package On The Cards?

Gravitas: RBI Transfers Rs. 1.76 Lakh Cr. Record surplus to Government

The Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday approved the transfer of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the Government of India.

The top bank's decision is in line with the recommendations of the Bimal Jalan Committee.

A press note from the RBI said that it has decided "to transfer a sum of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the Government of India comprising Rs 1,23,414 crore of surplus for the year 2018-19 and Rs 52,637 crore of excess provisions identified as per the revised Economic Capital Framework (ECF) adopted at the meeting of the Central Board today."

It may be recalled that the RBI in consultation with the Government of India had constituted an Expert Committee to Review the Extant Economic Capital Framework of the Reserve Bank of India under the chairmanship of Dr Bimal Jalan.

"The Committee's recommendations were based on the consideration of the role of central banks'&nbsp;financial resilience, cross-country practices, statutory provisions and the impact of the RBI's public policy mandate and operating environment on its balance sheet and the risks involved," the note said.

The note further said, "The Committee`s recommendations were guided by the fact that the RBI forms the primary bulwark for monetary, financial and external stability."

"Hence, the resilience of the RBI needs to be commensurate with its public policy objectives and must be maintained above the level of peer central banks as would be expected of a central bank of one of the fastest-growing large economies of the world," added the note.

The Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday approved the transfer of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the Government of India. The top bank's decision is in line with the recommendations of the Bimal Jalan Committee.

The Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday approved the transfer of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the Government of India. The top bank's decision is in line with the recommendations of the Bimal Jalan Committee. A press note from the RBI said that it has decided "to transfer a sum of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the Government of India comprising Rs 1,23,414 crore of surplus for the year 2018-19 and Rs 52,637 crore of excess provisions identified as per the revised Economic Capital Framework (ECF) adopted at the meeting of the Central Board today." It may be recalled that the RBI in consultation with the Government of India had constituted an Expert Committee to Review the Extant Economic Capital Framework of the Reserve Bank of India under the chairmanship of Dr Bimal Jalan. "The Committee's recommendations were based on the consideration of the role of central banks' financial resilience, cross-country practices, statutory provisions and the impact of the RBI's public policy mandate and operating environment on its balance sheet and the risks involved," the note said. The note further said, "The Committee`s recommendations were guided by the fact that the RBI forms the primary bulwark for monetary, financial and external stability." "Hence, the resilience of the RBI needs to be commensurate with its public policy objectives and must be maintained above the level of peer central banks as would be expected of a central bank of one of the fastest-growing large economies of the world," added the note.

Reserve Bank of India to transfer Rs 1,76,051 crore to Government

More than 85,000 Venezuelan migrants crossed into Ecuador from Colombia in the last month, ahead of new visa restrictions from Quito that took effect on Monday (August 26), the Colombian government said.

Venezuelan migrants flood into Ecuador ahead of new visa restrictions

Violence in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/escalating-violent-acts-pushing-hong-kong-to-verge-of-very-dangerous-situation-government-245777">Hong Kong's anti-government protests</a> is becoming more serious but the government is confident it can handle the crisis itself, the city's embattled leader said on Tuesday.

Carrie Lam was speaking in public for the first time since demonstrations escalated on Sunday, when <a href="wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-arrest-36-youngest-aged-12-after-running-battles-with-protesters-245706">police fired water cannon and volleys of tear gas</a> in running battles with protesters who threw bricks and petrol bombs.

The Chinese-ruled city is grappling with its biggest political crisis since its handover to Beijing in 1997 and Communist Party authorities have sent a clear warning that forceful intervention is possible to quell the violence.

Hong Kong's Beijing-backed leader said she would not give up on building a platform for dialogue, although the time was not right to set up an independent inquiry into the crisis, one of the cornerstone demands of protesters.

"We should prepare for reconciliation in society by communicating with different people ... We want to put an end to the chaotic situation in Hong Kong," Lam said, adding she did not believe her government had lost control.

More demonstrations are planned over coming days and weeks, posing a direct challenge to authorities in Beijing, who are eager to quell the unrest ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1.

The unrest escalated in mid-June over a now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed Hong Kong people to be sent to mainland China for trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party.

But the demonstrations have evolved over 12 straight weeks into a broad demand for greater democracy under the "one country, two systems" formula following the handover to China by colonial ruler Britain in 1997.

Authorities have so far refused to meet any of the protesters' five key demands: withdraw the extradition bill, set up an independent inquiry into the protests and perceived police brutality, stop describing the protests as "rioting", waive charges against those arrested, and resume political reform.

The government said on Monday illegal violence was pushing Hong Kong to the brink of great danger after weekend clashes that included the first gun-shot and the arrest of 86 people, the youngest just 12.

The protests come as Hong Kong is facing its first recession in a decade, with all its growth pillars under significant stress. Rating agencies have raised long-term questions over the quality of the city's governance.

The unrest has sent jitters across the Asian financial centre, prompting some Hong Kong tycoons to start moving personal wealth offshore and residents to look for homes elsewhere.

Jamie Mi, partner at Melbourne-based Kay &amp; Burton, said the real estate agency was receiving about one-third more enquiries from Hong Kong buyers than usual, with most buyers targeting high-end properties priced above $3.4 million.

Juwai.com, China's largest international property website, recorded a 50% increase in Hong Kong enquiries for Australian properties in the past quarter.

Violence in Hong Kong's anti-government protests is becoming more serious but the government is confident it can handle the crisis itself, the city's embattled leader said on Tuesday.

Violence in Hong Kong's anti-government protests is becoming more serious but the government is confident it can handle the crisis itself, the city's embattled leader said on Tuesday. Carrie Lam was speaking in public for the first time since demonstrations escalated on Sunday, when police fired water cannon and volleys of tear gas in running battles with protesters who threw bricks and petrol bombs. The Chinese-ruled city is grappling with its biggest political crisis since its handover to Beijing in 1997 and Communist Party authorities have sent a clear warning that forceful intervention is possible to quell the violence. Hong Kong's Beijing-backed leader said she would not give up on building a platform for dialogue, although the time was not right to set up an independent inquiry into the crisis, one of the cornerstone demands of protesters. "We should prepare for reconciliation in society by communicating with different people ... We want to put an end to the chaotic situation in Hong Kong," Lam said, adding she did not believe her government had lost control. More demonstrations are planned over coming days and weeks, posing a direct challenge to authorities in Beijing, who are eager to quell the unrest ahead of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Oct. 1. The unrest escalated in mid-June over a now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed Hong Kong people to be sent to mainland China for trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party. But the demonstrations have evolved over 12 straight weeks into a broad demand for greater democracy under the "one country, two systems" formula following the handover to China by colonial ruler Britain in 1997. Authorities have so far refused to meet any of the protesters' five key demands: withdraw the extradition bill, set up an independent inquiry into the protests and perceived police brutality, stop describing the protests as "rioting", waive charges against those arrested, and resume political reform. The government said on Monday illegal violence was pushing Hong Kong to the brink of great danger after weekend clashes that included the first gun-shot and the arrest of 86 people, the youngest just 12. The protests come as Hong Kong is facing its first recession in a decade, with all its growth pillars under significant stress. Rating agencies have raised long-term questions over the quality of the city's governance. The unrest has sent jitters across the Asian financial centre, prompting some Hong Kong tycoons to start moving personal wealth offshore and residents to look for homes elsewhere. Jamie Mi, partner at Melbourne-based Kay & Burton, said the real estate agency was receiving about one-third more enquiries from Hong Kong buyers than usual, with most buyers targeting high-end properties priced above $3.4 million. Juwai.com, China's largest international property website, recorded a 50% increase in Hong Kong enquiries for Australian properties in the past quarter.

Hong Kong violence becoming more serious, but government in control: Carrie Lam

Public outreach programmes conducted by the government in Jammu and Kashmir.

Public outreach programmes in Jammu and Kashmir

The Karnataka government is not providing funds for the Indira canteens and is instead asking the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to run them, claimed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/disqualification-of-karnataka-rebel-mlas-to-send-strong-signal-across-country-siddaramaiah-239054">Congress leader Siddaramaiah</a> on Saturday.

"I have heard that the government is not providing funds for the Indira canteen. They are instead saying that the BBMP should run it," Siddaramaiah told reporters here.

Expressing his dissatisfaction with the BS Yediyurappa led the government's decision he said that the state should continue to manage and pay for the canteens in Bengaluru.

"There are more than 190 canteens in Bangalore. The cost of running them comes to around Rs 200 crore per annum. The state should not let the BBMP run them, the state should pay for it," Siddaramaiah said.&nbsp;

Indira canteens were started by the former Congress government in the state in 2017 to provide meals to the economically disadvantaged sections of society at a subsidised price.

The Karnataka government is not providing funds for the Indira canteens and is instead asking the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to run them, claimed Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday.

The Karnataka government is not providing funds for the Indira canteens and is instead asking the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to run them, claimed Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday. "I have heard that the government is not providing funds for the Indira canteen. They are instead saying that the BBMP should run it," Siddaramaiah told reporters here. Expressing his dissatisfaction with the BS Yediyurappa led the government's decision he said that the state should continue to manage and pay for the canteens in Bengaluru. "There are more than 190 canteens in Bangalore. The cost of running them comes to around Rs 200 crore per annum. The state should not let the BBMP run them, the state should pay for it," Siddaramaiah said. Indira canteens were started by the former Congress government in the state in 2017 to provide meals to the economically disadvantaged sections of society at a subsidised price.

State government should continue running Indira canteens: Siddaramaiah

Venezuela's pro-government legislature holds a session on Monday amid accusations it is planning to disband the opposition-run parliament and convene early legislative elections, potentially escalating the country's political crisis.

Opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../juan-guaido-calls-for-operation-freedom-to- topple-venezuelas-maduro-215341">Juan Guaido </a>on Sunday said the Constituent Assembly would make the decision during a Monday session after President Nicolas Maduro called for an "offensive" against congress.

Such a move would fuel criticism of Maduro in the international community and would almost certainly halt Norway-brokered talks between the government and Guaido allies meant to reach a negotiated solution to Venezuela's political stalemate.

Diosdado Cabello, vice president of the ruling Socialist Party and head of the Constituent Assembly, on Sunday night confirmed via Twitter that a session was scheduled for Monday but did not say what would be discussed.

"Nothing will stop us, we are free and we will be victorious!!" he wrote.

A Constituent Assembly official did not respond to a message seeking details on the session.

Congressional elections are held every five years, and are not scheduled until December 2020.

The opposition in 2015 won a two-thirds majority of congress in a landslide vote, taking control of parliament for the first time in 16 years. Maduro's government refused to recognize any of its decisions and the supreme court has shot down every measure it approved.

In 2017, Maduro launched an election to create the Constituent Assembly, an all-powerful body that is officially tasked with rewriting the constitution but in practice functions as a parallel legislature with no checks on its power.

The opposition broadly boycotted that vote, and the creation of the institution was harshly criticized around the world as undermining democracy.

Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival presidency, saying Maduro's 2018 re-election was fraudulent. He has been recognized by more than 50 countries, including the United States, as Venezuela's legitimate president.

Maduro said on Saturday that Guaido will face justice for supporting the most recent round of US&nbsp;sanctions, which block all commercial transactions with Venezuela's government and freeze its assets in the United States.

He called on Cabello last week to begin an offensive against the "traitors" in the legislature.

Venezuela's pro-government legislature holds a session on Monday amid accusations it is planning to disband the opposition-run parliament and convene early legislative elections, potentially escalating the country's political crisis.

Venezuela's pro-government legislature holds a session on Monday amid accusations it is planning to disband the opposition-run parliament and convene early legislative elections, potentially escalating the country's political crisis. Opposition leader Juan Guaido on Sunday said the Constituent Assembly would make the decision during a Monday session after President Nicolas Maduro called for an "offensive" against congress. Such a move would fuel criticism of Maduro in the international community and would almost certainly halt Norway-brokered talks between the government and Guaido allies meant to reach a negotiated solution to Venezuela's political stalemate. Diosdado Cabello, vice president of the ruling Socialist Party and head of the Constituent Assembly, on Sunday night confirmed via Twitter that a session was scheduled for Monday but did not say what would be discussed. "Nothing will stop us, we are free and we will be victorious!!" he wrote. A Constituent Assembly official did not respond to a message seeking details on the session. Congressional elections are held every five years, and are not scheduled until December 2020. The opposition in 2015 won a two-thirds majority of congress in a landslide vote, taking control of parliament for the first time in 16 years. Maduro's government refused to recognize any of its decisions and the supreme court has shot down every measure it approved. In 2017, Maduro launched an election to create the Constituent Assembly, an all-powerful body that is officially tasked with rewriting the constitution but in practice functions as a parallel legislature with no checks on its power. The opposition broadly boycotted that vote, and the creation of the institution was harshly criticized around the world as undermining democracy. Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival presidency, saying Maduro's 2018 re-election was fraudulent. He has been recognized by more than 50 countries, including the United States, as Venezuela's legitimate president. Maduro said on Saturday that Guaido will face justice for supporting the most recent round of US sanctions, which block all commercial transactions with Venezuela's government and freeze its assets in the United States. He called on Cabello last week to begin an offensive against the "traitors" in the legislature.

Venezuela pro-government legislature holds session, may disband congress

Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies have used systematic torture on detainees to stifle dissent, an international human rights group said on Monday in a report that the government dismissed as baseless.

The report, titled "Cycle of Fear", was jointly produced by the Geneva-based World Organization Against Torture (OMCT) - a coalition of NGOs fighting torture and ill-treatment - and the Bangladeshi human rights group Odhikar.

OMCT said the report was based on an examination of more than 300 cases of what it called torture between 2009 and 2017 and information gathered from alleged victims, members of the executive, the judiciary, representatives of civil society and of international organisations.

Information it received revealed that "Extreme forms of physical violence" had been used on detainees, the organisation said, citing instances such as shooting in the legs or knees, the breaking of bones, drilling holes in arms and legs, and rape, as well as mental abuse, including mock executions and death threats.

Complaints of torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings had increased in recent years and the government had failed to investigate and punish the perpetrators, the organisations said.

The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who won a third straight term in a December 2018 election, rejected the report.

"We can tell you with emphasis that there is no single incident of disappearance or extrajudicial killing with the knowledge of this government," Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan told Reuters.

"For the last 10 years there is no lawlessness in the country or any application of torture by this government to silence dissent with any government machinery," he added.

Gerald Staberock, OMCT secretary general, said torture was used to instil fear and quash dissent, to coerce confessions or as a tool for corrupt law enforcement agents to extract bribes.

"We call on Bangladesh to acknowledge the magnitude of the problem and start a complete overhaul of its law enforcement and judiciary systems," Staberock said.

A political deadlock in Bangladesh fed "widespread impunity", the groups said. Several leaders of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party have been jailed on charges the opposition says are politically motivated.

"While the government has declared at various times a ‘zero tolerance policy’ towards torture and other serious human rights violations, there is little evidence of such a policy ever being pursued and transformed into real accountability," the report said.

Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies have used systematic torture on detainees to stifle dissent, an international human rights group said on Monday in a report that the government dismissed as baseless.

Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies have used systematic torture on detainees to stifle dissent, an international human rights group said on Monday in a report that the government dismissed as baseless. The report, titled "Cycle of Fear", was jointly produced by the Geneva-based World Organization Against Torture (OMCT) - a coalition of NGOs fighting torture and ill-treatment - and the Bangladeshi human rights group Odhikar. OMCT said the report was based on an examination of more than 300 cases of what it called torture between 2009 and 2017 and information gathered from alleged victims, members of the executive, the judiciary, representatives of civil society and of international organisations. Information it received revealed that "Extreme forms of physical violence" had been used on detainees, the organisation said, citing instances such as shooting in the legs or knees, the breaking of bones, drilling holes in arms and legs, and rape, as well as mental abuse, including mock executions and death threats. Complaints of torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings had increased in recent years and the government had failed to investigate and punish the perpetrators, the organisations said. The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who won a third straight term in a December 2018 election, rejected the report. "We can tell you with emphasis that there is no single incident of disappearance or extrajudicial killing with the knowledge of this government," Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan told Reuters. "For the last 10 years there is no lawlessness in the country or any application of torture by this government to silence dissent with any government machinery," he added. Gerald Staberock, OMCT secretary general, said torture was used to instil fear and quash dissent, to coerce confessions or as a tool for corrupt law enforcement agents to extract bribes. "We call on Bangladesh to acknowledge the magnitude of the problem and start a complete overhaul of its law enforcement and judiciary systems," Staberock said. A political deadlock in Bangladesh fed "widespread impunity", the groups said. Several leaders of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party have been jailed on charges the opposition says are politically motivated. "While the government has declared at various times a ‘zero tolerance policy’ towards torture and other serious human rights violations, there is little evidence of such a policy ever being pursued and transformed into real accountability," the report said.

Human rights group accuses Bangladesh of torture; government says report 'baseless'

The government on Saturday slashed taxes on electric vehicles and chargers, as it looks to encourage the use of more environmentally friendly cars.

The goods and services tax (GST) on electric vehicles and chargers was reduced to 5% from a previous 12% and 18% respectively, Finance ministry said in a statement.

The government had earlier this month given tax breaks in the federal budget for consumers buying electric vehicles. Saturday's decision to slash the tax was taken at a meeting of the GST Council chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi.

India, the world's third-biggest emitter of greenhouse gases and home to 14 of the world's most polluted cities, is aiming for electric vehicles to account for 30% of all passenger vehicle sales in the country by 2030.

They currently make up less than 1 per cent, largely due to a lack of charging infrastructure and the high cost of batteries.

Sitharaman said during the budget announcement that the government's plans was to make India a hub of electric vehicle manufacturing, with large manufacturing plants for lithium storage batteries and solar electric charging infrastructure.

The government also removed import taxes earlier this month on some auto components to help boost electric vehicle sales and reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels.

The government on Saturday slashed taxes on electric vehicles and chargers, as it looks to encourage the use of more environmentally friendly cars. The goods and services tax (GST) on electric vehicles and chargers was reduced to 5% from a previous 12% and 18% respectively, Finance ministry said in a statement.

The government on Saturday slashed taxes on electric vehicles and chargers, as it looks to encourage the use of more environmentally friendly cars. The goods and services tax (GST) on electric vehicles and chargers was reduced to 5% from a previous 12% and 18% respectively, Finance ministry said in a statement. The government had earlier this month given tax breaks in the federal budget for consumers buying electric vehicles. Saturday's decision to slash the tax was taken at a meeting of the GST Council chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi. India, the world's third-biggest emitter of greenhouse gases and home to 14 of the world's most polluted cities, is aiming for electric vehicles to account for 30% of all passenger vehicle sales in the country by 2030. They currently make up less than 1 per cent, largely due to a lack of charging infrastructure and the high cost of batteries. Sitharaman said during the budget announcement that the government's plans was to make India a hub of electric vehicle manufacturing, with large manufacturing plants for lithium storage batteries and solar electric charging infrastructure. The government also removed import taxes earlier this month on some auto components to help boost electric vehicle sales and reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels.

Government cuts GST rate on electric vehicles to boost uptake

The government is in talks with foreign lenders to provide as much as $14.5 billion in credit to millions of its small firms, two officials said, in a sign the country's banking system may not be robust enough to do the job on its own.

The government is in discussions with multiple foreign lenders, including Germany's state-owned development bank KfW Group, the World Bank and some Canadian institutions to extend lines of credit to small enterprises, one of the officials, who did not want to be identified, told Reuters.

KfW's India office confirmed the discussions, though the main focus was on credit lines to support small businesses'&nbsp;solar power generation. The talks were at an early stage, KfW said.

The World Bank's India spokesperson did not reply to an email seeking comment.

The official said the government plans to source up to 1 trillion Indian rupees of loans from foreign institutions because Indian banks were not in a position to provide enough capital for the small business sector, which is seen as critical to job creation.

“We are exploring, we are having discussions with various funding agencies if something can be done (for small and medium firms),” the second official said.

The officials did not provide full details of the discussions they are having with banks, or identify all those they are talking to, but said talks are at a very early stage.

India's micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) ministry is discussing the proposal to pull in foreign banks with the country's ministry of finance, which will make a final call, the second official said.

The push for foreign loans comes on the heels of the Indian government's announcement earlier this month that it plans to borrow about 700 billion rupees by issuing overseas sovereign bonds.

India's 63 million firms in the micro, small and medium firm sector are responsible for more than a quarter of the country's manufacturing and services output, and must be re-energised for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to kick-start the economy.&nbsp;

Gross domestic product growth fell to a five-year low of 5.8 per cent&nbsp;in the January-March quarter, well below the 8 per cent-plus rates that the government is targeting.

But credit availability for small and medium firms, which also account for about 45 per cent&nbsp;of India's total exports, has worsened due to a liquidity crisis in the country's shadow banking industry that has seen big lenders struggling to remain solvent.&nbsp;

State-owned banks, which dominate the sector, have not been able to drive increased lending because they are burdened with more than $145 billion in bad loans.

This has led to a severe credit squeeze for smaller firms. They pay up to 17 per cent&nbsp;annual interest on loans from banks, while the shadow banks, which are also known as non-banking financial companies (NBFCS) can charge as much as 20 per cent.

Last month, a study by a Reserve Bank of India panel said the overall deficit in credit for the MSME sector is estimated at about 20 trillion rupees to 25 trillion rupees.&nbsp;

But lending to such firms can be risky as some lack proper financial information, such as historical cash flow data, which makes challenging for banks to assess the credit risks.

To mitigate such risks for foreign banks, the loans would be given sovereign guarantees and be routed through Indian government agencies such as the Small Industries Development Bank of India, the first official said. 
&nbsp;

The government is in talks with foreign lenders to provide as much as $14.5 billion in credit to millions of its small firms, two officials said, in a sign the country's banking system may not be robust enough to do the job on its own.

The government is in talks with foreign lenders to provide as much as $14.5 billion in credit to millions of its small firms, two officials said, in a sign the country's banking system may not be robust enough to do the job on its own. The government is in discussions with multiple foreign lenders, including Germany's state-owned development bank KfW Group, the World Bank and some Canadian institutions to extend lines of credit to small enterprises, one of the officials, who did not want to be identified, told Reuters. KfW's India office confirmed the discussions, though the main focus was on credit lines to support small businesses' solar power generation. The talks were at an early stage, KfW said. The World Bank's India spokesperson did not reply to an email seeking comment. The official said the government plans to source up to 1 trillion Indian rupees of loans from foreign institutions because Indian banks were not in a position to provide enough capital for the small business sector, which is seen as critical to job creation. “We are exploring, we are having discussions with various funding agencies if something can be done (for small and medium firms),” the second official said. The officials did not provide full details of the discussions they are having with banks, or identify all those they are talking to, but said talks are at a very early stage. India's micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) ministry is discussing the proposal to pull in foreign banks with the country's ministry of finance, which will make a final call, the second official said. The push for foreign loans comes on the heels of the Indian government's announcement earlier this month that it plans to borrow about 700 billion rupees by issuing overseas sovereign bonds. India's 63 million firms in the micro, small and medium firm sector are responsible for more than a quarter of the country's manufacturing and services output, and must be re-energised for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to kick-start the economy. Gross domestic product growth fell to a five-year low of 5.8 per cent in the January-March quarter, well below the 8 per cent-plus rates that the government is targeting. But credit availability for small and medium firms, which also account for about 45 per cent of India's total exports, has worsened due to a liquidity crisis in the country's shadow banking industry that has seen big lenders struggling to remain solvent. State-owned banks, which dominate the sector, have not been able to drive increased lending because they are burdened with more than $145 billion in bad loans. This has led to a severe credit squeeze for smaller firms. They pay up to 17 per cent annual interest on loans from banks, while the shadow banks, which are also known as non-banking financial companies (NBFCS) can charge as much as 20 per cent. Last month, a study by a Reserve Bank of India panel said the overall deficit in credit for the MSME sector is estimated at about 20 trillion rupees to 25 trillion rupees. But lending to such firms can be risky as some lack proper financial information, such as historical cash flow data, which makes challenging for banks to assess the credit risks. To mitigate such risks for foreign banks, the loans would be given sovereign guarantees and be routed through Indian government agencies such as the Small Industries Development Bank of India, the first official said.

Government seeks to tap foreign lenders for loans to its small firms: Report

Janata Dal Secular-Congress coalition government, led by Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, will face its trust vote in the state Assembly on Thursday.

The discussion on the vote of confidence will start at around 11 am in the Assembly.

Kumaraswamy on Wednesday issued whip to all 37 MLAs of JD(S) including three rebel legislators Narayana Gowda, Gopalaiah and H Vishwanath to be present in the Assembly at the time of trust vote.

Kumaraswamy has warned that if MLAs do not attend the House and vote against the party whip even after attending the session on the day of trust voting, action will be initiated under the rule of Anti-Defection Law and that MLA will be disqualified from his post.

Meanwhile, senior Congress MLA Ramalinga Reddy, who was amongst the dissident legislators, on Wednesday confirmed that he will remain in the party and vote in favour of Karnataka coalition government in the state Assembly.

Reddy, who along with nine Congress-JD(S) MLAs resigned on July 6, had said that he tendered his resignation due to party's internal matters.

Kumaraswamy had on sought permission from Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to face a floor test during the ongoing session of the Assembly.

A bench of Supreme Court comprising of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Aniruddha Bose had observed that 15 rebel MLAs cannot be forced to take part in the proceedings of the House.

It, however, added that Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar cannot be forced to decide within a time frame on the resignations of the rebel MLAs.

Mukul Rohatgi, the lawyer of rebel MLAs, said: "Because of the trust vote on Thursday, the Supreme Court has said two important things -- 15 MLAs will not be compelled to attend the House tomorrow. All 15 MLAs are given the liberty that may or may not go to the House tomorrow."

The plea was filed by Pratap Gouda Patil, Ramesh Jarkhiholi, Byrati Basavaraj, BC Patil, S T Somashekar, Arbail Sivaram Hebbar and Mahesh Kumathalli from the Congress and K Gopalaiah, H D Vishwanath and Narayan Gowda from the JDS.

Five other rebel MLAs — K Sudhakar, Roshan Baig, MTB Nagaraj, Muniratna and Anand Singh — had approached the court on July 13 contending they had resigned "voluntarily" and that their resignation must be accepted by the Speaker.

The 13-month-old Congress-JDS government had slumped into crisis after these MLAs resigned from the membership of the Assembly earlier this month.

The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.

Janata Dal Secular-Congress coalition government, led by Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, will face its trust vote in the state Assembly on Thursday. The discussion on the vote of confidence will start at around 11 am in the Assembly.

Janata Dal Secular-Congress coalition government, led by Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, will face its trust vote in the state Assembly on Thursday. The discussion on the vote of confidence will start at around 11 am in the Assembly. Kumaraswamy on Wednesday issued whip to all 37 MLAs of JD(S) including three rebel legislators Narayana Gowda, Gopalaiah and H Vishwanath to be present in the Assembly at the time of trust vote. Kumaraswamy has warned that if MLAs do not attend the House and vote against the party whip even after attending the session on the day of trust voting, action will be initiated under the rule of Anti-Defection Law and that MLA will be disqualified from his post. Meanwhile, senior Congress MLA Ramalinga Reddy, who was amongst the dissident legislators, on Wednesday confirmed that he will remain in the party and vote in favour of Karnataka coalition government in the state Assembly. Reddy, who along with nine Congress-JD(S) MLAs resigned on July 6, had said that he tendered his resignation due to party's internal matters. Kumaraswamy had on sought permission from Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to face a floor test during the ongoing session of the Assembly. A bench of Supreme Court comprising of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Aniruddha Bose had observed that 15 rebel MLAs cannot be forced to take part in the proceedings of the House. It, however, added that Speaker K R Ramesh Kumar cannot be forced to decide within a time frame on the resignations of the rebel MLAs. Mukul Rohatgi, the lawyer of rebel MLAs, said: "Because of the trust vote on Thursday, the Supreme Court has said two important things -- 15 MLAs will not be compelled to attend the House tomorrow. All 15 MLAs are given the liberty that may or may not go to the House tomorrow." The plea was filed by Pratap Gouda Patil, Ramesh Jarkhiholi, Byrati Basavaraj, BC Patil, S T Somashekar, Arbail Sivaram Hebbar and Mahesh Kumathalli from the Congress and K Gopalaiah, H D Vishwanath and Narayan Gowda from the JDS. Five other rebel MLAs — K Sudhakar, Roshan Baig, MTB Nagaraj, Muniratna and Anand Singh — had approached the court on July 13 contending they had resigned "voluntarily" and that their resignation must be accepted by the Speaker. The 13-month-old Congress-JDS government had slumped into crisis after these MLAs resigned from the membership of the Assembly earlier this month. The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.

Karnataka crisis: Kumaraswamy government to face trust vote today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-allows-nawaz-sharifs-personal-physician-to-visit-him-in-jail-234746">Pakistan</a> has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday.

In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody.

"Besides, as per available information, there are 64 Indian and believed-to-be Indian civilian prisoners and 209 Indian and believed-to-be Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody. Pakistan has, on 1 July 2019, acknowledged the custody of 52 civilian prisoners and 209 fishermen," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said.

He also said that the government has secured the release and repatriation of 2,110 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-receive-first-trench-of-international-monetary-fund-bailout-package-234462">Pakistan</a>'s custody since 2014.

Watch: Is Pakistan no country for free press?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-no-country-for-free-press-234481/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"This includes release and repatriation of 362 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, this year, so far," the Union Minister stated.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
MoS MEA, V Muraleedharan's reply in Lok Sabha to a question on 'number of Indian Prisoners of War (PoW) taken during Indo-Pak wars of 1965 &amp; 1971, who are still imprisoned in Pakistan': 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoW, are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody. <a href="https://t.co/qeCPidaeda">https://t.co/qeCPidaeda</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1149112150415351808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In October 2017, the then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work to resolve humanitarian issues related to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other's custody and consider their early release and repatriation.

"It was, inter alia, proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitate their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on March 7, 2018," Muraleedharan said.

He informed the House that although New Delhi has already shared the details of the medical experts'&nbsp;team and the re-constituted Joint Judicial Committee with Pakistan with the request to organise their visit, Islamabad has not responded so far.

Replying to a question on MEA officials facing corruption charges, Muraleedharan informed the House that 24 officials in the ministry including its missions/posts abroad are currently facing disciplinary proceedings, including one staff on contract at the local level.

"As the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs represent the country abroad, the Ministry attaches utmost importance to probity and follows the policy of zero tolerance towards cases involving corruption and violation of conduct rules of the government," he said.

The minister said that investigations are carried on priority and a suitable penalty is imposed if the charges are proved."Ministry also strictly enforces preventive vigilance by way of issuing and reiterating extant rules and guidelines, conducting periodic inspections in missions/posts abroad and extending full cooperation to investigating agencies as and when required," Muraleedharan stated.

Pakistan has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday.

Pakistan has not acknowledged the presence of any missing Indian defence personnel or Prisoners of War (PoWs) in its custody so far, despite consistent efforts from India to ensure their release and repatriation from the neighbouring country, the government said on Wednesday. In a written reply in Lok Sabha to a question on the number of Indian PoWs during the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, the government said that as per available information, around 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoWs, are believed to be in Pakistan's custody. "Besides, as per available information, there are 64 Indian and believed-to-be Indian civilian prisoners and 209 Indian and believed-to-be Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody. Pakistan has, on 1 July 2019, acknowledged the custody of 52 civilian prisoners and 209 fishermen," Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said. He also said that the government has secured the release and repatriation of 2,110 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, from Pakistan's custody since 2014. Watch: Is Pakistan no country for free press? "This includes release and repatriation of 362 Indian prisoners, including fishermen, this year, so far," the Union Minister stated. MoS MEA, V Muraleedharan's reply in Lok Sabha to a question on 'number of Indian Prisoners of War (PoW) taken during Indo-Pak wars of 1965 & 1971, who are still imprisoned in Pakistan': 83 missing Indian defence personnel, including PoW, are believed to be in Pakistan’s custody. https://t.co/qeCPidaeda — ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2019 × In October 2017, the then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work to resolve humanitarian issues related to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other's custody and consider their early release and repatriation. "It was, inter alia, proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitate their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on March 7, 2018," Muraleedharan said. He informed the House that although New Delhi has already shared the details of the medical experts' team and the re-constituted Joint Judicial Committee with Pakistan with the request to organise their visit, Islamabad has not responded so far. Replying to a question on MEA officials facing corruption charges, Muraleedharan informed the House that 24 officials in the ministry including its missions/posts abroad are currently facing disciplinary proceedings, including one staff on contract at the local level. "As the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs represent the country abroad, the Ministry attaches utmost importance to probity and follows the policy of zero tolerance towards cases involving corruption and violation of conduct rules of the government," he said. The minister said that investigations are carried on priority and a suitable penalty is imposed if the charges are proved."Ministry also strictly enforces preventive vigilance by way of issuing and reiterating extant rules and guidelines, conducting periodic inspections in missions/posts abroad and extending full cooperation to investigating agencies as and when required," Muraleedharan stated.

Pakistan hasn't acknowledged presence of Indian war prisoners, defence personnel in its custody: Government in Lok Sabha

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning -09th July 2019

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning -8th July 2019

Ministry of Corporate Affairs on Thursday ordered an investigation into embattled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/jet-airways-employees-seek-pm-modis-intervention-to-help-them-out-211447">Jet Airways</a> over alleged mismanagement of funds, in another headache for the airline that halted operations in April after running out of cash.

The ministry ordered the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) to carry out the probe, according to a government order seen by Reuters.

A spokeswoman for Jet Airways did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside business hours.

Separately, a government source told Reuters that the airline's former chairman, Naresh Goyal, had approached Delhi High Court to quash an order by authorities that stops him from travelling abroad. The government plans to oppose Goyal`s plea, the source added.

Ministry of Corporate Affairs on Thursday ordered an investigation into embattled Jet Airways over alleged mismanagement of funds, in another headache for the airline that halted operations in April after running out of cash.

Ministry of Corporate Affairs on Thursday ordered an investigation into embattled Jet Airways over alleged mismanagement of funds, in another headache for the airline that halted operations in April after running out of cash. The ministry ordered the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) to carry out the probe, according to a government order seen by Reuters. A spokeswoman for Jet Airways did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside business hours. Separately, a government source told Reuters that the airline's former chairman, Naresh Goyal, had approached Delhi High Court to quash an order by authorities that stops him from travelling abroad. The government plans to oppose Goyal`s plea, the source added.

Government orders probe into Jet Airways over alleged mismanagement of funds: Document

The government is considering giving more powers to the central bank to regulate the struggling shadow banking sector, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed Parliament on Monday.

The government does not have any plans to infuse funds in privately-held shadow banks, she said in a written reply.

"Government has received a proposal from RBI to strengthen RBI's regulatory and supervisory powers under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, and the same is under consideration," Sitharaman said.

The outlook on the shadow banking sector has been bleak ever since the state-run Infrastructure Leasing &amp; Financial Services defaulted on a series of debt obligation triggering New Delhi to take over the control of the company.

The government is considering giving more powers to the central bank to regulate the struggling shadow banking sector, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed Parliament on Monday.

The government is considering giving more powers to the central bank to regulate the struggling shadow banking sector, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed Parliament on Monday. The government does not have any plans to infuse funds in privately-held shadow banks, she said in a written reply. "Government has received a proposal from RBI to strengthen RBI's regulatory and supervisory powers under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, and the same is under consideration," Sitharaman said. The outlook on the shadow banking sector has been bleak ever since the state-run Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services defaulted on a series of debt obligation triggering New Delhi to take over the control of the company.

Government considering more powers for RBI to regulate shadow banking sector

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people.

"Some people kept talking about the EVM issue in this House. I want to tell them that there was a time when we were two MPs in the Parliament. People mocked us. But, we worked harder and won the trust of people. We did not make excuses and blame the polling booth," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first Rajya Sabha address after re-election&nbsp;said those not ready to introspect and look into their shortcomings blame EVMs for their defeat.

"It is after a long time that a Government with a full majority was elected once again with a full majority. In this mandate, we see the desire of the people for stability. In fact, this trend of stable governments is being seen in various states too," Modi said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I was saddened when some leaders said- the BJP and allies won the elections but the nation lost, democracy lost. I want to clearly say that such statements are unfortunate. &nbsp;Why question the wisdom of voters," Modi questioned.&nbsp;

He slammed the Congress party stating, "Their arrogance has no limits or what? well, arrogance shouldn't exist in the first place... but what do they mean. Did democracy lose in Wayanad and Raebareilly..?" Modi asked.&nbsp;

Replying to Motion of Thanks on President's Address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi asked for a collective endeavour from all MPs to make India a strong political economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people. "Some people kept talking about the EVM issue in this House. I want to tell them that there was a time when we were two MPs in the Parliament. People mocked us. But, we worked harder and won the trust of people. We did not make excuses and blame the polling booth," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first Rajya Sabha address after re-election said those not ready to introspect and look into their shortcomings blame EVMs for their defeat. "It is after a long time that a Government with a full majority was elected once again with a full majority. In this mandate, we see the desire of the people for stability. In fact, this trend of stable governments is being seen in various states too," Modi said. "I was saddened when some leaders said- the BJP and allies won the elections but the nation lost, democracy lost. I want to clearly say that such statements are unfortunate. Why question the wisdom of voters," Modi questioned. He slammed the Congress party stating, "Their arrogance has no limits or what? well, arrogance shouldn't exist in the first place... but what do they mean. Did democracy lose in Wayanad and Raebareilly..?" Modi asked. Replying to Motion of Thanks on President's Address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi asked for a collective endeavour from all MPs to make India a strong political economy. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't insult voters' sentiment by blaming EVM: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha

government

Government, News on Government, stories on Government, articles on Government, Government stories at Wion, Government news, Government latest news