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<keyword id="20190045" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Industry-body" source="keywords">Industry body</keyword> <keyword id="21568150" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="SME-Chamber-of-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="SME Chamber of India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="SME Chamber of India">SME Chamber of India</keyword> has urged <keyword id="19956758" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Finance-Minister" source="keywords">Finance Minister</keyword> <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> to continue the 45-day <keyword id="21233021" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="MSME-payment-rule" source="keywords">MSME payment rule</keyword> for <keyword id="20008810" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="corporates" source="keywords">corporates</keyword> and other buyers. According to Section 43B(h) of the <keyword id="19936187" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Income-Tax-Act" source="keywords">Income Tax Act</keyword>, introduced through the <keyword id="19955404" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="finance" source="keywords">Finance</keyword> Act 2023, if a larger company does not pay an MSME on time -- within 45 days in case of written agreements -- it cannot deduct that expense from its taxable income, leading to potentially higher taxes. The government in last year's Budget added a new clause under Section 43B of the Income Tax Act to address the challenge of delayed payments faced by MSMEs in the country. "We are pursuing not to change the 45-day MSME payment rules imposed by the Department under the pressure of corporates or multinational companies to save the life span of the MSME sector. Section 43B(h) of the Income Tax Act reinforces the importance of timely payments by mandating that companies settle payments to MSME vendors within 45 days to qualify for deductions," SME Chamber said in a statement addressed to Sitharaman. The industry body argued that this provision serves as a powerful incentive for companies to adhere to payment timelines, thereby supporting the financial health of MSMEs. "Many MSMEs are NPA victims of corporates, who are buying from them and not dealing through the TReDs platform. Most of the corporates and multinational companies are forcefully insisting to deregister from the Udyam Portal and insisting not to deal through the TReDs platform," SME Chamber stated. The industry body also urged the finance minister to consider providing Rs 5 crore loans under the "Differential Rate of Interest" scheme for micro and <keyword id="20569966" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="small-enterprises" source="keywords">small enterprises</keyword>. It suggested changing the NPA definition from 90 days to 180 days for the MSME sector. The chamber also sought the setting up of a task force to review various issues, hurdles, grievances and difficulties faced by MSMEs for availing credit facilities and the lack of approach by the financial institutions towards enhancement of credit flow to the MSME sector.

Continue 45-day MSME payment rule: Industry body to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

<ul class="summary-list"><li>The United Arab Emirates wants to become an AI leader by 2031.</li><li>It's leveraging its oil wealth to attract new talent and fund new research initiatives.</li></ul>The AI revolution is expanding far beyond Silicon Valley.From the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/malta-ai-startups-artificial-intelligence-hub-destination-travel-2024-5">shores of Malta</a> to the streets of Paris, hubs for AI innovation are forming worldwide. And the United Arab Emirates is emerging as a key center in the Middle East.Last week, the UAE made headlines by participating in the most lucrative funding round in Silicon Valley history: the $6.6 billion <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-investors-latest-funding-round-2024-10">deal closed by OpenAI</a>. The investment was made through MGX, a state-backed technology firm focused on artificial intelligence and semiconductors.The move was part of the UAE's bid to become a global AI leader by 2031 through strategic initiatives, public engagement, and research investment. Last year, the country's wealthiest emirate, Abu Dhabi, launched Falcon — its first open-source large language model.Another indication of the UAE's commitment to AI is its appointment of Omar Sultan Al Olama as the country's AI Minister in 2017.The minister acknowledges that the UAE faces tough competition from powerhouses like the United States and China, where private investment in AI technology in 2023 totaled $67.2 billion and $7.8 billion, respectively, according to Stanford's Center for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence.So he says he is embracing cooperation over competition."I don't think it's going to be a zero-sum game where it's only going to be AI that's developed in the US, or only going to be AI that's developed in China or the UAE," Al Olama said at an event hosted by the Atlantic Council, a DC think tank, in April. "What is going to happen, I think, is that we're going to have centers and nodes of excellence across the world where there are specific use cases or specific domains where a country or player or a company is doing better than everyone else."The UAE's strengths are evident.It is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, mostly due to its vast oil reserves. The UAE is among the world's 10 largest oil producers, with 96% of that coming from its wealthiest emirate, Abu Dhabi, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/united-arab-emirates-oil-and-gas">according to the International Trade Administration</a>.Abu Dhabi's ruling family also controls several of the world's largest <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-and-biden-us-should-have-a-sovereign-wealth-fund-2024-9">sovereign wealth funds,</a> including the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Mubadala Investment Company, a founding partner of MGX.These funds have been used to diversify the country's oil wealth and could now be diverted to funding new AI companies. AI could contribute $96 billion to the UAE economy by 2030, making up about 13.6% of its GDP, according to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pwc.com/m1/en/publications/potential-impact-artificial-intelligence-middle-east.html">report</a> by PwC, the accounting firm.But capital is only part of the equation. The bigger question is whether the tiny Gulf nation can attract the requisite talent to keep up with Silicon Valley.Recent developments show promise. Between 2021 and 2023, the number of AI workers in the UAE quadrupled to 120,000, Al Olama said at the Atlantic Council event. In 2019, it rolled out a 'golden visa' program for IT professionals, making entry easier for AI experts. It's also making the most of its existing talent. In May, Dubai launched the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wam.ae/article/b39jbfx-hamdan-bin-mohammed-launches-%E2%80%98one-million">world's biggest prompt engineering initiative</a>. Its goal is to upskill 1 million workers over the next three years,Abu Dhabi, meanwhile, has — over the last decade — become a nexus for AI research and education.In 2010, New York University launched a branch in Abu Dhabi that has since developed a focus on AI. And, in 2019, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence opened as a "graduate research university dedicated to advancing AI as a global force for good." Professors from the university also helped organize the inaugural <a target="_blank" href="https://ioai-official.org/1st-international-olympiad-in-ai-founders-we-have-a-record-number-of-participating-countries/">International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence</a> in August, which drew students from over 40 countries worldwide."Abu Dhabi may not directly surpass Silicon Valley, however, it has the potential to become a significant AI hub in its own right," Nancy Gleason, an advisor to leadership on AI at NYU Abu Dhabi and a professor of political science, told Business Insider by email. Its "true strengths lie in the leadership's strategic vision, substantial investments in AI research and compute capacity, and government-led initiatives in industry. The UAE has also made strategic educational investments in higher education like the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and NYU Abu Dhabi."Beyond that, she noted, it's "very nice to live here."

Want to get into the AI industry? Head to Abu Dhabi.

The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, is set to offer a tremendous opportunity for young Indians to gain hands-on experience in leading companies across diverse sectors. As of October 12, the portal for this ambitious initiative is open for registrations, with over 90,000 internship positions posted by top companies like <keyword id="19896380" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Reliance-Industries" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Reliance Industries" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Reliance Industries">Reliance Industries</keyword>, <keyword id="19895995" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="HDFC-Bank" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="HDFC Bank" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="HDFC Bank">HDFC Bank</keyword>, <keyword id="19950119" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tata-Consultancy-Services" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Tata Consultancy Services" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Tata Consultancy Services">Tata Consultancy Services</keyword> (TCS), ONGC, Maruti Suzuki, and more. Here’s everything you need to know about how to apply, the companies participating, and answers to frequently asked questions. <h2>Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the <keyword id="23273918" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="PM-Internship-Scheme" source="keywords">PM Internship Scheme</keyword></h2><ol><li>Visit the Official Portal: The PM Internship Scheme’s application process takes place on the official website,<a href="http://pminternship.mca.gov.in"> pminternship.mca.gov.in</a>.</li><li>Register and Set Up Your Profile: After opening the portal, you’ll need to register and fill out basic information, including educational qualifications, age, and internship preferences.</li><li>Explore Internship Listings: With over 90,000 internships available from 193 companies, you can browse listings in sectors like Oil &amp; Gas, Travel &amp; Hospitality, Automotive, Banking, and more. Each listing will provide details on job roles, skills required, and specific fields like Operations Management, Production, Maintenance, and Sales.</li><li>Apply for Your Chosen Roles: You can apply for up to five internships based on your interests, qualifications, and preferred location. The portal allows for an easy application submission and lets you track your applications.</li><li>Confirmation and Next Steps: Once you apply, download the confirmation page for reference. Internships are set to begin on December 2, 2024, so selected candidates will receive further instructions as the start date approaches.</li></ol><h2>Major Companies Participating in the PM Internship Scheme</h2>Here are some of the top companies that have already posted internships on the portal, with more joining every day: <ul><li>Reliance Industries Ltd.</li><li>HDFC Bank</li><li>Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)</li><li>Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)</li><li>State Bank of India (SBI)</li><li>Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.</li><li>Jubilant FoodWorks</li><li>Larsen &amp; Toubro Ltd.</li><li>Eicher Motors Ltd.</li><li>Muthoot Finance</li></ul>These companies are providing internships across over 20 fields, covering a wide range of skills and sectors. The biggest opportunities are currently in the Oil &amp; Gas sector, followed by industries like Travel, Automotive, and Financial Services. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113986236" title="Why so many entry-level jobs aren&amp;#39;t entry-level" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h2>Key Features of the Internship Scheme</h2>Under the scheme, interns will receive a stipend of Rs 5,000 per month, plus a one-time grant of Rs 6,000 to support miscellaneous expenses. These internships are available across 737 districts in all 37 states and Union Territories, making this a truly inclusive national program. Interns can indulge in many diverse internship roles. From operations to maintenance, sales, marketing, and production, these internships offer a variety of hands-on experiences that match real-world corporate needs. <h2>FAQs about the PM Internship Scheme</h2><h5>Who is eligible?</h5>The scheme is open to Indian citizens aged 21 to 24 who are not employed full-time or enrolled in full-time study programs. Candidates in online or distance learning programs are eligible. <h5>What sectors offer the most internships?</h5>The largest number of internships are in the Oil &amp; Gas, Travel &amp; Hospitality, Automotive, and Banking &amp; Financial Services sectors, with positions also available in fields like Manufacturing, IT, and Retail. <h5>When do the internships start?</h5>Internships for this year will begin on December 2, 2024. The scheme aims to facilitate 1.25 lakh internships this financial year and eventually reach one crore internships over the next five years. <h5>What are the application deadlines?</h5>The portal is open from October 12 for candidates to start applying, with companies continuing to post positions as the scheme rolls out. It’s recommended to apply early, as some positions may fill up quickly. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114029056" title="Read 5 résumés that helped techies land $300,000-plus jobs at Google, Meta, Amazon, and Salesforce" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

PM Internship Scheme finally launched — here’s how you can apply to work with Reliance, TCS, SBI and more!

Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="narendra-modi" source="Orion">Narendra Modi</keyword> has expressed deep sorrow over the death of <keyword id="19981455" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ratan-Tata" source="keywords">Ratan Tata</keyword>, Chairman Emeritus of <keyword id="19991117" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tata-Sons" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Tata Sons" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Tata Sons">Tata Sons</keyword>, who passed away on Wednesday evening. In a series of heartfelt posts on X, <keyword id="19899320" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="PM-Modi" source="keywords">PM Modi</keyword> shared his admiration for Tata’s leadership, <keyword id="20202027" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="philanthropy" source="keywords">philanthropy</keyword>, and enduring impact on Indian society. “Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being,” PM Modi wrote. He praised Tata’s role in steering one of India’s most respected business groups and acknowledged how his contributions extended far beyond the corporate world. “He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to many through his humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to improving society,” Modi added. The Prime Minister expressed personal grief, writing, “Extremely pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti.” Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with the industrialist, PM Modi reminisced about their frequent meetings during his time as Chief Minister of Gujarat, describing the exchanges as enriching. “My mind is filled with countless interactions with Shri Ratan Tata Ji. I would meet him frequently in Gujarat when I was the CM. We would exchange views on diverse issues. These interactions continued when I came to Delhi.” In his tribute, Modi highlighted Tata’s passion for championing social causes. “One of the most unique aspects of Shri Ratan Tata Ji was his passion for dreaming big and giving back. He was at the forefront of championing causes like education, healthcare, sanitation, and animal welfare.” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to the late industrialist, referring to Tata as a “Titan of <keyword id="20642696" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-industry" source="keywords">Indian industry</keyword>.” In a post on X, Singh said, “Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ratan Tata. He was a Titan of the Indian industry known for his monumental contributions to our economy, trade, and industry.” Tata, born on 28 December 1937 in Mumbai, was the driving force behind the growth of the <keyword id="19924335" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tata-Group" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Tata Group" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Tata Group">Tata Group</keyword> from 1991 until his retirement in 2012. He was also known for his philanthropy, serving as Chairman of the Ratan Tata Trust and Dorabji Tata Trust, two of India’s largest private-sector philanthropic organisations. In 2008, he was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian award.

PM Narendra Modi condoles Ratan Tata's death: 'A visionary business leader and a compassionate soul'

Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia on Monday stated that <keyword id="19916120" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="5G" source="keywords">5G</keyword> technology is expected to inject around $450 billion into the <keyword id="19948184" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-economy" source="keywords">Indian economy</keyword> by 2040. The minister highlighted this during his address at the Global Standards Symposium at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, one of the world's largest telecom events. He said, "In India alone, for example, 5G is anticipated to inject an astounding 450 billion dollars into the economy by 2040." The minister emphasized that 5G is not just about faster internet or low latency, but is laying the groundwork for <keyword id="20006420" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="smart-cities" source="keywords">smart cities</keyword>, advanced infrastructure, and autonomous innovations. Scindia further noted that 5G has already been rolled out across all 36 states and Union Territories, covering 98 per cent of districts and 80 per cent of the population in just 22 months. He said this achievement showcases not only India's technological prowess but also the transformative power of standardized innovation. He added "We are unlocking new Reims of possibility in health care, education and agriculture and Manufacturer" The minister stressed the importance of international collaboration in unlocking the full potential of technologies like 5G, <keyword id="19904566" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="artificial-intelligence" source="keywords">artificial intelligence</keyword> (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). He stated that the global standards are key to ensuring that these technologies work harmoniously across borders. "The import of dialogue cannot be overstated. The wonders of 5G the brilliance of artificial intelligence and the interconnected marvels of the Internet of Things. Things are transforming industries, societies and manufacturing processes and economies on a global scale," he said. Scindia also pointed out the need for robust governance in emerging technologies like AI and IoT, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks to address concerns around privacy, bias, and transparency. He called for a comprehensive policy framework to ensure that future innovations, such as the upcoming 6G technology, benefit everyone equitably and do not deepen existing digital divides. "We are today poised at the edge of a new technological era, the dawn of the 6th generation of mobile network 6G and this is a gateway to the future where communication will become boundless where innovation will know no limits and by humanity, interconnectedness becomes the corner stone of our shared global destiny" he said. Scindia also urged the global community to work together in setting standards and nurturing partnerships that will define the future technological landscape, ensuring technology serves as a force for good. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/hyundai-ipo-review-everything-you-need-to-know-about-indias-biggest-ipo/articleshow/114203740.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/hyundai-ipo-review-everything-you-need-to-know-about-indias-biggest-ipo/articleshow/114203740.cms" target="_blank">Hyundai IPO review – Everything you need to know about India’s biggest IPO</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/the-ola-electric-saga-are-surge-in-complaints-and-declining-market-share-a-wake-up-call-for-bhavish-aggarwal/articleshow/114120828.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/the-ola-electric-saga-are-surge-in-complaints-and-declining-market-share-a-wake-up-call-for-bhavish-aggarwal/articleshow/114120828.cms" target="_blank">The Ola Electric Saga: Are surge in complaints and declining market share a wake-up call for Bhavish Aggarwal?</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/samsung-leads-the-first-phase-of-festive-sales-with-a-20-market-share/articleshow/114070723.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/samsung-leads-the-first-phase-of-festive-sales-with-a-20-market-share/articleshow/114070723.cms" target="_blank">Samsung leads the first phase of festive sales with a 20% market share</a>

5G to inject $450 billion into Indian economy by 2040: Telecom Minister Scindia

External Affairs <keyword id="13389957" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="minister-s-jaishankar" source="Orion">Minister S Jaishankar</keyword> held a meeting with Singapore's Minister of Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and discussed trade, semiconductors, space, <keyword id="60895" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-energy" source="Orion">green energy</keyword>, <keyword id="684589" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="supply-chains" source="Orion">supply chains</keyword> and <keyword id="21077182" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="defence-" source="Orion">defence.</keyword> In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Started the day by meeting Singapore Minister of Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong. Discussed trade, semiconductors, space, green energy, supply chains.and defence. Hope to take these forward in the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable." EAM Jaishankar, who is on a visit to Singapore, interacted with Indian community on Sunday. Jaishankar kicked off his Singapore visit on Saturday by paying homage to Subhash Chandra Bose and the brave Indian National Army soldiers. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Began my Singapore visit by paying homage to Netaji and the brave Indian National Army soldiers. The INA Marker in Singapore recognizes their deep patriotism and indomitable spirit that remain an inspiration for generations to come." He made remarks at the Institute of South Asian Studies of National University of Singapore. He was speaking on 'Why Bharat Matters'. Jaishankar said that today momentum in India has to be experienced to be believed and the country is going to be a much bigger economy in the coming years. He also recalled India's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the country reaching out to other countries through vaccines. EAM Jaishankar also engaged in discussions with prominent corporate figures from the country who offered positive feedback on India's growth story derived from their investment experiences. "A very productive interaction with leading Singaporeon Corporate figures. Appreciate their positive feedback on the India growth story based on investment experiences. Confident that their commitment to doing more business in India will further increase," S Jaishankar posted on X. The ties between India and Singapore have a history rooted in strong commercial, cultural and people-to-people links. India was one of the first countries to recognise Singapore in 1965, according to the High Commission of India in Singapore. The relations between India and Singapore are based on shared values and approaches, economic opportunities and convergence of interests on key issues. There are more than 20 regular bilateral mechanisms, dialogues and exercises. The two nations have great convergence on a broad range of international issues and both are members of a number of forums, including the East Asia Summit, G20, the Commonwealth, Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS).

EAM Jaishankar, Singapore Minister of Trade and Industry discuss semiconductors and space

New Delhi [India], August 9 (ANI): Union Minister of Commerce &amp; Industry <keyword id="19895367" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Piyush-Goyal" source="keywords">Piyush Goyal</keyword> stated that the leather and <keyword id="21599313" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Footwear-industry" source="keywords">footwear industry</keyword> of the country has the potential to raise employment in the sector from the current 40 lakh to 1 crore. The minister stated it while inaugurating the 8th <keyword id="22718849" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India-International-Footwear-Fair" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="India International Footwear Fair" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="India International Footwear Fair">India International Footwear Fair</keyword> in Delhi on Thursday. He highlighted that the leather and footwear industry has the ability to expand its market domestically and abroad. "We have the world market to capture. We need self-confidence, open mind to accept change" said Goyal. The minister also added that the implementation of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) will help prevent substandard, low-cost leather product imports and help save the Indian Footwear industry from unfair competition. He stated QCOs will help inculcate a spirit of quality among the domestic manufacturers, enabling India to become a world-class manufacturer of quality footwear. On liberalising the QCO guidelines, Goyal said that the Centre will give retailers two years to dispose of the existing footwear stock post application of the order. He also noted that fashion footwear manufacturing up to 72,000 pairs will not have to go through QCOs. Minister Goyal asserted that India is poised to become the market leader in the world. He also expressed hope for the footwear industry to become the world's largest manufacturer. Currently, India is the 2nd largest manufacturer and 9th largest exporter of footwear. The Minister also said that a target of USD 50 billion in exports by 2030 is achievable. He pointed out that QCOs don't apply to exports but the exporters have to meet the quality requirements of their clients. The Minister urged the industry to leverage the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), especially with ASEAN and European countries and work towards making Indian brands global. Earlier the minister also highlighted that micro and small units under <keyword id="19990810" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="MSME" source="keywords">MSME</keyword> would continue to be exempted from the purview of QCOs. (ANI)

Leather and footwear industry can create 1 crore jobs: Piyush Goyal

Dhaka: <keyword id="19919639" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bangladesh" source="keywords">Bangladesh</keyword>'s garment industry, a vital economic pillar, is facing a severe crisis due to a volatile mix of <keyword id="20444027" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="political-unrest" source="keywords">political unrest</keyword>, including violent protests, and catastrophic flooding, threatening to unravel years of rapid growth and global prominence. The textile and garment industry, which accounts for over 80 per cent of Bangladesh's total export earnings and contributes approximately 11 per cent to the nation's GDP, has been hit hard. This industry contributes significantly to export earnings and employs millions. Following the unprecedented anti-government protests, which reached a crescendo on August 5, Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country. She landed in India on August 5 and is currently staying there. The two-month-long anti-quota protests have led to widespread demonstrations, curfews, and violence. This unrest has not only disrupted factory operations but has also caused significant economic losses. Factories were forced to close, and with the peak season for Christmas shipments and the booking of next season's orders upon us, the timing of the unrest has exacerbated the crisis. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (<keyword id="22930680" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BGMEA" source="keywords">BGMEA</keyword>) recently has reported substantial financial losses, estimating a shortfall of Tk 6,400 crore (approx Rs 4,500 crore) due to the shutdowns and communication breakdowns. Khandoker Rafiqul Islam, the newly elected president of the BGMEA, mentioned that the goal of reaching nearly USD 45 billion in exports this year may not be achieved. He attributed this to disruptions in both export activities and production. "I think this is a temporary crisis and we will tide over it. The exact magnitude of the losses will be known later, but yes, there has been an impact," he told PTI. Echoing similar sentiments, former cabinet minister and president of BGMEA, Gholam Sarwar Milon, said the garment industry has been badly hit by both the political unrest and the floods, as both production and the supply chain of raw materials have been severely affected. "The crisis in the garment industry is unprecedented. Production is nearly 15-20 per cent less than the corresponding period last year. Several orders have dried up as investors and order suppliers are wary about investing. Several small factories have either closed down or are working on sub-contracts for big factories," he told PTI. According to BGMEA sources, out of 3,000 major and small garment factories in Bangladesh, nearly 800-900 have closed since last year. "The big factories have survived, but the small and medium factories have borne the brunt. If the situation persists, it will worsen further," he said. Milon suggested that the garment industry needs to diversify into making jute bags and other high-end clothing and also look for new markets. The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association has projected losses of around USD 58 million. The impact on the industry is compounded by the recent flooding, which has further disrupted logistics and exacerbated the economic fallout. Bangladesh's main port, Chattogram, through which more than 90 per cent of the country's international trade transits, has become a focal point of the chaos. The port's operations were paralysed during the political unrest, leading to significant delays in shipments. Factories have struggled to maintain production schedules, and backlogs at ports and airports have stretched to a month in some cases. To mitigate the damage, factories have turned to air freight and extended working hours, but these measures have not fully alleviated the delays. The president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), Mohammad Hatem, said orders are down by 15-20 per cent. "The industry has incurred huge losses in the last few months. In 2014, during political unrest, we suffered a similar situation. It then took us three years to return to the previous state. We hope to tide over the situation soon as Chief Advisor <keyword id="20024384" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="muhammad-yunus" source="keywords">Muhammad Yunus</keyword> is taking several steps to restore normalcy," he told PTI. Hatem feels that if the situation is not overcome soon, there is a growing perception that foreign investors might look at new markets in other South Asian nations. "However, other South Asian markets don't have the infrastructure like Bangladesh, which has such huge production capacity," he said. The garment industry's workforce, which employs over 4 million people directly and nearly 15 million indirectly, with a significant proportion of women, faces mounting uncertainty. The sector's remarkable growth over the past two decades-from USD 5 billion in exports in 2001 to nearly USD 40 billion in 2023-now stands at risk. The floods have compounded the challenges, causing damage to infrastructure and further complicating logistics. Monsoon rainfall-triggered floods in deltaic Bangladesh and upstream Indian regions have killed several people and marooned or affected nearly 3 million others in Bangladesh, posing a huge administrative challenge to the newly installed interim government amid a political transition. "Due to the floods, the supply chain has been badly affected. We reached a high in 2023-24 where our garment exports touched around USD 46 billion. This time it is likely to be much less," said former army major and owner of a woollen garment factory, Mahfuzur Rehman. The sector's growth from a small-scale operation in the early 1980s to becoming the world's second-largest apparel exporter, after China, underscores its strength. In the financial year 2009, Bangladesh's apparel exports were valued at USD 12 billion. By the financial year 2023-24, this figure had surged to over USD 46 billion, reflecting the industry's capacity for recovery and growth even amid adversity. In response to the crisis, the interim government, now led by Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Muhammad Yunus, has prioritised restoring order and stability. According to garment industry insiders, the path to recovery is fraught with challenges as the political instability has undermined investor confidence, and the recent flooding has further strained the already fragile infrastructure. "The sector's resilience will be tested as it attempts to regain its footing and restore its reputation as a reliable global supplier," a garment industry owner, who did not wish to be named, said. He added that despite the current crisis, Bangladesh's textile and garment industry has shown great strength and the ability to recover in the past.

Bangladesh garment industry faces crisis amid political unrest and floods

<ul><li>Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the <keyword id="20613906" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="economic-survey" source="keywords">Economic Survey</keyword> 2023-2024 in the Lok Sabha on Monday.</li><li>The Union Budget 2024 is scheduled to be tabled on Tuesday, July 23.</li><li> <keyword id="19935818" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="industries" source="keywords">Industries</keyword> grew by 9.5% in FY24 as per the <keyword id="19967933" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Economic-Survey-2024" source="Orion">Economic Survey 2024</keyword>.</li></ul> Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday tabled the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/budget-2024-live-news-top-things-every-indian-should-know-about-the-economic-survey-2023-24/articleshow/111918064.cms">Economic Survey</a> 2023-2024 in the Lok Sabha, a day ahead of the Budget being tabled. The upcoming budget will be the first budget in the third term of the Narendra Modi-led government. As per the Economic Survey, India’s real gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 8.2% in FY24, while <keyword id="19948494" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-economic-growth" source="keywords">global economic growth</keyword> was at 3.2% in 2023. <h2>What is an Economic Survey?</h2>The Economic Survey is a is a report card on the economy and presents the growth outlook of the country. It is prepared by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111918064" title="Economic Survey 2024: GDP grew by 8.2%, to sustain 7%+ growth momentum, fiscal deficit down to 6.4% of GDP" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> It provides statistical information and analyses the various sectors of the economy, economic growth, employment, inflation and more. <h2>Industries grow by 9.5%</h2>As per the report, the economic growth of 8.2% was fueled by an industrial growth of 9.5%. The manufacturing and construction sector nearly doubled, while other sectors also reported growth. The manufacturing sector has achieved an average annual growth rate of 5.2% in the last decade. Chemicals, wood products and furniture, transport equipment, pharmaceuticals, machinery, and equipment have emerged as the key drivers of the sector. From an importer, India has emerged as a net exporter of finished steel products in the last decade and the industry has achieved its best-ever numbers in FY24. Another area where imports have been reigned is coal. Coal production in India has rapidly grown over the last five years, reducing import dependence. In FY24, India produced 997.2 million tonnes of coal, imported 261 million tonnes, and consumed 1233.86 million tonnes. The export of textiles and apparel increased by 1% in FY24, reaching ₹2.97 lakh crore. The electronics industry, a key sector has reported good growth in the last decade. While the domestic production of electronic items increased to ₹8.22 lakh crore, the exports increased to ₹1.9 lakh crore. Patents are a key part of an industry’s growth as they show an investment in research and development. The number of granted patents increased seventeen-fold from 5,978 in 2014-15 to 1,03,057 in 2023-24. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/budget-2024-live-news-top-things-every-indian-should-know-about-the-economic-survey-2024-25/articleshow/111918064.cms">What is the Economic Survey all about? Top 10 things every Indian should know from the Economic Survey 2023-24</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/webstories/biggest-crypto-hacks-in-the-world-so-far-from-binance-to-ftx/slidelist/111917081.cms">Biggest crypto hacks in the world so far – from Binance to FTX</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/budget-2024-expectations-fame-scheme-aid-for-vehicle-scrapping-and-other-expectations-of-the-auto-industry/articleshow/111783199.cms">Budget 2024 Expectations: FAME scheme, aid for vehicle scrapping and other expectations of the auto industry</a>

Economic Survey 2024 – industries grow by 9.5%, fueling economic growth to 8.2%

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Russia's defense industry is short some tens of thousands of skilled laborers.</li><li>Traditional gender roles limit women's participation in crucial jobs there, a report says.</li></ul>Russia's defense manufacturing sector is short some tens of thousands of skilled laborers — and its hard stance on traditional roles for women could be part of it, according to new reports.Two years into its war in Ukraine, Russia is ramping up its military with a record <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/sep/30/russias-defence-spending-to-rise-by-25-next-year-the-highest-since-the-cold-war">40% of its overall budget</a> now devoted to defense. It also plans to expand its number of <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/putin-orders-russia-army-expand-experts-cannot-do-this-forever-2024-9">active soldiers to 1.5 million</a>.That requires vast amounts of military equipment, and the infrastructure to support it.And that, in turn, requires workers, which Russia is currently struggling to find.In January, Russian President Vladimir Putin boasted that "over half a million jobs were created in the defense sector over the last year and a half alone," <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://tass.com/defense/1740983">according to Russian state-owned news agency TASS</a>.Yet, while the jobs may be there, the workers aren't.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.bbc.com/russian/articles/cd6qndy200xo">An analysis published this week by BBC Russia</a> found that in the space of a single month this summer, some 90,000 defense industry-related job postings had appeared, with wages much higher than average salaries.The BBC said there were some 18,600 vacancies for operators of computer numerically controlled machines, or CNCs, which are used for shaping materials and are in wide demand in manufacturing. But just 600 resumes had come in for those roles, the outlet reported.Some of the postings had stood unfilled for months, it added.Researcher Dara Massicot, who focuses on defense and security issues in Russia and Eurasia at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, highlighted labor shortage issues in <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2024/09/russian-military-reconstitution-2030-pathways-and-prospects?lang=en">a recent paper</a> on how Russia is reconstituting its military.Workers who would normally plug the gap — such as migrants, students, and prisoners — are now being used as combatants to fight in Ukraine, she wrote."According to conservative estimates, wartime emigration and military mobilization have cost the workforce about 600,000 working-age males," Massicot said.Russia does have one largely untapped source of labor for the defense industry: women. But here it finds itself in a bind.Since the 1970s, women in Russia have been barred from a raft of professions that are crucial to the defense sector, for fear of harming their fertility or a pregnancy, according to Massicot."Women are prohibited from certain occupations deemed physically dangerous," she wrote, giving examples such as those that deal with hazardous chemicals or heavy metals, which rules out many defense industry jobs.Women are also barred from jobs like mining, heavy lifting, operating heavy machinery, most metallurgy, and handling various chemicals, she added.By contrast, 5% of US welders are female, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://weldingworkforcedata.com/">according to the American Welding Society</a> — a small proportion of the workforce that still amounts to tens of thousands of available workers."Russia would rather import foreign labor and use convicts than change the labor code (from the 1970s) to allow Russian women into certain types of jobs," Massicot <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://x.com/MassDara/status/1841921332230967464">wrote on X this week</a>.But Russia is in <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-economy-population-decline-worker-shortage-growth-outlook-ukraine-war-2024-8">a demographic spiral</a>, which pre-dates COVID and the mass mobilization for the war in Ukraine.At the end of 2023, Russia was short a record 5 million workers across all sectors, according to an estimate from the Russian Academy of Science's Institute of Economics, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-short-around-48-million-workers-2023-crunch-persist-izvestia-2023-12-24/">Reuters reported at the time</a>.The decline in Russia's labor force is forecast to continue until 2040, Massicot wrote.Meanwhile, Russia <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-economy-ukraine-war-moscow-military-spending-currency-inflation-budget-2024-9">is now leaning on the war to keep its economy from collapsing</a>, putting more pressure on its labor force. Economists say the war is the only thing keeping Russia from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-economy-ukraine-war-moscow-military-spending-currency-inflation-budget-2024-9">entering an immediate recession</a>.Yet Russia appears to be focusing on longer-term solutions to its demographic issues, with a strong turn toward traditional roles for women.Putin recently reminisced about a time when women "had seven or eight children, and maybe even more," adding that "large families should be the norm," <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-12-08/abortion-restrictions-and-discouragement-of-female-university-students-moscow-wants-russian-women-to-focus-on-childbearing.html">El País reported</a>.Last summer, Russia's Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko proposed policy tweaks that would reduce women's access to abortion, saying that there is a "vicious practice" of prioritizing a woman's career before children, per El País.This would make bringing women into defense manufacturing a hard cultural and political pivot, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://x.com/MassDara/status/1841922270962364867">Massicot said on X</a>.

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Economic Survey 2024 – industries grow by 9.5%, fueling economic growth to 8.2%

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