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India's services sector showed robust expansion in October, per the <keyword id="22267674" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="HSBC-India-Services-PMI" source="keywords">HSBC India Services PMI</keyword> (Purchasing Managers' Index), which rose to 58.5 last month, up from September's ten-month low of 57.7. October's figures managed to exceed even the long-run PMI average of 54.1, largely on the back of a strong sales pipeline and elevated demand. Employment, or job creation in this sector accelerated to its fastest growth rate in 26 months. Anticipating solid, sustained demand in the near term, firms added new employees at the most rapid pace in over 2 years. October also saw <keyword id="23834175" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="input-costs-rise" source="keywords">input costs rise</keyword> at their fastest pace in 3 months, indicating renewed demand and economic activity in the country. The ISM Services PMI, an indicator of the economic health of the US, also exceeded expectations, reaching 56.0 compared to the forecasted 53.8, suggesting strong growth within the services sector. "During October, the Indian services sector experienced strong expansions in output and consumer demand, as well as job creation, which achieved a 26-month high," said Pranjul Bhandari, Chief India Economist at HSBC. The sector saw increased business activity across multiple fronts, with export sales showing significant growth and companies reporting stronger demand from international markets including Africa, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and the UK. However, industry experts remain cautiously optimistic about the sector's prospects. Suman Chowdhury, Chief Economist at Acuité Ratings &amp; Research, noted that while the October recovery is promising, several factors warrant careful monitoring. “The recovery in the PMI indices in October 2024 is promising for the second half of the fiscal after the dip in several high-frequency indicators in September 2024. Industrial and service activity has expectedly received a boost from the anticipated spike in consumption demand in Q3 FY25, driven by the festivities and the marriage season," she said. Chowdhury added that it will be crucial to monitor the sustainability of these PMI indices at these elevated levels, given the reported weakness in urban demand in Q2 as flagged by FMCG companies. She also noted that potential increases in wholesale and core retail inflation, combined with higher input costs and wage pressures, could delay expected interest rate cuts. RBI governor Shaktikanta Das also noted that inflation and CPI figures for October might be elevated, pushing ahead any chances of interest rate cuts in the near future. Acuité Ratings &amp; Research maintains its GDP growth forecast at 7.0% for FY25 while acknowledging the multiple downside risks that will require close observation in the coming months.

India's Services Index jumps to 58.5 in October as employment grows the fastest in 26 months

Singapore Airlines will make an additional investment of Rs 3,194.5 crore in Tata Group-owned Air India post-merger of Vistara in November. The merger, announced on November 29, 2022, and set to be completed on November 11, 2024, will result in Singapore Airlines having a 25.1% stake in the enlarged Air India. Full-service carrier Vistara, which started flying on January 9, 2015, is a joint venture between Tatas and Singapore Airlines, where the latter holds a 49% shareholding. Vistara's last flight will take off tomorrow i.e. November 11, 2024. Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group on Friday said its consideration for the merger comprises the 49% interest in Vistara and Rs 20,585 million (Rs 2,058.5 crore) in cash in exchange for a 25.1% equity interest in the enlarged Air India. Post-merger, SIA expects to recognize a non-cash accounting gain of around 1.1 billion Singapore dollars and also start equity accounting for its share of Air India's financial results. According to a release on Friday, the merger includes an agreement for SIA to contribute its share of any funding previously provided by Tata prior to the completion of the merger, together with relevant funding costs up to Rs 5,020 crore that would allow it to maintain a 25.1% stake in Air India. "SIA's additional capital injection is expected to be Rs 31,945 million (equivalent to SGD 498 million), based on Tata's funding to Air India to date. This will occur after the completion of the merger and within November 2024 through subscription to new Air India shares. "Future capital injections will be considered based on Air India's requirements and available funding options," according to the release issued while announcing the airline's financial performance for the six months ended September 2024. The merger of Vistara with Air India will mark a major consolidation in the fast-growing Indian aviation space. SIA said the merged entity will have a significant presence across all key Indian air travel segments, including domestic, international, full-service, and low-cost operations. "This will strengthen SIA's multi-hub strategy, allowing it to continue participating directly in India's large and fast-growing aviation market," it added. Recently, Air India and SIA agreed to significantly expand their codeshare agreement, adding 11 Indian cities and another 40 international destinations to their network.

Singapore Airlines to invest additional Rs 3,195 cr in Air India post-Vistara merger

After years of navigating regulatory challenges, <keyword id="19903807" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Elon-Musk" source="keywords">Elon Musk</keyword>'s <keyword id="20034982" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="satellite-internet" source="keywords">satellite internet</keyword> project, <keyword id="20034452" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Starlink" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Starlink" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Starlink">Starlink</keyword>, is on the verge of officially entering the Indian market. A recent decision by the Indian government to allocate satellite spectrum through administrative means, rather than auctioning it, has paved the way for Starlink to expand its global reach into one of the largest untapped markets for satellite-based <keyword id="21433895" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="broadband-services" source="keywords">broadband services</keyword>. <h2>What does the decision mean?</h2>Recently, <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) decided to administratively allocate spectrum for satellite communication services. This move rebuffed demands from local <keyword id="22223051" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="telecom-giants" source="keywords">telecom giants</keyword> like <keyword id="19896911" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Reliance-Jio" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Reliance Jio" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Reliance Jio">Reliance Jio</keyword> and Bharti Airtel, which lobbied for an auction-based approach, arguing it would create a level playing field. Instead, the government followed the global norm of administrative allocation, which Musk has publicly supported as the standard for satellite communications worldwide. This administrative route means Starlink and other satellite internet providers, such as <keyword id="20561894" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="OneWeb" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="OneWeb" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="OneWeb">OneWeb</keyword> and <keyword id="20045803" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jio-Satellite-Communications" source="keywords">Jio Satellite Communications</keyword>, can now gain access to satellite spectrum without competing in costly auctions. The pricing of the spectrum will still be regulated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), ensuring fairness. <h2>Starlink’s history in India</h2>Starlink has long been eyeing the Indian market due to the country’s large rural population, many of whom lack reliable internet connectivity. Initially, Starlink began offering pre-orders for its satellite-based internet services in 2021. However, the company ran into regulatory hurdles and was forced to refund customers after the Indian government instructed it to comply with local laws before accepting bookings. Since then, Starlink has been working behind the scenes to secure the necessary approvals. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114243497" title="India set to lead global 6G revolution: Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>This recent shift in policy could finally allow Starlink to enter the market officially, a significant victory after nearly three years of attempts. <h2>Musk’s comments</h2>Elon Musk has been vocal about his support for administrative <keyword id="20926400" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="spectrum-allocation" source="keywords">spectrum allocation</keyword>, calling any move to auction satellite spectrum "unprecedented." He believes that auctioning spectrum reserved for satellite communications, as was lobbied for by Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance, could limit the ability of satellite providers like Starlink to offer affordable services. The introduction of Starlink into India’s internet landscape is expected to revolutionise connectivity in rural and underserved areas. Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites promise high-speed broadband services in regions where laying fiber or other traditional infrastructure is either impractical or too costly. This could significantly reduce the digital divide, offering millions of Indians access to reliable internet for the first time. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114250683" title="We&amp;#39;re about to enter the Digital Dark Ages" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>While the decision to allocate spectrum administratively is a win for Starlink, it faces competition from local satellite players like Jio Satellite Communications and Airtel-backed OneWeb, which have already received regulatory clearances. The pricing model set by TRAI will be crucial in determining how competitively Starlink can operate in India. Moreover, the company will need to navigate India's complex regulatory landscape, which includes securing further clearances from various government bodies. Overall, the stage is set for a transformative shift in India's internet connectivity landscape, with Starlink poised to play a central role in bringing high-speed internet to even the most remote corners of the country.

India sets stage for Elon Musk’s Starlink internet services to finally enter India with latest spectrum decision

Dear readers, As another week ends and festive season lights up India, the world of business, tech, and sustainability brings you some new stories to explore. <keyword id="19896956" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Swiggy" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Swiggy" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Swiggy">Swiggy</keyword> is preparing for a grand IPO launch, expected to open on November 6, which could set the tone for India’s tech sector. Meanwhile, a Blinkit customer was in for a shock when he ordered a gold coin online. There was also a stark forecast that India could lose 25% of its economy by 2070 if immediate action isn’t taken. In addition to this, <keyword id="19974102" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Amazon-Web-Services" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Amazon Web Services" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Amazon Web Services">Amazon Web Services</keyword> CEO was in the limelight for his comments on <keyword id="20294959" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="work-from-office" source="keywords">work from office</keyword> mandate. <h2>Top stories of the week </h2> Swiggy sets IPO price band between ₹371-₹390; offer likely to open on November 6 Swiggy has announced its initial public offering (IPO) price band, which will range between ₹371 and ₹390 per share. The much-anticipated IPO includes both fresh issues and an offer for sale, and it is expected to open on November 6. Swiggy’s move to go public this year highlights its growth trajectory as one of India’s top tech IPOs, with proceeds likely aimed at expanding its footprint and product offerings. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/swiggy-sets-ipo-price-band-between-rs-371-390/share-offer-likely-to-open-on-november-6th-heres-all-you-need-to-know/articleshow/114722518.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> “I was scammed, cried while talking to delivery executive,” man orders gold coin from Blinkit, claims to receive wrong item In a recent incident, a Delhi resident reported receiving a 0.5 gm gold coin instead of the 1 gm he had ordered from Blinkit. Despite sharing evidence and CCTV footage, Jain’s complaints were not addressed in time, as Blinkit’s support team said the complaint window had closed. The issue has sparked a social media discussion, highlighting concerns about quality control and customer service on e-commerce platforms. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/i-was-scammed-cried-while-talking-to-delivery-executive-man-orders-gold-coin-from-blinkit-claims-to-receive-wrong-item/articleshow/114767787.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> India could lose a quarter of its economy by 2070, here’s why A new report has forecast that India’s economy could shrink by up to 25% by 2070 due to unchecked climate risks. Key sectors across the country may face significant productivity and revenue losses if policies aren’t adapted to mitigate these impacts. This sobering projection calls for urgent action in sustainability efforts to protect India’s economy and ensure long-term resilience against climate-induced disruptions. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sustainability/news/india-could-lose-a-quarter-of-its-economy-by-2070-heres-why/articleshow/114840631.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> 'Find another company if it doesn’t work for you’: Amazon Web Services CEO on work from office mandate Amazon Web Services (AWS) CEO Adam Selipsky has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to a work-from-office mandate, even suggesting that employees unhappy with the policy may want to consider alternatives. AWS’s stance underscores Amazon’s prioritization of in-office work, aligning with its broader efforts to encourage collaboration. The decision comes as many tech firms continue to face challenges in balancing remote and in-office work. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/find-another-company-if-it-doesnt-work-for-you-amazon-web-services-ceo-on-work-from-office-mandate/articleshow/114677655.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> Partner pay at big 4 firms is dropping, the latest sign of the consulting slowdown A slowdown in the consulting industry is leading to notable reductions in partner pay at Big 4 firms. This comes as demand for consulting services sees a dip amid economic uncertainty, with firms choosing to cut back on bonuses and other expenses. This trend reflects broader economic pressures affecting consulting firms worldwide, forcing some to rethink their strategies and compensation models. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/partner-pay-at-big-4-firms-is-dropping-the-latest-sign-of-the-consulting-slowdown/articleshow/114696160.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Read more</a> <h2>Top web stories </h2> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/8-incredible-getaways-from-jaipur-this-november/slidelist/114769420.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">8 incredible getaways from Jaipur this November</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/food/webstories/weight-loss-myths-debunked-facts-you-need-to-know/slidelist/114726093.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Weight loss myths debunked</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/thelife/webstories/9-budget-friendly-bhai-dooj-gifts-to-make-your-sister-feel-special/slidelist/114841910.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">9 budget-friendly Bhai Dooj gifts</a>

Weekend wrap: Swiggy IPO price band, BlinkIt gold coin customer's ordeal, India's GDP woes, and more

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> and Maldives have signed an agreement to introduce the <keyword id="19998949" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Unified-Payments-Interface" source="keywords">Unified Payments Interface</keyword> in the archipelago nation, which will have a "very positive" impact on its <keyword id="20260982" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourism-sector" source="keywords">tourism sector</keyword>, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Friday during Jaishankar's three-day official visit to the Maldives. "Witnessed signing of MoU between (the) National Payments Corporation of India and (the) Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Maldives on (the) introduction of (a) digital payment system in the Maldives," he said in a post on X. Developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (<keyword id="19998946" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="NPCI" source="keywords">NPCI</keyword>), Unified Payment Interface (UPI) is an instant real-time payment system to facilitate inter-bank transactions through mobile phones. Addressing a press conference with his Maldivian counterpart Moosa Zameer after their "productive discussions", Jaishankar said that India, through its UPI, has "revolutionised digital transactions". Stressing that it has taken financial inclusion in India to new levels, he said "Today 40 per cent of the world's real-time digital payments take place in our country." "We see this revolution, every day in our lives. I am pleased to note that with the signing of the MoU today, we have taken the first step towards bringing this digital innovation to Maldives," he said. "I wish the very best to stakeholders on both sides and hope that we will soon see the first UPI transaction here. I should mention that it will have a very positive impact on tourism," he added. Tourism is the main source of economic activity for the Maldives, contributing nearly 30 per cent of the GDP and generating more than 60 per cent of foreign exchange. Jaishankar's visit aims to reset the bilateral relationship with the Maldives and is the first high-level trip from India after the archipelago nation's pro-China president, Mohamed Muizzu, assumed office last year. "India's partnership with the Maldives is based on our deep desire to work together for each other's welfare and interests. It is a partnership that has enabled us to always swiftly and effectively respond to challenges, as witnessed in the past," Jaishankar said. "It is a partnership that has enabled us to deliver results and bring tangible benefits to our people in accordance with their wishes, aspirations and priorities," he said. In a post on X, Jaishankar also said, "Jointly inaugurated six High Impact Projects in areas of street lighting, mental health, children speech therapy and special education." "Welcome renewal of MoU between National Centre for Good Governance and Civil Services Commission on (the) training of additional 1,000 civil services officers," he added. Addressing the joint press conference, Maldivian Foreign Minister Zameer said, "India has always been one of our closest friends and a vital development partner." He said the "enduring friendship" was built on a foundation of mutual trust and respect and has continued to flourish over the years. "High-level exchanges between our countries have deepened our dialogue and cooperation in areas of shared interest. We remain dedicated to strengthening and advancing this mutually beneficial partnership," he said. "Minister Dr Jaishankar and I agreed that much more needs to be done to promote trade and investment between the Maldives and India," he said, adding that both sides are committed to establishing "effective mechanisms to enhance economic cooperation, fostering a vibrant and prosperous partnership that will benefit both the nations." Zameer said he conveyed President Muizzu's proposal to begin negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement between the Maldives and India. "This agreement alongside other economic and trade-related agreements will facilitate trade liberalisation and ease the risks of doing business in both our countries," he said. Zameer said that India and Maldives have also mutually agreed to further strengthen their partnership by continuing joint exercises and expanding training opportunities for officers from both countries, asserting that this reflects "our commitment to working together to ensure the security of our nations as well as ensuring the safety and stability of the Indian Ocean region." India's relations with the Maldives suffered a major setback last year when President Muizzu demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel manning three aviation platforms in the Maldives. Subsequently, the Indian military personnel were replaced by civilians by May 10, the mutually agreed date. "On regional and multilateral issues of importance, our countries have a common understanding and are united in our efforts to resolve them. We agreed to continue our cooperation on issues ranging from combating terrorism, violent extremism, drugs, human trafficking and to the promotion and protection of human rights," Zameer said. In his press statement, Jaishankar said that India and the Maldives "are not just close neighbours, we are also natural partners." "Today, we are mutually invested in each other's development and progress. In a globalised and interconnected world, we see a lot of volatility and global tensions. Even as the world is recovering from the impact of the COVID pandemic, we have been confronted with new challenges arising from international conflicts," he said. In this tumultuous environment, India has been and will be, an anchor of stability for its friends, partners and neighbours. To the Maldives specifically, India has provided support to deal with economic challenges through financial assistance and budgetary support, and by ensuring an uninterrupted supply of critical items, he noted. India's actions have been and will continue to be guided by its firm commitment to the philosophy of 'Sabka Saath, Sabke Vikas - which is- Together, we prosper', Jaishankar said. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/brainbees-solutions-firstcry-ipo-allotment-how-to-check-allotment-ipo-gmp-listing-date-and-more/articleshow/112403576.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/brainbees-solutions-firstcry-ipo-allotment-how-to-check-allotment-ipo-gmp-listing-date-and-more/articleshow/112403576.cms" target="_blank">Brainbees Solutions (Firstcry) IPO allotment – How to check allotment, IPO GMP, listing date and more</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-wearables-market-decline-for-the-first-time-as-smartwatch-shipments-fall/articleshow/112397246.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-wearables-market-decline-for-the-first-time-as-smartwatch-shipments-fall/articleshow/112397246.cms" target="_blank">India’s wearables market decline for the first time as smartwatch shipments fall</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/ola-wants-to-re-enter-the-quick-commerce-business-to-take-on-blinkit-and-swiggy-instamart/articleshow/112364583.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/ola-wants-to-re-enter-the-quick-commerce-business-to-take-on-blinkit-and-swiggy-instamart/articleshow/112364583.cms" target="_blank">Ola wants to re-enter the quick commerce business to take on Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart</a>

India to introduce UPI payment service in Maldives

The <keyword id="19925636" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="stock-market" source="keywords">stock market</keyword> closed in the green, with benchmark indices hitting new all-time highs at the end of closing sessions on Monday. The <keyword id="19950208" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BSE-Sensex" source="keywords">BSE Sensex</keyword> surged by 384.30 points, closing at 84,928.61, while the NSE <keyword id="19896381" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nifty" source="keywords">Nifty</keyword> gained 148.10 points to settle at 25,939.05. Both indices ended the session driven by strong buying in sectors like auto, oil and gas, and <keyword id="19976433" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="financial-services" source="keywords">financial services</keyword>. Out of the Nifty 50 companies, 34 stocks advanced, while 16 declined. Bajaj Auto, Mahindra &amp; Mahindra (M&amp;M), ONGC, Hero Motocorp, and SBI Life emerged as the top gainers, contributing significantly to the market's rise. On the flip side, Eicher Motors, ICICI Bank, Divi's Labs, Wipro, and IndusInd Bank were the top losers, experiencing profit booking after recent rallies. The market's bullish momentum was largely influenced by anticipation surrounding the <keyword id="19899810" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Reserve-Bank-of-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Reserve Bank of India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Reserve Bank of India">Reserve Bank of India</keyword>'s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting to be held October 7 to 9 and its decision on the repo rate. As the market gears up for potential rate cuts, India VIX, a volatility index, spiked by more than 9 per cent, also reflecting investor caution. VLA <keyword id="19958748" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ambala" source="keywords">Ambala</keyword>, Co-Founder of Stock Market Today, commented on the session's performance, highlighting the role of macroeconomic factors. "In today's session, the India VIX rose more than 9 per cent as the market awaits the MPC policy and <keyword id="21977342" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="repo-rate-cut" source="keywords">REPO rate cut</keyword> decision. Notably, India's fast composite PMI recorded a slightly slower growth in September. This is the slowest rate of growth in 2024 for the manufacturing and service sectors," she said. "According to me, to remain globally competitive, the RBI needs to match the US Fed rate, which will create a significant difference between India's lending growth and the long-term FD rates," she added. Ambala emphasized the importance of the RBI's decision in maintaining India's global competitiveness, particularly in comparison to the US Federal Reserve's rates. She noted that any repo rate cut by the RBI could inject more liquidity into the economy, potentially spurring a bullish trend in the equity market and benefiting asset classes like real estate. "If the RBI chooses a REPO rate cut, it will inject more liquidity into the economy, likely fueling a bullish market trend. On the other hand, account holders could enjoy better returns in asset classes such as the equity market and real estate," she said. "The banking and NBFC sectors are already responding to the potential rate cut, and we may see a decline of 100-200 bps points in the next 1.5 years. Since the market has been resilient, I believe it will adapt quickly to these economic changes," Ambala added. Currently, major indices such as Nifty, Bank Nifty, Financial Services, Mid Cap 100, Mid Cap 150, Next 50, FMCG, Consumption, Metal, Infrastructure, and Auto are trading at all-time highs. Sectors like NBFCs, Realty, Infrastructure, and PSU stocks are expected to remain in focus as potential rate cuts could open up significant opportunities for mid-term investors. The technical indicators show that the broader trend remains bullish, with the Relative Strength Index (RSI) for Nifty standing at 74 on the daily, 75 on the weekly, and 83 on the monthly timeframe. However, Ambala advised investors to approach the market cautiously. "The Nifty index can expect support levels at 25,870 and 25,680 with resistance at 26,050 and 26,130 in the next market session," she stated.

Sensex soars to 84,928, Nifty settles at 25,939 as stock market closes at all-time high

The government has officially announced October 1, 2024, as the starting date for <keyword id="23245808" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Vivad-Se-Vishwas-2-0" source="keywords">Vivad Se Vishwas 2.0</keyword>, the direct tax dispute resolution scheme. If you're involved in a tax dispute, this scheme might be your chance to resolve it efficiently. Originally introduced during the 2024-25 Union Budget, the scheme is designed to handle <keyword id="22518437" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="income-tax-disputes" source="keywords">income tax disputes</keyword> that are currently tied up in appeals. Confirming the news, the <keyword id="19900485" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Finance-Ministry" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Finance Ministry" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Finance Ministry">finance ministry</keyword> said in its notification: "The central government hereby appoints the 1st day of October, 2024 as the date on which the Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme, 2024 shall come into force." <h2>The scope of the disputes</h2>To give you an idea of the scale, about 2.7 crore direct tax demands are currently being contested, amounting to a staggering Rs 35 lakh crore. These disputes are scattered across various legal forums, and Vivad Se Vishwas 2.0 aims to help clear this backlog. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113444994" title="In the long run, rate cut by Fed will be favourable for most US banks: Moody&amp;#39;s" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In her Budget speech, <keyword id="19912360" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Finance-Minister-Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> highlighted the government’s dedication to simplifying taxes and minimising litigation. She said, "The government will continue its efforts to simplify taxes, improve <keyword id="20404572" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="taxpayer-services" source="keywords">taxpayer services</keyword>, provide tax certainty and reduce litigation while enhancing revenues." <h2>Who can avail the scheme?</h2>If you have any pending disputes or appeals, including writs and special leave petitions, whether filed by you or the tax authorities, as of July 22, 2024, you are eligible to take advantage of this scheme. The list of eligible cases includes those pending before the Supreme Court, high courts, Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, and Commissioner/Joint Commissioner (Appeals). It also covers cases before the Dispute Resolution Panel (DRP) and revision petitions awaiting a decision from the Commissioner of Income Tax. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113417255" title="Individuals earning over Rs 10 cr rise by 63% in India; financial assets of high net worth individuals to nearly double by 2028" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>However, the window to decide whether or not to participate in the scheme is limited. As Karishma R. Phatarphekar, Partner at <keyword id="20006170" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Deloitte-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Deloitte India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Deloitte India">Deloitte India</keyword>, said: "Given the limited time window, an informed decision on opting for the scheme should be made promptly." The rules and forms for the scheme are expected to be published "imminently in the coming week." <h2>Success of the original Vivad Se Vishwas</h2>For those who are wondering about the potential impact, the first Vivad Se Vishwas scheme, introduced in 2020, resolved a significant number of cases. More than 1 lakh taxpayers participated, and the government collected about Rs 75,000 crore in taxes. With this track record, the expectations from Vivad Se Vishwas 2.0 are high. With October 1 just around the corner, now is the time to prepare if you are considering resolving your tax dispute through Vivad Se Vishwas 2.0. As the rules and forms are expected shortly, it’s wise to consult your <keyword id="23245810" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tax-advisor" source="keywords">tax advisor</keyword> and make a decision soon. This scheme could provide the relief you’ve been waiting for while contributing to a more efficient tax system for all. (With inputs from PTI)

New Vivad Se Vishwas 2.0 tax resolution scheme to start on Oct 1 — what you need to know

Nalin Bansal, Chief Relationship Management at the National <keyword id="20242630" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="payments" source="keywords">Payments</keyword> Corporation of India (<keyword id="19998946" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="NPCI" source="keywords">NPCI</keyword>), speaking at the Global Fintech Festival 2024 on Wednesday, emphasized that only 25 per cent of payment users are <keyword id="19900675" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="women" source="keywords">women</keyword>, with even lower penetration in semi-urban and rural areas. "While we've achieved significant scale in <keyword id="20377974" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="financial-inclusion" source="keywords">financial inclusion</keyword>, penetration remains a challenge, with only 25% of payment users being women, and even fewer in semi-urban and rural areas. Many women's mobile numbers are not linked to their bank accounts, hindering their participation," Bansal said. He added, "Yet, data shows women are 50% less prone to fraud and are highly loyal and engaged users. As an ecosystem, we must prioritize personalized, assisted services and continuous engagement across all channels. UPI123 has made strides, especially for initiatives like Ujjwala, and prepaid instruments hold promise as a 'secret purse' for women. Building trust is crucial, and it is our collective responsibility to foster it." Women are more likely to adopt <keyword id="20853683" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="digital-financial-services" source="keywords">digital financial services</keyword> when introduced by local agents or <keyword id="22950816" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="community-influencers" source="keywords">community influencers</keyword>, particularly women who can help them overcome social and technological barriers. Women who make at least five <keyword id="19971375" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="transactions" source="keywords">transactions</keyword> in the first week of onboarding are twice as likely to continue using <keyword id="19900911" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="UPI" source="keywords">UPI</keyword>. This highlights the need for financial service providers to rethink in-app nudges and sales metrics to encourage consistent usage. 93 per cent of women surveyed expressed the need for ongoing support during the first three months of using digital payments, particularly for grievance redressal during failed transactions. Kalpana Ajayan, Regional Head - South Asia, Women's World Banking, said, "We recognize that digital payments can serve as a powerful tool for women, enabling them to manage their finances more effectively, access a broader range of services, and ultimately secure a better future for themselves and their families." She added, "By addressing the specific barriers that women face in adopting digital payments, we open up a new frontier for growth. This initiative is about much more than inclusion--it's about positioning women as key drivers in the digital financial ecosystem." The NPCI's UPI platform has already revolutionized India's payment landscape, with UPI transactions soaring from Rs 920 million (USD 11.08 million) in FY 2017-18 to Rs 83750 million (USD 1.01 billion) in FY 2022-23, reflecting a staggering CAGR of 147 per cent. The value of UPI transactions reached INR 80.79 trillion (USD 96,287) across approximately 55.66 billion transactions in the first four months of FY 2024-25. Of the 536 million women aged 15 years and older in India, 37 per cent report using mobile internet, making the addressable market for UPI solutions among women around 200 million strong.

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