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Union Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> highlighted India's significant progress in electrification, <keyword id="23692737" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-accessibility" source="keywords">water accessibility</keyword>, and <keyword id="20879840" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="economic-empowerment" source="keywords">economic empowerment</keyword> during a fireside chat with John J Hamre, President and CEO of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), in Washington, DC.<br /><br />Highlighting the progress made in <keyword id="23003732" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rural-electrification" source="keywords">rural electrification</keyword>, <keyword id="19916494" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sitharaman" source="keywords">Sitharaman</keyword> highlighted that every village in India now has access to electricity. She noted that in 2014, many villages across India, including those near state capitals, lacked even basic infrastructure for electrification.<br /><br />She said "I don't think any village in India is unelectrified today. Households have received the connections. So, if I remember the situation in 2014, there were still many villages in many parts of India, some even very close to the state capital, provincial headquarters, without even a pole to receive the electric wires. Now, all that has been overcome. Houses have got their electricity."<br /><br />The Finance Minister also discussed the <keyword id="19971121" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jal-Jeevan-Mission" source="keywords">Jal Jeevan Mission</keyword>, a program initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide tap water connections to every household.<br /><br />She explained, "Earlier, one tap water connection was provided to a village, from where everyone would take water to their home. But under the 'Jal Jeevan Mission,' each and every house gets a tap water connection."<br /><br />Sitharaman emphasized the positive impact of this initiative on health, sanitation, and convenience for millions of Indian families.<br /><br />Turning to the economic empowerment of <keyword id="20101496" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="municipalities" source="keywords">municipalities</keyword> and urban centers, Sitharaman noted that these local governments are receiving increased autonomy and financial support.<br /><br />She explained that municipalities receive a portion of taxes collected by the central government, along with additional funds based on the Finance Commission's recommendations.<br /><br />"Over and above, today, we are enhancing their capacities to raise resources from the market. Municipalities are a very powerful instrument of economic development and they, on their own, are raising a lot of resources," she added.<br /><br />Sitharaman also expressed confidence in India's economic growth and its appeal to <keyword id="20632552" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-investors" source="keywords">global investors</keyword>. "The policies are working, reforms are happening, and they shall continue to happen," she stated, adding that "greater liberalisation of the economy will be there and, in a way, we are accessing newer markets and speaking about the <keyword id="19948184" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-economy" source="keywords">Indian economy</keyword> in more avenues and platforms that will attract more investors."<br /><br />With ongoing reforms and increased global engagement, Sitharaman noted, India is solidifying its position as a significant player on the world stage, expanding its economic reach and inviting foreign investment.<br />

No village in India left without access to electricity, claims FM Nirmala Sitharaman

<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> chairman <keyword id="19981455" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ratan-Tata" source="keywords">Ratan Tata</keyword> left for his heavenly abode on Wednesday. Tata, aged 86, died on Wednesday evening at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after a brief illness. The industrialist was widely known for transforming the Tata Group into a global powerhouse and would often make headlines for his <keyword id="21072972" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="philanthropic-efforts" source="keywords">philanthropic efforts</keyword>. Perhaps this is why, the death of the renowned industralist has struck a chord with the entire nation and beyond. The Maharashtra government also declared a day of mourning today in Ratan Tata's honour. <br /><br />From Reliance Industries MD <keyword id="19916798" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mukesh-ambani" source="keywords">Mukesh Ambani</keyword> and Adani Group chairman <keyword id="111343" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gautam-adani" source="Orion">Gautam Adani</keyword> to <keyword id="19902762" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Google" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Google" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Google">Google</keyword> CEO <keyword id="164502" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sundar-pichai" source="Orion">Sundar Pichai</keyword>, a lot of business tycoons have reacted to Ratan Tata's death. Let us take a look at some reactions.<br /><br />Industrialist Gautam Adani hailed Tata as a “giant” and a “visionary” who redefined modern India’s path. “He wasn’t just a business leader; he embodied the spirit of India with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good,” Adani said. His words echoed the sentiment of many who admired Tata for his values and leadership, which transformed the Tata Group into a global enterprise while maintaining its deep connection to Indian society.<br /><br />Google CEO Sundar Pichai also expressed his grief over Tata’s death, noting his deep commitment to India’s progress. “Ratan Tata deeply cared about making India better,” Pichai wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Reflecting on his last meeting with Tata at Google, where they discussed advancements in Waymo, Pichai added that Tata’s vision was inspiring. “He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy, having mentored and developed modern business leadership in India.”<br /><br />Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, shared his sorrow over the loss of a mentor whose guidance he believed was invaluable, particularly at a time when India’s economy is poised for significant growth. “Ratan’s life and work had much to do with our current position on the global stage,” Mahindra noted. “His example will continue to guide us, and legends like him never die.”<br /><br />Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani expressed personal grief over the loss of a “dear friend.” Ambani described Tata as a visionary who took India to the world and brought global innovations to India. “With his passing, India has lost one of her most illustrious sons. His contributions will continue to inspire future generations,” Ambani said, adding that Tata’s legacy of humility, integrity, and compassion was one that would remain etched in memory.<br /><br />RPG Enterprises’ Harsh Goenka also paid tribute to Tata, describing him as a beacon of ethical leadership. “The clock has stopped ticking for the titan of Indian industry,” Goenka wrote, underscoring the indelible mark Tata left on both business and society.<br /><br />Other prominent figures, including Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nirmala-sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> and Commerce Minister <keyword id="19895367" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="piyush-goyal" source="keywords">Piyush Goyal</keyword>, also expressed their sorrow. Sitharaman lauded Tata as a leader whose deep resolve for innovation and social responsibility transformed industries and uplifted communities. Goyal, meanwhile, referred to Tata as a “true nationalist” who brought immense pride to India through his global achievements.<br /><br />Apart from celebrities, politicians and business tycoons, Ratan Tata is also being remembered by millions of Indians on social media. Various people have shared heartfelt posts on platforms like Instagram and X, mourning the death of the Tata Group chairman. <br /><br />Tata, born in 1937 in Mumbai, led the Tata Group as Chairman of Tata Sons from 1991 until his retirement in 2012. He was instrumental in expanding the group’s global footprint while staying true to the company’s founding principles of ethical business practices and social responsibility. His leadership extended far beyond the boardroom, as he dedicated much of his life to philanthropy, focusing on education, healthcare, and rural development.<br /><br />As India mourns the loss of a corporate icon, the tributes from business leaders paint a portrait of Ratan Tata as a visionary who transcended his role as an industrialist to become a symbol of India’s aspirations and values. His legacy, built on integrity, innovation, and a commitment to the greater good, will continue to inspire future generations.<br /><br />Tata’s mortal remains will be kept at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai for the public to pay their respects, before his final rites are performed later in the day.<br />

‘Deeply cared about making India better’: Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, Sundar Pichai and others react to Ratan Tata's death

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.<br /><br />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."<br /><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.<br />        <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."<br /><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.<br />        <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."<br /><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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br /><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em><br />

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

The 54th <keyword id="19994390" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="GST-council" source="keywords">GST Council</keyword> meeting, scheduled for today, could bring a pivotal change to the taxation of <keyword id="20971977" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-insurance-premiums" source="keywords">health insurance premiums</keyword>, with the possibility of reducing the current GST rate.<br /><br />As per an <keyword id="23091874" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ANI-report" source="keywords">ANI report</keyword>, the Council is considering a substantial <keyword id="20158303" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="reduction" source="keywords">reduction</keyword> in the GST applied to health insurance premiums, a move expected to benefit both individuals and the elderly. At present, these policies are subject to an 18% GST.<br /><br />Discussions within the Council's fitment committee, composed of both central and state <keyword id="19987671" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tax" source="keywords">tax</keyword> authorities, took place on Sunday, weighing the potential advantages and drawbacks of such a reduction.<br /><br />Today, a detailed report concerning the GST levied on life, health, and reinsurance premiums will be tabled, highlighting its revenue implications. Following the presentation, the Council will debate the merits of adjusting the GST rate on health insurance premiums.<br /><br />According to the ANI report, a source said that the Council is leaning towards removing the 18% GST on individual health insurance premiums entirely. However, group health insurance policies are likely to retain the existing tax rate.<br /><br />Additionally, there is a proposal under consideration to introduce a tax on online payments exceeding Rs 2,000. Currently, transactions made via online payment platforms remain untaxed.<br /><br />Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nirmala-sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> leads the GST Council, with state ministers serving as members.<br /><br />In a previous meeting, the Group of Ministers tasked with reviewing GST rates discussed potential reforms in the health insurance sector. Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister, Samrat Chaudhary, who heads this group, indicated that suggestions for changes in insurance tax rates were actively being examined.<br /><br />West Bengal’s Finance Minister, Chandrima Bhattacharya, also advocated for reducing the 18% GST rate on life and health insurance, noting that the fitment committee was assessing the request.<br /><br />During the Council's last meeting in June, Finance Minister Sitharaman introduced several key reforms, including Aadhaar-based biometric integration and exemptions in railway services.<br />

GST council meeting today: Tax on health insurance premiums expected to be reduced, says report

<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> on Tuesday called on <keyword id="19895704" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="President" source="keywords">President</keyword> <keyword id="19934334" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Droupadi-Murmu" source="keywords">Droupadi Murmu</keyword> before presenting the full Budget for 2024-25. As per established tradition, the finance minister met the President at the Rashtrapati Bhavan before heading to Parliament. <br /><br /> President Murmu offered 'dahi-chini' (curd-sugar), considered auspicious, to Sitharaman before she left for Parliament to present the Union Budget. <br /><br />The Union Cabinet met thereafter to clear the Budget. <br /><br />Before the actual presentation in Parliament, the Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will approve the Budget for fiscal 2024-25 (April 2024 to March 2025). <br /><br />Expectations are running high as Sitharaman presents her seventh Budget in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. The Budget would give a glimpse of the Modi government's performance in the past 10 years while outlining the roadmap to make India a developed nation. <br /><br />Sitharaman continued with the tradition she set in 2019, carrying the budget speech in a 'bahi-khata', which she used after dropping the briefcase tradition. She keeps a digital tablet in a red 'bahi khata' style pouch. <br /><br />The economy is projected to expand by 6.5-7 per cent in the current fiscal, as per the Economic Survey tabled in Parliament on Monday.<br /><br /><b>SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/union-budget-2024-live-updates-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-key-announcements-23-july/liveblog/111942008.cms" target="_blank"></a></b><br /><br /> <b><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/union-budget-2024-live-updates-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-key-announcements-23-july/liveblog/111942008.cms" target="_blank">Union Budget 2024 Live Updates: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to present her record seventh consecutive Budget today</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/heres-a-quick-overview-of-pm-modi-3-0-governments-first-budget-to-be-presented-by-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-today/articleshow/111944393.cms" target="_blank"></a></b><br /><br /> <b><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/heres-a-quick-overview-of-pm-modi-3-0-governments-first-budget-to-be-presented-by-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-today/articleshow/111944393.cms" target="_blank">Here's a quick overview of PM Modi 3.0 government's first budget, to be presented by FM Nirmala Sitharaman today</a></b><b><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/economic-survey-2024-industries-grow-by-9-5-fueling-economic-growth-to-8-2/articleshow/111923191.cms" target="_blank"></a></b><br /><br /> <b><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/economic-survey-2024-industries-grow-by-9-5-fueling-economic-growth-to-8-2/articleshow/111923191.cms" target="_blank">Economic Survey 2024 – industries grow by 9.5%, fueling economic growth to 8.2%</a></b><br />

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman meets President ahead of Budget speech

After social media outrage over a Budget proposal making it mandatory to get <keyword id="22574399" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="tax-clearance-certificate" source="keywords">tax clearance certificate</keyword>s for going abroad, the government on Sunday clarified that the proposed amendment is not for all, and only those accused of financial irregularities or having substantial tax arrears need such clearance. The <keyword id="19955404" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="finance" source="keywords">finance</keyword> ministry, in the Finance Bill, 2024, has proposed to add the reference of the <keyword id="20961832" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Black-Money-Act" source="keywords">Black Money Act</keyword>, 2015, to the list of Acts, under which any person should clear his liabilities to obtain the tax clearance certificate. <br /><br />"The proposed amendment does not require all the residents to obtain the tax clearance certificate," the ministry said in a statement. <br /><br />As per section 230 of the Income-tax Act, 1961, every person is not required to obtain a tax clearance certificate. Only in the case of certain persons, in respect of whom circumstances exist, which make it necessary to obtain a tax clearance certificate will be required to obtain such a certificate. <br /><br />The ministry said that the Income Tax department through a 2004 notification has specified that the tax clearance certificate may be required to be obtained by persons domiciled in India only in certain circumstances. <br /><br />These include - where the person is involved in <keyword id="22576180" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="serious-financial-irregularities" source="keywords">serious financial irregularities</keyword> and his presence is necessary in the investigation of cases under the Income-tax Act or the Wealth-tax Act and it is likely that a tax demand will be raised against him, or where the person has direct tax arrears exceeding Rs 10 lakh outstanding against him, which have not been stayed by any authority. <br /><br />The I-T department said that a person can be asked to obtain a tax clearance certificate only after recording the reasons for the same and after taking approval from the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income-tax or Chief Commissioner of Income-tax. <br /><br />Such a certificate is required to be issued by the income-tax authority, stating that such person has no liabilities under the Income-tax Act, or the Wealth-tax Act, 1957, or the Gift-tax Act, 1958, or the Expenditure-tax Act, 1987, it added.

After outrage, Govt clarifies: tax clearance certificate only for people with tax dues, high-value defaulters

New Delhi [India], July 24 (ANI): Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> on Wednesday lashed out at the opposition's claim that the budget was 'discriminatory' and said that it was an '<keyword id="22528799" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Outrageous-allegation" source="Orion">outrageous allegation</keyword>' and a deliberate attempt by the opposition parties led by the Congress to give the people the wrong impression that their states were not allocated funds or schemes.<br /><br />The Finance Minister reacted after Leader of Opposition <keyword id="19897159" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mallikarjun-Kharge" source="keywords">Mallikarjun Kharge</keyword> made claims that the budget was discriminatory towards the states of the country.<br /><br />Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, the Finance Minister said, "It is unfortunate that the opposition, particularly a senior leader, Mallikarjun Kharge, stood up to say what he heard of the budget yesterday. Now that the leader of the opposition raised issues on the budget, which was presented and tabled in the house yesterday."<br /><br />"Just to the point he raised, I have not named many states and only spoken of two states. There are a few points I would like to make here as to what happens in a speech. The Congress party has been in power for a very long time in this country and they have presented so many budgets that they would know clearly that in every budget, you don't get an opportunity to name every state of this country," she said.<br /><br />"I'll take this example: between the vote on account which was presented on February 1 this year and the full budget that was presented yesterday for this year, I have not named very many states. The Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, decided to set up a port at Vadhvan, but Maharashtra's name was not included in the budget yesterday. Does this mean that Maharashtra feels ignored?" she said.<br /><br />The Finance Minister said that 76 thousand crores have been announced for Mahrashtra for that project.<br /><br />"Maharashtra's name was not taken on vote-on-account. The state's name was not mentioned even yesterday; does that mean the state got ignored?" she stated.<br /><br />Adding further, she said, "And I can take the name of so many different states that have so many major projects. If the speech does not mention the name of a particular state, does that mean the schemes and programmes of the government of India, the externally aided assistance that we obtain from the World Bank, ADB, AIB and so on, do not go to these states?"<br /><br />"They go as per routine, and, in the expenditure statement of the government, the department-wise allocation of the government mentions all this," she stated.<br /><br />"I am saying with responsibility that this is a 'deliberate attempt' of the opposition parties led by the Congress to give the people the wrong impression that their states were not allocated funds or schemes," said Sitharaman.<br /><br />Challenging the Congress, the Finance Minister said, "I would challenge the Congress party that for all the budget speeches they have delivered. Have they named every state of the country in each of their budget speeches? This is an outrageous allegation," she stated.<br /><br />This comes after Mallikarjun Kharge condemned the budget presented yesterday and claimed that no other states other than Andhra Pradesh and Bihar received anything.<br /><br />"Sabke thali khali aur sirf do ke thali mai pakoda aur jalebi. Ye do states ko chodkar, kisi ko kuch nai mila. Neither Tamil Nadu Kerala nor Karnataka got anything. Neither Maharashtra nor Punjab or Rajasthan and neither Chhattisgarh," he said.<br /><br />"Even Delhi did not receive anything nor did Odisha. I have not seen this kind of budget until now. This budget has been presented only to keep some people happy and it has all been done save their chairs, 'Kursi bachane ke liye' kiya gaya. We condemn this budget and protest against it. The whole of INDIA bloc condemns this," said Kharge.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA bloc MPs held a protest in the Parliament complex on Wednesday, against the <keyword id="6360189" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="union-budget" source="Orion">Union Budget</keyword>, presented on Tuesday by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.<br /><br />"Opposition virodhi kursi bachao Budget murda baad" slogans were raised by the INDIA bloc leaders as they protested holding placards in the Parliament building, claiming that the Budget is "discriminatory" in nature.<br /><br />Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, party General Secretary KC Venugopal, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, TMC MP Dola Sen were seen participating in the protest. <br />

"Outrageous allegation!": Nirmala Sitharaman reacts to opposition protesting budget, labeling it 'discriminatory'

<ul><li>No changes, or announcements for the old tax regime</li><li>FMlowered the tax burden by increasing the standard deductions in the new regime </li><li>Tax slabs also revised under the new regime</li></ul> <keyword id="7706673" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Finance-Minister-Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="Orion">Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> presented the Union <keyword id="18656923" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="budget-2024-25" source="Orion">Budget 2024-25</keyword> in the parliament recently, unveiling the Narendra Modi-led government’s budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. While the government announced some changes to direct taxation, including revised tax slabs for the new tax regime, most experts called the budget lackluster. <br /><br /> Nitin Chaudhary, Founder of NC Financial Advisory Services highlights his disappointment, noting that this Budget has actually been not at all impactful as it was expected to be. <br /><br />"It is more of a Budget for Coalition rather than any common man and tax payer. Neither there was any major drastic change in allocation as such and nor there was any major relief and tax benefits that was passed on to the tax payer.<br />There is a slight change in the tax slab rate owing to which there will be a very limited benefit to the tax payer in terms of tax outflow", continued Chaudhary.<br /> <br /><h2>Changes in new tax regime</h2>In a bid to make the new tax regime more lucrative, the FM proposed to hike the standard deduction limit to Rs 75,000 from earlier Rs 50,000, exclusively under the new tax regime. Similarly, the deduction available for family pension is also proposed to be increased from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000.<br /><br />More than two-thirds of taxpayers have availed of the new <keyword id="6354751" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="income-tax" source="Orion">Income Tax</keyword> regime, as per <keyword id="129243" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="Orion">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword>. The FM announced a review of the comprehensive tax regime. Per FM, under the new regime, taxpayers will be able to save up to Rs 17,500 as taxes, annually.<br /><br />The government has revised the tax rate structure for the new regime, which are now as follows -<br /><br /><h2>New income tax slab rates</h2><br /><table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none;" class="redcator-table-advance"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#000000;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Income slabs<br /><br /></td><td style="border-right:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#000000;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Tax rate<br /><br /></td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#d9d9d9;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">0 to 3L<br /><br /></td><td style="border-right:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#d9d9d9;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Nil<br /><br /></td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">3 to 7L<br /><br /></td><td style="border-right:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">5%<br /><br /></td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#d9d9d9;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">7 to 10L<br /><br /></td><td style="border-right:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#d9d9d9;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">10%<br /><br /></td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">10 to 12L<br /><br /></td><td style="border-right:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">15%<br /><br /></td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#d9d9d9;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">12 to 15L<br /><br /></td><td style="border-right:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#d9d9d9;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">20%<br /><br /></td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Above 15L<br /><br /></td><td style="border-right:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.5008695000000001pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">30%<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody></table>Prior to the changes announced today, the new tax regime was structured as follows:<br /><br /><h2><table class="redcator-table-advance" style="border-width: initial; border-style: none; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6em; box-shadow: none; width: 850.594px; font-family: Merriweather; letter-spacing: 0.121826px; padding-bottom: 10px !important; background-image: inherit !important; background-position: inherit !important; background-size: inherit !important; background-repeat: inherit !important; background-attachment: inherit !important; background-origin: inherit !important; background-clip: inherit !important;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;">Income Slab (In Rs)</td><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;">Tax Rate</td></tr><tr><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>Up to 3,00,000</strong></td><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>No Tax</strong></td></tr><tr><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>3,00,001 - 6,00,000</strong></td><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>5%</strong></td></tr><tr><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>6,00,001 - 9,00,000<br /></strong></td><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>10% (Tax Rebate up to Rs 7 lakh)</strong></td></tr><tr><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>9,00,001 - 12,00,000</strong></td><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>15%</strong></td></tr><tr><td class="se-table-selected-cell" style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>12,00,001 - 15,00,000<br /></strong></td><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>20%<br /></strong></td></tr><tr><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>Above 15,00,000<br /></strong></td><td style="border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; border-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); padding: 5px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: top;"><strong>30%</strong></td></tr></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody></table><br /></h2>Says T Manish, Research Analyst, SAMCO Securities, "FM announces revised tax rate under new tax regime, apart from the above slab revisions, the Standard deduction from 50,000 to 75,000 for individuals opting for new tax regime. This would result in savings of around Rs. 17500 in net taxes in the hands of individual. This would benefit directly to the companies in FMCG segment such as HUL, ITC, Dabur, Nestle and second order beneficiaries would be suppliers to these FMCG giants such as Polyplex, Uflex. Further, increased saving would also boost the inflow to wealth management (AMC’s)in the form of SIP's, and to Stock broking companies through brokerage".<br /><br /><h2>Capital gains simplified</h2>FM also moved to rationalise and simplify short-term capital gain (STCG) tax. Going ahead, STCG on specific financial assets will be charged at 20%, while the remaining financial and other non-financial assets will be charges as per applicable rates. This threshold was set at 15% previously.<br /><br />The long-term capital gains tax on financial and non financial assets was raised from its earlier threshold of 10% to 12.5%. However, the exemption limit under LTCG has been enhanced. This means that now, all long-term capital gains tax earned during the year to the tune of Rs 1,25,000 will be tax exempt. This limit was earlier set at Rs 1,00,000. Specified listed financial assets will be considered long-term provided they have been held for more than 12 months.<br /><br />As Anand Rathi, Co-founder of MIRA Money notes, the FM aims to send a clear message to the investors: avoid short term trading and leveraging. This is reflected in the increased security transaction taxes on futures and options,<br />which is a positive step. However, the increase in short term capital gains tax from 15% to 20% is a notable drawback for many traders.<br /><br />"Previously, if your capital gain was 2 lakh rupees, 1 lakh was exempted, and you had to pay 10% on the remaining 1 lakh, amounting to 10,000 rupees. Now, with the same 2 lakh rupees capital gain, you would pay<br />12.5% tax on the remaining 75,000 rupees after the exemption, which is beneficial", Rathi explained. <br /><br /><br />                        <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111946291" title="Union Budget 2024-25 key highlights: Angel tax to be scraped" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br /><h2>Higher tax on F&amp;O trading</h2>In a bid to stop fund inflows into speculative trading, the securities transaction tax (STT) on trading in futures and options was increased. While STT on options was increased from 0.062% to 0.1%, while the STT on futures was raised from 0.0125% to 0.02%. While this might seem as a  major setback to those trading in futures and options, experts opine that this is unlikely to significantly trading volumes in the segment. Note that this change is set to come into effect starting October 1, 2024. <br /><br />Says Deepak Ramaraju, Senior Fund Manager, Shriram AMC, "Hike in short-term capital gains and long-term capital gains have been sentimentally negative for the equity markets. This has resulted in short-term selling pressure. However, this can be the beginning of reforming the capital markets and curbing retail participation in the F&amp;O segment. We can expect more measures in the F&amp;O space in the days to come". <br /><br /><h2>Other tax changes</h2><ul><li>The TDS rate on e-commerce operators has been reduced from 1% to 0.1%</li><li>Angel tax, the tax levied on the capital raised via the issue of shares by unlisted companies has been abolished.</li><li>TDS payable on insurance commission reduced from 5% to 2%, starting 1st October, 2024.</li><li>TDS payable on rent paid over Rs 50,000 to be reduced from 5% to 2%. </li></ul><br /><strong>SEE ALSO:<br /></strong>        <br />          <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111953230" title="Union Budget 2024-25: Mobile Phones to get cheaper, as FM Nirmala Sitharaman reduces basic customs duty to 15%" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"><payload><![CDATA[seealso]]></payload></div>          <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111952160" title="Sitharaman announces cut in customs duty on gold, silver to 6%" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"><payload><![CDATA[seealso]]></payload></div><br />

Budget 2024-25: New tax regime sweetened by FM, hikes standard deduction to Rs 75,000

<ul><li>The Indian economy is expected to grow at over 7% rate in upcoming years</li><li>Fiscal deficit down to 6.4% of <keyword id="19904293" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="GDP" source="keywords">GDP</keyword> in FY24</li><li>Current Account Deficit (CAD) down to 0.7% of GDP </li></ul>With the <keyword id="19908389" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Union-Budget" source="keywords">Union Budget</keyword> 2024 to be presented tomorrow, Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> is presenting the <keyword id="20613906" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Economic-Survey" source="keywords">Economic Survey</keyword> in the parliament today. Think of the <keyword id="6354872" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="economic-survey" source="Orion">Economic Survey</keyword> as a report card of the country's economic performance over the past year, along with inputs and outlook for the coming fiscal year.<br /><br />Here are some crucial highlights from the Economic Survey 2023-24: <br /><br /><h2>Macro-economic indicators</h2>Per the World Economic Outlook in April, the <keyword id="19948494" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-economic-growth" source="keywords">global economic growth</keyword> was pegged at 3.2% in 2023. In contrast, <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s real GDP grew by 8.2% in FY24, staying above the 8% mark for 3 out of 4 quarters in FY24.<br /><br />Gross Fixed Capital Formation, or investments in long-term, value-generating fixed assets increased by 9% real terms in 2023-24.<br /><br />The government trimmed down fiscal deficit trimmed down from 6.4% of GDP in FY23 to 5.6% of GDP in FY24.The current account deficit, which indicates that the country is a net importer rather than being an exporter, came down to 0.7% of GDP in FY24, as opposed to 2% of GDP in FY23.<br /><br />While retail inflation averaged at 6.7% in FY23, it dropped down to 5.4% in FY24 <br /><br />During FY24, primary markets saw capital formation, or facilitated raising funds worth Rs 10.9 lakh crore, which makes up for around 29% of the gross fixed capital formation. <br /><br />India's market capitalization to GDP ratio is the fifth largest in the world.<br /><br /><h2>Inflationary Trends </h2>Core inflation eased down to 9-year lows, while core goods inflation came down to a 4-year low.<br /><br />However, food inflation continued to stay high, inching up to 7.5% in FY24, as opposed to 6.6% in FY23. This was largely because of adverse weather conditions, which caused a spike in onion and tomato prices and impacted kharif crop production. <br /><br />Going ahead, RBI's short-term outlook remains positive. Assuming a normal monsoon and no extraordinary policy or geopolitical shocks, the inflation is estimated to drop to 4.5% in FY25, and further down to 4.1% in FY26. These are in line with IMF's inflation forecasts, which stand at 4.6% for 2024 and 4.2% for 2025. <br /><br /><h2>Export-Import trends</h2>India's service exports jumped by 4.9% to $341.1 billion in FY24, driven mainly by IT and software services.<br /><br />Apart from being the top remittance recipient globally, with remittances worth $120 billion in 2023, the country also witnessed investment inflows from foreign investors.<br /><br />As of March 2024, India's forex reserves were sufficient to cover over 10 months of projected imports in FY25, and about 98% of all its external debt. The country's external debt to GDP ratio has been largely consistent over the years, standing at 18.7% of the GDP as of March 2024. <br /><br /><h2>Key growth areas to look out for in FY25 <br /></h2>Essential to adopt bottom-up reform approach, with special short to medium term emphasis on structural changes, job and skill creation, addressing challenges faced by MSMEs, managing India's transition towards a green, clean economy, deepening the country's nascent bond market and laying greater stress on tackling quality of health, especially amongst young Indians. <br /><br />Deliberate focus needed on boosting private investment, expanding India's MSMEs, tapping into the potential of India's agriculture sector, manage India's green transition, urgently bridge the employment-education gap and build capacity of states to sustain and complement India's growth. In the medium term, the country's economy is expected to grow at a rate of over 7%. <br /><br />

Economic Survey 2024: GDP grew by 8.2%, to sustain 7%+ growth momentum, fiscal deficit down to 6.4% of GDP

In her <keyword id="19906106" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Interim-Budget" source="keywords">Interim Budget</keyword> speech in February 2024, <keyword id="20385790" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Union-Finance-Minister" source="keywords">Union Finance Minister</keyword> <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> celebrated what she termed as the Modi government's landmark achievement: unleashing 'nari shakti' or women's power through various initiatives since 2014. Among these, the creation of one crore 'Lakhpati Didis' — women whose annual household income exceeds one lakh rupees — under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), has garnered significant attention.<br /><br /><h2>The hype around it<br /></h2>Imagine being a <keyword id="20416259" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lakhpati-Didi" source="keywords">Lakhpati Didi</keyword> — a rural woman whose annual household income exceeds Rs. 1 lakh. These women are not just financial achievers; they are community leaders who inspire others through their entrepreneurial journeys. Their success stories highlight the transformative impact of self-help groups (SHGs) and collective action in rural India.<br /><br />Launched amid much fanfare on August 15, 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself, the 'Lakhpati Didi' scheme aims to empower women through diverse skill development programs, from producing LED bulbs to operating agricultural drones. Partnering with entities like Patanjali, Flipkart, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the initiative also focuses on branding and marketing these products, ostensibly connecting women with credit lines and MUDRA loans for financial support.<br /> <br />Almost an year on, the scheme is all set to get some well-deserved boost in the Budget 2024 to be presented on July 23. However, the time also apt to examine if it has actually contributed to <keyword id="20009191" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="women-empowerment" source="keywords">women empowerment</keyword> in the country.<br />    <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111915324" title="Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to table Economic Survey in Parliament today" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br /><h2>The reality check<br /></h2>Critics argue that such schemes may inadvertently tether women's SHGs to corporate networks, potentially benefiting transnational agribusiness giants aligned with the government. Programs like 'Namo Drone Didi', allocated Rs. 500 crore in the Interim Budget, exemplify this trend by integrating women into digital agriculture, albeit under the influence of corporate agendas.<br /><br />Further, while the Interim Budget championed the narrative of women's economic prosperity, it failed to adequately address their basic needs. Despite claims of empowerment, essential schemes such as PM Awas Yojana (Rural) and Har Ghar Jal have seen significant budgetary underspending, raising concerns about the government's commitment to women's welfare beyond mere rhetoric.<br /><br />For instance, the underutilisation of funds in Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) and the shrinking allocations for crucial subsidies like nutrition and education further highlight the disconnect between budgetary outlays and on-ground impact. This trend suggests a shift in responsibility towards state governments without commensurate support from the Union government, leaving vulnerable populations like widows and rural women at risk.<br />Overall, the well-intentioned narrative around the scheme needs better translation and execution on ground to achieve desired outcomes.<br /><br /><h2>Looking ahead<br /></h2>Until now, the budgetary allocation for women-centric programs have remained disproportionately low, with the Ministry of Women and Child Development having been allocated Rs 26,000 crore in 2024-25, an increase of 2.52% compared to the previous budget. This paltry investment underscores a broader pattern of neglecting systemic issues such as gender-based violence, social discrimination and pro-corporate stance.<br /><br />As Budget 2024 approaches, stakeholders eagerly anticipate policies that not only boost economic growth but also empower rural women as entrepreneurs and leaders. While Lakhpati Didi stands poised to empower rural women with opportunities and support, more steps are needed to make it more sustainable.<br />    <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111689743" title="Union Budget 2024: A handy FAQ guide to decode the upcoming budget" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br />

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