Author: Sarita Jena

  • Industry Calls for Tax Cuts and Jobs Boost in Pre-Budget Meeting

    Industry Calls for Tax Cuts and Jobs Boost in Pre-Budget Meeting

    On Monday, industry leaders met with the Finance Minister to talk about the upcoming budget for 2025-26, which will be revealed on February 1. They asked for several important changes to help the middle class in India.

    First, they want lower personal income tax rates so people can keep more money for themselves. This would give families more spending power. They also discussed reducing taxes on fuel, which can make life easier for many people by allowing them to save money when filling up their cars.

    Additionally, they highlighted issues like cheap products coming from China, which hurt local businesses. They also talked about how climate change is affecting food security and driving up prices.

    Sanjiv Puri, the President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), explained that while India’s economy is strong, there are many global challenges. He noted that clothing, shoes, tourism, and furniture industries could create more jobs and should be supported.

    To help people spend more, they suggested making cuts to the income tax for anyone earning up to ₹20 lakh. This could help boost spending and, in turn, increase tax revenue. Puri also said that lowering fuel taxes could help consumers save even more.

    Vijay Sankar from FICCI mentioned that the Finance Minister listened carefully to their concerns. They chatted about the slowdown caused by cheap goods from countries like China. PHDCCI President Hemant Jain emphasized that lower income taxes would help people spend more money and ease inflation.

    Finally, Assocham President Sanjay Nayar raised the need to help small businesses by making it easier for them to get loans and handle different tax requirements.

  • RBI Governor Malhotra: India’s Economic Revival Expected by 2025!

    RBI Governor Malhotra: India’s Economic Revival Expected by 2025!

    New RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra has responded to the government’s worries about the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) focus on controlling inflation instead of promoting growth. He believes that the Indian economy will improve in 2025, thanks to strong confidence from consumers and businesses.

    Malhotra emphasized the importance of financial stability to support better economic growth. He mentioned that, despite challenges from around the world, India’s economy should start growing again in the latter half of this financial year. While the economy slowed down earlier—recording a GDP growth of just 5.4% in the second quarter—it is expected to bounce back in 2025 as companies prepare for more investment with healthy profits.

    In a recent report, the Finance Ministry pointed out that lower growth rates in the first half of the year could be caused by structural issues in the economy. The RBI is likely to consider reducing interest rates in its upcoming meeting due to this slowdown and decreasing inflation.

    Malhotra also noted that financial regulators in India are working hard to enhance reforms to ensure a strong financial system, which includes solid bank earnings and low bad debt. The banking system and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) are expected to maintain strong capital even in tough situations.

    He reassured that India is focused on creating a modern financial system that serves its citizens well and encourages inclusive growth. Worldwide, Malhotra sees signs of improvement as inflation might decline, helping people regain their purchasing power.

    He also pointed out, though, that the road ahead could be tough due to possible political conflicts, unpredictable financial markets, extreme weather events, and rising debts. The uncertain situation also includes concerns about asset prices, weaker financial measures from non-bank lenders, and new technologies.

  • NCW Investigates Anna University Assault: Calls for Women’s Safety

    NCW Investigates Anna University Assault: Calls for Women’s Safety

    A team from the National Commission for Women (NCW) started looking into the sexual assault of a student at Anna University on Monday. There are claims that police didn’t allow protests against this incident, leading many members of the opposition party, AIADMK, to try to demonstrate across Tamil Nadu. Many of them were arrested but are expected to be released later.

    The NCW is investigating this serious case after a 19-year-old student was allegedly raped on campus last week. They formed a two-member team, which includes NCW member Mamta Kumari and retired police chief Praveen Dixit. They visited the university to gather information. They plan to meet with the victim, her family, friends, school officials, and people from non-profit organizations to find out what happened and ensure it doesn’t happen again.

    Actor Vijay, who leads the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam, expressed his concern for women’s safety in a letter shared on Instagram. He said it might be useless to ask those in charge since women face many dangers every day. He sympathized with their pain and promised to support them, urging them to focus on their studies instead of worrying about safety. He promised to work together for a safer Tamil Nadu.

  • Exciting Progress at India’s National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal!

    Exciting Progress at India’s National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal!

    India is building a big museum called the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat. This project is going well and is expected to be finished in two phases: the first part by 2025 and the entire complex by 2028. The goal of this museum is to show everyone India’s amazing maritime history and how it helped the world in trade and culture.

    During a recent site visit, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal shared some exciting details about the project. He said it fits perfectly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s idea of connecting heritage with development. The NMHC will highlight India’s past achievements in sailing and trade, dating back thousands of years.

    The first phase, named 1-A, will cost about ₹1,200 crore and should be ready by August 2025. Right now, 65% of the construction work is done. This part will feature six galleries, a walkway, and a special area in Lothal. Ramachandran, from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, said they plan to open Phase 1-A by late 2025. When it’s completed, the NMHC will create 22,000 jobs and attract 25,000 visitors every day!

    Sonowal talked about how important India’s maritime history is globally, mentioning trade links with ancient cultures in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Arabia. He mentioned the ancient docks at Lothal as examples of India’s pioneering spirit in maritime activities.

    The project is not just a museum; it will be a vibrant tourist spot, an educational center, and a research hub. There are plans for partnerships with countries like Portugal and the UAE to work together on showcasing maritime heritage.

    Gujarat will also develop various tourist routes connecting Lothal to several attractions in the state. For example, one route will connect Lothal to religious places, while another will offer ferry rides. The government is also improving roads and train connections to make visiting easier.

    The NMHC will have 14 galleries, each focusing on different parts of India’s maritime story, such as ancient trade routes, traditional boat-making, and the Indian Navy’s history. There will also be a gallery for kids to learn through fun activities.

    Sonowal stressed the importance of teaching younger generations about India’s rich history. He believes this project will fill them with pride in India’s achievements as a leading maritime nation—yesterday, today, and in the future!

  • Achieve Your 2025 Goals: Simple Resolutions for a New You!

    Achieve Your 2025 Goals: Simple Resolutions for a New You!

    As 2024 ends and we get ready for a new year, many people start thinking about ways to improve themselves. The idea of New Year’s resolutions is all about making a promise to change for the better. It’s like opening a fresh new chapter in your life! Setting these goals can help make this year truly special.

    But why do so many of us end up forgetting our resolutions? It’s easy to just go back to doing the same old things year after year. This time, let’s be hopeful and really stick to our promises for 2025! Here are some popular resolutions that are easy to start:

    1. Get Fit
    Every new year, countless people rush to join gyms and start exercising. Losing weight and getting healthier often tops the list of resolutions. Remember, it’s not just about working out—eating healthy food is super important too!

    2. Travel More
    For those who love exploring, traveling can be really exciting! It could be as simple as visiting local spots or checking off places on your travel bucket list. There’s nothing like the thrill of discovering new places.

    3. Discover a New Hobby
    With so much time spent on our phones, finding fun new hobbies is important. Whether you want to learn a new language, play an instrument, or try a new sport, being creative can make you feel happy and accomplished.

    4. Spend Wisely
    Sometimes, we tend to spend too much on things like food delivery or online shopping. This year, think about your spending. Try to keep track of where your money goes and only buy what you truly need.

    5. Stop Smoking and Drinking
    Many people know that smoking and drinking can hurt their health. Even though it can be tough to stop, taking small steps can lead to big changes.

    6. Start Reading
    This year, take the time to read more books! Set a goal for how many books you want to read by year-end. It’s a great way to relax and escape into new stories.

    7. Learn to Cook
    Cooking is an important skill to have! Making meals for yourself and your friends can be fun. Plus, you’ll save money by not always ordering takeout.

    8. Spend More Time with Family
    These days, families often end up in separate rooms, staring at screens instead of spending time together. So, make it a goal to hang out more with your family this year!

    9. Get Better Sleep
    Sleep is really important for feeling good and being productive. Try to set a regular bedtime so you can wake up feeling fresh and ready to take on the day.

    10. Take a Digital Detox
    It’s easy to get lost in our devices. Try to take breaks from screens to enjoy some time away from technology. It can help you feel more connected to yourself and others.

    Let’s make 2025 the year we stick to our resolutions and become the best version of ourselves!

  • Charles F. Dolan, HBO and Cablevision Founder, Passes Away at 98

    Charles F. Dolan, HBO and Cablevision Founder, Passes Away at 98

    man who started some of the biggest media companies in the U.S., has passed away at the age of 98. His family shared that he died from natural causes. They wrote, “We are very sad to tell you that our dear father, Charles Dolan, has passed away. He was the brilliant founder of HBO and Cablevision.”

    Dolan is famous for a lot of things in TV and cable. He launched Home Box Office, called HBO, in 1972. He also started Cablevision in 1973 and American Movie Classics in 1984. Additionally, he created News 12 in New York City, which was the first cable channel in the U.S. to provide news 24 hours a day.

    Born in Cleveland, Dolan had to leave John Carroll University to pursue his dreams. He sold Cablevision to Altice, a big European telecom company, for about $17.7 billion in June 2016.

    Dolan lived mostly in Cove Neck Village, New York. He owned part of famous places like Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, and the sports teams New York Knicks and New York Rangers.

    His son, James L. Dolan, was the CEO of Cablevision from 1995 until the sale in 2016. Now, he leads Madison Square Garden Sports Corp, which owns the Knicks and Rangers.

    In a statement, the companies remembered Dolan’s great ideas and how he helped shape their future. They emphasized that his passing wouldn’t change the family’s ownership of these companies.

    Dolan and his family had a net worth of $5.4 billion when he died. He also helped run The Lustgarten Foundation, which fights pancreatic cancer.

    Charles Dolan leaves behind six children, 19 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. His wife, Helen Ann Dolan, passed away earlier in 2023.

  • Jimmy Carter’s Playboy Interview: The Controversy That Shook a Presidency

    Jimmy Carter’s Playboy Interview: The Controversy That Shook a Presidency

    Jimmy Carter, who just passed away at 100 years old, was the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981. He was known as a caring husband and a Christian man. During his 1976 presidential campaign, he sparked a lot of talk when he admitted in a Playboy magazine interview that he felt “lust” and had committed “adultery many times in my heart.” This unexpected admission almost cost him the election.

    Carter talked to Playboy for over five hours, and the interview covered many topics. However, what got everyone’s attention were his comments about religion and personal morals. In one part, when asked if his strong faith could make him too strict as a president, Carter spoke for a long time about how everyone is human and makes mistakes. He believed in keeping church and state separate and saw his faith as humble and forgiving.

    Carter quoted the Bible, saying that even thinking lustful thoughts is like committing adultery. He admitted he had looked at many women that way. Unfortunately, the media twisted his words, and people started calling it his “lust in my heart” interview.

    The interview created a media frenzy. Late-night talk shows joked about it, and cartoons poked fun at him. Carter later regretted that it became the biggest story of his campaign. He felt his words were misunderstood, as he was simply explaining a Bible lesson.

    This ordeal affected his personal life too. Questions about his faithfulness were directed at his wife, Rosalynn Carter. She responded that while Jimmy talks a lot, at least he is honest.

    Despite his strong connection with many Evangelicals, the Playboy interview created a divide, especially among younger voters who saw him as too conservative. His campaign manager called it “the weirdo factor,” aiming to show Carter as relatable. But after his comments became a huge deal, Carter said they were meant to be private. The interviewer argued that Carter was still mic’d up when he said those things.

    The interview also gave his political opponents a chance to hit back. The day after it came out, then-President Gerald Ford invited pastors to talk with him, suggesting they wouldn’t have handled such a situation like Carter had.

    Even though Carter won the 1976 election, the Playboy interview continued to follow him throughout his career. Even years later, he shared his frustration over how the media handled his comments. The interviewer defended Carter, saying his remarks were a normal expression of his faith.

  • Asha Bhosle at 91: Dazzles Fans with ‘Tauba Tauba’ Dance in Dubai!

    Asha Bhosle at 91: Dazzles Fans with ‘Tauba Tauba’ Dance in Dubai!

    At 91 years old, Asha Bhosle is still shining on stage! Recently, she wowed the crowd at a concert in Dubai, showing that she keeps up with today’s music trends. Dressed in a beautiful white sari, she performed “Tauba Tauba,” a catchy song by Karan Aujla from the comedy film Bad Newz.

    What made her performance even more exciting was that she learned and danced to the signature moves of the song, popularized by actor Vicky Kaushal. The audience gave her a big round of applause as she showed everyone how much fun she can have even at her age.

    Videos of her energetic performance spread quickly on the internet, and fans were thrilled! One Instagram user exclaimed, “Asha Bhosle singing and dancing to Tauba Tauba at her Dubai show was not something I expected! What a legend!” Another fan commented on her dance moves, calling them “cute,” while others praised her energy and talent, saying, “She’s doing all this at 91… QUEEN BEHAVIOR!”

    Karan Aujla himself was amazed and shared his feelings on Instagram. He called Asha a “living Goddess of music” and mentioned that she performed his song, which he wrote when he was just 27. Karan felt grateful for this special moment and said it inspired him to create even more music in the future. Asha performed “Tauba Tauba” on stage alongside Sonu Nigam, making the night unforgettable for everyone there.

  • Gogawale Speaks on Chhagan Bhujbal’s Cabinet Exclusion in Maharashtra

    Gogawale Speaks on Chhagan Bhujbal’s Cabinet Exclusion in Maharashtra

    Maharashtra’s government minister and Shiv Sena leader, Bharat Gogawale, stated that the exclusion of NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal from the cabinet is an internal matter for the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). He emphasized that it doesn’t involve their ruling coalition, called Mahayuti, which includes Shiv Sena and the BJP. Gogawale told reporters that only the NCP can decide who should be in the cabinet, just like the Shiv Sena and BJP do for their own ministers.

    Chhagan Bhujbal has expressed disappointment and blamed NCP president Ajit Pawar for not including him in the expanded cabinet of their government with the BJP. Bhujbal mentioned that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis wanted him to be part of the cabinet. Recently, on December 15, 39 lawmakers became ministers, with 33 being cabinet ministers and the rest taking on roles as ministers of state.

  • Top Investment Strategies for 2025: A Simple Guide

    Top Investment Strategies for 2025: A Simple Guide

    Krishna Sanghavi, Chief Investment Officer at Mahindra Manulife, shares his views on the Indian stock market’s potential for growth in 2024 and beyond. He believes that both Aggressive Hybrid Funds, which mix stocks and bonds, and Multi Asset Allocation Funds that include stocks, bonds, gold, and silver, could help investors grow their money while spreading out risk.

    Despite some global troubles and a tough earnings season in H1FY25, Sanghavi thinks the Sensex and Nifty could show 9-10% gains by the end of 2024. However, predicting the market for 2025 is tricky. While some believe we might see gains, Sanghavi thinks they may be more likely later in the year.

    As 2025 approaches, many investors are adjusting their portfolios, hoping to benefit from increased government spending and possible surprises in upcoming earnings reports. Sanghavi advises being cautious and smart with stock choices because the effects of government spending can take time to show results.

    After recent elections in Maharashtra, there’s been a surge in buying stocks related to infrastructure and public sector companies (PSUs). Sanghavi points out that the manufacturing sector will drive India’s growth, with strong support needed from PSUs.

    If someone wants to invest Rs 10 lakh and has a moderate risk appetite, Sanghavi suggests focusing on hybrid funds. This means splitting investments between stocks, bonds, gold, and silver for better growth and safety.

    The IT sector has done well recently, thanks to better earnings and a lower rupee. As we move into 2025, it will be important to watch how global rates change and any tax reforms in the U.S.

    Looking ahead, Sanghavi believes areas like manufacturing, infrastructure, power, and finance will do well in the long run due to their growth potential. However, risks still exist, such as slow growth predictions and possible drops in foreign investments, which could affect the current market rally.