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Hospitals in Gaza Warn of Fuel Shortage Amid Intensifying Conflict

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The Gaza health ministry has sounded an alarm, warning that hospitals in the territory have only two days’ worth of fuel left. This urgent appeal comes amid escalating conflict and worsening humanitarian conditions, with aid deliveries facing severe disruptions. Marwan al-Hams, director of Gaza’s field hospitals, issued a dire warning, stating that hospitals will cease operations or significantly limit services if fuel supplies are not replenished. The United Nations has echoed these concerns, highlighting that essential aid, including food, water, and medical supplies, is being severely hampered due to Israeli restrictions and growing insecurity in the region. Key Developments: ICC Arrest Warrants: The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity, particularly the alleged use of starvation as a method of warfare. Humanitarian Crisis: The UN and the World Health Organization (WHO) have expressed grave concerns about the deteriorating conditions, especially in northern Gaza. Israeli military operations in Jabalia and Beit Lahia have caused mass casualties and displacement. International Reactions: While some leaders, including US President Joe Biden, criticized the ICC’s warrants, others, like Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, supported legal accountability. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban offered a contrasting stance, inviting Netanyahu to visit in defiance of the ICC. Escalation Beyond Gaza: The conflict has spilled over into Lebanon, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds. Clashes have resulted in significant casualties, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting over 3,580 deaths since late September. The war, which began after Hamas’s deadly attack on October 7, 2023, has claimed tens of thousands of lives in Gaza, with the majority being civilians, according to the Gaza health ministry. Meanwhile, calls for a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access continue to grow from the international community. Source: NDTV Photo Credit: NDTV

West Bengal Activates Central Referral System in Five Kolkata Medical Colleges to Streamline Patient Transfers

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The West Bengal government has initiated a central referral system across five prominent medical colleges in Kolkata. This development follows recent demands from junior doctors and healthcare staff who have advocated for improved safety and operational protocols in the wake of tragic incidents affecting healthcare professionals. Alongside this system, a digital bed vacancy monitor has been introduced at the NRS Medical College and Hospital, providing real-time information on bed availability in each department. According to a senior official from the state health department, the newly activated central referral system is designed to facilitate smoother and quicker transfers of patients requiring advanced care from rural hospitals to the city’s medical colleges. By enabling district hospitals to reserve a bed in Kolkata-based establishments before referring patients, the system aims to reduce the uncertainty and delay often experienced in patient transfers. The central referral system is now operational in five key healthcare institutions in Kolkata: Calcutta Medical College and Hospital, SSKM Hospital, RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, NRS Medical College and Hospital, and National Medical College. These facilities have started responding to requests from district hospitals in rural West Bengal, marking the beginning of a more organized and transparent process. Key Features of the Central Referral System The core of the central referral system lies in its digital framework, which connects rural and district hospitals with city-based medical colleges through an online portal. Hospitals in rural areas can now make a formal bed request on behalf of patients needing higher-level medical support, particularly in complex cases where specialized treatments are necessary. Once a request is received, the medical colleges in Kolkata will promptly update their bed availability status, allowing rural hospitals to receive immediate confirmation on whether the patient can be accommodated. This enables faster and more efficient patient transport from rural facilities to Kolkata, thereby reducing critical time loss in emergency situations. An official from the health department remarked, “The central referral system was activated today in the five major medical colleges in Kolkata. Complete implementation will take a few more days to fully optimize the process.” He further highlighted that the referral system would soon be extended to additional healthcare facilities across the state, making it possible for more hospitals to link directly with Kolkata’s primary medical institutions. Digital Bed Vacancy Monitor to Increase Transparency To complement the referral system, a digital bed vacancy monitor has been introduced at NRS Medical College and Hospital, one of Kolkata’s busiest healthcare facilities. This digital monitor provides a real-time display of bed occupancy, showing the current number of beds available across different departments. Families and patients will be able to view these updates on screens located within the hospital, reducing confusion and ensuring that those in need are informed of availability as they arrive. “This digital monitor will offer transparent and accurate data, keeping families and referring hospitals well-informed,” the health official added. The display board at NRS Medical College and Hospital is set to show real-time bed occupancy across departments, providing essential information to both healthcare providers and the public. This system is expected to alleviate the long-standing issue of patients and families being turned away or directed to other facilities due to bed shortages without proper information. Healthcare Reforms in Response to Junior Doctors’ Demands The implementation of these systems comes in response to recent protests and demands from junior doctors who have called for improvements in healthcare infrastructure and staff safety protocols. Following the tragic assault on a medical professional at RG Kar Medical College, the need for reform has been amplified, with doctors and healthcare workers urging for better safeguards and resources. The government’s swift action in implementing these systems reflects a commitment to improving both safety and efficiency within the state’s healthcare framework. Looking Forward: Statewide Implementation While the central referral system and digital bed monitor have initially been activated in Kolkata, plans are underway to extend these initiatives throughout West Bengal. The state health department is working on integrating more hospitals into the system, with the goal of building a seamless network that covers not only Kolkata but also rural areas across the state. By creating a unified platform for bed availability and patient transfer, the government aims to make healthcare services more accessible to residents in every district. The activation of these systems represents a forward-thinking approach in West Bengal’s healthcare landscape, prioritizing patient care and operational transparency. As more hospitals join the network, the state anticipates a significant reduction in patient transfer delays and an increase in the efficient use of healthcare resources, contributing to better outcomes for patients and a more organized system for healthcare professionals. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit : Business Standard

Ratan Tata, Visionary Leader and Philanthropist, Passes Away at 86

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Ratan Tata, the esteemed former chairman of the Tata Group and one of India’s most beloved business icons, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. Tata had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai for age-related health conditions, including blood pressure complications. Despite rumors about his deteriorating health over the past week, his passing has left the nation mourning a towering figure in Indian industry and philanthropy. Known for his leadership and integrity, Ratan Tata transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse after taking over as chairman in 1991. Under his guidance, the group made bold international acquisitions, including Tetley, Jaguar Land Rover, and Corus Steel, firmly establishing India’s presence in the global business landscape. His leadership not only expanded the Tata Group but also brought international attention to India’s economic potential. Beyond business, Tata was deeply committed to philanthropy, contributing to education, healthcare, and rural development through the Tata Trusts. His quiet demeanor and humility endeared him to millions. Despite his immense success, he led a modest life, avoiding the lavish lifestyle associated with billionaires. Tata received numerous honors throughout his life, including India’s highest civilian awards, the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. His philanthropic efforts and contributions to society earned him further accolades, including the Assam Baibhav in 2021 for advancing cancer care in Assam. Prime Minister of India shared condolence over the loss saying “My mind is filled with countless interactions with Shri Ratan Tata Ji. I would meet him frequently in Gujarat when I was the CM. We would exchange views on diverse issues. I found his perspectives very enriching. These interactions continued when I came to Delhi. Extremely pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family, friends and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti.” Alongside, President of India has tweeted a message saying “In the sad demise of Shri Ratan Tata, India has lost an icon who blended corporate growth with nation building, and excellence with ethics. A recipient of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, he took forward the great Tata legacy and gave it a more impressive global presence. He inspired seasoned professionals and young students alike. His contribution to philanthropy and charity is invaluable. I convey my condolences to his family, the entire team of the Tata Group and his admirers across the globe.” As the nation mourns his passing, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his condolences, calling him a “Titan of the Indian industry” and a visionary who left an indelible mark on India’s economy and society. Ratan Tata’s legacy as a business leader and philanthropist will continue to inspire generations to come. The country unites in grief, with heartfelt tributes and condolences flooding in from across the spectrum – business tycoons, political dignitaries, and ordinary citizens alike – to celebrate the extraordinary life and achievements of Shri Ratan Tata. India has lost a giant, a visionary who redefined modern India’s path. Ratan Tata wasn’t just a business leader – he embodied the spirit of India with integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the greater good. Legends like him never fade away. Om Shanti 🙏 pic.twitter.com/mANuvwX8wV — Gautam Adani (@gautam_adani) October 9, 2024 It is a very sad day for India and India Inc. Ratan Tata’s passing away is a big loss, not just to the Tata Group, but to every Indian. At a personal level, the passing of Ratan Tata has filled me with immense grief as I lost a dear friend. Each of my numerous interactions with… — Reliance Industries Limited (@RIL_Updates) October 9, 2024 My last meeting with Ratan Tata at Google, we talked about the progress of Waymo and his vision was inspiring to hear. He leaves an extraordinary business and philanthropic legacy and was instrumental in mentoring and developing the modern business leadership in India. He deeply… — Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) October 9, 2024 Ratan Tata: the man who made India proud. His legacy remains in posterity. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/Sk414lTjKW — Uday Kotak (@udaykotak) October 9, 2024 I am unable to accept the absence of Ratan Tata. India’s economy stands on the cusp of a historic leap forward. And Ratan’s life and work have had much to do with our being in this position. Hence, his mentorship and guidance at this point in time would have been invaluable.… pic.twitter.com/ujJC2ehTTs — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) October 9, 2024 Deeply saddened by the demise of legendary industrialist and true nationalist, Shri Ratan Tata Ji. He selflessly dedicated his life to the development of our nation. Every time I met him, his zeal and commitment to the betterment of Bharat and its people amazed me. His commitment… pic.twitter.com/TJOp8skXCo — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 9, 2024 The passing away of Ratan Tata is the end of an era. He was deeply associated with the modernisation of Indian industry. And even more so with its globalisation. Was my privilege to have interacted with him on numerous occasions. And benefitted from his vision and insights.… — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 10, 2024 I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Ratan Tata Ji, a proud son of the nation. Over three decades, I was privileged to have a deeply personal and close family relationship with him, where I witnessed his humility, simplicity, and genuine respect for everyone, regardless of… — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) October 9, 2024

AI Governance Market Set to Surge to $5.8 Billion by 2029, Driven by Compliance and Ethical Demands

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The AI Governance Market is poised for remarkable growth, expected to rise from $890.6 million in 2024 to an impressive $5,776.0 million by 2029, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 45.3%. This surge is largely attributed to increasing regulatory pressures and the growing demand for compliance as governments worldwide implement stricter regulations regarding artificial intelligence (AI) systems. One notable example is the European Union’s AI Act, which mandates risk assessments and compliance audits for AI systems, especially in high-stakes sectors like healthcare and finance. This heightened scrutiny has prompted organizations to adopt comprehensive governance frameworks, as failure to comply could lead to significant reputational damage. The recent controversy surrounding OpenAI’s GPT models, which raised concerns over misinformation and bias, underscores the critical need for robust AI oversight. Additionally, Amazon’s withdrawal of its biased AI recruiting tool serves as a stark reminder of the financial and reputational risks associated with unregulated AI systems. As AI adoption accelerates across heavily regulated industries, particularly in Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) and healthcare, the need for effective AI governance tools becomes more pronounced. Companies in these sectors face immense pressure to adhere to evolving regulations, prompting them to seek out governance solutions that ensure compliance. Data Governance Tools Lead the Charge In terms of product type, data governance tools are projected to capture the largest market share in 2024, thanks to their robust capabilities in data provenance and lineage. These tools enable organizations to monitor data quality and track potential biases within training datasets, ensuring that AI systems do not produce biased or unfair outcomes. For instance, data governance tools can implement profiling techniques to assess fairness and establish data lineage, addressing any issues in data sourcing. The increasing regulatory requirements for documentation, tracking, and record-keeping of the data used in AI systems have further amplified the significance of data governance. These tools play a vital role in compliance, offering traceability and accuracy that organizations require to implement responsible AI practices. Rise of Ethical AI The demand for ethical AI usage, especially in machine learning (ML) platforms and generative AI models, is propelling software and technology providers to become the fastest-growing end-user segment in the AI Governance Market. As these providers rapidly adopt governance tools to ensure the trustworthiness and ethical integrity of their AI systems, the regulatory scrutiny intensifies. Major players in the industry, such as Microsoft and Google, are establishing internal ethical frameworks to uphold strong ethical standards across their AI offerings. Stakeholders increasingly expect technology companies to develop AI responsibly, making it imperative for businesses to integrate ethical practices and compliance measures to sustain brand trust and growth. North America Leads the Market North America is set to hold the largest share of the AI Governance Market in 2024, driven by a robust regulatory environment and significant investments in responsible AI deployment. Federal funding for AI governance in the region exceeded $1 billion in 2023, indicating a growing commitment to responsible AI research and implementation. Industries under strict regulations, such as healthcare and banking, are at the forefront of governance adoption, with 45% of healthcare providers citing regulatory compliance as a crucial business requirement. Many businesses anticipate even stricter AI regulations in the coming years, with 62% highlighting data privacy compliance as a key driver for governance implementation. Furthermore, consumer trust plays a pivotal role; 78% of American consumers prefer brands that employ ethical AI practices. Organizations are increasingly prioritizing fairness in their AI systems, turning to tools like IBM’s AI Fairness 360 to mitigate bias, with 56% of companies taking such measures. Financial institutions, in particular, are focusing on risk management, prioritizing governance to address AI-related challenges. Key Players in the Market The AI Governance Market features significant players, including Microsoft, IBM, SAS Institute, DataRobot, and Dataiku, alongside innovative SMEs and startups like Fiddler AI, 2021.AI, Monitaur, Credo AI, and Fairly AI. These organizations are shaping the future of AI governance, ensuring that ethical practices and compliance measures become integral to AI development. As the AI Governance Market continues to expand, organizations that embrace robust governance frameworks will be well-positioned to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and leverage the full potential of AI technologies. The increasing focus on ethical AI and compliance will drive innovation and ensure that AI systems remain trustworthy and effective in addressing real-world challenges.  

Developed India Needs Civil Governance Reforms for Inclusive Growth by 2047

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Achieving a developed India by 2047 requires significant reforms in civil governance to foster inclusivity, ensuring that every citizen can realize their full potential. A focus on double-digit growth to boost per capita income and enhancing human capital is essential, especially as half of the population is projected to live in urban areas over the next decade. Institutional flexibility and autonomy must be introduced in areas such as education, health, and nutrition. Civil governance reforms need to prioritize the bottom quintile of income earners, skilling, green growth, and urban living standards. To ensure effectiveness, decentralizing community action under the leadership of gram panchayats and urban local bodies is vital, with a strong role for women’s collectives in monitoring progress. The need for institutional flexibility, transparency in standard setting, city-wide planning, and capacity development is critical. A right to public services with guaranteed compliance, along with community-led action, will complement these changes. Furthermore, convergence across sectors such as education, health, nutrition, and employment is vital, as improvements in one sector often lead to benefits in others. To ensure accountability, data on public service performance, validated by local governments, should be made publicly available. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework can serve as a measure for governance success, with processes like the Mission Antyodaya Survey providing data on progress at the local level. Innovations in human resource engagement, performance-based assessments, and longer tenures for development functionaries are essential for sustained improvements in human development. Ultimately, evidence-based governance driven by community-led planning, transparent beneficiary selection, and conviction-based leadership is the key to realizing an inclusive and developed India by 2047.

GOAT Box Office Day 1: Vijay’s Film Earns Rs 55 Crore, Sets New Record as Biggest Tamil Opener

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Thalapathy Vijay’s highly anticipated film The GOAT has shattered records at the Tamil box office, earning an estimated Rs 55 crore on its opening day across India. This impressive figure marks the film as the biggest Tamil opener, surpassing all expectations. The GOAT becomes the third Vijay film and the fifth overall from Kollywood to cross the Rs 50 crore threshold on its opening day. In Tamil Nadu alone, the film grossed over Rs 30 crore, with final numbers expected to be between Rs 32-35 crore, according to early reports. This puts The GOAT in line with Vijay’s other massive openers, such as Sarkar, Beast, and Leo, all of which have crossed the Rs 30 crore mark. It remains to be seen if The GOAT can break the first-day record held by Beast at Rs 35 crore as official figures are confirmed. The GOAT’s strong debut has dethroned Kamal Haasan’s Indian 2 as the biggest Tamil film opener of 2024, which previously held the record with Rs 26 crore net earnings in India. The film’s success further cements Vijay’s dominance at the Tamil Nadu box office, driven by his star power alone, as it lacks a popular IP or standout musical score to boost its appeal. Outside Tamil Nadu, the film also saw significant success, grossing over Rs 9 crore in Karnataka and Rs 6 crore in Kerala. However, it received a lukewarm response in the Telugu states, with analysts attributing the lower numbers to the film’s music, which may not have resonated as strongly with audiences in those regions. Despite mixed reviews, including a 2.5/5 rating from News18 Showsha, which criticized the film for lacking depth and character development, The GOAT’s record-breaking debut highlights Vijay’s unmatched box office pull, solidifying his title as the “Greatest of All Time” in Tamil cinema.    

Heatstroke Took 374 Lives, Over 67,000 Cases Till July 27: Health Ministry

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India has reported 374 deaths and 67,637 cases of suspected heatstroke from March 1 to July 27 this year, according to Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel. The alarming figures were disclosed in the Lok Sabha on Friday. The latest data reveals a significant increase from the earlier estimates provided by the Ministry of Health, which reported 110 deaths and 42,000 cases by June 18. The majority of these incidents occurred in rural areas, where strenuous outdoor work associated with agriculture and poor health infrastructure exacerbated the impact of the heatwave. Uttar Pradesh was the worst-hit state, recording 52 deaths. Bihar followed with 37 fatalities, while Odisha and Delhi reported 26 and 25 deaths respectively. These statistics were compiled under the National Heat-Related Illness and Death Surveillance by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Government Response and Measures The Integrated Health Information Portal has been receiving data on heatstroke cases and deaths from States and Union Territories since 2023, as noted by Minister Patel. State and UT health departments get yearly warnings from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) to put awareness, readiness, and response plans into place. The Union Health Ministry’s Secretary communicated with the chief secretaries of all states and UTs on February 29 in order to release this year’s advise. The warning included steps to improve community awareness of heat-related diseases and to bolster health sector readiness. Record-Breaking Temperatures and Weather Anomalies With a blistering 47 degrees Celsius, June 2024 witnessed the hottest temperature recorded in the month in a decade. The hottest temperatures ever recorded in June 2023 were 41.8 degrees Celsius, 44.2 degrees Celsius in 2022, and 43 degrees Celsius in 2021. This is a considerable rise above the prior records. Furthermore, July was the second warmest month overall in India since 1901 and the highest nighttime temperature ever recorded in the country. Significant flooding resulted from the abnormally high rains that followed the record temperatures in various states, including Gujarat, Kerala, and Uttar Pradesh. It was the hottest July on record for both mean and lowest temperatures in the east and northeast of India. The terrible heatwave has made it clear how urgently better infrastructure and readiness are needed to deal with extreme weather, especially in rural regions. The growing frequency and intensity of these occurrences highlight the significance of long-term policies to address climate change and its implications on public health, even if the government’s preemptive actions and advisories play a key role in lessening the impact of such heatwaves. Reference taken from the Hindu

Tax Reforms in Budget 2024 to Boost Capital Flows and M&A Transactions in India

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New India is clearly the fastest-growing economy in the world. To maintain this status, two elements are critical: robust capital flows from domestic corporates, multinationals, and financial sponsors, and a push for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and other value creation activities. This Budget, the first one in the third term of the government, thus carries great expectations from investors and India Inc. Here are seven predictions on what one could potentially see in the current Budget from an M&A standpoint. Valuation Rules for Listed Company Transactions: Listed company transactions in India today face a peculiar and unique problem. Valuation rules enshrined in the anti-abuse provision contained in section 56 of the Income Tax Act can be misinterpreted, leading to unintended consequences. Even bona fide trades between unrelated parties at prices discovered transparently and commercially negotiated could still be subject to artificial pricing norms, exposing the transaction to ordinary income taxes in the hands of the buyer. In the current markets, one would expect a host of listed company transactions, and the government would likely want to resolve this issue. Rationalization of Capital Gains Tax Rates: There has been discussion around the various different tax rates applicable to capital gains in different situations. In the context of the current active transactions market, taxability of capital gains has assumed greater relevance. One may expect some rationalization of the rates and holding periods for transactions that give rise to capital gains taxes. Deferral of Taxes on Share Swaps: Deferral of taxes on share swaps has been a long-standing point of conversation. The logic is simple – a share swap in certain situations largely achieves the same result as a merger. If a merger is accorded tax deferral, then it stands to reason that, subject to prescribed anti-abuse conditions, which could include non-monetization covenants, the same treatment be accorded to swap transactions. This would also make our law consistent with the tax provisions applicable in other markets such as the US. Financing of M&A Activity: Financing of M&A activity in India is more difficult owing to legal restrictions. This places Indian acquirers at a competitive disadvantage relative to their foreign peers while bidding for assets. While this is not an issue to be centrally addressed by the Budget, a directional policy indication on this count would be useful in bolstering the confidence of the markets and leveling the playing field for domestic acquirers. Reconsidering Tax Distinctions Between Industrial and Non-Industrial Companies: In today’s value creation cycle, the historical distinction that the tax law makes between an industrial and a non-industrial company merits reconsideration. There are benefits, for example, consolidation of losses in a merger scenario, available to companies carrying on manufacturing or industrial activities but not typically to most classes of services or non-industrial companies. At a time when significant value in the economy is being generated from non-industrial companies, the time to reconsider this distinction is perhaps with the current Budget. Taxation Regime for Deal Structures: M&A transactions in India, particularly at the current valuation levels, have started employing tools used globally to bridge valuation gaps. These include earn-outs, deferred considerations, and contingent payments. Aligning tax laws to these deal realities by providing a clear taxation regime is something the government can achieve without losing tax revenue – this will go a long way in clearing the path for such transactions to occur seamlessly. Clean-ups in the Tax Law: Provisions involving overseas mergers of companies that hold Indian assets are already accorded tax neutrality. These provisions need certain “clean-up” clarifications to make them workable. Likewise, Indian holding companies of overseas subsidiaries will benefit from some clarificatory amendments for restructuring of such overseas subsidiaries. This government has shown responsiveness to valid asks around the theme of clarifications and clean-ups, and one would expect these to be carried in the current Budget.  

Pension Budget 2024 Expectations: FM May Offer Guarantee Under NPS; Central Government Employees Likely to Get 50% of Last Pay Drawn as Pension

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The government plans to provide 50% of the final pay drawn as pension for central government employees enrolled in the National Pension System (NPS). This effort addresses their worries about the pension payout, even though the current scheme offers attractive returns for those who remain invested for 25-30 years, especially for those recruited after 2004, according to a news report by Sidhartha in Times of India. A committee, led by Finance Secretary T V Somanathan, was formed after an announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Although the government has rejected a return to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), it has left open the option to provide some level of reassurance. This comes amidst the Congress announcing a reversal of a decision made by the Manmohan Singh government. What is the Old Pension Scheme (OPS)? For the OPS scheme, government employees can receive half of their last drawn salary as a lifelong pension. This amount is subject to adjustments based on pay commission recommendations. The OPS ensures that government employees receive a guaranteed monthly pension upon retirement, provided they have completed at least ten years of service. This pension amount is calculated based on their last drawn basic salary and the total number of years in service. One of the key features of the OPS is that the government is responsible for paying the entire pension amount to the retired government employees. This means that during their years of service, no portion of the employees’ salaries is deducted towards their pension fund. This scheme offers financial security and stability to government employees after their retirement, allowing them to plan for their post-retirement life with confidence. On the other hand, the NPS scheme works differently, as it is a defined contribution plan. Under this scheme, government employees contribute 10% of their basic salary, and the Centre provides a 14% contribution. Pension: Budget 2024 Expectations The Somanathan committee has examined the international experience and studied the adjustments made by the Andhra Pradesh government. Additionally, extensive calculations have assessed the effects of guaranteeing a certain return. “Although it is possible for the Centre to offer 40-45% guarantee, politically, it does not address the concern of employees who work for 25-30 years. As a result, there is growing acknowledgment within the govt of offering a 50% guarantee. Which means in case of a shortfall, the govt will fill the gap,” according to the Times of India news report. The committee members believe that an annual assessment must be carried out, as opposed to the government pension system, which is unfunded because the Centre lacks a retirement fund. The Centre will probably establish a fund this time in Budget 2024, similar to companies that provide retirement benefits to their employees. Officials have stated that individuals who remain employed for 25-30 years are experiencing satisfactory returns that align with the pension payments received by those under the OPS. They have noted that the grievances regarding low payouts primarily come from individuals who have left the scheme after completing 20 years or less. On January 11, 2024, in a memorandum, the Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (NJCA), formed under the banner of the NJCA, urged the finance ministry to reinstate the non-contributory and guaranteed Old Pension Scheme instead of the contributory National Pension System for central government employees – including those in railways, defense, postal, income tax, accounts and audit, central secretariat, Isro, DAE, etc., as well as for autonomous bodies, paramilitary forces, and all state govt./Union territory employees, comprising primary teachers, high school and higher secondary teachers, and College and University Teachers, etc. The reinstatement applies to employees hired on or after January 1, 2004. The department of expenditure of the finance ministry responded to the demand for the Guaranteed Old Pension Scheme (OPS) to replace the existing National Pension System (NPS) for central government employees, as requested by the Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (NJCA), “It is informed that the Committee formed under the Chairmanship of FS & SE to look into the issue of NPS has already had two rounds of detailed discussion with the Staff Side of National Council (JCM) and the valuable views of the NC (JCM) have already been noted by the Committee.”

ADB Approves $170 Million Loan to Strengthen Health Sector in India

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The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $170 million policy-based loan to enhance India’s readiness and capability in the health sector to address future pandemics. This funding, under the Strengthened and Measurable Actions for Resilient and Transformative Health Systems (Subprogramme 1), will support the implementation of the government’s National Health Policy 2017. The policy aims to ensure universal access to high-quality healthcare services across the country. Sonalini Khetrapal, a senior health specialist at ADB, stated, “The Covid-19 pandemic has taught us valuable lessons and the adoption of several innovative practices that would significantly strengthen pandemic preparedness and response capacities if consolidated, sustained, and institutionalised. ADB has been working with the Government of India to strengthen its health system and adopt transformative solutions.” This loan will address deficiencies in governance, legislation, and institutional structures, advancing India’s objective of achieving universal access to quality and affordable healthcare services, Khetrapal added. Work Towards Disease Surveillance Systems The programme aims to enhance disease surveillance systems to promptly address public health threats. It will establish laboratory networks for monitoring infectious diseases across states, union territories, and metropolitan areas. Additionally, it will assist in developing reliable data systems to oversee and align national health initiatives targeting disadvantaged populations such as the poor and women. “The programme will improve the governance and coordination of India’s One Health approach, its multisector response to emerging infectious diseases,” the press release stated. Efforts to Implement Policy Reforms ADB will assist in implementing policy reforms aimed at ensuring sufficient and skilled healthcare professionals. This effort includes legislation to oversee and uphold educational standards, service quality, and professional ethics among nurses, midwives, allied healthcare workers, and doctors. “The programme will help public health and health management teams deployed in some states to support public health functions and improve service delivery,” the release said. The programme aims to oversee integrated public health laboratories in five states and district critical care hospital units to enhance services for infectious diseases and critical illnesses. It will aid the intersectoral governing body and multisector task force in establishing environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient healthcare facilities. Furthermore, it will promote innovative approaches to service delivery.