Survey mentions ‘binding budget constraints’, highlights need to ensure higher private participation in infrastructure and coordinated action from all stakeholders involved.
The finance ministry should not spend ~0.83 trillion for equity infusion into BSNL. Instead, it should ask the telephone company to raise resources from the market.
Union Budget 2024 allocated Rs 11.1 lakh cr as capex for FY25. This is 11% higher than what was budgeted for FY24 and 17% higher than what was actually spent that year.
Leaving interim budget largely unchanged would be in keeping with trend since 2004-05. Even when new parties have come to power, budgetary allocations have not changed substantially.
Fall in capital expenditure indicates Congress govt's shrinking space to create assets. In contrast, Rs 52,000 cr is earmarked for 5 guarantees promised to voters before state polls.
Last 20 years' data shows capex share in spending has risen since 1st term of Modi govt in 2014-15 & that of subsidies has dropped. Under UPA between 2004-2014, subsidies rose while capex fell.
Studies by Bank of Baroda find Centre on track to meet capex target for this fiscal. There’s wide disparity in states’ performances but upcoming polls haven’t derailed the capex process.
This development determined the future course of India’s maritime strategy and ensured that policymakers and defence experts started reviewing the importance of the Bay of Bengal.
The latest comment comes as New Delhi and Washington have yet to sign a trade agreement. India’s purchase of Russian oil has reduced, but Moscow remains top source for crude.
If deal goes through, Greece will be 2nd foreign country to procure vehicle. Morocco was first; TATA Group has set up manufacturing unit there with minimum 30 percent indigenous content.
Many of you might think I got something so wrong in National Interest pieces written this year. I might disagree! But some deserve a Mea Culpa. I’d deal with the most recent this week.
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