LS polls round the corner, CEC Rajiv Kumar now sole member of EC after Arun Goel resigned. SC had upheld constitutionality of single-member commission in TN Seshan & SS Dhanoa cases.
Rajiv Kumar, who retired as finance secretary in Feb 2020, has worked on key aspects of several flagship projects under PM Modi, and monitored work on banking & pension reforms.
There is a high probability of a third wave in India, NITI Aayog's Kumar said, by way of supporting his prescription to overlook fiscal considerations until the pandemic is curbed.
The split in the EC came over the Madras HC’s censure and ‘murder-charges’ remark. The body was reportedly not unanimous in its approval for the plea on a gag order on media.
Rajiv Kumar says Modi govt’s labour reforms and PLI scheme will boost industry and exports, and not joining RCEP won’t freeze India out of global markets.
Kumar, however, ruled out the possibility of a recession as after June, he does expect some sectors such as hospitality, transport, entertainment and FMCG to start functioning.
Industry says manufacturers have 2-4 weeks of buffer stocks, but prolonged disruption could push up shortage risks, especially of consumables like IV and syringes.
French newspaper La Tribune earlier last week indicated that UAE withdrew from deal to fund EUR 3.5 billion. India is looking to order 114 new Rafales, which could include the F5.
China patiently invested capital, skill and technology in coal gasification. Unlike it, we won’t move from words to action. As crude prices decline, we lose interest.
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