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The White Paper on the Economy, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, discusses the economic mismanagement of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in India. It compares the economic performance of the UPA years to the 10 years of the Narendra Modi government. The paper highlights issues such as double-digit inflation, ailing banking sector, and high policy uncertainty during the UPA years. It also mentions the mismanagement of public finances and the impact of scams on the economy. The paper concludes by stating that the Modi government has stabilized and set the economy on a path of sustained high growth. [Extracted from the article]

The White Paper on Indian Economy, presented by Finance Minister Niramala Sitharaman, criticizes the previous UPA government for bringing India's public finances to a precarious state with high fiscal deficits. The paper states that for six consecutive years between FY09 and FY14, the Gross Fiscal Deficit (GFD) to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio was at least 4.5 percent, reaching over 6 percent in some years. The UPA government's fiscal mismanagement resulted in higher borrowing from the market than anticipated. The White Paper also highlights the efforts of the Modi government in restoring the country's fiscal health by reducing the fiscal deficit and market borrowing. [Extracted from the article]

According to a study released by NITI Aayog, 24.82 crore individuals in India have been lifted out of multidimensional poverty in the past nine years. The Poverty Headcount Ratio has declined from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23, a reduction of 17.89 percentage points. Uttar Pradesh saw the largest decline in the number of poor, followed by Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The study also shows that the pace of decline in poverty was faster between 2015-16 to 2019-21 compared to the period from 2005-06 to 2015-16. All 12 indicators of the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) have shown significant improvement. The paper credits the government's initiatives, such as Poshan Abhiyan and Anemia Mukt Bharat, for the achievement. The discussion paper concludes that India is likely to achieve its target of halving multidimensional poverty before 2030. [Extracted from the article]

Millions of vulnerable children, many of whom lack parental care and residing in alternative care settings, face significant hurdles in accessing their fundamental rights. In India, despite legislative and policy mandates emphasising the government's responsibility 'to protect and promote the rights of children and ensure the right to family and education for all children', many children end up in the alternative care system, mainly institutional care, as other forms of alternative care are still nascent. The institutional setting impacts not only the immediate well-being of these children but also their long-term prospects for successful adult outcomes, along with impacting the entire family. This paper highlights Udayan Care's 1 role as a practitioner. Through insightful practitioner's perspectives, it endeavours to delve into the intricate realm of family-focused interventions in the context of family strengthening. The document explores the experiences, perceptions, and strategies employed and adapted by Udayan Care, as practitioners, across its various programs, highlighting the critical role they play in uplifting children and youth at-risk and preserving their familial ties. This paper describes Udayan Care's mission to strengthen family bonds, its efforts to prevent unnecessary separation of children from their families, and its practices to empower the beneficiaries. It also highlights the importance of linkages and collaborations with other stakeholders, organisations and mentors and also emphasises the practitioners' role in providing a holistic support to the beneficiaries, leading to development of their agency, empowerment and selfindependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SBI Pension Funds Pvt., which manages $50 billion in assets, is considering investing in corporate and state debt due to the narrowing spreads on longer-maturity Indian government bonds. The fund's chief investment officer, Sandeep Pandey, expressed concern that the lack of term premium for longer-dated securities could impact returns for subscribers. Demand for longer-tenor papers has increased, leading to a compression in the spread between 10-year and 30-year bonds. The fund currently holds a portfolio of about one trillion rupees in corporate paper and 2.5 trillion rupees in sovereign and state debt. [Extracted from the article]

Many nations have implemented policies to improve drinking water quality, but challenges arise from overexploited or contaminated groundwater-based sources. This paper aims at examining the aspects of water scarcity, security, and sustainability within an Indian village context. We attempt to compare two rural water supply sources in Nagla Chandi village in Uttar Pradesh, India: (a) untreated groundwater sourced from bore wells and (b) treated water from a reverse osmosis (RO) plant. We observed that subterranean minerals are the primary pollutants of unprocessed water drawn from borewells, which form the main source of drinking water. Even though water from the RO plant meets all the quality parameters of potability, frequent breakdowns of the plant due to improper management force the villagers to drink untreated water from the dug wells fitted with hand pumps, affecting their health. We also found a high incidence of water-borne diseases. The case analysis suggests enhancing village water treatment projects by training local artisans in system repair and increasing Panchayat staff to include trained engineers for technical advice and maintenance. The paper proposes reducing water testing cost in rural areas to make it possible Q4 for local organizations to regularly assess water quality and implement corrective actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Congress party, filed his nomination papers for the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency in India. He described the upcoming elections as a battle to preserve democracy and the soul of the country. Gandhi also expressed his determination, along with the INDIA alliance, to remove the current government from power. He received a warm welcome from locals and party volunteers during a massive roadshow. Gandhi previously won the Wayanad seat in the 2019 elections after losing in Amethi. [Extracted from the article]

In the present paper farmers’ resilience index (FRI) was constructed considering the natural disaster using five dimensions including physical, social, economic, human and natural. The scale is administered to the 240 paddy farmers in two coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh. Principal component analysis was performed in order to fix the weightage for each variable. About (39.58%) of farmers are resilient to natural disasters with the highest resilience score for financial capital (0.641) and natural capital with less resilience score (0.401). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to determine how well the generated model of the scale fits the data. The structural equation modelling (SEM) path diagram was developed based on the conceptual model, which uses resilience as a latent variable. The SEM analysis revealed that four dimensions of capital positively affect farmers’ resilience except for the human capital which negatively affects resilience. To reduce the effects of natural catastrophes in the upcoming years, the adaptation strategies from the highly resilient places can be examined and put into practice in the less resilient areas. It is imperative that development programmes at all levels incorporate climate awareness and stakeholder capacity building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the rise of ethnonationalism in India and its similarities to the Israeli Right. It discusses the targeting of Muslim communities by the Hindu nationalist party, the BJP, through evictions and demolitions of Muslim-owned properties. The article draws parallels between the actions of the BJP and the Israeli government, particularly in terms of bulldozer justice and the use of JCB bulldozers. It also examines the shared history and ideologies of Zionism and Hindutva, as well as the potential for genocide in India. The article emphasizes the need for further research and attention to these issues. Additionally, it discusses the deepening relationship between India and Israel, the rise of Hindutva, and the increase in anti-Muslim initiatives, censorship, and hate crimes in India under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. It also explores the arms trade between India and Israel and the use of Israeli surveillance technology in India. The article concludes by discussing the situation in Assam, India, where government policies have resulted in statelessness and the denial of citizenship to thousands of people, highlighting the interconnected threats of climate change, political repression, and ethnic cleansing in the region. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides an overview of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and the impact it has had on India's political, economic, and foreign policy landscape. It acknowledges Modi's popularity among Indians but also highlights criticisms of his leadership, including concerns about authoritarian tendencies, erosion of democratic pillars, and harm to minority groups. The article emphasizes the need for India's partners and rivals to understand and manage its growing global influence. It also addresses concerns about declining press freedom, democracy, gender equality, adherence to the rule of law, and religious freedom in India. The article concludes by acknowledging the democratic nature of India's political system and the importance of understanding Modi's rise within the context of Indian society. [Extracted from the article]

The most recent period of democratic backsliding in India has come about through an almost classic iteration of 'death by a thousand cuts.' Critics of the Hindu nationalist party of Prime Minister Narendra Modi accuse it of eroding democracy in a relentless stream of small authoritarian steps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A scoping review conducted by researchers at Kasturba Medical College in Karnataka, India, explores the ethical issues surrounding the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in creating human disease models. The study analyzed 24 articles published between 2015 and 2021, focusing on bioethical concerns related to gene editing and CRISPR-Cas9 technology. The articles highlighted various ethical concerns, including safety, efficacy, unintended consequences, harm to the environment, off-target effects, obtaining informed consent, and the risk of misuse. The researchers concluded that the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology raises significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding unintended consequences, and emphasized the need for ethical guidelines, best practices, and ongoing research to investigate the long-term effects of gene modifications. [Extracted from the article]

A cotton candy vending machine that uses a robotic arm has been introduced in Punjagutta's Next Galleria mall in Hyderabad, India, according to a telanganatoday.com report. The machine, dubbed "Crazy Candy," offers 30 customizable designs that it spins and serves... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is among the countries with a high burden of antibiotic-resistant infections. However, in recent years, the discovery of bacteriophages, simply referred to as phages, and phage-based therapy as an alternative to antibiotics, is witnessing rapid developments. BioSpectrum brings out an in-depth report on how bacteriophages are turning out to be one of the best choices to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), its advantages over antibiotics, and how Indian researchers and entrepreneurs are striving to make phage therapy a clinically-validated option to combat AMR. But are the regulations in favour? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article informs about the sensory experience of traveling in India, detailing a journey through the Golden Triangle and beyond, highlighting the vibrant chaos of Old Delhi, the majestic Taj Mahal, and the cultural richness of Jaipur, Pushkar, and Udaipur. Topic include Despite the challenges and surprises of Indian travel, the author and his wife find themselves immersed in the beauty and complexity of the country, creating lasting memories along the way.

An extensive collection of coins from India is set to be auctioned off by Karel de Geus of The Netherlands. The collection includes a Vasudeva I AV dinara and an AV Mohur from Ahmad Shah Durrani. The auction is expected to have a wide range of lots with varying price expectations, making it accessible to a broad range of collectors. The catalogues for the sale are available to view online, and online bidding is also available. [Extracted from the article]

BookMyForex, an online retail foreign exchange platform based in India, has released its latest app version. The update offers instant reloads on the BookMyForex True Zero Markup Card that lets users digitally top up their card in real-time, according to... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IMAX Corporation has partnered with Miraj Entertainment Limited, which operates cinemas across India, in a deal that will install three IMAX with Laser systems at India cinema locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India plans to sell fewer bonds than initially estimated as the government reins in spending ahead of elections and the inclusion of the nation's debt in global indexes. The finance ministry announced that bonds worth 7.5 trillion rupees ($90 billion) will be sold in the first half of the fiscal year, lower than the 8.5 trillion rupees estimated in a Bloomberg survey. The decision to reduce borrowing is due to the government's desire to avoid sitting on unused cash, according to Finance Secretary TV Somanathan. The sale comes as foreign funds have shown interest in Indian debt ahead of their inclusion in JPMorgan Chase & Co.'s global indexes in June. [Extracted from the article]

Cashfree Payments, a payments company based in India, announced RiskShield, a risk management tool for payment gateways. The company aims to reduce fraud, chargebacks and disputes, according to a press release. The solution uses AI to detect fraudulent transactions patterns and protect merchants from loses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is preparing for its largest election ever, with almost 950 million registered voters set to cast their ballots. Despite the Modi government's mixed record, including slow economic growth and a lack of job creation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is favored to win another five years in office. The BJP has been successful in appealing to multiple constituencies, including Hindu nationalists and the urban middle class, through targeted messages and policy measures. The opposition parties are divided and weak, lacking a credible alternative candidate for the prime ministership. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University) on the topic of feminine hygiene product adoption in India, specifically from the perspective of gynecologists. The study utilized the theory of planned behavior (TPB) as a framework and involved in-depth interviews with 25 gynecologists. The research found that factors such as comfort and product knowledge play a significant role in shaping women's attitudes and intentions towards adopting feminine hygiene products. The study offers valuable insights for stakeholders in the healthcare industry, policymakers, and product manufacturers, emphasizing the need to normalize the acceptance of feminine hygiene products and promote their efficacy. This research contributes to the understanding of women's menstrual hygiene behavior and provides a foundation for further research and interventions. [Extracted from the article]

Axis Bank, based in India, has added donation as a category to Bharat Bill Payment System to allow its customers to make charitable contributions. It is the only BBPS biller operating unit to enable this feature, according to a press release. With these digital donations, charities can lower costs and they can accept link-based payments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India and Mauritius have opened a new airstrip and jetty on the islands of Agalega, which will enhance military infrastructure in the region. The facilities will help strengthen maritime security and combat terrorism, piracy, and the illegal narcotics trade. The move is significant as countries like the US, France, the UK, India, and China are increasing their presence in the Indian Ocean. India, in particular, will benefit from the new facilities as its warships can refuel there and its surveillance aircraft can land on the airstrip. India has also provided financial aid to Mauritius in recent years. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report published in Blood Weekly highlights the challenges India faces in addressing the burden of HIV infections. The government offers HIV-1 plasma viral load testing, but the large population and diverse demographics of the country make it difficult to reach all those in need. The report suggests that dried blood spot (DBS) sampling could be a cost-effective alternative for HIV-1 viral load testing, particularly in resource-limited settings. DBS-based testing has shown promise in terms of feasibility and accuracy, and its implementation could improve early detection of treatment failure and guide therapeutic decisions. The report explores the principles, advancements, feasibility, and implications of DBS-based HIV-1 viral load testing. [Extracted from the article]

RBL Bank, a bank in India, partnered with Innoviti Technologies Pvt. Ltd., to create an omnichannel payments platform called Omnium for merchants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India has invited global bids for the development of four offshore wind farms with a capacity of 1GW each off its south-eastern coast near Tamil Nadu. The winners of the tender will set up the farms and sell electricity directly to consumers under the open access regime. These projects will not receive any government subsidiary, as the energy will be sold to companies in the high-tariff band. The tender was expected since December 2023, and the scope of work includes survey and development activities, transmission system development, and power consumption or sale options. India aims to achieve 10GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030. [Extracted from the article]

Indian regulators are cracking down on potential fraud in the financial sector, with Paytm being the first target. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has suspended most activities of Paytm's banking affiliate due to lapses in customer verification. This crackdown reflects growing impatience from authorities, and more penalties and stricter measures are expected. The RBI has been concerned about lapses in customer verification, as fraud cases have been on the rise. The central bank has imposed fines and is getting stricter on Know-Your-Customer (KYC) compliance. [Extracted from the article]

India's Supreme Court has ruled that electoral bonds, a political funding tool introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, are unconstitutional. The bonds allowed for anonymous donations to political parties, but the court determined that voters have the right to information necessary for casting their vote. The ruling comes just months before an election and is seen as a setback for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which was the main beneficiary of the funds. However, analysts believe that the ruling may not significantly impact the BJP's chances in the upcoming election. [Extracted from the article]

India's Supreme Court has banned the use of anonymous donation instruments called electoral bonds for political fundraising. These bonds allowed individuals or companies to contribute to political parties through a banking channel while keeping their identities anonymous. The court ruled that voters have the right to information necessary for casting their votes, and anonymous contributions could lead to quid pro quo benefits for large corporate donors. The decision is expected to make India's elections more transparent, although there are no restrictions on the overall amount of political funding. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which benefited the most from electoral bonds, may be particularly affected by the verdict. [Extracted from the article]

India's Supreme Court has ruled that electoral bonds, a controversial political funding tool, are invalid. The bonds allow for anonymous donations to political parties, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) being the main beneficiary. The court's decision has been praised for promoting transparency, but some argue that it may not significantly impact the BJP's funding so close to the elections. The BJP has collected a significant amount of funding through electoral bonds, while the main opposition party, Indian National Congress, has received a smaller share. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi focuses on the development of a clinical registry digital database on invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in India. The lack of comprehensive and well-structured data on IFIs has hindered efforts to understand their true burden and optimize patient care. To address this, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has initiated a project called ICMR-MycoNet, which aims to develop a network of Advanced Mycology Diagnostic research centers and establish a web-based data entering and monitoring platform. This registry will provide crucial epidemiological insights and improve patient outcomes in the face of this healthcare challenge. [Extracted from the article]

Nuclear Asher LLP has developed India's first multilingual QR security application to protect users against digital attacks. The application uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to scan QR codes in real-time and detect potential threats. With the increasing number of QR code-related scams in the country, the application provides an additional layer of security for individuals and businesses. The company aims to continuously improve the application to address future digital threats and plans to integrate features such as UPI account holder identification and protection against digital confusion. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Government Medical College and Hospital in Chandigarh, India, highlights the fragmented state of cancer care in India. The study focuses on the inequities in access to radiation therapy for cancer treatment and proposes potential solutions to improve access. The researchers conducted a literature review, analyzing articles that addressed barriers to radiation treatment and identified key challenges and interventions. The study concludes that bridging the gaps in cancer care requires improving infrastructure, establishing standardized treatment guidelines, optimizing available equipment, and providing economic support through national insurance schemes. [Extracted from the article]

Hitachi Payment Services, a payments provider in India, has launched Hitachi Cash Management Services through its acquisition of Writer Corp's cash management business. It has appointed Anup Neogi as managing director and CEO of the company, according to a press... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pimpri Chinchwad, a city in India, will install health information kiosks at three hospitals: Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial Hospital, Talera Hospital and Yamuna Nagar Hospital, according to a Hindustan Times report. The touchscreen kiosk allows individuals to access personal health information... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hitachi Payment Services, a payments provider in India, has launched Hitachi Cash Management Services through its acquisition of Writer Corp's cash management business. It has appointed Anup Neogi as managing director and CEO of the company, according to a press... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted at the L.V. Prasad Eye Institute in India analyzed electronic medical records of patients with keratoconus (KCN) to describe its clinical presentation and demographic distribution. The study included data from 2,384,523 patients between January 2012 and March 2020. The findings showed that KCN is predominantly bilateral and affects males. It commonly presents in the second and third decade of life, and only a small percentage of affected eyes require surgical treatment. [Extracted from the article]