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Highlights of the year
Macroeconomic Developments
The Indian economy is estimated to grow at 7% in 2018-19. The RBI reduced the repo rate from 6.5% to 6.25% over the year. As of March 2019, retail inflation stood at 2.9% year on year, and wholesale price index inflation was at 3.2%, year on year.
Social Justice and Empowerment
Parliament passed the 124th Constitutional Amendment Bill. The Bill provides for 10% reservation in education and public employment to economically weaker sections. Reservation of 10% in central educational institutions and central government posts have been notified.
Finance
The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament. It seeks to confiscate properties of economic offenders who have left the country to avoid facing criminal prosecution. RBI released its Annual Report for the year 2017-18 which stated that 99.3% of demonetised notes were returned to the RBI.
Commerce and Industry
FDI norms in e-commerce were revised to disallow investments by any marketplace platforms in any of its own vendors. The draft National E-Commerce Policy was released which imposes restrictions on cross-border flow of data.
Agriculture
PM-KISAN scheme was launched, under which farmer families with total cultivable holding of up to two hectares will be provided income support of Rs 6,000 per year. The Union Cabinet approved the PM-AASHA scheme for procurement of crops and the Agriculture Export Policy, 2018.
Civil Aviation
Guidelines for civil operation of drones were released. The Union Cabinet approved leasing out six airports through PPP, and also proposed a transaction structure for greenfield airports.
Law and Justice
The Supreme Court de-criminalised homosexuality and adultery. The Court also read down some parts of the Aadhaar Act to be unconstitutional. Subsequently, an Ordinance was issued in March to amend the Aadhaar Act.
Power
A High Level Empowered Committee was set up to help revive stressed thermal power plants. Large Hydro Power projects were declared to be renewable energy sources.
Health
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana was launched to provide annual health insurance cover of up to five lakh rupees per family. This is estimated to cover over 10 crore families.
Education
The Right to Education (Second Amendment) Bill, 2017 was passed by Parliament. The Bill permits students to be detained after class 5 and 8. The government released a draft Bill to establish the Higher Education Commission that would replace the University Grants Commission.
Communication and Information Technology
The Expert Committee on Data Protection Framework for India submitted its report and draft Bill. Draft amendments to the intermediary guidelines under the Information Technology Act, 2000, were released.
Petroleum and Natural Gas
Measures for increasing ethanol supply were approved including revised ethanol prices, mandating 10% blending requirement, and PM-JIVAN Yojana. The Union Cabinet approved certain reforms in the exploration and licensing policy for oil and gas fields.
Environment
The government amended the Coastal Regulation Zone notification to ease some conditions. Rural coastlines with low population density will have a smaller no-development zone.
Water Resources
The Dam Safety Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha and the draft River Basin Management Bill, 2018 was released for consultation by the Ministry of Water Resources. Further, the Central Ground Water Authority notified guidelines for ground water extraction.
Labour
The Standing Committee submitted its report on the Code on Wages. The Ministry of Labour and Employment launched the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan to provide a minimum assured pension to workers in the unorganized sector.
Table 1: Bills passed by Parliament from April 2018 to March 2019
|
Short Title |
Sector |
Key Objectives |
|
|
Finance |
Confiscates properties of persons who have absconded the country to avoid facing prosecution for economic offences above Rs 100 crore. |
||
|
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018 |
Finance |
Includes real estate allottees as financial creditors in the insolvency resolution process. |
|
|
Finance |
Repeals the State Bank of India (Subsidiary Banks) Act, 1959, and the State Bank of Hyderabad Act, 1956 which established five subsidiary banks which were acquired by State Bank of India. |
||
|
Finance |
In cases of cheque bouncing, it allows courts to direct partial payment of fine or compensation to the payee during trial or on filing an appeal. |
||
|
Finance |
Amends the provisions related to: (i) reverse charge mechanism, (ii) registration, (iii) input tax credit, and (iv) pre-deposit amount for appeals. |
||
|
The Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018 |
Finance |
Amends the provisions related to: (i) reverse charge mechanism, (ii) place of supply of services, (iii) distribution of IGST revenue between the centre and states, and (iv) pre-deposit amount for appeals. |
|
|
The Union Territory Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018 |
Finance |
Amends the provisions of the Act with respect to reverse charge mechanism and the utilisation of input tax credit on UTGST. |
|
|
The Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Amendment Bill, 2018 |
Finance |
Amends the manner in which unutilised amount in the Compensation Fund will be distributed between the centre and states. |
|
|
Law and Justice |
Increases the punishment for offence of rape of women. Introduces death penalty for rape of minor girls below the age of 12. |
||
|
Law and Justice |
Lowers the limit for adjudicating commercial disputes from one crore rupees to three lakh rupees. |
||
|
Law and Justice |
Reduces discretion given to courts while granting specific performance and introduces substituted performance as a remedy to enforce contracts. |
||
|
Law and Justice |
Amends several Acts regulating divorce to remove leprosy as grounds for divorce. |
||
|
Law and Justice |
Makes giving a bribe an offence and modifies the definition of taking a bribe. Requires prior sanction to investigate public officials. |
||
|
Social Justice and Empowerment |
Constitutes the National Commission for Backward Classes as a Constitutional body. |
||
|
The National Commission for Backward Classes (Repeal) Bill, 2017 |
Social Justice and Empowerment |
Repeals the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993. |
|
|
The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018 |
Social Justice and Empowerment |
Investigating authority will not require approval to arrest an accused under the Act. Preliminary enquiry not required before registering FIR. |
|
|
Social Justice and Empowerment |
Provides reservation upto 10% for the economically weaker sections of society in all educational institutions and government jobs. |
||
|
The National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Bill 2017 |
Human Resource Development |
Grants retrospective recognition to central and state universities running teacher education programmes, recognised by the NCTE. |
|
|
The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Second Amendment) Bill, 2017 |
Human Resource Development |
Empowers the state government to detain a child in class 5, 8, or both, after an opportunity for re-examination. |
|
|
Human Resource Development |
Amends provisions related to the term of office, and resignation of the Chairperson and members of the Board of the Trust. |
||
|
The Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, 2017 |
Urban Development |
Allows the central government to re-issue the notice of acquisition to a property owner to give them an opportunity to be heard. The owner will be entitled to interest on the compensation payable. |
|
|
Sports |
Establishes a National Sports University in Manipur. |
||
|
Health |
Provides for the supersession of the Council for a year. |
||
Finance and Industry
Macroeconomic Developments
State of the Economy in 2018-19
India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at constant prices is estimated at 7% in 2018-19, compared to 7.2% in 2017-18.[1] Trends in GDP growth over the past three years are given in Table 1.
Table 1: Gross Value Added across sectors (growth in %, year-on-year)
|
Sector |
2016-17 |
2017-18 |
2018-19 |
|
Agriculture |
6.3% |
5.0% |
2.7% |
|
Mining |
9.5% |
5.% |
1.2% |
|
Manufacturing |
7.9% |
5.9% |
8.1% |
|
Electricity |
10.0% |
8.6% |
8.0% |
|
Construction |
6.1% |
5.6% |
8.9% |
|
Services |
8.4% |
8.1% |
7.4% |
|
GVA |
7.9% |
7.2% |
7.0% |
Note: Data for 2017-18 is provisional estimates and for 2018-19 is first advance estimates. GVA is measured at base prices (2011-12). GDP is derived by adding taxes on products net of subsidies on products to GVA at basic prices.
Sources: Central Statistics Office, MOSPI; PRS.
Inflation trends in 2018-19
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation closed at 2.9% at the end of the year in March 2019, lower than 4.6% in April 2018.[2] Food inflation decreased from 2.8% in April 2018 to 0.3% in March 2019. Note that it decreased to -2.7% in December 2018.
The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) measures the average change in the prices of commodities for bulk sale at the level of early stage of transactions.[3] WPI inflation closed at 3.2% in March 2019, lower than 3.6% in April 2018.[4]
The trends in CPI and WPI inflation in 2018-19 are shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1:CPI and WPI in 2018-19 (%)
Sources: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation; Ministry of Commerce and Industry; PRS.
Industrial Production in 2018-19
The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) looks at the volume of production in the sectors of manufacturing, mining, and electricity in the economy. The IIP assigns a weight of 78% to the manufacturing sector, 14% to the mining sector, and 8% to the electricity sector. The IIP witnessed volatility through the year as shown in Figure 2. The growth decreased from 4.5% (year-on-year) in April 2018 to 0.1% in February 2019.[5] Manufacturing growth decreased from 4.9% in April 2018 to -0.3% in February 2019. During the same period, growth in electricity production decelerated from 2.1% to 1.2%. Mining declined from 3.8% to 2.0% in this period.
Figure 2: IIP in 2018-19 (%, year-on-year)
Sources: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation; PRS.
Balance of Payments
The Balance of Payments account reflects the transactions of a country with the rest of the world. It consists of the current account (exports of goods and services, remittances and dividend payments) and the capital account (flow of funds through equity investments and borrowings).
The surplus of the capital account is generally used to finance the current account deficit (CAD). The CAD increased to 2.6% of GDP in April-December 2018 from 1.8% in the corresponding period of 2017-18 due to a widening of the trade deficit.[6] Trade deficit increased from USD 118.4 billion in April-December 2017 to USD 145.3 billion in April-December 2018.
India’s Balance of Payments for 2018-19 is shown in Table 2 below.
Table 2: Balance of Payments in 2018-19 (April to December) (USD billion)
|
Apr-Jun 2018-19 |
Jul-Sept 2018-19 |
Oct-Dec 2018-19 |
|
|
Current Account |
-15.8 |
-19.1 |
-16.9 |
|
Capital Account |
5.3 |
16.3 |
13.6 |
|
Errors and Omissions |
-0.8 |
0.9 |
-1.0 |
|
Change in reserves |
-11.3 |
-1.9 |
-4.3 |
Sources: Reserve Bank of India; PRS.
Monetary Policy Decisions
The RBI took the following decisions over the course of 2019-20:
Interim Union Budget 2019-20 presented
The Union Finance Minister, Mr. Piyush Goyal, presented the Interim Union Budget for 2019-20.[10] Key highlights include:
Table 3: Interim Budget 2019-20 (Rs Crore)
|
Item |
Revised |
Budgeted |
% change |
|||
|
Total Expenditure |
24,57,235 |
27,84,200 |
13.3% |
|||
|
Total Receipts (without borrowings) |
18,22,837 |
20,80,201 |
14.1% |
|||
|
Fiscal Deficit |
6,34,398 |
7,03,999 |
11.0% |
|||
|
% of GDP |
3.4% |
3.4% |
|
|||
|
Revenue Deficit |
4,10,930 |
4,70,214 |
14.4% |
|||
|
% of GDP |
2.2% |
2.2% |
|
|||
Sources: Union Budget 2019-20; PRS.
Key policy proposals in the budget speech included:
The major tax changes announced were:
Draft National Policy on Official Statistics released
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released a draft of the National Policy on Official Statistics in May 2018.[11] The draft policy seeks to provide reliable, timely and credible social and economic statistics. Key features of the draft policy include:
Parliament passed the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018
The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018, was passed by Parliament in July 2018.[12] It seeks to confiscate properties of economic offenders who have left the country to avoid facing criminal prosecution, or refuse to return to face prosecution. Previously, a similar Ordinance was promulgated in April 2018.[13] Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
RBI released Annual Report 2017-18; shows 99.3% of demonetised notes returned
The RBI released its Annual Report for the year 2017-18 in August 2018.[14] The report stated that demonetised notes, i.e. notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 denominations which were tendered illegal in November, 2016, worth Rs 15.31 lakh crore have been returned to the RBI. The total value of these notes in circulation as on November, 2016, post verification and reconciliation, was Rs 15.42 lakh crore. This implies that about Rs 11,000 crore worth of these notes have not been returned.
RBI prohibited entities regulated by it from dealing in virtual currencies
In April 2018, the RBI prohibited entities regulated by it from dealing in virtual currencies, or facilitating any person from dealing in virtual currencies.[15] Virtual currencies, such as bitcoins, are stored and transacted in digital forms. RBI mandated that all regulated entities, which were providing such services, should discontinue the relationship within three months.
The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Ordinance, 2019 promulgated
The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in February 2019.[16] Previously , a similar Bill was passed by Lok Sabha. However, the Bill will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Ordinance provides for a mechanism to ban unregulated deposit schemes and protect the interests of depositors. It also seeks to amend three laws, i.e., the RBI Act, 1934, the SEBI Act, 1992, and the Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002. Key features of the Ordinance include:
The Standing Committee on Finance (Chair: Dr. M. Veerappa Moily) was tasked with examining the Bill and submitted its report in January 2019.[17] Key observations and recommendations include:
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here. For a PRS report summary, see here.
Parliament passed four GST Amendment Bills
The Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018, and the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018, were passed by Parliament in August 2018.[18],[19] Further, the Union Territory Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018, and the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Amendment Bill, 2018 were passed by Parliament in the same month.[20],[21] The Bills amend four central and state Goods and Services Tax (GST) laws. Key features of these Bills are as follows:
For a PRS summary of the four Bills, please see the here, here, here, and here.
The International Financial Services Centres Authority Bill, 2019 introduced in Rajya Sabha
The International Financial Services Centres Authority Bill, 2019 was introduced in Rajya Sabha in February 2019.[22] The Bill provides for the establishment of an authority to develop and regulate the financial services market in the International Financial Services Centres set up in Special Economic Zones in India. The Bill was referred to the Standing Committee on Finance for examination. The Committee was expected to submit its report within two months. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Bill, 2017
The Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Bill, 2017 was passed by Parliament in July 2018.[23] The Bill amends the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. The Act defines promissory notes, bills of exchange, and cheques. It also specifies penalties for bouncing of cheques, and other violations with respect to such negotiable instruments. Key features of the Bill are as follows:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the State Banks (Repeal and Amendment) Bill, 2018
The State Banks (Repeal and Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in July 2018.[24] Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, 2017 withdrawn
The Joint Committee on the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, 2017 (Chair: Mr. Bhupender Yadav) submitted its report in August 2018.[25] The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha and subsequently referred to the Joint Committee in August 2017.
Standing Committee submitted report on the Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Standing Committee on Finance (Chair: Dr. M Veerappa Moily) submitted its report on the Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018 in August 2018.[26] The Committee endorsed the specific amendments proposed by the Bill, and also suggested further amendments to improve the functioning of chit funds. Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
CAG submitted report on compliance of the FRBM Act, 2003 by the central government during the year 2016-17
The CAG of India submitted its report on compliance of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003 for the year 2016-17 in January 2019.[27] The FRBM Act requires the central government to ensure responsible fiscal management and long-term stability. The Act also requires it to ensure prudential debt management through limits on borrowings, debt and deficits. Key observations and recommendations of the CAG include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Report of the High Level Task Force on Public Credit Registry for India released
The RBI had constituted a High Level Task Force to assess the need and scope of creating a public credit registry in India in October 2017. The report was made available to the public in June 2018. [28]
Currently, India has multiple entities storing credit data. For example, there are four private Credit Information Companies – (i) TransUnion CIBIL, (ii) Equifax, (iii) Experian, and (iv) CRIF High Mark that maintain credit data of borrowers. There are also entities within the RBI such as the Central Repository of Information on Large Credits and the Basic Statistical Return-1 that record loans larger than five crore rupees, and credit across various sectors. Information Utilities also store financial credit data to help establish defaults by borrowers.
For a PRS report summary, see here.
RBI released draft guidelines on loan system for delivery of bank credit
RBI released draft guidelines related to delivering bank credit to borrowers with large working capital borrowings in June 2018.[29] With regard to borrowers with a working capital limit of Rs 150 crore and more, the guidelines require that at least 40% of the working capital should be held as loans, limiting the cash credit component to 60%. This provision was made applicable from October 1, 2018. The 40% loan component will be increased to 60% from April 1, 2019. The banks will decide the fixed loan amount and tenure in consultation with the borrower, subject to the tenure being at least seven days.
RBI released guidelines on restructuring of advances to MSMEs
RBI released guidelines to allow one-time restructuring of existing stressed loans to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in January 2019.[30] In order to be eligible for loan restructuring, the following conditions will apply on the borrowing MSME: (i) the aggregate exposure of banks and NBFCs to the borrower does not exceed Rs 25 crore as on January 1, 2019, (ii) the borrower’s account is in default, but is classified as a standard asset as on January 1, 2019 and continues to be classified similarly till the date of restructuring, and (iii) the borrower is a GST-registered entity on the date of implementation of the restructuring.
In addition to the provisions already made, a provision of 5% shall be made for borrowings restructured under the scheme. To adopt this, each bank or NBFC is required to formulate a policy for the scheme, with board approval, within one month of the date of the circular. The policy should include a framework for viability assessment of the stressed accounts and regular monitoring of the accounts.
Accounts restructured under the scheme will not be downgraded to a non-performing asset (NPA). Further, accounts classified as NPA can be restructured, with existing asset classification norms being applicable.
Restructuring of eligible accounts is to be completed before March 31, 2020.
Expert Committee on commodity spot and derivative markets submitted report
The Expert Committee on Integration of Commodity Spot and Derivatives Markets submitted its report (Chair: Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog) in April 2018.[31] Commodity spot markets are those markets where the sale and delivery of commodities takes place immediately or within 11 days (e.g. a mandi for vegetables). In the commodity derivatives market, the exchange of commodities takes place at a later date, on certain conditions agreed upon previously. Alternatively, instead of delivery of goods, the difference between the prevailing price and the originally agreed-upon price may be paid or received. Recommendations of the Expert Committee include:
For more details on the model APLM Act, see the PRS Monthly Policy Review for May 2017, here.
Income Tax Department launched reward schemes for information on tax evasion
The Income Tax Department launched the revised Income Tax Informants Reward Scheme, 2018 and the Benami Transactions Informants Reward Scheme, 2018 in June 2018.[33],[34] These schemes reward informants whose information leads to: (i) detection of substantial tax evasion, or (ii) identification of any benami property worth more than one crore rupees. Persons residing outside India, irrespective of their nationalities, are also eligible to become informants.
Ministry of Finance increased monetary thresholds for appeals by tax departments
The Ministry of Finance increased the monetary thresholds for filing appeals by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in July 2018.[35] These thresholds are applicable for filing appeals before appellate tribunals, High Courts, and the Supreme Court. Table 4 shows the revised limits for filing appeals before these appellate forums.
Table 4: Monetary thresholds for filing appeals by tax departments (in Rs)
|
Appellate Forum |
Previous Limit |
Revised Limit |
|
Appellate Tribunals |
10 lakh |
20 lakh |
|
High Courts |
20 lakh |
50 lakh |
|
Supreme Court |
25 lakh |
1 crore |
Sources: Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance; PRS.
With this revision, the departments will also withdraw the pending cases having dispute amount below the new thresholds. As a result, CBDT will withdraw 41% of the cases filed by it at various courts. Similarly, CBIC will withdraw 18% of the cases filed by it.
SEBI working group submitted report on KYC requirements and eligibility for Foreign Portfolio Investments
The working group constituted on Know Your Client (KYC) requirements for foreign portfolio investors (Chair: Mr. Harun R. Khan) submitted its report in September 2018.[36] The recommendations of the working group were accepted by the board members of SEBI.[37],[38],[39] Key recommendations of the working group include:
The working group recommended that: (i) NRIs, RIs and OCIs should be allowed to be constituents of FPIs if each individual holding is below 25% and their aggregate holding is below 50% of total assets under management of the FPI, and (ii) FPIs could be controlled by NRIs, RIs or OCIs as investment managers provided they are appropriately regulated in their home jurisdiction or set up under Indian laws, and registered with SEBI. Existing FPIs and new applicants will be given two years to satisfy the new eligibility criteria.
Further, the working group recommended that the criteria for beneficial ownership, as given in the Prevention of Money Laundering (Maintenance of Records) Rules, 2005, should be applicable only for the purpose of KYC, and not for determining eligibility.
Further, the group recommended that KYC review should be done yearly for Category II and III FPIs from high risk jurisdictions, and only at the time of continuance of FPI registration for other FPIs.
SEBI Committee submitted report on Fair Market Conduct
In August 2017, the SEBI had constituted a Committee (Chair: Mr. T. K. Viswanathan) to review the existing legal framework of dealing with market abuse to ensure fair market conduct in the securities market.[41] The Committee submitted its report in August 2018. Key recommendations and observations of the Committee include:
Market Manipulation and Fraud:
Surveillance and Investigation:
SEBI Committee submitted report on settlement mechanisms
The SEBI had constituted a High Level Committee (Chair: Justice A. R. Dave) to review the Settlement of Administrative and Civil Proceedings Regulations, 2014 and the enforcement mechanism of SEBI.[42] The Committee submitted its report in August 2018. Key recommendations of the Committee include:
Strategic disinvestment of 100% approved in DCIL and Kamarajar Port Limited
The Union Cabinet approved the strategic disinvestment of 100% of central government’s shares in the Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCIL) in November 2018.[43] The disinvestment was executed in March 2019.[44] The central government held 73.47% shares in DCIL at the time of disinvestment. The shares were sold to a consortium of four ports – Visakhapatnam Port Trust, Paradip Port Trust, Jawahar Lal Nehru Port Trust, and Kandla Port Trust. Rs 1,049 crore was mobilised through this sale.
DCIL was a mini-ratna public sector undertaking engaged in the business of dredging for Indian seaports. Dredging means clearing the bed of a harbour, river, or other water body with a dredge.
Further, the Union Cabinet gave ‘in principle’ approval for strategic disinvestment of 100% equity shares of the central government in Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) to the Chennai Port Trust, in February 2019.[45] Currently, the central government and Chennai Port Trust hold 67% and 33% of shares respectively in KPL. The disinvestment will be done in a single stage process, by following ‘arm’s length’ principles. The disinvestment seeks to avoid duplication of capacity creation in the ports and improve efficiency of both ports by facilitating better human resource management.
Parliament passed Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in August 2018.[46] The Bill amends the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 and replaces an Ordinance that was promulgated in June 2018.[47] The amendments incorporate most of the recommendations of the Insolvency Law Committee (Chair: Mr. Injeti Srinivas) which submitted a report in March 2018. The Code provides a time-bound process for resolving insolvency in companies and among individuals. Insolvency is a situation where a company is unable to repay its outstanding debt. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
Insolvency Law Committee submitted its report on cross-border insolvency
In October, 2018, the Insolvency Law Committee (Chair: Mr. Injeti Srinivas) submitted its second report on the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, recommending amendments to the cross-border insolvency provisions in the Code.[48] The Committee had released a draft of the report in June 2018.[49]
The Committee proposed a draft ‘Part Z’ in the Code, based on an analysis of the UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency, 1997. The Model Law provides a legal framework that states may adopt in their domestic legislation to deal with cross-border insolvency issues. Key recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Note that in March 2019, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs re-constituted the Insolvency Law Committee as a Standing Committee to review the implementation of the Code, on a continuous basis.[50]
Committee to review offences under Companies Act, 2013 submitted its report
The Committee to review the offences under the Companies Act, 2013 (Chair: Mr. Injeti Srinivas), submitted its report in August, 2018.[51] The Committee was constituted in July 2018.[52] It reviewed the categorisation of offences under the Act and also made recommendations to improve other corporate compliances. Key recommendations of the Committee include:
Ordinance to amend the Companies Act, 2013 re-promulgated
The Companies (Second Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in February 2019.[53] The Ordinance amends several provisions in the Companies Act, 2013 relating to penalties, among others. Note that, two similar Ordinances had been promulgated in November 2018 and January 2019.[54],[55] This Ordinance is effective from the date of the first Ordinance, i.e. November 2, 2018.
Note that the Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (to replace the 2018 Ordinance) was passed by Lok Sabha in January 2019, and will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha.[56]
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Draft amendments to Companies Act, 2013
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs issued a notice inviting comments on draft amendments to the Companies Act, 2013 in November 2018.[57] Key draft amendments include:
Committee of Experts releases report on audit firms and their networks
In November 2018, the Committee of Experts (Chair: Mr. Anurag Agarwal) submitted its report to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs presenting its findings and recommendations on regulating audit firms and their networks.[58] Key recommendations include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
National Financial Reporting Authority constituted
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs constituted the NFRA in October 2018.[59] The Companies Act, 2013 provides for the establishment of the NFRA as an independent regulator for auditors. Its powers to investigate chartered accountants and their firms will extend to listed companies, and large unlisted companies (threshold will be notified).
Certain public companies exempted from the requirement to dematerialise shares
In January 2019, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs notified amendments to the Companies (Prospectus and Allotment of Securities) Third Amendment Rules, 2014.[60] The 2014 Rules were earlier amended in September 2018 to provide that issue of further shares and transfer of all shares by unlisted public companies may only be in dematerialised form.[61]
The new amendments provide that the requirement of dematerialization will not apply to an unlisted public company which is a Nidhi company, a government company, or a wholly owned subsidiary.
Revised policy on foreign direct investment in e-commerce announced
The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (DIPP), announced revised guidelines for foreign direct investment in e-commerce in December 2018.[62] The previous guidelines specified that: (i) 100% FDI through the automatic route is permissible in a marketplace model of e-commerce (where the e-commerce entity/platform acts as a facilitator between buyers and vendors/sellers), and (ii) FDI is not permissible in an inventory based model of e-commerce (where the inventory of goods and services is owned by the e-commerce entity and sold to the customers directly).
The revised policy changed some existing guidelines and also specified certain other conditions, such as:
The revised guidelines came into effect from February, 2019.
Draft National e-commerce Policy released for consultation
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade released the ‘Draft National e-Commerce Policy: India’s Data for India’s Development’ for consultation in February, 2019.[64] The policy addresses six broad issues of the e-commerce ecosystem such as: (i) data, (ii) infrastructure development, (iii) e-commerce marketplaces, (iv) regulatory issues, (v) stimulating the domestic digital economy, and (vi) export promotion through e-commerce. Key features of the draft e-commerce policy include:
The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha in July 2018.[65] However, it will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Bill amends the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 promulgated
The Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in March 2019.[66] It amends the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005 which provides for the establishment, development and management of Special Economic Zones for export promotion.
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Cabinet approved Phase II of FAME India
The Union Cabinet approved Phase II of the scheme Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India Phase II), for promotion of electric mobility in India in February 2019.[67] The scheme seeks to encourage faster adoption of electric and hybrid vehicle by: (i) offering upfront incentives on purchase of electric vehicles, and (ii) by establishing the necessary charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Phase II of the scheme will be implemented from April, 2019. It will have a total outlay of Rs 10,000 crore over a period of three years, from 2019 to 2022.
Under this phase, benefits of incentives will be extended to only those vehicles which are fitted with advance batteries such as Lithium Ion batteries and other new technology batteries. Phase II will also focus on electrification of public transport including shared transport. Further, the scheme proposes the establishment of charging infrastructure such that there is at least one charging station in a grid of 3 km x 3 km. Around 2,700 charging stations will be established in metros, other million plus cities, smart cities and cities of hilly states across the country. Charging stations are also proposed on major highways connecting major city clusters.
DIPP released Ease of Doing Business rankings of states
DIPP released the rankings of states and union territories on the Ease of Doing Business, 2017 in July 2018.[68] The DIPP, in collaboration with the World Bank, conducted annual reforms for all states and union territories under the Business Reforms Action Plan 2017. The reform exercise consisted of 372 action points to ease regulations and systems in areas such as labour permits, environmental clearances, construction permits, contract enforcement, registration and inspection of property, among others.
States and union territories were ranked on a combined score based on: (i) evidence provided by the states and union territories on their performance and progress with respect to reforms, and (ii) feedback gathered from the users of the services provided to businesses by the government. The component of feedback was introduced for the first time in the 2017 rankings. The top rankers are Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Haryana. Jharkhand and Gujarat stood fourth and fifth respectively.
Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan launched
The Ministry of Labour and Employment notified a voluntary pension scheme called the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan in February 2019.[69] It intends to provide a minimum assured pension to workers in the unorganised sector.
Standing Committee submitted report on the Code on Wages, 2017
The Standing Committee on Labour (Chairperson: Dr. Kirit Somaiya) submitted its report on the Code on Wages, 2017 in December 2018.[70] The Code seeks to regulate wage and bonus payments in all employments where any trade, business, or manufacture is carried on. It replaces four existing laws related to wages: (i) the Payment of Wages Act, 1936, (ii) the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, (iii) the Payment of Bonus Act, 1965, and (iv) the Equal Remuneration Act, 1976. Key observations and recommendations made by the Committee include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Committee submitted report on methodology for fixing national minimum wage
In February 2019, an Expert Committee (Chair: Dr. Anoop Satpathy) submitted its report on recommending a methodology for fixing the national minimum wage. This will become the minimum wage in India covering all workers irrespective of their skills, sectors, occupations and rural-urban locations.[71] Key features of the report include:
Trade Unions Amendment Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Trade Unions (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha in January 2019.[72] The Bill was circulated for public comments in July, 2018. [73] It amends the Trade Unions Act, 1926, which provides for the registration and regulation of trade unions. The Bill will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Draft Code on Occupational Health and Safety released
In April 2018, the Ministry of Labour and Employment released the draft Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions, 2018.[74] The draft Code will apply to establishments employing ten or more workers. It consolidates 13 labour laws relating to safety, health and working conditions. These include the Factories Act, 1948, the Mines Act, 1952, and the Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970. Key provisions of the draft Code include:
Every employee is required to take care of his own health and safety, and of those affected by his conduct at the workplace.
Draft Code on Social Security released
In April, 2018, the Ministry of Labour and Employment released the draft Code on Social Security, 2018.[75] Social security refers to the protection given to workers to access health care and provide income security. The draft Code consolidates 17 laws related to social security, including: (i) the Employees’ Provident Fund Act, 1952, (ii) the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, and (iii) the Unorganised Workers Social Security Act, 2008. Key features of the draft Code include:
The draft Code will not apply to certain entities and workers. These include establishments of the central and state governments, and Indian employees working in a foreign country with whom India has a social security agreement.
Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna notified to give cash benefit to unemployed persons
In December 2018, the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) notified a scheme called the ‘Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna’, on a pilot basis for a period of two years.[76] The Scheme was approved by the ESIC in September 2018.[77] It will apply retrospectively from July, 2018.
The scheme will cover persons insured under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948. The Act applies to establishments having more than 10 workers with monthly wage ceiling of Rs 21,000. The Scheme will provide one-time cash compensation to unemployed persons up to 90 days, which may be claimed after three months. The relief shall not exceed 25% of the average earning per day.
The conditions of the Scheme include:
Advance of 75% of PF amount permitted in case of unemployment for at least one month
The Ministry of Labour notified an amendment to the Employees’ Provident Funds Scheme, 1952 in December 2018.[78] The Scheme is notified under the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, which institutes and regulates provision of provident fund for establishments having more than 20 workers.
Under the revised scheme, the Labour Commissioner or any other authorised officer, may allow an employee leaving the establishment, a non-refundable advance of up to 75% of the amount in his name in the Fund. The withdrawal will only be permitted if the employee has not been employed in any other establishment for more than one month, preceding the date on which he makes an application for the advance.
Central government launched the PM-KISAN scheme
The central government launched the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in February 2019.[79],[80],[81] Under the scheme, small and marginal landholder farmer families, i.e. families with total cultivable holding of up to two hectares, will be provided income support of Rs 6,000 per year. The scheme seeks to supplement their financial needs in procuring inputs for appropriate crop health and yields.
The amount is payable in three equal instalments, every four months, through direct benefit transfer to bank accounts. The first instalment was provided for the period from December 2018 to March 2019.
Aadhaar number is mandatory for the release of the second instalment (for the April to July 2019 period).[82] From third instalment (August 2019) onwards, Aadhaar seeding, i.e. biometric authentication, will be compulsory. However, Aadhaar is not mandatory for beneficiaries from Assam, Jammu and Kashmir, and Meghalaya.
The scheme provides for a Project Monitoring Unit at the central level with other monitoring and review mechanisms at the national, state, and district levels.
Minimum Support Prices for 2018-19
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare released the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Kharif crops in July 2018, and for Rabi crops in October 2018.[83],[84] Table 5 shows the change in MSP for Kharif crops between 2017-18 and 2018-19. The MSP for paddy increased by 12.9% from 2017-18.
Table 5: MSP for Kharif crops (in Rs/quintal)
|
Crop |
2017-18 |
2018-19 |
Change |
|
Paddy (common) |
1,550 |
1,750 |
12.9 % |
|
Paddy (grade A) |
1,590 |
1,770 |
11.3 % |
|
Jowar (hybrid) |
1,700 |
2,430 |
42.9 % |
|
Jowar (maldandi) |
1,725 |
2,450 |
42.0 % |
|
Bajra |
1,425 |
1,950 |
36.8 % |
|
Maize |
1,425 |
1,700 |
19.3 % |
|
Ragi |
1,900 |
2,897 |
52.5 % |
|
Arhar (tur) |
5,450 |
5,675 |
4.1 % |
|
Moong |
5,575 |
6,975 |
25.1 % |
|
Urad |
5,400 |
5,600 |
3.7 % |
|
Groundnut |
4,450 |
4,890 |
9.9 % |
|
Soyabean |
3,050 |
3,399 |
11.4 % |
|
Sunflower seed |
4,100 |
5,388 |
31.4 % |
|
Sesamum |
5,300 |
6,249 |
17.9 % |
|
Nigerseed |
4,050 |
5,877 |
45.1 % |
|
Cotton medium staple |
4,020 |
5,150 |
28.1 % |
|
Cotton long staple |
4,320 |
5,450 |
26.2 % |
Sources: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; PRS.
In Rabi crops, the MSP for wheat increased to Rs 1,840/quintal in 2018-19, a 6.1% increase from that in 2017-18. Table 6 shows the change in MSP for Rabi crops from 2017-18 to 2018-19.
Table 6: MSP for Rabi crops (in Rs/quintal)
|
Crop |
2017-18 |
2018-19 |
Change |
|
Wheat |
1,735 |
1,840 |
6.1 % |
|
Barley |
1,410 |
1,440 |
2.1 % |
|
Gram |
4,400 |
4,620 |
5.0 % |
|
Masoor |
4,250 |
4,475 |
5.3 % |
|
Rapeseed and Mustard |
4,000 |
4,200 |
5.0 % |
|
Safflower |
4,100 |
4,945 |
20.6 % |
Sources: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; PRS.
Further, the Ministry released the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane and the MSP for copra and jute.[85],[86],[87]
Cabinet approved PM-AASHA scheme for procurement of crops from farmers
The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan scheme for procurement of crops from farmers in September 2018.[88] Under the scheme, states can adopt the following procurement mechanisms: (i) Price Support Scheme, (ii) Price Deficiency Payment Scheme, and (iii) Private Procurement and Stockist Scheme.
Price Support Scheme: In Price Support Scheme, physical procurement of pulses, oilseeds, and copra will be done by central nodal agencies, including the Food Corporation of India, in coordination with state governments. The procurement of crops already covered, i.e. paddy, wheat, coarse grains, cotton, and jute, will continue as per the existing mechanism. The other two procurement mechanisms have been approved for oilseeds.
Price Deficiency Payment Scheme: This will not involve any physical procurement of crops. Pre-registered farmers will be directly paid (into their bank accounts) the difference between the Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) and the selling/modal prices of the crops. Farmers who sell their crops in the notified market yards through a transparent auction process are eligible for the scheme.
Private Procurement and Stockist Scheme: States can choose to implement this scheme on a pilot basis in selected districts. Under the scheme, selected private agencies will procure crops at MSPs in the notified markets during a specified period. However, they can procure only when the market prices fall below the MSPs and when they are authorised by the state governments to do so. Maximum service charges up to 15% of the MSPs will be payable to the private agencies.
Rs 15,053 crore has been approved for implementation of the scheme. Moreover, an additional guarantee of Rs 16,550 crore has been approved for the procurement agencies.
Cabinet approved the Agriculture Export Policy, 2018
The Union Cabinet approved the Agriculture Export Policy, 2018 in December 2018.[89] The policy aims to double agricultural exports from the present USD 30 billion to USD 60 billion by 2022. It also aims to diversify the export basket and export destinations, and increase exports of high value and value-added products, with focus on perishables.
The policy proposes strategic and operational recommendations, which include: (i) greater involvement of state governments in exports, (ii) infrastructure and logistics support, (iii) focus on export clusters, (iv) private investments in production and processing, and (v) strong quality measures.
The Union Cabinet also approved the establishment of a Monitoring Framework to oversee the implementation of the policy. It comprises representatives of several ministries and concerned state governments, with the Ministry of Commerce as the nodal department.
Ministry released draft National Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare released the draft National Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy in February 2019.[90] Aquaculture (or aquafarming) refers to the farming of fish, algae and other aquatic organisms, and aquatic plants. Key features of the draft policy include:
Cabinet approved Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund
The Union Cabinet approved the creation of Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund in October 2018.[91] The Fund seeks to provide concessional finance for investment in fisheries development to (i) state and union territory governments and entities, (ii) cooperatives, and (iii) entrepreneurs, among others. The loans will be provided for a period of five years from 2018-19 to 2022-23, with repayments required to be made over a period of 12 years.
The fund is estimated to be worth Rs 7,522 crore, funded by the following sources: (i) Rs 5,266 crore from the nodal loaning entities, (ii) Rs 1,317 crore through contribution from beneficiaries, and (iii) Rs 939 crore through budgetary support from the central government. The nodal loaning entities consist of NABARD, National Cooperatives Development Corporation, and all the scheduled banks.
Cabinet approved measures for assistance to sugar mills for clearing dues of farmers
The Union Cabinet approved certain measures to provide assistance to sugar mills for clearing the dues of sugarcane farmers.[92],[93],[94],[95],[96] These are:
For the 2018-19 season, financial assistance of Rs 13.88 per quintal of cane crushed was approved in September 2018. Rs 4,163 crore was approved for this purpose.
Mills that fulfil the conditions as stipulated by the Department of Food and Public Distribution are eligible for the assistance.
Interest subvention of 7% to 10% will be provided by the central government on these loans for a period of one year. This interest subvention is estimated to cost between Rs 553 crore and Rs 1,054 crore.
Under the scheme, sugar mills are provided with financial assistance equivalent to their carrying cost towards maintenance of the buffer stock. Carrying cost includes the cost incurred by mills on storage, insurance, and payment of interest. The financial assistance is provided on a quarterly basis.
The scheme has been launched with the aim of: (i) improving the liquidity of sugar mills and thus, enabling them to clear dues of sugarcane farmers, and (ii) stabilising the price of sugar in the domestic market. It is estimated to incur an expenditure of Rs 1,175 crore.
Funds required to be given to sugar mills are transferred directly to farmers, and settled against the sugarcane price or dues payable by them. Subsequent balance, if any, is provided to the mills.
Department of Food and Public Distribution notified Minimum Selling Price of sugar
The Department of Food and Public Distribution fixed the MSP for sugar at Rs 29/kg in June 2018.[97]
Fixation of MSP for sugar is provided under the Sugar Price (Control) Order, 2018 notified under the Essentials Commodities Act, 1955. The Order fixes the MSP of refined (white) sugar below which no producer can sell or deliver white sugar in the domestic market. The MSP of sugar would be based on the FRP of sugarcane, and the minimum conversion cost of sugar.
The Department increased the MSP of sugar from Rs 29 per kg to Rs 31 per kg for the year 2019-20 in February 2019.[98] The MSP was increased in order to provide more liquidity to sugar mills so that they are able to pay the dues owed to sugarcane farmers.[99] The dues amounted to Rs 20,167 crore as on February 13, 2019.
Cabinet approved provision of loans to sugar mills and distilleries
The Union Cabinet approved the provision of loans to sugar mills and molasses based standalone distilleries for increasing their ethanol production capacity in March 2019.[100] Loans worth Rs 21,639 crore have been approved, along with Rs 4,687 crore towards interest subvention on these loans.
Of the approved amounts, Rs 12,900 crore of loans were approved for sugar mills in March 2019, along with Rs 2,790 crore towards interest subvention. In June 2018, Rs 6,139 crore of loans were approved for the same purpose along with Rs 1,332 crore towards interest subvention.
The aim of providing loans to sugar mills is to improve the liquidity of sugar mills through increased revenue from sale of ethanol. This additional cash flow would facilitate sugar mills in clearing dues of sugarcane farmers.
Molasses based standalone distilleries (i.e. distilleries not integrated with any sugar mill) will be provided loans of Rs 2,600 crore with Rs 565 crore towards interest subvention.
Increased supply of ethanol from the molasses based distilleries and sugar mills would result in its higher availability for blending with petrol. This would help in achieving the blending target under the Ethanol Blended Petrol programme. The programme provides a 10% target for blending ethanol with petrol to help reduce vehicle exhaust emissions and reduce the import burden for petroleum.
Cabinet approved corpus for Micro Irrigation Fund under PMKSY
The Union Cabinet approved a corpus of Rs 5,000 crore for a Micro Irrigation Fund under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayi Yojana (PMKSY) in May 2018.[101] Of this, Rs 2,000 crore was approved for the year 2018-19. The remaining Rs 3,000 crore will be utilised in 2019-20.
The Fund has been set up under NABARD. State governments can use the loans extended by NABARD to incentivise micro irrigation through subsidies or to invest in cluster-based micro irrigation projects. These loans must be paid back within seven years (including the grace period of two years).
An interest subvention of 3% is provided on these loans. This is estimated to incur an expenditure of Rs 750 crore during the two-year period.
Cabinet approved creation of Agri-Market Infrastructure Fund
The Union Cabinet approved the creation of an Agri-Market Infrastructure Fund of Rs 2,000 crore in February 2019.[102] This Fund has been approved for development and up-gradation of infrastructure in 10,000 gramin agricultural markets and 585 regulated wholesale markets. This corpus fund will be created with the assistance of NABARD.
The Fund will be used to provide subsidised loans to states and union territories against their proposals for development of infrastructure in gramin agricultural markets and regulated wholesale markets. The Fund may also be used to provide assistance to states and union territories for innovative integrated market infrastructure projects.
The National Rural Employment Guarantee scheme and other government schemes will be used to strengthen the physical and basic infrastructure in gramin agricultural markets.
Cabinet approved the restructured National Bamboo Mission
The Union Cabinet approved the restructured National Bamboo Mission under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture in April 2018.[103] The scheme has been approved for the years 2018-19 and 2019-20. The National Bamboo Mission was initially launched in 2006-07 and continued till 2015-16. The scheme seeks to increase the area under bamboo cultivation in non-forest government and private land, and improve post-harvest management.
Rs 1,290 crore has been allocated to the scheme for the two-year period. Of this, Rs 950 crore will be allocated by the central government.
Cabinet approved continuation of certain schemes for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20
In May 2018, the Union Cabinet approved continuation of the Krishonnati Yojana and the action plan for higher agricultural education for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20.[104],[105] An outlay of Rs 33,270 crore has been approved for the Krishonnati Yojana. It is an umbrella scheme which includes existing centrally sponsored schemes such as:
In June 2018, the Union Cabinet approved an outlay of Rs 2,225 crore for the action plan of the Agricultural Education Division and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research institutes.[106] Of this, Rs 2,197 crore will be contributed by the central government. States will contribute Rs 28 crore to cover expenditure on salaries.
The action plan aims to generate quality human resources from institutes of higher agricultural education. It allocates funds for research to make agriculture and allied fields gender-equitable, and to address capacity building needs of all stakeholders.
NITI Aayog constituted sub-group of CMs on policies in agriculture and NREGS
The governing council of the NITI Aayog constituted a sub-group of Chief Ministers (CMs) in June 2018 to coordinate policy approaches for the agriculture sector and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS).[107] The sub-group had the CM of Madhya Pradesh as its convenor, and was required to submit its report within three months. Its members included the CMs of: (i) Andhra Pradesh, (ii) Bihar, (iii) Gujarat, (iv) Sikkim, (v) Uttar Pradesh, and (vi) West Bengal, and Mr. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog.
Terms of reference of the sub-group included:
Ministry constituted Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog for cow conservation and development
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare constituted an apex advisory body, Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog in February 2019.[108] The Aayog has been constituted for the conservation, protection, and development of cows and their progeny. Other objectives of the Aayog include: (i) properly implementing laws that prohibit slaughter and cruelty to cows, and (ii) providing direction to cattle development programmes and schemes.
The Aayog will develop a policy framework and formulate guidelines with the aim of achieving: (i) sustainable development and upgradation of genetic resources of cows, (ii) enhanced dairy production and productivity, and (iii) protection and promotion of the interest of stakeholders in the dairy industry.
RBI increased the limit for collateral free agricultural loans to Rs 1.6 lakh
RBI increased the limit for collateral free agricultural loans from the existing level of one lakh rupees to Rs 1.6 lakh in February 2019.[109] Earlier, banks were mandated to extend collateral free agricultural loans up to one lakh rupees. This limit was fixed by the RBI in 2010. The limit has been revised on account of inflation and increase in agricultural input costs over the years.
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2018 introduced, but will lapse
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha July 2018.[110] It amends the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008. The Bill will lapse on the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Act established the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA). AERA regulates tariffs and other charges for aeronautical services provided at civilian airports with annual traffic above 15 lakh passengers. It also monitors the performance standard of services across these airports. Key features of the Bill are:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
DGCA released the National Aviation Safety Plan 2018-22
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) released the National Aviation Safety Plan 2018-22 in August 2018.[111] The Plan aims to promote continuous improvement of aviation safety in the country. Key features of the Plan include:
DGCA released guidelines for civilian operation of drones
The DGCA released the requirements for operation of civil Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), commonly known as drones, in August 2018.[112] These guidelines came into effect from December 1, 2018. Key features of the guidelines include:
Ministry of Civil Aviation released the Digi Yatri policy
The Ministry of Civil Aviation released the Digi Yatri Policy in August 2018.[113] The policy seeks to deliver a seamless, paperless and hassle-free experience to all passengers across all check-points at Indian airports. Key features include:
White Paper on National Green Aviation Policy released
The Ministry of Civil Aviation released a White Paper on National Green Aviation Policy in March 2019.[114] The policy seeks to enable, promote and strengthen all inclusive, green and sustainable growth of air transportation in India. Key features of the policy include:
Cabinet approved setting up of SPV for disinvestment of Air India
The Union Cabinet approved the creation of an Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for the disinvestment of Air India and its subsidiaries in February 2019.[115] The new SPV, Air India Assets Holding Ltd., was created on January 22, 2018, based on an order issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The following will be transferred to the SPV:
Proposed transaction structure for greenfield airports released
The Ministry of Civil Aviation released the proposed transaction structure for greenfield airports in August 2018.[116] The guiding principles of the proposed transaction structure are affordability, sustainability and predictability. Key features of the proposed transaction structure include:
Cabinet approved leasing out six airports through PPP
The Union Cabinet gave in-principle approval to leasing out six airports for operation, management and development under public private partnership (PPP) through a Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC) in November 2018.[117] These airports are currently operated by the AAI. These airports are Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Guwahati, Thiruvananthapuram and Mangaluru. Currently, five airports are being managed under the PPP model. These are Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Cochin.
The Union Cabinet also approved the constitution of an empowered group of secretaries to decide on any issue falling beyond the scope of PPPAC. The group is headed by CEO, NITI Aayog, and includes Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, and Secretary, Department of Expenditure.
Cabinet approved revival of certain un-served and under-served air strips
The Union Cabinet approved the extension of time and scope for the revival and development of certain un-served and under-served air strips, helipads, and water aerodromes in March 2019.[118] These airstrips are under state governments, AAI, civil enclaves, and Central Public Sector Undertakings. The total cost will be Rs 4,500 crore and will be provided through budgetary support from the central government.
Revised norms for protecting data regarding airline incidents released
The DGCA revised norms for the reporting and investigation of airline incidents in November 2018.[119] The objective of such reporting and investigation is to: (i) enable assessment of safety implications of each occurrence, including previous similar occurrences, so that any necessary action is initiated to prevent similar occurrences in future, and (ii) ensure dissemination of such information. The revised norms related to the protection of data (cockpit voice recordings, images) with regard to airline incidents and investigations. The revised norms add that:
DGCA revised guidelines related to airline cancellation and refunds
The DGCA revised guidelines related to: (i) refund of airline tickets to passengers, and (ii) facilities to be provided to passengers by airlines due to denied boarding, cancellation of and delays in flights, in May 2018.[120],[121] Key guidelines include:
Refund of airline tickets
Denied boarding, cancellation of and delays in flights
Draft International Air Connectivity Scheme released
The Ministry of Civil Aviation released the draft International Air Connectivity (IAC) Scheme – UDAN (International) in August 2018.[122] The draft scheme seeks to assist state governments as they try to facilitate air connectivity between their respective states and international destinations. Assistance will be provided through financial support (subsidy) to airlines to meet the gap, if any, between the cost of airline operations and the expected revenues on such routes. Key features of the draft scheme include:
Draft Cape Town Convention Bill, 2018 released
The Ministry of Civil Aviation released the draft Cape Town Convention Bill, 2018 in October 2018.[123] The draft Bill sought to implement the Cape Town Convention (Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment), and Protocol (Protocol to the Convention on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment) in India. The Cape Town Convention/Protocol were adopted in Cape Town in November, 2001. India became a party to the Convention/Protocol in July, 2008.
The Convention/Protocol primarily seeks to achieve efficient financing of high value mobile equipment, like airframes, helicopters and engines, in order to make the operations cost effective and affordable. Objectives of the Convention/Protocol include:
Need for the legislation: Certain provisions of the Convention/ Protocol are in conflict with certain provisions of other laws such as the Civil Procedure Code, 2008, the Specific Relief Act, 1963, the Companies Act, 2013 and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016. Further, international financial institutions are not giving due weightage to accession to the Convention/Protocol by any country unless it is accompanied by an implementing law. For example, OECD provides 10% discount in the processing fee of a loan to acquire aircraft to airlines of any country that has enacted a law implementing the Convention/Protocol.
Task Force constituted for fast-tracking UAV technology
The Ministry of Civil Aviation constituted a 13-member Task Force (Chair: Mr Jayant Sinha, Minister of State for Civil Aviation) to facilitate fast tracking of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology in April 2018.[124]
The terms of reference of the Task Force included: (i) focusing on areas of research and development, acquisition and commercialisation in specific sectors, and giving preference to Make in India, and (ii) developing a roadmap for implementation of UAV technology including outcomes, timelines, and review mechanisms along with measurable metrics.
The Task Force included representatives from the government, Public Sector Undertakings, and various sectoral experts. It had to submit its report within six months of its constitution. No report has been published so far.
Indian Railways rationalised freight and passenger fares
The Indian Railways rationalised: (i) the flexi-fare scheme, and (ii) freight fares in October 2018.[125],[126] The changes in fares included:
Flexi-fare scheme: Flexi-fare scheme was discontinued in trains with average monthly occupancy less than 50% throughout the previous year. It was also discontinued in lean traffic period of three months, in trains with average monthly occupancy between 50-75% throughout the previous year. Certain discounts in flexi-fares were also introduced in less patronised classes (such as 2A, 3A, and CC) to increase their occupancy.
These changes were introduced based on the recommendations of a committee that reviewed the flexi-fare scheme, recommendations of the CAG on the scheme, and representation from passengers.
Freight rates: Indian Railways rationalised its freight rates to ensure additional revenue generation across the network. An additional revenue of Rs 3,344 crore was expected from such rationalisation. This revenue would be utilised to improve passenger amenities. This rationalisation resulted in an 8.75% increase in freight rates for major commodities such as coal, iron and steel, iron ore, and raw materials for steel plants. In addition, the haulage charge of containers was increased by 5% and the freight rates of other small goods were increased by 8.75%. Freight rates were not increased for goods such as food grains, flours, pulses, fertilisers, salt, sugar, cement, petroleum, and diesel.
Cabinet approved new Railway Zone at Visakhapatnam
The Union Cabinet approved setting up of a new Railway Zone at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh and a new division with headquarter at Rayagada, Odisha, in February 2019.[127] The new zone and division were set up by reorganising the existing South Central Railway and East Coast Railway.
Cabinet approved IRSDC as the nodal agency for railway station redevelopment
The Union Cabinet approved the Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation Limited (IRSDC) as the nodal agency and the main project development agency for redevelopment of railway stations, in October 2018.[128] The lease tenure period for such projects will be 99 years. IRSDC will prepare the overall strategic plan and business plans for redevelopment of individual or a group of stations. Upon approval of business plans by the Ministry of Railways, IRSDC or other project development agencies will take up the work of station redevelopment.
The Indian Railways, Rail Land Development Authority, or IRSDC will plan and develop Railway land. This will be done in consultation with urban local bodies, local development authorities or other union territories, to transfer land on free hold basis to Indian Railways.
The Union Cabinet had approved the development of certain categories of stations by Zonal Railways in June 2015. However, insufficient interest was shown by bidders on such projects, and issues such as multiple sub leasing were raised. Allowing a specialized executing agency (IRSDC) for such projects sought to address these issues.
Cabinet approved the closure of Burn Standard Company Limited
The Union Cabinet approved the closure of Burn Standard Company Limited (BSCL), a central public sector enterprise, in April 2018.[129] BSCL was primarily engaged in manufacturing railway wagons under the Ministry of Railways. This decision was taken due to: (i) the poor physical and financial performance of BSCL for over 10 years, and (ii) low probability of its revival in the future.
The government provided a one-time grant of Rs 417 crore for clearing the current liabilities of the company. In addition, an outstanding loan of Rs 35 crore given to the company by the Ministry of Railways was written off.
Ministry of Road Transport released Bulk Data Sharing Policy and Procedure
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways released the Bulk Data Sharing Policy and Procedure in March 2019.[130] The Ministry collects and holds data on issuance of Vehicle Registration Certificates (RC) and Driver Licenses (DL). Currently, this data is shared with specified agencies such as enforcement agencies, automobile industries, banks, and financial companies. The policy seeks to share this data for various purposes to help support the transport and automobile industry, and help improve service delivery to citizens. Key features of the policy include:
IRDAI notified mandatory long-term third party insurance for new vehicles
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) notified mandatory long-term third party insurance cover for new vehicles in August 2018.[131] As per the notification, all general insurers will provide only: (i) three-year third party insurance cover for new cars, and (ii) five-year third party insurance cover for new two-wheelers. The premium will be collected for the entire term (three or five years, as the case may be) at the time of sale of insurance, but will be recognised on a yearly basis.
This gave effect to the Supreme Court order from July 20, 2018, which mandated the time period for third party insurance cover for new vehicles. The new insurance policy was applicable from September 1, 2018.
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways released guidelines for resolution of stuck highway projects
In March 2019, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways released guidelines for the resolution of highway projects that have been stuck.[132] These guidelines were recommended by a High Powered Committee constituted in January 2019. These will apply to projects undertaken by the Ministry through the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, or the state public works department.
Stuck projects: Stuck projects include projects where the work has stopped due to: (i) inability of the concessionaire to execute the project due to proceedings initiated against it before the National Company Law tribunal, under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, or certain provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, or (ii) default by both the government authority, and the concessionaire.
The guidelines address three types of stuck projects:
For projects not covered under these guidelines, provisions of the agreement mutually binding on both parties may be applied and followed.
Location tracking and emergency buttons mandated for all new public service vehicles
In October 2018, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways mandated vehicle location tracking (VLT) with emergency buttons for all new public service vehicles (such as taxis and public buses) registered on or after January 1, 2019.[133] Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws were exempted from this rule. The VLT device manufacturers would assist in providing the back end services for monitoring the devices.
With regard to older public service vehicles (those registered up to December 31, 2018), the respective state/UT governments would notify the date by which these vehicles have to install these devices and emergency buttons. State/UT governments also have to ensure the execution of the rule, and the functional status of these VLT devices.
The details of each VLT device will be uploaded on the VAHAN database by the device manufacturer. Vehicle owners will ensure that the VLT devices installed in their vehicles are in working condition. They will also regularly send required data to the back end system through cellular connectivity.
The state governments or VLT manufacturers, or any other agency authorised by the state government, will set up command and control centres. These centres will provide an interface to various stakeholders such as: (i) the state emergency response centre, (ii) the Regional Transport Offices, (iii) the Ministry of Road Transport and its designated agencies, and (iv) device manufacturers and their authorised dealers.
Advanced braking systems made mandatory for certain vehicles
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways released a notification mandating advanced braking systems, technologies and performance requirements for certain vehicles in March 2019.[134] These vehicles include motor vehicles (with at least four wheels) used for the carriage of: (i) passengers and their luggage, and (ii) goods. All existing vehicles will be required to adopt these new provisions by April 1, 2022. All new vehicles manufactured on or after April 1, 2021 will be required to have these technologies pre-fitted. These advanced braking systems include anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control system, and brake assist system.
Ministry of Power released draft amendments to Electricity Act, 2003
The Ministry of Power released draft amendments to the Electricity Act, 2003 in September 2018.[135] The proposed amendments seek to segregate the electricity distribution business into two segments: supply and distribution. Key features of the proposed amendments include:
For a PRS analysis of the draft amendments, see here. Note that several provisions of the draft amendments were similar to the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2014. For a PRS analysis of the 2014 Bill, see here.
Ministry of Power proposed rationalisation of retail tariff
In September 2018, the Ministry of Power proposed amendments to the Tariff Policy, 2016 (for electricity) to simplify the current tariff categories and rationalise retail tariff.[136] The proposed principles include:
Certain recommendations of the High Level Empowered Committee on stressed thermal projects accepted
The Ministry of Power had constituted a High Level Empowered Committee to resolve issues facing stressed thermal power assets and to revive them, in July 2018.[137] The Committee was headed by the Cabinet Secretary with representatives from the: (i) Ministry of Railways, (ii) Ministry of Finance, (iii) Ministry of Power, (iv) Ministry of Coal, and (v) lenders with major exposure to the power sector. The Committee was to look to maximise the efficiency of investments made in these assets by examining various aspects. These included: (i) changes required in the fuel allocation policy, (ii) changes in regulatory framework, (iii) mechanisms to facilitate sale of power, and (iv) ensuring timely payments.
It submitted its report to ‘Address the issues of Stressed Thermal Power Projects’ in November 2018.[138] The Union Cabinet approved some of the Committee’s recommendations in March 2019.[139],[140] The approved recommendations provide for certain changes to the coal linkage policy, SHAKTI. Key recommendations that have been approved include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
.
Ministry of Power released guidelines for charging infrastructure for electric vehicles
The Ministry of Power released guidelines and standards for charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in December 2018.[141] These guidelines seek to encourage adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by providing an enabling framework. Key features of the guidelines include:
Ministry of Power released mechanism for implementing new environmental norms for thermal power plants
The Ministry of Power released a mechanism (or enabling guidelines) to ensure implementation of certain revised environmental norms, in May 2018.[142] The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change had notified the Environment (Protection) Amendment Rules, 2015 in December 2015 to introduce revised emission standards for thermal power plants (TPPs).[143] These standards would require additional infrastructure and operational costs due to large scale installation, renovations and retrofitting of existing plant machinery. These enabling guidelines seek to provide regulatory certainty to TPPs to recover the additional costs through tariff.
Key guidelines include:
Changes in domestic duties, taxes can be passed through under ‘change of law’
Currently, under the Tariff Policy, 2016 (for electricity), pass-through of increased costs may be allowed if the duties/taxes (on inputs) are changed after the award of bids, or unless provided otherwise in the PPA.[144] Further, such pass through of increased costs must be approved by the CERC/SERC.
The Ministry of Power noted that power generation companies have been unable to get pass-through of changes in cost. This is mostly due to delays in getting the pass-through costs approved. Such delays have affected the cash flows of these companies, and are causing stress in the power sector. In light of this, in August 2018, the Ministry issued certain directions to the CERC, which include:
Ministry of Power released public procurement guidelines for power sector
The Ministry of Power released public procurement guidelines to provide for purchase preference (linked to local content) for the transmission, thermal, and hydro power sectors, in December 2018.[145],[146],[147] These guidelines were in furtherance of the notification of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion on public procurement (preference to Make in India).
The notifications provide details of the minimum local content required for various projects in these sectors. The Ministry of Power will constitute a Committee for each of the sectors to decide on complaints relating to implementation of the orders. Each Committee will be chaired by Members from the Central Electricity Authority.
Ministry of Power released draft guidelines for short-term sale of power
The Ministry of Power released draft guidelines for the short-term sale of power in March 2019.[148] The sale will be carried out by power generating companies and discoms through tariff based bidding process. Short-term sale of electricity includes electricity sold for a period of more than one day up to one year. The Ministry had earlier released guidelines for short-term sale of power in May 2012, and revised them in March 2016. Key features of the draft guidelines include:
Cabinet declared hydro power projects as renewable energy sources
The Union Cabinet approved certain measures to promote the hydro power sector in March 2019.[149],[150] Key measures approved include:
Ministry of Power notified long term growth trajectory for renewable purchase obligations
The Ministry of Power notified the long term growth trajectory of Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) for both solar and non-solar energy in June 2018.[151] RPOs are purchase obligations on electricity discoms to purchase certain amount of their energy requirements from renewable energy sources. The new targets seek to help achieve the target of 175 GW of renewable capacity by 2022.
Between 2016-17 and 2018-19, the long term RPO trajectory was as follows:
Table 7: Long-term RPO trajectory
|
|
2016-17 |
2017-18 |
2018-19 |
|
Non-solar |
8.75% |
9.50% |
10.25% |
|
Solar |
2.75% |
4.75% |
6.75% |
|
Total |
11.50% |
14.25% |
17.00% |
Sources: Ministry of Power; PRS.
These obligations are based on the total consumption of electricity, excluding consumption met from hydro power. The new long term RPO trajectory for all states and union territories is as follows:
Table 8: Long-term RPO trajectory
|
|
2019-20 |
2020-21 |
2021-22 |
|
Non-solar |
10.25% |
10.25% |
10.50% |
|
Solar |
7.25% |
8.75% |
10.50% |
|
Total |
17.50% |
19.00% |
21.00% |
Sources: Ministry of Power; PRS.
If either RPO is achieved till 85% and above, the remaining shortfall could be met by purchasing the other energy (solar or non-solar) beyond its required RPO for that year.
Ministry released National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy released the National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy in May 2018.[152] Key features of the policy include:
Cabinet approved National Policy on Biofuels, 2018
The Union Cabinet approved the National Policy on Biofuels, 2018 in May 2018.[153] The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy had released a National Policy on Biofuels in 2009. Biofuels are liquid or gaseous fuels produced from biomass resources. These resources include biodegradable fraction of products, wastes and residues from agriculture, forestry and related industries, and the biodegradable fraction of industrial and municipal waste. Key features of the policy include:
Cabinet approved Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
The Union Cabinet approved the launch of Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) in February 2019.[154] The scheme seeks to provide financial and water security to farmers. The scheme aims to add solar capacity of 25,750 MW by 2022. The total central financial support provided under the scheme would be Rs 34,422 crore. The proposed scheme consists of three components:
Ministry released scheme for promotion of biomass based co-generation in sugar mills
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy released a scheme to support the promotion of biomass based co-generation in sugar mills, and other industries, in May 2018.[155] Co-generation means generating both electricity and useful heat at the same time, therefore utilising the available energy in more than one form.
The total central financial assistance towards the scheme will be Rs 170 crore for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20. The guidelines for power generation from biomass power plants will be issued separately. Key provisions under the scheme include:
Ministry released guidelines for New National Biogas and Organic Manure Programme
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy released the guidelines for the New National Biogas and Organic Manure Programme in May 2018.[156] This is a Central Sector Scheme, which provides for setting up of family type biogas plants mainly for rural and semi-urban households. A family type biogas plant generates biogas from organic substances such as cattle-dung, and other bio-degradable materials such as biomass from farms, gardens, and kitchens.
Cabinet approved revised ethanol prices for public sector oil marketing companies
The Union Cabinet approved revised prices for ethanol supplied to public sector oil marketing companies under the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme in June 2018 and September 2018.[157],[158]
Since 2006, oil marketing companies were not able to procure the required quantity of ethanol due to pricing issues. Therefore, the government has been administering the price of ethanol under the programme since December 2014. The prices have been increased with the aim of increasing the availability of ethanol for blending with petrol.
Ethanol is primarily produced from sources such as: (i) sugarcane with 100% sugarcane juice, which has not been used for sugar production, (ii) B heavy molasses, which has been used for sugar production, but still contains some sugar content, (iii) C heavy molasses, which is the end product left after sugar processing, and (iv) damaged foodgrains, among other sources.
Prices of ethanol derived from sources with more sugar content were fixed at a higher rate to divert sugarcane from sugar processing and thus, prevent excess sugar production. Key changes approved in June 2018 include:
Due to a subsequent revision in the Fair and Remunerative Price of sugarcane, the prices of ethanol were revised in September 2018. The revised prices of ethanol are:
The revised ethanol prices are applicable for the ethanol supply year from December 1, 2018 to November 30, 2019.
Oil marketing companies have been advised to prioritise usage of ethanol derived out of: (i) 100% sugarcane juice, (ii) B heavy molasses, (iii) C heavy molasses, and (iv) damaged food grains and other sources, in that order.
Companies issued directions to sell 10% ethanol blended petrol from April 2019
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued directions to oil marketing companies in February 2019, to sell 10% ethanol blended petrol in all states and union territories (except Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep) from April 1, 2019.[159] The central government may modify the areas and the percentage of ethanol blending, and specify the period for the same.
The Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme was launched in 2003 to promote the use of alternative and environment friendly fuels.[160] Blending ethanol with petrol helps reduce vehicle exhaust emissions and reduces the import burden for petroleum.
Earlier, oil marketing companies were mandated to sell 5% ethanol blended petrol, subject to commercial viability.[161] The directions increased the blending percentage from 5% to 10%. Further, the mandate of selling ethanol blended petrol was extended to the north-eastern states and Jammu and Kashmir.
Cabinet approved PM JI-VAN Yojana for increasing ethanol supply
The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN (Jaiv Indhan - Vatavaran Anukool fasal awashesh Nivaran) Yojana in February 2019.[162] Under the scheme, financial support in the form of viability gap funding (VGF) will be provided to integrated bioethanol projects which produce ethanol using dry plant biomass and other renewable feedstock. The scheme aims to incentivise the production of ethanol through these sources, and increase the supply of ethanol.
The VGF support will be provided to 12 commercial projects and 10 demonstration projects in two phases: (i) half of the projects in 2018-19 to 2022-23 period, and (ii) the other half in 2020-21 to 2023-24 period.
An outlay of Rs 1,970 crore has been approved for the scheme for 2018-19 to 2023-24. Of this, Rs 1,800 crore has been allocated for supporting the 12 commercial projects, and Rs 150 crore for supporting the 10 demonstration projects.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas seeks to achieve 10% ethanol blending in petrol by 2022 under the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme. The ethanol supply in 2017-18, i.e. 150 crore litres was sufficient for 4.2% ethanol blending. The Ministry aims to bridge the supply gap for the EBP programme through the production of ethanol from biomass and other waste. The ethanol produced by the beneficiaries under the scheme will be mandatorily supplied to oil marketing companies to increase the blending percentage.
Cabinet approved framework for reforms in the exploration and licensing policy
The Union Cabinet approved a policy framework for reforms in the exploration and licensing policy for oil and gas fields in February 2019.[163],[164] The reforms seek to enhance domestic exploration and production of oil and gas. The objectives of the approved framework include: (i) attracting new investment in exploration and production sectors, (ii) intensifying exploration activities in unexplored areas, and (iii) liberalising the policy in production basins. The reforms focused on the following areas:
Earlier, during bidding of unexplored or unallocated areas of production basins, equal weightage was given to exploration work programme and revenue share of the government. In the approved framework, the weightage to work programme is increased to 70%, with 30% weightage to revenue share.
The framework also provided for shorter exploration periods and royalty concessions for early commencement of production. Further, the contractor will be given marketing and pricing freedom for sale of crude oil and natural gas in certain cases.
Cabinet approved policy framework for exploration of unconventional hydrocarbons
The Union Cabinet approved the policy framework for exploration and exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbons such as shale oil and gas, and coal bed methane (CBM) in August 2018.[165] Prior to this, the exploration and exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbons was not allowed, except in case of CBM. Further, CBM contracts did not allow exploitation of any other hydrocarbon, except CBM.
The approved policy framework permits contractors to explore and exploit unconventional hydrocarbons in their licensed/leased areas as per their existing contracts. With the approved policy, an estimated area of 77,296 sq. km. will now be accessible for exploration and exploitation of both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbons.
The approved policy requires contractors to share the profit on production from new discoveries with the government at an additional rate of 10%, over and above the rate specified in their contracts. However, it would apply only to production sharing contracts and CBM contracts. This additional rate will not be applicable for the blocks granted to the national oil companies, namely ONGC and Oil India Limited, on nomination basis.
For this purpose, ring-fencing of operations is being provided. Under this, the cost incurred on exploration, development, and production for new discoveries will be recorded separately. Further, the commercial and techno-economic viability of new discoveries will be established on a stand-alone basis.
The policy will not be applicable to blocks where the contractor has already applied for termination of contract or to blocks under termination, arbitration or legal proceedings.
Cabinet approved framework to improve recovery of existing hydrocarbon reserves
The Union Cabinet approved a policy framework to promote and incentivise Enhanced Recovery (ER), Improved Recovery (IR), and Unconventional Hydrocarbon (UHC) production methods in September 2018.[166]
ER includes methods for enhanced recovery of oil and gas. IR methods comprise of new drilling technologies, and advanced techniques for management and control of reserves, in combination with the ER methods. UHC production methods include methods for production of shale oil and gas, gas hydrates and heavy oil, among others. The policy aims to increase the recovery rate of oil and gas from existing hydrocarbon reserves for augmenting their domestic production.
The policy involved: (i) systemic assessment of every field for its ER potential, (ii) appraisal of appropriate ER techniques, and (iii) fiscal incentives to make the required additional investment financially viable. Prior to commercial implementation of the ER project, mandatory screening of the fields will be done by the designated institutions, and a pilot project will be conducted. Such institutions will be notified by the central government.
The policy will be monitored and implemented by a committee comprising of representatives of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the DGH, experts in the upstream sector, and academia.
It will be applicable to all the blocks allocated to oil companies on a contractual basis, as well as to the blocks granted on nomination basis to the national oil companies, namely ONGC and Oil India Limited. The policy will be effective for a period of 10 years from the date of notification.
Inter-ministerial group submitted recommendations on rationalising coal linkages for independent power producers
The Ministry of Coal had constituted an inter-ministerial group to review the existing sources of coal for independent power producers with coal linkages in October 2017.[167] Coal linkage is the allocation of coal mines to thermal power plants. The inter-ministerial group made its recommendations in May 2018, which include:
Cabinet permitted allottees of captive mines or mines with specified end use to sell up to 25% of coal production in open market
The Union Cabinet permitted the allottees of captive mines or mines with specified end use to sell up to 25% of their coal production in open market in February 2019.[168]
Earlier, allottees of certain coal mines which had been earmarked for specified end use (i.e. for usage by a particular sector) or for captive use (i.e. their own consumption) were not permitted to sell coal in open market. Any coal produced in excess of the allottee’s requirement was mandated to be supplied to Coal India Limited at their notified price, minus handling charges. Such sale was restricted to 50% of the annual production from the mine.
The new guidelines allow allottees to sell up to 25% of their production on ROM basis (run-of-mine production calculated without removing the impurities). The allottees are required to utilise at least 75% of production (ROM basis) of their coal mines for the specified purposes.
For open market sale, the allottees are required to pay an additional premium equivalent to 15% of the final price agreed upon during the auction or allotment. This additional premium will be payable over and above the final price.
Cabinet approved continuation of central scheme for Exploration of Coal and Lignite
The Union Cabinet approved continuation of the central scheme for ‘Exploration of Coal and Lignite’ for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20 in February 2019.[169] Rs 1,875 crore of outlay has been approved for the scheme.
The approved scheme aims to carry out 2,442 km of drilling and 3,575 line km of surface geophysical survey during the three-year period. Under the scheme, regional exploration and detailed drilling will be carried out in blocks not owned by the Coal India Limited.
In regional exploration, possible deposits are categorised based on the increasing order of their geological feasibility. Subsequently, detailed drilling is carried out for some of them to assess their economic viability and identify reserves.
Ministry of Mines released the National Mineral Policy, 2019
The Ministry of Mines released the National Mineral Policy, 2019 in March 2019.[170] It replaces the National Mineral Policy, 2008. The new policy aims to bring in further transparency, better regulation and enforcement, balanced social and economic growth in the sector, and sustainable mining practices. Key features of the policy include:
Expert Committee submitted report on data privacy
The Committee of Experts on a Data Protection Framework for India (Chair: Justice B. N. Srikrishna) submitted its report and draft Bill to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in July 2018.[171] The Committee was constituted in August, 2017 to examine issues related to data protection, recommend methods to address them, and draft a data protection Bill.
Key provisions of the draft Bill include:
For a PRS report summary, see here. For a PRS analysis of the draft Bill, see here.
Ministry invited public feedback on draft amendments to intermediary rules
In December 2018, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology invited comments on the Information Technology [Intermediary Guidelines (Amendment) Rules] 2018.[172] These draft rules seek to amend the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines) Rules, 2011. Intermediaries are entities that store or transmit data on behalf of other persons, and includes internet or telecom service providers, web-hosting service providers, and search engines. The 2011 Rules specify the due diligence that intermediaries are required to follow. Key features of the draft rules include:
Ministry notified agencies that can intercept information on computer devices
In December 2018, the Ministry of Home Affairs has notified 10 security agencies for the purpose of intercepting, and monitoring information stored on any computer device.[173] The agencies notified include the Intelligence Bureau, Central Bureau of Investigation, National Investigation Agency, and the Enforcement Directorate. These agencies have been notified under the Information Technology Act, 2000, which allows the central or state government to direct any agency, in writing, to monitor or intercept such information. As per the Act, interception can be authorised for various reasons, including: (i) defence of India, (ii) national security, (iii) friendly relations with foreign governments, or (iv) public order.
Cabinet approved the National Digital Communications Policy, 2018
The Union Cabinet approved the National Digital Communications Policy in September 2018.[174],[175] The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) had released a draft of the policy in May 2018.[176] The policy noted that India’s digital profile is one of the fastest growing in the world and it is estimated that by 2025, India’s digital economy has the potential to reach one trillion USD. The objective of the policy is to provide a framework that will enable creation of a vibrant telecom market to strengthen India’s long-term competitiveness. Key features of the approved policy include:
Cabinet approved the National Policy on Electronics, 2019
The Union Cabinet approved the National Policy on Electronics in February 2019, proposed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).[177] The Ministry had earlier released a draft policy in October 2018.[178] The policy aims to position India as a global hub for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM), by enabling the industry to compete globally. Key features of the policy include:
Cabinet approved National Policy on Software Products, 2019
The Union Cabinet approved the National Policy on Software Products in February 2019.[179], [180] The policy aims to develop India as a global software product hub. Key features of the policy include:
Ministry notified regulations for in flight and maritime connectivity
The Ministry of Communication notified regulations for in flight and maritime connectivity (IFMC) in December 2018.[181] IFMC refers to the provision of wireless voice or data in aircrafts and on ships. In-flight connectivity was approved in May 2018 by the Telecom Commission, as recommended by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).[182]
In order to provide IFMC services, entities must apply for authorisation from the DoT. The conditions for eligibility to apply for an authorisation include those who have a license for providing telecommunication services, and Category A Internet Service Providers (those that provide internet services across India). Further, certain airlines and shipping companies that have entered into commercial agreements with service providers, are also eligible to apply for authorisation. Such authorisation will be valid for a period of 10 years, and can be revoked by the DoT with a written notice of 21 days.
The regulations specify that there shall be separate infrastructure for IFMC and navigation systems in aircrafts and ships, to avoid interference. Further, the IFMC will be in the exclusive control of the pilot or captain of the aircraft or ship. Further, a designated officer of the central or state government will have the right to intercept telegraph messages passing through the IFMC network.
TRAI notified amendments to mobile number portability regulations
TRAI notified the Telecommunication Mobile Number Portability (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2018 in December 2018.[183] Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is a facility that allows subscribers to maintain their mobile number when they move from one service provider to another provider. TRAI had invited public feedback on draft MNP regulations in October 2018.[184]
MNP is carried out by providing subscribers with a Unique Portability Code (UPC). In the current framework, the UPC is provided by the service provider whom the subscriber’s number belongs to at the time of requesting porting. Further, a Mobile Number Portability Service Provider (MNPSP) facilitates the process of porting of numbers.
According to the amendments, the UPC will now be generated and provided to subscribers by the MNPSP, rather than the service provider. The MNPSP is to provide the UPC after checking from the database of the service provider. According to TRAI, this change will facilitate porting in a more efficient manner.
TRAI notified amendments to the Telecommunication Tariff Order, 1999
In September 2018, TRAI notified amendments to the Telecommunication Tariff Order, 1999.[185] The Order relates to fixing of tariffs for various telecommunication services.[186]
The amendment removes certain types of services like radio paging services, telex, and telegraph services from the ambit of the Order. Further, the Order limits the amount of deposit that can be charged from subscribers at not more than one year of rental charge. According to the amendments, this limit will not apply to International Subscriber Dialing and International Roaming Services.
Cabinet approved provision of mobile connectivity in Left Wing Extremism areas
In May 2018, the Union Cabinet approved Phase II of project to provide mobile services in inhabited uncovered areas affected by Left Wing Extremism. through Universal Service Obligation Fund.[187] In Phase I of the project, 2,335 towers were made operational. In Phase II of the project, mobile services will be provided at 4,072 tower locations of 96 districts in 10 states. The Phase II of the project is estimated to cost Rs 7,330 crore. The network would be used by the security personnel deployed in Left Wing Extremism affected areas. Further, mobile services will also be provided to the residents in unconnected inhabited villages in such regions.
TRAI released consultation paper on regulation of over-the-top services
TRAI invited public feedback on a consultation paper on the regulatory framework for over-the-top (OTT) communication service providers in November 2018.[188] These are providers that offer information and communication technology services, but neither operate networks nor lease network capacity from a network provider. OTT service providers rely on the internet to provide services. Key observations made by TRAI include:
TRAI released recommendations on promoting local telecom equipment manufacturing
TRAI released recommendation on ‘Promoting Local Telecom Equipment Manufacturing’ in August 2018.[189] It includes recommendations on institutional mechanism, resolution of disputes, and market access. Key recommendations include:
The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2019 introduced in Rajya Sabha
The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Rajya Sabha in February 2019.[190] The Bill amends the Cinematograph Act, 1952. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had earlier released draft amendments to Act for public feedback.[191] The Bill was referred to the Standing Committee on Information Technology in February 2019. It was expected to submit its report in April. The Act provides for certification of films for exhibition. Further, the Act imposes penalties for various offences such as: (i) exhibition of a film that has not been certified for public exhibition, or (ii) tampering with a film after it has been certified. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Ministry released draft amendments to Sports Broadcasting Signals Act, 2007
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting released draft amendments to the Sports Broadcasting Signals (Mandatory Sharing with Prasar Bharti) Act, 2007 for feedback in October 2018.[192] According to the Act, no television or radio broadcasting service provider can broadcast sporting events of national importance, unless it simultaneously shares the broadcasting signal with Prasar Bharti.
Under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, it is mandatory for networks to carry DD National and DD Sports. However, the Sports Broadcasting Signals Act, 2007, enables Prasar Bharti to re-transmit signals of important national sporting events only on Doordarshan’s own terrestrial or Direct-to-Home networks. Therefore, viewers who do not have access to Doordarshan’s networks are unable to watch these sporting events or must watch them on highly priced sports channels.
The draft amendments propose that in addition to Prasar Bharti, the broadcasters must share signals for these events with other networks where it is mandatory to broadcast Doordarshan Channels. According to the Ministry, this will allow larger number of viewers to access such sporting events.
Ministry released revised guidelines for the Journalists Welfare Scheme
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) released revised guidelines for the Journalist Welfare Scheme in March 2019.[193] The scheme aims to provide one-time financial support to journalists and their families in extreme hardship. The key features of the scheme guidelines include:
Cabinet approved human spaceflight programme Gaganyaan
The Union Cabinet approved the human spaceflight programme Gaganyaan in December 2018.[194] Under the programme, two unmanned missions will be launched before sending humans to space. The programme will be undertaken by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The manned spaceflight, with a three-member crew, is aimed to be launched within 40 months from the date of approval. It will be launched using the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-III. Once launched, it will be placed in low earth orbit for a maximum period of seven days.
An expenditure of Rs 9,023 crore has been approved for the programme. The total cost of programme is estimated to be within Rs 10,000 crore, which includes the cost of technology development, flight hardware realisation, and developing essential infrastructure elements.
Cabinet approved setting up of a new company under Department of Space
The Union Cabinet approved the setting up of a company under the Department of Space in February 2019.[195] The company has been set up for commercial usage of the research and development carried out by ISRO and the Department of Space.
Opportunities for commercial usage of ISRO’s work include: (i) transfer of small satellite technology to industries, (ii) manufacturing small satellite launch vehicles (SLV) in collaboration with the private sector, (iii) mass production of polar SLV through industry, (iv) mass production and marketing of space-based products and services, including launch and applications, (v) transfer of technologies developed and marketing of some associated technologies and products, and (vi) any other avenue deemed fit by the central government.
NITI Aayog released paper on National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence
NITI Aayog released a discussion paper on National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in June 2018.[196] Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of machines to perform cognitive tasks. The discussion paper focused on how India can leverage AI to ensure growth in line with the development priorities of the government. It emphasised on the adoption of AI solutions for: (i) agriculture, (ii) education, (iii) healthcare, (iv) smart cities, and (v) smart mobility and transportation.
While each sector has its barriers to successful adoption of AI, the paper identified some key challenges across the sectors. These included: (i) lack of expertise in research and application of AI, (ii) lack of quality data ecosystems suitable for successful adoption, (iii) high resource cost and low awareness for adoption of AI, and (iv) lack of formal privacy, security, and ethical regulations.
In order to address these challenges, the paper included the following recommendations:
Parliament passed the RTE (Second
Amendment) Bill, 2017
The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Second Amendment) Bill, 2017 was passed by Parliament in January 2019.[197] The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha on August 11, 2017 and amends the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009.
The Act prohibits detention of children till they complete elementary education i.e., class 8. The Bill seeks to amend this provision to empower the central or state government to allow schools to hold back a child in class 5, class 8, or in both the classes.
The Bill seeks to amend this provision to state that a regular examination will be held in classes 5 and 8 at the end of every academic year. If a child fails in the examinations, he will be given additional instruction, and will take a re-examination. If he fails in the re-examination, the relevant central or state government may decide to allow schools to detain the child.
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
Ordinance to provide for reservation of teaching posts in central educational institutions promulgated
The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers’ Cadre) Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in March 2019.[198] The Ordinance provides for reservation of teaching positions in central educational institutions for persons belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and the socially and educationally backward classes.
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Parliament passed the National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Bill, 2017
The National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Bill, 2017 was passed by Parliament in January 2019.[199] The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 18, 2017. It amends the National Council for Teacher Education Act, 1993. The Act establishes the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) which regulates the teacher education system and the standards it must maintain.
The Bill seeks to grant retrospective recognition to institutions: (i) notified by the central government, (ii) funded by the central government or state/union territory government, (iii) which do not have recognition under the Act, and (iv) which must have offered teacher education courses on or after the establishment of the NCTE until the academic year 2017-2018. It also seeks to grant retrospective permission to such institutions to start a new course or offer training in teacher education.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Ministry released draft Higher Education Commission of India (Repeal of University Grants Commission Act) Bill, 2018
The Ministry of Human Resource Development released the Draft Higher Education Commission of India (Repeal of University Grants Commission Act) Bill 2018 in June 2018.[200] The draft Bill seeks to repeal the University Grants Commission Act, 1956 and set up a Higher Education Commission. The Commission will ensure: (i) maintenance of academic standards in higher education, (ii) promotion of autonomy of higher education institutions, and (iii) periodic performance assessment of higher education institutions. Currently, the UGC is a statutory body that coordinates, determines, and maintains the standards of higher education. Key features of the draft Bill are as follows:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
The Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2018 introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha in December 2018.[201] The Bill seeks to amend the Central Universities Act, 2009, which establishes universities for teaching and research in various states. The Bill will lapse on the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha.
The Bill provides for the establishment of two central universities in Andhra Pradesh to be known as the Central University of Andhra Pradesh, and the Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh. The Central Tribal University will take additional measures to provide higher educational and research facilities in tribal art, culture, and customs primarily to the tribal population of India.
Note that the establishment of a Central University and a Central Tribal University in the Andhra Pradesh is obligatory under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill, 2018 introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha in December 2018.[202] It will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Bill seeks to amend the National Institute of Design Act, 2014, which declares the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad as an institution of national importance.
The Bill seeks to declare four National Institutes of Design in Amaravati, Bhopal, Jorhat, and Kurukshetra as institutions of national importance. Currently, these institutes are registered as Societies under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 and do not have the power to grant degrees or diplomas. On being declared institutions of national importance, the four institutes will be granted the power to grant degrees and diplomas.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
UGC released regulations for Institutions Deemed to be Universities
The University Grants Commission (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2019 were released in February 2019. [203] These regulations outline the processes through which institutes of academic excellence can be deemed to be universities. Key features include:
University Grants Commission approved UGC (Online Courses) Regulations, 2018
The University Grants Commission approved the UGC (Online Courses) Regulations, 2018 in May 2018.[204] As per the regulations, higher educational institutions will be able to offer certificate, diploma and degree programmes through an online mode. Such courses should be in the disciplines in which: (i) they are already offering similar courses at graduation level, and (ii) at least one batch has graduated.
As per the scheme, only those institutions will be eligible to offer online courses that have been: (i) in existence for at least five years, (ii) accredited by National Assessment and Accreditation Council with a minimum score of 3.26 on a 4-point scale, and (iii) in the top-100 in overall category in the National Institutional Ranking Framework for at least two years in the previous three years.
Ministry launched scheme to provide holistic education from pre-school to Class 12
The Ministry of Human Resource Development launched a scheme ‘Samagra Shiksha’, which seeks to provide holistic education from pre-school to senior secondary levels.[205] It subsumes three existing schemes, namely: (i) Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, (ii) Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan, and (iii) Teacher Education. The budget allocation for the scheme is Rs 34,000 crore for 2018-19, and Rs 41,000 crore for 2019-20.
To determine district level interventions, the scheme will focus on learning outcomes and results of the latest National Achievement Survey. Further, it envisages active participation of stakeholders such as parents and school management committee members.
Cabinet approved merger of National Council for Vocational Training and National Skill Development Agency
The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training, which seeks to regulate skill development and vocation training.[206] It subsumes two existing regulatory institutions: (i) the National Council for Vocational Training, and (ii) the National Skill Development Agency. Functions of the Council will include: (i) recognition and regulation of entities engaged in vocational education and training, and (ii) approval of qualifications developed by awarding bodies and Sector Skill Councils.
Ministry launched Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana in September 2018.[207],[208] The scheme aims to provide a cover of five lakh rupees per family per year to about 10.7 crore families (no cap on family size and age) belonging to poor and vulnerable population. The scheme will subsume the on-going centrally sponsored schemes, Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana and the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme. The scheme was approved by the Cabinet in March 2018. Key features of the scheme include:
The Allied and Healthcare Professions Bill, 2018 introduced
The Allied and Healthcare Professions Bill, 2018 was introduced in Rajya Sabha in December 2018.[209] In January 2019, the Bill was referred to the Standing Committee on Health for examination and the report is expected during the 17th Lok Sabha.[210],[211] The Bill seeks to regulate and standardise the education and practice of allied and healthcare professionals.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in August 2018.[212] It amends the Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973 and replaces an Ordinance promulgated in May 2018.[213],[214] The 1973 Act sets up the Central Council of Homoeopathy which regulates homoeopathic education and practice. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
The Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 promulgated
The Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in March 2019.[215] It amends the Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973 which sets up the Central Council of Homoeopathy. The Central Council regulates homoeopathic education and practice.
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Lok Sabha passed Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2018, but Bill will lapse
The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2018 was passed by Lok Sabha in December 2018.[216] The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha in November 2016 and referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare (Chairperson: Prof. Ram Gopal Yadav).[217] The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha with amendments and will lapse at the end of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Bill defines surrogacy as a practice where a woman gives birth to a child for an intending couple with the intention to hand over the child to them after the birth.
Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill and the 2018 amendments, see here and here.
Parliament passed Bill to amend the National Trust for welfare of persons with disabilities
The National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in December 2018.[218] It amends the National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities Act, 1999.[219] The 1999 Act sets up a National Trust to enable persons with disability to live independently by: (i) promoting measures for their protection in case of death of their parents, (ii) evolving procedures for appointment of their guardians and trustees, and (iii) facilitating equal opportunities in society.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The National Commission for Homoeopathy Bill, 2019 introduced in Rajya Sabha
The National Commission for Homoeopathy Bill, 2019 was introduced in Rajya Sabha and referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare in January 2019.[220] The Committee is expected to submit its report during the 17th Lok Sabha.[221],211 The Bill repeals the Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973 and provides for a medical education system which ensures: (i) availability of adequate and high quality homoeopathic medical professionals, (ii) adoption of the latest medical research, and (iii) periodic assessment of medical institutions. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill, 2019 introduced in Rajya Sabha
The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill, 2019 was introduced in Rajya Sabha and referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare in January 2019.[222] The Committee is expected to submit its report during the 17th Lok Sabha.[223],211 The Bill repeals the Indian Medicine Central Council Act, 1970 and provides for a medical education system which ensures: (i) adequate and high quality medical professionals of Indian system of medicine, (ii) adoption of the latest medical research by medical professionals, and (iii) periodic assessment of medical institutions. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Second Ordinance 2019 promulgated
The Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Second Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in February 2019.[224] The Ordinance amends the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956 which sets up the Medical Council of India (MCI) which regulates medical education and practice. Note that, two similar Ordinances had been promulgated in September 2018 and January 2019. This Ordinance is effective from the date of the first Ordinance, i.e., September 26, 2018.
Note that the Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Bill 2018 (to replace the 2018 Ordinance) was passed by Lok Sabha in December 2018 and will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha.
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Cabinet approved setting up of seven new AIIMS in the country
In 2018-19, the Union Cabinet approved the establishment of seven new All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) across the country. These will be set up in (i) Madurai, Tamil Nadu, (ii) Bibinagar, Telangana, (iii) Manethi, Haryana, (iv)Vijaynagar, Jammu, (v) Awantipura, Kashmir, (vi) Deoghar, Jharkhand, and (vii) Rajkot, Gujarat.[225], [226],[227], [228] These will be set up under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). PMSSY was launched in 2006 with the aim of correcting the imbalances in the availability of affordable healthcare facilities in different parts of the country. An amount of Rs 9,558 crore has been approved for setting up of these AIIMS.
Each AIIMS will consist of: (i) a hospital with a capacity of 750 beds, (ii) trauma center facilities, (iii) a medical college with an intake of 100 MBBS students per year, (iv) a nursing college with an intake of 60 B.Sc. (Nursing) students per year, (v) 15 to 20 speciality and super-speciality departments, and (vi) an AYUSH department with 30 beds for the provision of treatment facilities in traditional system of medicine.
Parliament passed the Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, 2017
The Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, 2017 was passed by Parliament in August 2018.[229] The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha in July, 2017. It amends the Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property Act, 1952. The Act provides for the central government to requisition property for its own purpose, which further must be a public purpose. Under certain conditions it can also acquire such property. Features of the Bill are:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
RBI revised housing loan limits for eligibility under priority sector lending
The RBI increased housing loan limits for eligibility under priority sector lending in June 2018.[230],[231] The revisions seek to bring convergence between the priority sector lending guidelines for housing loans and the affordable housing scheme, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
Table 9: Details for eligibility under Priority Sector Lending (in Rs)
|
Particulars |
Older Criteria |
Revised Limits |
|
Loan limit for metropolitan centres (population 10 lakh and above) |
28 Lakh |
35 Lakh |
|
Loan limit for other centres |
20 Lakh |
25 Lakh |
|
Maximum cost of dwelling units for metropolitan centres |
35 Lakh |
45 Lakh |
|
Maximum cost of dwelling units for other centres |
25 Lakh |
30 Lakh |
Sources: Reserve Bank of India; PRS.
Further, under the old criteria, the family income limit prescribed for identification of economically weaker sections (EWS) and low-income groups (LIG) was two lakh rupees per year. This limit was increased to three lakh rupees per year for EWS and six lakh rupees per year for LIG. This is in alignment with the income criteria specified under PMAY.
Ministry increased carpet area of houses in the MIG group eligible for PMAY-U
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs revised the carpet area of houses eligible for the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) for the middle income group (MIG) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) in June 2018.[232] Under CLSS, an interest subsidy is provided to eligible persons, on home loans taken for buying or constructing a house. The revised carpet area was effective retrospectively from January 1, 2017, i.e., from the date when the scheme became operational. The CLSS for MIG scheme was implemented till March 31, 2019.
There were two categories of MIG beneficiaries: (i) MIG-I (annual income between six lakh rupees and Rs 12 lakh), and (ii) MIG-II (annual income between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 18 lakh). The carpet area of dwelling units under the scheme was increased: (i) from 120 sq ft to 160 sq ft for MIG-I, and (ii) from 150 sq ft to 200 sq ft for MIG-II.
Benefits under CLSS had been extended to the MIG group in February 2017 (earlier they were only applicable to the economically weaker section, and the lower income groups). The carpet area of dwelling units under the MIG category were last increased in November 2017. Details of CLSS for MIG are as follows:
Table 10: Details of CLSS for MIG
|
Particulars |
MIG I |
MIG II |
|
Household Income (per annum) |
Between Rs six lakh and Rs 12 lakh |
Between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 18 lakh |
|
Interest subsidy (% per annum) |
4% |
3% |
|
Maximum loan tenure (in years) |
20 |
20 |
|
Eligible Housing Loan Amount for Interest Subsidy (Rs.) |
Rs 9 lakh |
Rs 12 lakh |
|
Carpet Area of dwelling unit |
160 sq.m. |
200 sq.m. |
Sources: Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs; PRS.
Ministry amended Model Building Byelaws, 2016 to provide for electric vehicle charging infrastructure
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs amended the Model Building Byelaws, 2016 and the Urban Regional Development Plans Formulation and Implementation Guidelines, 2014 to facilitate the availability of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, in February 2019.[233] The amended guidelines will act as a guiding document for states and union territories to incorporate the norms and standards of EV charging infrastructure in their respective building byelaws. The central government aims to have 25% of all vehicles on roads to be electric by 2020. Note that in December 2018, the Ministry of Power had released guidelines for charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.[234]
Ease of Living Index 2018 released
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs launched the Ease of Living Index 2018 in August 2018.[235] The Index captures the quality of life in cities and seeks to: (i) drive an evidence-based approach for future interventions and investments to deliver ease of living outcomes; (ii) catalyse actions to improve the quality of life in Indian cities; (iii) track broader development outcomes, including the Sustainable Development Goals; and (iv) serve as basis for dialogue with citizens and urban decision-makers on key strengths as well as areas demanding improvement in cities.
The Index ranked 111 cities in 35 states/ union territories on 78 indicators in 15 categories. Each of these 15 categories falls within one of the following four pillars: (i) institutional, (ii) social, (iii) economic, and (iv) physical. The different categories include: (i) assured water supply, (ii) economy and employment, (iii) education, (iv) governance, (v) health; (vi) mixed land use and compactness, (vii) solid waste management; and (viii) transportation and mobility. The cities ranked under the Index have population more than one million, and fall within the category of smart cities and capital cities. Pune, Maharashtra topped the 2018 ranking.
Ministry released model guidelines for development of retirement homes
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs released model guidelines for the development and regulation of retirement homes in March 2019.[236],[237] The population share of senior citizens is expected to increase from 8% in 2015 to 19% in 2050, to 34% by the end of the century. With rising income levels, a growing share of senior citizens is choosing to reside in commercially developed and professionally managed facilities known as retirement homes. These homes come under the category of real estate projects and are subject to the provisions of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. These model guidelines seek to protect the rights of senior citizens who reside in such homes.
Key features of the guidelines included:
All 100 Smart Cities selected
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, was selected as the 100th Smart City in June 2018.[238] The Smart Cities Mission was launched in June, 2015 and the first 20 cities under the mission were selected in January,2016. The selection of Shillong completes selection of 100 cities under the Mission. The total proposed investment in the selected 100 cities under the Mission would be Rs 2,05,018 crore.
Cabinet approved Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2018
The Union Cabinet approved the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2018 in December 2018.[239] It amends the CRZ Notification, 2011, in relation to management and conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems and ecotourism, among others. The draft Notification was released for public comments in April, 2018.[240] Key features of the 2018 Notification are as follows:
Ministry released Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2018
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, in April 2018.[241] The Rules amend the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.[242] Key features of the amended Rules include:
Ministry launched National Clean Air Programme
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched a five year action plan called the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in April 2018.[243] The NCAP aims to meet the prescribed annual average ambient air quality standards at all locations in the country. Key features of the NCAP are as follows:
Ministry released draft India Cooling Action Plan
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change released the Draft India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) in September 2018.[244] The ICAP provides recommendations to address cooling requirements across sectors, and ways to provide access to sustainable cooling for all over a 20 year period (2017-18 to 2037-38). The main goals as outlined in the ICAP include:
To achieve these objectives, the ICAP has prioritised areas to make interventions, which include:
Cabinet approves continuation of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats scheme till 2019-20
The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats scheme in September 2018, with an outlay of Rs 1,732 crore till 2019-20.[245] The scheme aims to foster wildlife conservation in the country. It has three components: (i) Project Tiger with an outlay of Rs 1,143 crore, (ii) Development of Wildlife Habitats with an outlay of Rs 497 crore, and (iii) Project Elephant with an outlay of Rs 92 crore.
The Dam Safety Bill, 2018 introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Dam Safety Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha in December 2018.[246] It will lapse at the end of the end of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Bill provides for the surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of specified dams across the country. The Bill also provides for the institutional mechanism to ensure the safety of such dams. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Cauvery Water Management Scheme, 2018 formulated
The Cauvery Water Management Scheme, 2018 was formulated by the government in June 2018 to implement the decision of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal, that was modified by the Supreme Court.[247] The Supreme Court in its judgement increased the share of Karnataka by 14.75 TMC and reduced the share of Tamil Nadu by the same amount. To implement the scheme, the government has constituted the Cauvery Water Management Authority and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee.[248] Key details include:
Cauvery Water Management Authority
Cauvery Water Regulation Committee
Functions of CWRC: The CWRC, on the directions of the CWMA, will: (i) collect daily water levels, inflows, and storage position at eight reservoirs of the Cauvery; (ii) ensure 10 daily releases of water on monthly basis from the reservoirs as directed by the CWMA; and (iii) prepare seasonal and annual reports of the water account and submit it to the CWMA, among other things.
Ministry of Water Resources released draft River Basin Management Bill, 2018
The Ministry of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation released the draft River Basin Management Bill, 2018, in October 2018.[249] The Bill proposes to establish 13 River Basin Authorities to facilitate coordination between states for development of inter-state rivers. It also seeks to repeal the River Boards Act, 1956. Key features of the draft Bill are:
Central Ground Water Authority notified guidelines for ground water extraction
The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) notified guidelines for regulation and control of ground water extraction in December 2018.[250] The guidelines will apply across the country beginning June 2019.
As per the guidelines, users extracting ground water are required to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from CGWA. Certain users are exempted from this requirement, including: (i) agricultural users, (ii) users proposing to draw ground water through non-energised means, (iii) individual households proposing to draw ground water from a single well, through delivery pipe of up to one-inch diameter, (iv) armed forces during operational deployment or mobilisation, and (v) government water supply agencies in safe and semi-critical areas.
The guidelines specify different categories of ground water users and prescribe norms for each user group for extraction. For instance, users extracting ground water for drinking and domestic usage will be given NOCs only in cases where the concerned water supply department or agency is unable to supply adequate amount of water in the area.
NOCs given to users will become void in case of change in land use (of the property) or water use. NOCs are valid for a specific time period based on the category of user; and can be renewed thereafter. A processing fee of Rs 10,000 is applicable for new NOCs and Rs 5,000 for renewal of existing NOCs.
Users required to obtain NOC also have to pay a Water Conservation Fee (WCF) for ground water extraction. WCF payable by users depends on their type of usage, the quantum of ground water extraction and the area from where it is being extracted. 25% rebate on WCF will be given to users drawing or proposing to draw saline ground water. Packaged drinking water units located in salinity, arsenic or fluoride affected areas will be given 50% rebate on WCF.
The guidelines also include provisions for: (i) encouraging use of recycled and treated sewage water by industries, (ii) taking action against polluting industries, (iii) mandatory requirement of digital flow meters, piezometers, and digital water level recorders, (iv) mandatory water audit for certain industries, (v) mandatory roof top rain water harvesting for certain industries, and (vi) prevention of ground water contamination on the premises of polluting industries and projects.
Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal gave its final award
The Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal gave its final award on the water sharing of Mahadayi river between the states of Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.[251] The tribunal was set up in November 2010 under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956. The Mahadayi river basin drains an area of 2,032 sq. km, of which 1,680 sq. km lies in Goa, 375 sq. km in Karnataka, and remaining 77 sq. km in Maharashtra. In its award, the tribunal allowed Goa access to 24 Thousand Million Cubic (TMC) feet of water. Karnataka was allowed access to 13.42 TMC feet (5.4 TMC feet for consumptive use and 8.02 TMC feet for power generation) and Maharashtra was allocated 1.33 TMC feet of water.
Cabinet approved Rs 3,466 crore for continuation of Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project till June 2020
The Union Cabinet approved the revised cost estimate of Rs 3,466 crore for continuation of the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project in September 2018.[252] The project was also granted an extension from July 2018 to June 2020. Out of Rs 3,466 crore, Rs 2,628 crore will be funded by the World Bank, Rs 747 crore by state governments, and Rs 91 crore by the Central Water Commission.
The project will improve the safety and operational performance of 198 dams in seven states. Through this, the project aims to mitigate risks to ensure safety of downstream population and property. The project will also focus on institutional strengthening, including capacity building of officials to increase the effectiveness of Dam Safety Organisations.
Cabinet approves the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme
The Union Cabinet approved the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP) in March 2019, with an aim of effective flood management and erosion control.[253] The scheme will have an outlay of Rs 3,342 crore for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20.
FMBAP has been framed by merging two previously continuing schemes, namely the “Flood Management Program,” and the “River Management Activities and Works related to Border Areas”. Salient features of the scheme include: (i) assisting state governments in providing protection against floods through structural and non-structural measures, (ii) completing on-going projects previously approved under the Flood Management Program, (iii) conducting hydro-meteorological observations and flood forecasting with neighbouring countries, and (iv) surveying and investigating water resource projects on common rivers with neighbouring countries.
Anti-trafficking Bill passed by Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018 was passed by Lok Sabha in July 2018.[254] The Bill will lapse on the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Bill provides for the prevention, rescue, and rehabilitation of trafficked persons. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill, 2018 introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill, 2018, was introduced in Lok Sabha in August, 2018.[255] The Bill amends the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. It will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Act contains provisions related to children in conflict with law and children in need of care and protection. The Bill seeks to make changes to provisions related to adoption of children. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, please see here.
Group of Ministers constituted to examine matters related to sexual harassment of women at the workplace
The government constituted a Group of Ministers (Chair: Mr. Rajnath Singh, Minister of Home Affairs) to address issues of sexual harassment of women at the workplace.[256] In addition to the chairperson, the Group comprises Union Ministers of: (i) Defence, (ii) Women and Child Development, and (iii) Road Transport and Highways. The Group of Ministers will examine the existing legal and institutional framework for dealing with matters of sexual harassment of women at the workplace. Further, it will recommend the necessary action required for effective implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The Group of Ministers will submit their recommendations on measures required to strengthen safety of women within three months.
125th Constitutional Amendment Bill introduced in Rajya Sabha
The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Fifth Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Rajya Sabha in January 2019.[257] The Bill amends provisions related to the Finance Commission and the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The Sixth Schedule relates to the administration of tribal areas in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram. The Bill has been referred to the Standing Committee on Home Affairs in February 2019. The Committee was expected to submit its report within three months of formation of the 17th Lok Sabha. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Bills introduced to amend list of Scheduled Tribes in Assam and Karnataka
Two Bills were introduced in Rajya Sabha to amend the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950, in respect of Assam and Karnataka.[258],[259] The Order specifies the list of tribal communities which are deemed to be Scheduled Tribes. These Bills are: (i) the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and (ii) the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019. Key features of these Bills include:
For PRS summaries of these two Bills, see here and here.
Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Third Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Rajya Sabha but will lapse
The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Third Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced and passed by Rajya Sabha in February 2019.[260] The Bill amends the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950, in respect of Arunachal Pradesh. The Bill amends Part 18 of the Order which specifies the Scheduled Tribes in Arunachal Pradesh. It will lapse upon the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched various schemes
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched several schemes for the benefit of tribal communities.[261] These include: (i) Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Minor Forest Produce, (ii) TRIFOOD project, and (iii) the “Friends of TRIBES” initiative.
Under the Schemes of MSP and Value Addition, MSP will be increased from 30% to 40% for 50 commercially viable items to the tribals. Further, approximately 6000 Van Dan Vikas Kendras are proposed to be set up. Each Kendra will comprise 300 tribal gatherers. These Kendras are intended to provide employment to almost 45 lakh tribals.
The Ministry also launched the TRIFOOD Scheme. The Scheme is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED). Under the Scheme, a tertiary value addition center will be set up in Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh and Raigad in Maharashtra at a cost of approximately Rs 11 crore.
The Ministry also launched the “Friends of Tribes” initiative. Under this initiative, TRIFED has tied up CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funds to promote tribal livelihoods. Under the Companies Act, 2013 companies above a certain specified net worth, turnover or profits are required to spend 2% of their average net profits in the last three financial years, towards activities under its CSR policy.
Cabinet approved continuation of Scheduled Tribes sub-schemes
The Union Cabinet gave its approval for the continuation of eleven sub-schemes under the “Umbrella programme for development of Scheduled Tribes” from April, 2017 to March, 2020 at a cost of Rs 11,900 crore.[262] These sub-schemes include pre-matric and post-matric scholarships, hostels, and vocational training to voluntary organisations working for welfare of Scheduled Tribes.
Cabinet approved restructuring of Multi-Sectoral Development Programme
In May 2018, the Union Cabinet approved the restructuring and renaming of the Multi-sectoral Development Programme (MsDP) as Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakaram.[263] Further, the scheme has been approved for continuation till 2019-20 with an allocation of Rs 3,972 crore. MsDP was launched in 2008 with an aim to address the development gaps in minority concentrated areas by providing basic amenities and creating socio-economic infrastructure. Key features of the restructured programme include:
Cabinet approved revision in the list of Scheduled Tribes in Chhattisgarh
The Union Cabinet gave its approval for certain amendments to the list of scheduled tribes in Chhatisgarh in the Constitution (Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2016, in February 2019.[264] The 2016 Bill seeks to amend the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950 and the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950. The two Orders were issued by the President under the Constitution specifying the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and the Scheduled Tribes (STs) of all states. The 2016 Bill amended the list of STs in five states including Chhattisgarh.
For Chhattisgarh, the Bill seeks to clarify equivalent names of the following communities that are already mentioned in the list of STs: (i) Bhuinya, Bhuiyan, Bhuyan, (ii) Dhanwar, Dhanuhar, Dhanuwar, (iii) Nagesia, Nagasia, Kisan, and (iii) Sawar, Sawara, Saunra, Saonra. The proposed amendments to the 2016 Bill add ‘Binjhia’ to the list of STs in Chhattisgarh. Note that the 2016 Bill will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha.
The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2018 passed in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed in Lok Sabha on February 2019.[265] This Bill will lapse following the end of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Bill amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951. The Act provides for the construction of a National Memorial in tribute to individuals killed or wounded on April 13, 1919 in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar. The Act also establishes a Trust to manage the National Memorial.
As per the 1951 Act, the Trustees of the Memorial would include, (i) the Prime Minister, as Chairperson, (ii) the President of the Indian National Congress, (iii) the Minister in-charge of Culture, (iv) the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, (v) the Governor of Punjab, (vi) the Chief Minister of Punjab, and (vii) three eminent persons nominated by the central government. The Bill amends this provision to remove the President of the Indian National Congress as a Trustee. Further, it clarifies that when there is no Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, then the leader of the single largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha will be the Trustee.
Additionally, the Act provides that the three eminent persons nominated by the central government will have a term of five years and will be eligible for re-nomination. The Bill adds a proviso to allow the central government to terminate the term of a nominated trustee before the expiry of his term without assigning any reason.
For PRS Bill Summary, see here.
Select Committee on Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Bill submitted its report
The Select Committee of Rajya Sabha to examine the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (Chairperson: Dr. Vinay P. Sahasrabuddhe) submitted its report.[266] The Bill amends the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha on July, 2017 and was passed by the House on January 2018. It was referred to the Rajya Sabha Select Committee on July, 2018. The Bill will lapse on dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Committee recommended that the Bill be passed by Parliament. Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Supreme Court read down some parts of the Aadhaar Act
In September 2018, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the provisions of the Aadhaar Act, 2016 by a 4:1 majority.[267] It also upheld the passage of the Aadhaar Bill as a Money Bill in the Lok Sabha. Further, Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act, 1961, which mandates quoting of Aadhaar number for obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) and for filing income tax returns, was also upheld.
However, certain provisions of the Act were read down. Section 7 permits the government to require that Aadhaar be used for authenticating the identity of an individual receiving government subsidies or benefits, or paying for government services. The Court upheld this with the condition that alternate mechanisms be created in case the authentication fails for a genuine beneficiary.
Section 57 allows the use of Aadhaar for establishing identity for other purposes if authorized by any law or through contractual agreement. The Court said in its judgement, that Aadhaar can be used only if there is a law, which establishes the necessity and proportionality of its use.
The court also struck down some provisions. These include: (i) Section 33(2), which permitted the disclosure of information, including identity and authentication information, in the interest of national security to an officer of the rank of Joint Secretary or higher, (ii) Section 47, which stated that complaints regarding offences under the Act could be filed in courts only by UIDAI.
Section 33(1) of the Act was read down. This allowed disclosure of information, including identity and authentication records, if ordered by a court not inferior to that of District Judge. The Court stated that the individual whose information is being sought should be given the opportunity of being heard.
The Prevention of Money Laundering (Maintenance of Records) Rules, 2005 had mandated linking of bank accounts and other financial instruments, such as mutual funds and insurance policies, with Aadhaar. The Court declared this unconstitutional, stating that it did not meet the test of proportionality and violated the right to privacy of the individual with regard to his banking details. On similar considerations, the Court declared the provision of linking mobile phones with Aadhaar unconstitutional.
Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Ordinance promulgated
The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in March 2019.[268] It amends the Aadhaar Act, 2016, the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The Aadhaar Act provides targeted delivery of subsidies and benefits to individuals residing in India by assigning them unique identity numbers, called Aadhaar numbers. In September 2018, the Supreme Court struck down certain provisions of the Aadhaar Act, including those in relation to mandatory linking of Aadhaar with bank accounts and mobile phones. Previously, a similar Bill was passed by Lok Sabha in January 2019.[269] Key features of the Ordinance include:
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Supreme Court de-criminalised homosexuality
In September 2018, the Supreme Court decided a constitutional challenge to Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860.[270] Section 377 punishes a person who has intercourse with a man, woman, or animal which is against the ‘order of nature’. The offence is punishable with imprisonment for life or up to 10 years, and fine. Under this provision, sexual intercourse between individuals of the same gender was criminalised.
The Court held the provision to be unconstitutional to the extent that it criminalises sexual acts between two consenting adults. The provision will continue to govern sexual acts against minors, animals, and in respect of non-consenting adults.
The Court found the provision to be arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution (right to equality) since it distinguished between heterosexual and homosexual adults, solely on the basis of their sexual orientation. The Court further stated that the provision violates the right to dignity, privacy and sexual autonomy guaranteed to homosexual persons under Article 21 of the Constitution (right to life). In addition, the Court found the provision to violate Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution (freedom of speech and expression).
Supreme Court de-criminalised adultery
In September 2018, the Supreme Court decided a constitutional challenge to Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, which criminalises adultery.[271] Section 497 punishes a man who has sexual intercourse with the wife of another man, without his consent. The offence is punishable with imprisonment of up to five years or a fine, or both. The petitioners in the case wanted the Court to make the offence gender-neutral.
The Court held the provision to be unconstitutional and struck it down entirely. The Court found the provisions to be arbitrary and violative of Article 14 (right to equality) since: (i) it did not apply equally to a married man who had intercourse with another woman; and (ii) it permitted adultery if the husband consented, which indicates that the provision treated the wife as property of the husband. The Court further found the provision to violate the right to dignity, privacy and sexual autonomy of a woman guaranteed to her under Article 21of the Constitution (right to life).
The Court clarified that adultery may continue to be a ground for divorce.
Supreme Court allowed the entry of women in Sabrimala Temple
In September 2018, a five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court heard a case challenging the constitutionality of a custom under which women between the ages of 10 to 50 years were denied entry to Lord Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala, Kerala.[272] The Court held the practice to be unconstitutional by a 4:1 majority.
The practice was challenged on the grounds that it violates Articles 14 (right to equality), 15 (prohibition of discrimination based on sex), 17 (abolition of untouchability), 21 (protection of life and personal liberty), and 25 (freedom of religion) of the Constitution.
Supreme Court upheld judgement on reservation in promotions for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
In September 2018, the Supreme Court upheld its earlier judgement on reservation in promotion to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in public employment.[273] In its earlier judgement, the Supreme Court held that the government could provide reservation in promotions to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, but would have to show the existence of certain reasons.[274] These reasons include: (i) backwardness, (ii) inadequacy of representation, and (iii) administrative efficiency. It further stated that the government would have to collect data showing backwardness of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
The court upheld this previous judgement, but stated that the government did not have to collect data showing backwardness of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Delhi High Court de-criminalised begging
In August 2018, the Delhi High Court decided a constitutional challenge to the provisions of the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, as extended to the Union Territory of Delhi. The Court held the Act to be unconstitutional, to the extent that it criminalised begging.[275] It noted that criminalizing begging violates the most fundamental rights of some of the most vulnerable people in society.
The Court observed that several provisions of the Act violated Article 14 (right to equality) because it did not distinguish between the different types of begging and further equated begging with homelessness. The Court also found the criminalisation of begging to be in violation of Article 21 (protection of life and personal liberty) of the Constitution.
Supreme Court laid down guidelines for live-streaming of court proceedings
In September 2018, the Supreme Court allowed live-streaming of certain cases of constitutional or national importance.[276] The Court formulated certain model guidelines for the live-stream. These include:
Supreme Court laid down guidelines for chargesheeted candidates contesting elections
In September 2018, the Supreme Court set down certain guidelines to be followed by candidates who are contesting elections and have criminal cases pending against them in a court.[277] These guidelines are as follows:
The Court stated that Parliament should consider enacting a law to ensure that persons facing serious criminal charges do not contest elections.
Parliament passed the Constitution (One Hundred Twenty-Third Amendment) Bill
The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2018, was passed by Parliament in August 2018.[278] The Bill gives constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), at par with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes. It removes the power to examine matters related to backward classes from the purview of NCSC. Parliament also repealed the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993.[279]
For a PRS summary of the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017, see here. For a PRS summary of the National Commission for Backward Classes (Repeal) Bill, 2017, see here.
Parliament passed the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in August 2018.[280] It replaced an Ordinance promulgated in April 2018.[281] The Bill amends certain laws related to rape of minors. Key features of the Bill include:
Amendments to Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC)
Table 11: New offences under the IPC, 1860
|
Age |
Offence |
Punishment |
|
Below 12 years |
Rape |
Rigorous imprisonment of at least 20 years extendable to life imprisonment, along with fine to meet medical expenses and rehabilitation cost of the victim, or, death. |
|
Gang Rape |
Life imprisonment, along with fine, to meet medical expenses and rehabilitation cost of the victim, or, death. |
|
|
Below 16 years |
Rape |
Previously, the punishment for rape was imprisonment of ten years extendable to life imprisonment, along with fine. This has been enhanced to a minimum rigorous imprisonment of at least 20 years, extendable to life imprisonment, along with fine to meet medical expenses and rehabilitation cost of victim. |
|
Gang Rape |
Life imprisonment, along with fine, to meet medical expenses and rehabilitation cost of victim. |
Sources: Indian Penal Code, 1860; The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018; PRS.
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in July 2018.[282] The Bill seeks to amend the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The Bill was introduced in Rajya Sabha in August 2013. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018 passed by Lok Sabha but will lapse
The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018 was passed by Lok Sabha in January 2019. The Bill was introduced in August 2018.[283] It will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The Bill provides for regulation of use of DNA technology for establishing the identity of certain persons. Key features of the Bill included:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha in January 2019.[284] The Bill will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. It seeks to amend the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012. The Act seeks to protect children from offences such as sexual assault, sexual harassment, and pornography.
The Bill seeks to augment the penalties prescribed for sexually-related offences. Key amendments include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2018, was passed by Parliament in July 2018.[285] It amends the Specific Relief Act, 1963. The Act provides for the following remedies to a party whose contract has not been performed: (i) the aggrieved party may ask the court to require performance of the contract (known as specific performance); or (ii) it may seek monetary compensation. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Commercial Courts, Commercial Division, and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in August 2018.[286] The Bill amends the Commercial Courts, Commercial Division, and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts Act, 2015, and replaces an Ordinance promulgated in May 2018.[287] The Act enables the creation of commercial divisions in High Courts, and commercial courts at the district level to adjudicate commercial disputes.
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Bill, 2018
The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018, was passed by Parliament in August 2018.[288] It amends the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The Act prohibits the commission of offences against members of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and establishes special courts for the trial of such offences and the rehabilitation of victims.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Parliament passed the Personal Laws (Amendment) Bill
The Personal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed by Parliament in February 2019.[289] It seeks to amend five Acts. These are: (i) the Divorce Act, 1869, (ii) the Dissolution of Muslim Marriage Act, 1939, (iii) the Special Marriage Act, 1954, (iv) the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and (v) the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956.
These Acts contain provisions related to marriage, divorce, and separation of Hindu and Muslim couples. Each of these Acts prescribe leprosy as grounds for seeking divorce or separation from the spouse. The Bill seeks to remove this as a ground for divorce or separation.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Ordinance on triple talaq re-promulgated
The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Second Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in February 2019. [290] Previously, two similar Ordinances had been promulgated in September 2018 and January 2019.[291],[292] A similar Bill was also passed by Lok Sabha in December 2018 and the government had approved amendments to be moved in Rajya Sabha. [293] All the three Ordinances incorporated these amendments. Key features of the Ordinance include:
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Lok Sabha passed the Consumer Protection Bill, 2018, but will lapse
The Consumer Protection Bill, 2018 was passed by Lok Sabha in December 2018.[294] The Bill replaces the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. This Bill will lapse at the end of the 16th Lok Sabha. Key features of the Bill include the following:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Ordinance promulgated
The New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated in March 2019.[295] It seeks to establish an autonomous and independent institution for better management of arbitration in India. Previously, a similar Bill was passed by Lok Sabha in January 2019.[296] Key features of the Ordinance include:
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
Lok Sabha passed the Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2018 but will lapse
The Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed in Lok Sabha in August 2018.[297] The Bill will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. It seeks to amend the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. The Act contains provisions to deal with domestic and international arbitration, and defines the law for conducting conciliation proceedings. Key features of the Bill are:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident Indian Bill, 2019 introduced in Rajya Sabha
The Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident Indian Bill, 2019 was introduced in Rajya Sabha in February 2019.[298] The Bill was referred to the Standing Committee on External Affairs a week later. The Committee was expected to submit its report in two months. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Law Commission released draft report on simultaneous elections
In August 2018, the Law Commission of India (Chair: Dr. Justice B.S. Chauhan) released a draft report on simultaneous elections.[299] The Commission had released a summary of a draft working paper on the topic for public comments in April 2018.[300] It noted that for conducting simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state Legislative Assemblies, amendments will be required to the Constitution. It recommended three alternatives to synchronise elections in India.
Assembly elections due before Lok Sabha elections: For four states (Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, and Rajasthan) elections are due in the end of 2018 and early January, 2019. The term of these assemblies may be extended to synchronise it with Lok Sabha elections.
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Law Commission released a consultation paper on sedition
In August 2018, the Law Commission of India (Chair: Dr. Justice B.S. Chauhan) released a consultation paper on sedition under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC), inviting public feedback[301]. Key observations and recommendations of the Commission include:
Law Commission released a consultation paper on reform in family laws
In August 2018, the Law Commission of India (Chair: Dr. Justice B.S. Chauhan) released a consultation paper on ‘Reform of Family Law’. [302] This was in pursuance to a reference of the Ministry of Law and Justice to examine the feasibility of a Uniform Civil Code. Key recommendations include:
Law Commission submitted report on a legal framework for betting and gambling
In July 2018, the Law Commission of India (Chair: Dr. Justice B.S. Chauhan) submitted a report examining whether betting may be legalised in India.[303] The report follows a Supreme Court directive in 2016 where the Court asked the Commission to examine the possibility of a law to regulate betting. The Commission noted that while it is desirable to ban betting and gambling, it is difficult to prevent these activities altogether. Therefore, the Commission recommended regulation of gambling and betting. Key recommendations include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Law Commission submitted report on wrongful prosecution
In August 2018, the Law Commission of India submitted its report on ‘Wrongful Prosecution (Miscarriage of Justice): Legal Remedies’.[304] The report follows a Delhi High Court directive in 2016 where the Commission was asked to examine the remedies for wrongful detention. The Commission noted that currently there is no legislative framework to provide relief to those who are wrongfully prosecuted. Key recommendations of the Commission include:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Cabinet approved resolution mechanism for commercial disputes in CPSEs
The Union Cabinet approved a two-tier resolution mechanism for commercial disputes of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in May 2018.[305] Currently, commercial disputes are resolved through the Permanent Machinery of Arbitration (set up under the Department of Public Enterprises). The new two-tier mechanism will replace this existing system to resolve commercial disputes between CPSEs, and CPSEs and government departments or organisations. This excludes disputes concerning the Railways, Income Tax, Customs and Excise Departments. Key features of the new mechanism include:
High Court of Andhra Pradesh constituted at Amaravati
The President of India notified the constitution of a separate High Court for the state of Andhra Pradesh, namely, the High Court of Andhra Pradesh in December 2018, with principal seat at Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh.[306] Consequently, the High Court of Hyderabad has become the High Court for the state of Telangana.
President notified new circuit bench of Calcutta High Court
The President of India notified a new circuit bench of the Calcutta High Court at Jalpaiguri (in West Bengal) in February 2019.[307] The bench will comprise of judges of the Calcutta High Court, as decided by the Chief Justice of the High Court. The bench will exercise jurisdiction over cases arising in the districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar in West Bengal.
Draft Defence Production Policy 2018 released by the Ministry of Defence
In April 2018, the Ministry of Defence released the draft Defence Production Policy, 2018.[308] The Policy will replace the existing Defence Production Policy 2011.[309] Key features of the policy include:
Lok Sabha passed Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, but will lapse
The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 was passed by Lok Sabha in January 2019.[310] The Bill amends the Citizenship Act, 1955. The Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 (Chaiperson: Mr. Rajendra Agrawal) submitted its report on the Bill in January, 2019.[311] The Bill as reported by the Committee was passed by Lok Sabha. It will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill, see here.
Ministry of Home Affairs issued notification on grant of citizenship
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification under the Citizenship Act, 1955.[312] Under the Act, the central government can register a person as a citizen or grant a certificate of naturalisation, on receipt of an application. The notification delegates these powers to the District Collector or Secretary of the Home Department, in case of persons belonging to minority communities in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. These include Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians. The notification is applicable to such individuals residing in the states of Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Union Territory of Delhi.
The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 promulgated
The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated n March 2019.[313] The Ordinance amends the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004. The Act provides for reservation in appointment and admission in professional institutions for persons belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and socially and educationally backward classes (SEBC).
The Act classifies persons living in areas adjoining the Line of Control as SEBCs for the appointment to state government posts; requires them to serve in such areas for at least seven years; and exempts them from the creamy layer test. The Ordinance extends these provisions to those living near the international border also.
For a PRS summary of the Ordinance, see here.
President issued the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Amendment Order, 2019
The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Amendment Order, 2019 was issued by the President in March 2019.[314] It amends the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954. The 1954 Order makes various provisions of the Constitution of India applicable to Jammu and Kashmir. The 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act provides for ten percent reservation for economically weaker sections in educational institutions and public employment. The Amendment Order seeks to extend this reservation to Jammu and Kashmir. Further, benefits in promotions to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution will also be made applicable to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2018 introduced in Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha in August 2018.[315] It was approved for introduction in Parliament by the Union Cabinet in April 2018.[316] The Bill amends the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The Act provides for a National Human Rights Commission, State Human Rights Commissions, and Human Rights Courts. The Bill will lapse with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Central government increased contribution to the State Disaster Response Fund
The Government of India decided to enhance its contribution to the State Disaster Response Fund from 75% to 90%.[317] Under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the National Disaster Response Fund and State Disaster Response Funds were set up to meet rescue and relief expenditure during any notified disaster. The central government had till now been contributing 75% for General Category States and 90% for Special Category States of hilly regions.
AFSPA withdrawn from three police stations in Arunachal Pradesh
The government withdrew the application of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, (AFSPA) 1958, from the jurisdiction of three police stations.[318] These police stations are: (i) Kimin police station in Papumpare district, (ii) Likabali police station in West Siang district, and (iii) Ruksin police station in East Siang district. Following the withdrawal, the AFSPA, 1958 will apply to three districts of Arunachal Pradesh and the jurisdiction falling within eight police stations in the state.
Press reports indicate that the application of this Act has been withdrawn from Meghalaya.[319]
Ministry extended date for updating of the National Register of Citizens in Assam
The Ministry of Home Affairs extended the date for the updating of the National Register of Citizens (NRC), 1951, in Assam.[320] The deadline has been extended from December 31, 2018 to June 30, 2019. Previously, the deadline for the NRC has been extended five times.
Committee constituted on implementation of Assam Accord
A High-Level Committee was constituted for implementation of clause six of the Assam Accord.[321] The Assam Accord was signed on August 15, 1985.[322] Clause six of the Accord states that appropriate constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards will be provided to protect the cultural, social, and linguistic identity of the Assamese people.
The Terms of Reference of the Committee include: (i) examining the effectiveness of actions taken to implement clause six of the Accord, (ii) assessing the appropriate level of reservation of seats in the Assam Legislative Assembly and local bodies for the Assamese people, and (iii) suggesting measures to protect Assamese and other languages of Assam.
The Committee was required to submit its report within six months.
High Level Committee constituted to check mob violence and lynching
A committee was constituted to review the incidents of mob violence and lynching in the country and formulate measures to address these problems.[323] The Committee will be chaired by the Union Home Secretary and will comprise the following members: (i) Secretary, Department of Justice, (ii) Secretary, Department of Legal Affairs, (iii) Secretary, Legislative Department and, (iv) Secretary, Social Justice and Empowerment. The Committee is required to submit its recommendations to the government within four weeks.
Further, a Group of Ministers will be constituted to consider the recommendations of the Committee. The Committee will be headed by the Minister of Home Affairs, and will comprise: (i) Minister of External Affairs, (ii) Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shipping, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, (iii) Minister of Law & Justice, and (iv) Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment. The recommendations of the Group will be submitted to the Prime Minister.
Social Justice and Empowerment
Parliament passed 124th Constitutional Amendment Bill to enable reservation for economically weaker sections
The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Fourth Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced and passed by Parliament in January, 2019.[324] The Bill seeks to provide for the advancement of economically weaker sections of citizens.
Note that the provisions for reservation in central educational institutions and direct recruitments for central government posts have been notified.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Reservation of 10% for economically weaker sections for admission in central educational institutions
Department of Higher Education notified reservation of up to 10% for economically weaker sections in admission in all central educational institutions in January 2019. This will be in effect from the academic year 2019-20.[325]
The reservation will be provided in all central educational institutions which include universities set up by Acts of Parliament, institutions of national importance, and institutions deemed to be a university. With prior approval of the appropriate authority (such as the University Grants Commission, or the Bar Council of India), every central educational institution, should increase its seats above its annual permitted strength so that the number of seats available, excluding those reserved for persons belonging to the economically weaker sections, is not less that the number of seats for the previous academic session.
The following persons will not be eligible for the reservation:
Reservation of 10% in direct recruitment vacancies notified for economically weaker sections
The Department of Personnel and Training notified reservation of up to 10% in all direct recruitment vacancies in government posts in January 2019.[326] The criteria for exclusion from reservation is the same as for reservation in central educational institutions (as specified above).
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2018 passed by Lok Sabha, but will lapse
The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2018 was passed by Lok Sabha in December 2018.[327] The Bill was passed in Lok Sabha with a few amendments and will lapse at the end of the 16th Lok Sabha. Key features of the Bill as passed by Lok Sabha are:
For a PRS analysis of the Bill and the 2018 Amendments are available here and here.
The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (Amendment) Draft Bill, 2018 released
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment released the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (Amendment) Draft Bill, 2018, in April 2018.[328] The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 aims to provide for maintenance and welfare of parents and senior citizens. It also aims to ensure their basic needs, safety and security, and the rights guaranteed and recognised under the Constitution. Key amendments outlined in the Bill are as follows:
Ministry of Social Justice revised Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment released a revised Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens.[329] The objectives of the Programme includes improving the quality of life of senior citizens by providing basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care, and entertainment opportunities. The Programme was last revised in 2016 with respect to the terms and conditions of the schemes covered under the Programme. These terms and conditions are related to expenditure and human resources required under the various schemes, and the procedure to be followed for submission of proposals and release of grants. Assistance under the Programme is given to implementing agencies such as state governments, local bodies, and non-governmental organisations.
There are six thematic areas that the schemes aim to cover. Some of the schemes covered under the Programme include: (i) Maintenance of Continuous Care Homes and Homes for senior citizens afflicted with Alzheimer's disease or Dementia, (ii) Maintenance of Mobile Medicare Units, and (iii) Physiotherapy Clinics.
Cabinet approved extension of term of the Commission to examine the issue of sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes
The Union Cabinet approved the extension of term of the Commission to examine the issue of sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes (Chairperson: Justice G. Rohini) by eight weeks, from June 2018 to July 2018.[330] The Commission had previously received an extension of 12 weeks from March 27, 2018. The Commission started functioning on October, 2017. It was required to submit its report within 12 weeks from the date of appointment of its Chairperson.[331]
Cabinet approved proposal of Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities
The Union Cabinet, approved the constitution of a Development and Welfare Board for De-Notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities on February 2019.[332] This Committee will be chaired by the Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog and will be responsible for completing the process of identification of De-Notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Communities that have not yet been formally classified.
Previously, the National Commission for De-Notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Communities had recommended that a Permanent Committee be established for these communities.
Tenure of National Commission for Safai Karmacharis extended for three years
The Union Cabinet approved the extension of the term of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis for a period of three years starting from March 31, 2019.[333] Safai karamcharis refer to persons who are engaged in manually carrying, cleaning or disposing of human excreta or for any sanitation work. The Commission was set up as a statutory body under the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993. The Act ceased to have effect from February, 2004. However, the tenure of the Commission has been extended as a non-statutory body under the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013. The Commission seeks to (i) monitor implementation, (ii) enquire into complaints regarding the contravention of the Act, (iii) advise central and state governments on effective implementation of the Act, and (iv) take suo-motu notice of matters related to non-implementation of the Act.
Personnel and Public Grievances
Standing Committee submitted report on Lokpal Rules
In July 2018, the Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice (Chairperson: Mr. Bhupender Yadav) submitted its report on “Draft Public Servants (Declaration of Assets and Liabilities and Minimum Value of Assets for Condonation or Exemption) Rules, 2017”.[334] These Rules are proposed to be notified under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. They prescribe the form and manner for declaration of assets and liabilities of public servants.
The 2013 Act requires a public servant to declare his assets and liabilities, and that of his spouse and dependent children. Previously, the Act itself specified the form and manner of the declaration. However, the Lokpal and Lokayuktas (Amendment) Act, 2016 amended this provision to state that the form and manner of making such a declaration will be prescribed by the central government through rules. The Rules were drafted pursuant to the 2016 Amendment Act.
The Standing Committee examined the Rules and made the following recommendations:
For a PRS report summary, see here.
Draft Emigration Bill released
The Ministry of External Affairs released the draft Emigration Bill, 2019 in January 2019.[335] The draft Bill seeks to provide a regulatory mechanism to govern overseas employment of Indian nationals, and protect and promote the welfare of Indian emigrants. Key features of the draft Bill include:
Key agreements signed with other countries
In 2018-19, India entered into agreements with various countries including South Korea, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Japan, and Russia.
South Korea: 17 agreements were signed between India and South Korea in various sectors including trade, science and technology, communication, and road and transport.
Key agreements include: (i) cooperation in trade including areas of anti-dumping, subsidies, and countervailing measures, (ii) development of technology such as Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and big data, (iii) cooperation in railway research, (iv) promote collaboration among start-ups, and (v) cooperation between the law enforcement agencies of the two countries.[336],[337]
United Kingdom: India and the United Kingdom signed 10 agreements, including: (i) supporting the sustainable management of water resources in the Ganga basin through collaboration in research and innovation), (ii) strengthening skill delivery in high demand sectors where the UK has expertise, (iii) regulation of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, (iv) exchange of information for tackling organised crime, and (v) developing Ayurvedic medical education guidelines in the UK.[338]
Netherlands: India and Netherlands signed 52 MoUs for collaboration in various sectors, including: (i) diplomatic training, (ii) water management and ports and waterways related projects, (iii) improving research in legume crops, (iv) improving average and yield and quality of milk, and (v) setting up a joint venture private laboratory in food industry.[339]
Japan: India and Japan signed 32 agreements in various sectors including defence, digital technologies, healthcare, agriculture, environment, and sports.
Key agreements include: (i) exchange of information in maritime awareness between Indian Navy and Japan Maritime Self Defence Force, (ii) cooperation between Indian and Japanese agencies in food safety, (iii) promoting the development of agricultural value chains and fisheries, (iv) developing cooperation in artificial intelligence technologies, and (v) stimulating trade and investment between India and Japan.[340]
Russia: Eight agreements were signed between India and Russia for cooperation in various fields, including: (i) human spaceflight programme, (ii) railways, (iii) transport education, and (iv) micro, small, and medium enterprises.[341]
Uzbekistan: India and Uzbekistan signed 17 agreements for cooperation in various areas, including: (i) tourism, (ii) military education, (iii) agriculture and allied sectors, (iv) health and medical science, (v) development of pharmaceutical industry, and (vi) combating the illicit trafficking of drugs.[342]
Indonesia: India and Indonesia signed 15 agreements in various sectors. These include agreements for: (i) regular bilateral dialogue on military issues of common interest, (ii) joint research in space technology, and (iii) exchange of knowledge in railways.[343]
Notes
[1] “Press Note on Second Advance Estimates of National Income 2018-19 and Quarterly Estimates of Gross Domestic Product for the third quarter (Q3) of 2018-19”, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, February 28, 2019, http://mospi.nic.in/sites/default/files/press_release/nad_PR_28feb19.pdf.
[2] “Consumer Price Index Numbers on Base 2012=100 for Rural, Urban and Combined for the Month of March 2019”, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, April 12, 2019, http://mospi.nic.in/sites/default/files/press_release/Press%20Statement_2.pdf; “Consumer Price Index Numbers on Base 2012=100 for Rural, Urban and Combined for the month of April 2018”, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, March 12, 2018.
[3] “Frequently Asked Questions on Revision of Wholesale Price Index (Base 2011-12)”, Office of Economic Adviser, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, May 12, 2017, http://eaindustry.nic.in/uploaded_files/FAQs_on_WPI.pdf.
[4] “Index Numbers of Wholesale Price in India (Base: 2011-12=100) Review for the month of March 2019”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, April 15, 2019; “Index Numbers of Wholesale Price in India (Base: 2011-12=100) Review for the month of April 2018” Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, May 16, 2018.
[5] “Quick Estimates of Index of Industrial Production and Use Based Index for the Month of February 2019 (Base 2011-12=100)”, Press Release, Central Statistics Office, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, April 12, 2019, http://mospi.nic.in/sites/default/files/press_release/Press%20Note%20Feb%2719.pdf.
[6] “Developments in India’s Balance of Payments during the third quarter of 2018-19”, Press Release, Reserve Bank of India, March 29, 2019, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR2317F445AB8BE2BC4BB2997B446EA7C70B9F.PDF.
[7] Second Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy Statement 2018-19, Press Release, Reserve Bank of India, June 6, 2018, http://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR3190CD624DC4A2BD4F20AF3F8C8CAD81A513.PDF.
[8] “Third Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy Statement 2018-19”, Press Release, Reserve Bank of India, August 1, 2018, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/Bulletin/PDFs/03MP_10082018CE37FEEC02384C4DA95F68DCDF26BDF7.PDF.
[9] “Sixth Bi-Monthly Policy Statement 2018-19”, Press Release, Reserve Bank of India, February 7, 2019, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR2002D42D2B2EEF8241B38D92E053DAB62A62.PDF.
[10] Union Budget 2019-20, Ministry of Finance, February 1, 2019, https://www.indiabudget.gov.in.
[11] Draft National Policy on Official Statistics, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, May 17, 2018, http://mospi.gov.in/sites/default/files/announcements/draft_policy_17may18.pdf.
[12] The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018, Ministry of Finance, March 12, 2018 http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Fugitive%20Economic%20Offenders/Fugitive%20Economic%20Offenders%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[13] The Fugitive Economic Offenders Ordinance, 2018, Ministry of Finance, March 12, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Ordinances/The%20Fugitive%20Economic%20Offenders%20Ordinance%202018.pdf.
[14] Annual Report 2017-18, Reserve Bank of India, August 29, 2018, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/AnnualReport/PDFs/0ANREPORT201718077745EC9A874DB38C991F580ED14242.PDF.
[15] Prohibition on dealing in Virtual Currencies (VCs), Notification, Reserve Bank of India, April 6, 2018, https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=11243&Mode=0.
[16] The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Ordinance, 2019, Ministry of Finance, February 21, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Banning%20of%20Unregulated%20Deposit%20Schemes%20Ordinance%2C%202019.pdf.
[17] “Report No. 70: The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018”, Standing Committee on Finance, January 2019, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Finance/16_Finance_70.pdf.
[18] The Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Finance, August 7, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/GST%20Amendment/Central%20Goods%20and%20Services%20Tax%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[19] The Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Finance, August 7, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/GST%20Amendment/Integrated%20Goods%20and%20Services%20Tax%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[20] The Union Territory Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Finance, August 7, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/GST%20Amendment/Union%20Territory%20Goods%20and%20Services%20Tax%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[21] The Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States) Amendment Bill, 2018, Ministry of Finance, August 7, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/GST%20Amendment/Goods%20and%20Services%20Tax%20(Compensation%20to%20States)%20Amendment%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[22] The International Financial Services Centres Authority Bill, 2019, Ministry of Finance, February 12, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/International%20Financial%20Services%20Bill%2C%202019.pdf.
[23] The Negotiable Instruments (Amendments) Bill, 2017, Ministry of Finance, January 2, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Negotiable%20instrument/Negotiable%20Instruments%20Amendment%20Bill%202017.pdf
[24] The State Banks (Repeal and Amendment) Bill, 2017, Ministry of Finance, July 21, 2017, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/State%20Bank/The%20State%20Banks%20%28Repeal%20and%20Amendment%29%20Bill,%202017.pdf
[25] Report of the Joint Committee on the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, Lok Sabha, August 1, 2018, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Joint%20Committee%20on%20the%20Financial%20Resolution%20and%20Deposit%20Insurance%20Bill,%202017/16_Joint_Committee_on_the_Financial_Resolution_and_Deposit_Insurance_Bill_2017_1.pdf.
[26] “Report No. 62: The Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018”, Standing Committee on Finance, Lok Sabha, August 9, 2018, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Finance/16_Finance_62.pdf.
[27] Report No. 20, Comptroller and Auditor General of India, ‘Compliance of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003 for the year 2016-17’, January 8, 2019, https://www.cag.gov.in/sites/default/files/audit_report_files/Report_No_20_of_2018_Compliance_of_the_Fiscal_Responsibility_and_Budget_Management_Act_2003_Department_of_Economic_Affairs_Minis.pdf.
[28] Report of the High Level Task Force on Public Credit Registry for India, June 6, 2018, https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/PublicationReportDetails.aspx?UrlPage=&ID=895#C2.
[29] “Draft guidelines on Loan System for Delivery of Bank Credit”, Reserve Bank of India, June 11, 2018,
https://rbi.org.in/scripts/bs_viewcontent.aspx?Id=3495.
[30] “Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector – Restructuring of Advances”, Press Release, Reserve Bank of India, January 1, 2019, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/notification/PDFs/NOTI10062D55CDAC41B47749D3213030B5E3D99.PDF.
[31] Report of Expert Committee on Integration of Commodity Spot and Derivatives Markets, Ministry of Finance, April 12, 2018, https://dea.gov.in/sites/default/files/ReportCommodityDerivativeMarkets042018_0.pdf.
[32] The Agricultural Produce and Livestock Marketing (Promotion and Facilitating) Act, 2017, http://agricoop.nic.in/sites/default/files/APLM_ACT_2017_1.pdf.
[33] “Income Tax Department issues Revised Income Tax Informants Reward Scheme, 2018”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance, June 1, 2018.
[34] “New Benami Transactions Informants Reward Scheme, 2018 launched by the Income Tax Department”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance, June 1, 2018.
[35] “Major Steps taken for Reducing Tax Litigations”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance, July 11, 2018.
[36] Interim Report of working group on KYC Requirements for FPIs, Securities and Exchange Board of India, September 8, 2018, https://www.sebi.gov.in/reports/reports/sep-2018/interim-report-of-working-group-on-kyc-requirements-for-fpis_40279.html.
[37] SEBI Board Meeting, Securities and Exchange Board of India, September 18, 2018, https://www.sebi.gov.in/media/press-releases/sep-2018/sebi-board-meeting_40347.html.
[38] Know Your Client Requirements for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs), Circular No.: CIR/IMD/FPIC/CIR/P/2018/131, Securities and Exchange Board of India, September 21, 2018, https://www.sebi.gov.in/legal/circulars/sep-2018/know-your-client-requirements-for-foreign-portfolio-investors-fpis-_40408.html.
[39] Eligibility conditions for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs), Circular No.: CIR/IMD/FPIC/CIR/P/2018/132, Securities and Exchange Board of India, September 21, 2018, https://www.sebi.gov.in/legal/circulars/sep-2018/eligibility-conditions-for-foreign-portfolio-investors-fpis-_40409.html.
[40] Know Your Client Requirements for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs), Circular No: CIR/IMD/FPIC/CIR/P/2018/64, Securities and Exchange Board of India, April 10, 2018 https://www.sebi.gov.in/legal/circulars/apr-2018/know-your-client-requirements-for-foreign-portfolio-investors-fpis-_38618.html.
[41] Report of Committee on Fair Market Conduct, Securities and Exchange Board of India, August 8, 2018, https://www.sebi.gov.in/reports/reports/aug-2018/report-of-committee-on-fair-market-conduct-for-public-comments_39884.html.
[42] Report of the High Level Committee on the Settlement Mechanism, August 10, 2018, https://www.sebi.gov.in/reports/reports/aug-2018/report-on-settlement-mechanism-by-the-high-level-committee-to-review-the-enforcement-and-settlement-mechanism_39967.html.
[43] “Cabinet approves strategic disinvestment of 100% Govt. of India’s equity in the Dredging Corporation of India Ltd. (DCIL)”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, November 8, 2018.
[44] “Government approves Strategic Disinvestment of 100% GOI shares in Dredging Corporation in favour of Visakhapatnam Port, Paradip Port,Deendayal Port and JNPT; Share Purchase Agreement executed today”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Shipping, March 8, 2019.
[45] “Cabinet gives ‘In Principle’ approval for strategic disinvestment of 100% GoI’s equity shares in Kamarajar Port Limited to Chennai Port Trust in a single process through strategic sale”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), February 28, 2019.
[46] The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018, July 23, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Insolvency%202018/The%20Insolvency%20and%20Bankruptcy%20Code%20(Second%20Amendment)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[47] The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, June 6, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Ordinances/Insolvency%20and%20Bankruptcy%20Code%20(Amendment)%20Ordinance,%202018.pdf.
[48] Report of Insolvency Law Committee on Cross Border Insolvency, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, October, 2018, http://www.mca.gov.in/Ministry/pdf/CrossBorderInsolvencyReport_22102018.pdf.
[49] “Draft on Cross Border Insolvency”, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, July 20, 2018, http://www.mca.gov.in/Ministry/pdf/PublicNoiceCrossBorder_20062018.pdf.
[50] “Re-constitution of Insolvency Law Committee as Standing Committee for review and implementation of Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code, 2016”, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, March 6, 2019, http://www.mca.gov.in/Ministry/pdf/ILCOrder_11032019.pdf.
[51] Report of the Committee to review Offences under the Companies Act, 2013, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, August 28, 2018, http://www.mca.gov.in/Ministry/pdf/ReportCommittee_28082018.pdf.
[52] “MCA has constituted a 10-member Committee to review the offences under the Companies Act, 2013”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, July 15, 2018.
[53] The Companies (Second Amendment) Ordinance, 2019, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, February 21, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Companies%20%28Second%20Amendment%29%20Ordinance%202019.pdf.
[54] The Companies (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, November 2, 2018 https://prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Companies%20Amendment%20Ordinance%202018.pdf.
[55] The Companies (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, January 12, 2019, http://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Companies%20%28Amedment%29%20Ordinance%2C%202019.pdf.
[56] The Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, December 20, 2018, https://prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Companies%20%28Amendment%29%20Bill%2C%202018.pdf.
[57] Notice Inviting Comments, Amendments in the Companies Act, 2013, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, 2018, http://www.mca.gov.in/Ministry/pdf/NoticeAmendmentsCA2013_05112018.pdf.
[58] “Findings and Recommendations on Regulating Audit Firms And the Networks” Committee of Experts, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, October 25, 2018, http://www.mca.gov.in/Ministry/pdf/2018_CommitteeExperts_Report_08112018.pdf.
[59] S.O. 5099(E), Ministry of Corporate Affair, October 1, 2018, file:///C:/Users/user%206/Downloads/190358%20(2).pdf.
[60] Companies (Prospectus and Allotment of Securities) Third Amendment Rules, 2019, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, January 22, 2019, http://www.mca.gov.in/Ministry/pdf/CompaniesProspectusAllotmentRule_23012019.pdf.
[61] Companies (Prospectus and Allotment of Securities) Third Amendment Rules, 2018, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, September 10, 2018, http://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2018/189439.pdf.
[62] “Press Note No. 2 (2018 Series), Review of the policy on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in e-commerce”, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, December 26, 2018, https://dipp.gov.in/sites/default/files/pn2_2018.pdf.
[63] “Consolidated FDI Policy Circular of 2017”, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, August 28, 2017, https://dipp.gov.in/sites/default/files/CFPC_2017_FINAL_RELEASED_28.8.17_1.pdf.
[64] Draft National E-Commerce Policy, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, February 23, 2019, https://dipp.gov.in/sites/default/files/DraftNational_e-commerce_Policy_23February2019.pdf.
[65] The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, July 23, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/MSME/The%20Micro,%20Small%20and%20Medium%20Enterprises%20Development%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[66] The Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, March 2, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/The%20Special%20Economic%20Zones%20%28Amendment%29%20Ordinance%2C%202019.pdf.
[67] Cabinet approves Scheme for FAME India Phase II”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, February 28, 2019.
[68] “Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Haryana Top Rankers in Ease of Doing Business”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, July 10, 2018.
[69] S.O. 764(E), Gazette of India, Ministry of Labour and Employment, February 7, 2019, https://labour.gov.in/sites/default/files/197105.pdf.
[70] “43rd Report: The Code on Wages Bill, 2017”, Standing Committee on Labour, Lok Sabha, December 12, 2018, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Labour/16_Labour_43.pdf.
[71] “Report of the Expert Committee on Determining the Methodology for Fixing the National Minimum Wage”, Ministry of Labour and Employment, January 8, 2019, https://labour.gov.in/sites/default/files/Commitee_on_Determination_of_Methodology.pdf.
[72] The Trade Unions (Amendment) Bill, 2019, http://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Trade%20Unions%20%28A%29%20bill%2C%202019.pdf.
[73] “Amendment of the Trade Unions Act, 1927 to provide provisions for recognition of Trade Unions”, Ministry of Labour and Employment, July 20, 2017, https://labour.gov.in/sites/default/files/The%20Trade%20Unions%20Amendment%20Bill%2C%202018.pdf.
[74] The Draft Labour Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions, 2018, March 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media//draft/Draft%20Labour%20Code%20on%20Occupational%20Safety,%20Health%20and%20Working%20Conditions,%202018.pdf.
[75] The Draft Labour Code on Social Security, 2018, March 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media//draft/Draft%20Labour%20Code%20on%20Social%20Security,%202018.pdf.
[76] No. N-12/13/1/2016-P&D, Gazette of India, Employees’ State Insurance Corporation, November 26, 2018, http://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2018/193738.pdf.
[77] ‘Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna Rolled Out’, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Labour & Employment, September 19, 2018.
[78] G.S.R. 1182(E), Gazette of India, Ministry of Labour and Employment, December 6, 2018, http://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2018/193717.pdf.
[79] “PM launches “PM-KISAN” from Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh”, Press Information Bureau, Prime Minister’s Office, February 24, 2019.
[80] “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi announced to provide assured income support to small and marginal farmers”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance, February 1, 2019.
[81] Operational Guidelines of “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)”, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, http://agricoop.gov.in/sites/default/files/operational_GuidePM.pdf.
[82] “Cabinet approves Relaxation in Aadgar related Conditions for Second Instalment under PM – KISAN scheme”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, February 28, 2019.
[83] “Boost to farmers’ income”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, July 4, 2018.
[84] “Cabinet approves enhanced Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Rabi Crops of 2018-19 Season to be marketed in 2019-20 Season.”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, October 3, 2018.
[85] “Cabinet approves determination of Fair and Remunerative Price payable by Sugar Mills for 2018-19 sugar season”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, July 18, 2018.
[86] “Cabinet approves hike in MSP for Copra by more than Rs.2000 per quintal for 2019 season”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, December 28, 2018.
[87] “Minimum Support Price for Raw Jute for 2019-20 season hiked to Rs.3950/- from Rs.3700/- per quintal by the Cabinet”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, February 13, 2019.
[88]“Cabinet approves New Umbrella Scheme ‘Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan’ (PM-AASHA)”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, September 12, 2018.
[89] “Cabinet approves Agriculture Export Policy, 2018”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, December 6, 2018.
[90] F. No. 13001/1/2016-Fy, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, February 27, 2019, http://dahd.nic.in/sites/default/filess/NIFAP%20%28English%29%20%28merged%29_0.pdf.
[91] “Creation of Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, October 24, 2018.
[92] “Cabinet approves financial assistance to sugar mills for clearing cane dues of farmers”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Food and Public Distribution, May 2, 2018.
[93]“Cabinet approves comprehensive policy to deal with excess sugar production in the country”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, September 26, 2018.
[94] “Cabinet approves soft loan to sugar mills to facilitate payment of cane dues of the farmers for the current sugar season”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, February 28, 2019.
[95] “Cabinet approves interventions to deal with the current crisis in the sugar sector”, Cabinet, Press Information Bureau, June 6, 2018.
[96] No. 1(6)/2018-SP-I, Gazette of India, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, June 15, 2018, http://www.egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2018/186575.pdf.
[97] “Cabinet approves interventions to deal with the current crisis in the sugar sector”, Cabinet, Press Information Bureau, June 6, 2018.
[98] S.O. 874 (E), Gazette of India, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, February 14, 2019, http://www.egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2019/197779.pdf.
[99] “Government hikes Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of Sugar to Rs. 31 per Kilo for the year 2019-20”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, February 14, 2019.
[100] “Government intervenes to support sugar sector and sugarcane farmers by means of enhancement and augmentation of ethanol production capacity”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, March 7, 2019.
[101] “Cabinet approves Corpus for Micro Irrigation Fund with NABARD under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, May 16, 2018.
[102] “CCEA approves creation of Agri-Market infrastructure fund for development and upgradation of Gramin Agriculture Markets”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, February 6, 2019.
[103] “Cabinet approves restructure National Bamboo Mission”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, April 25, 2018.
[104] “Cabinet approves continuation of Umbrella Scheme ‘Green Revolution — Krishonnati Yojana’ in Agriculture Sector”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, May 2, 2018.
[105] “Cabinet approves 'Three Year Action Plan of Agricultural Education Division & ICAR Institutes”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, June 13, 2018.
[106] “Cabinet approves ‘Three Year Action Plan of Agricultural Education Division & ICAR Institutes”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, June 13, 2018.
[107] “Chief Ministers Subgroup Constituted to Coordinate Policy Approaches for Agriculture and MGNREGS”, Press Information Bureau, NITI Aayog, June 19, 2018.
[108] No. 3-260/2019-AHT (RGM), Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, February 21, 2019, http://dahd.nic.in/sites/default/filess/Resolution%20regarding%20RKA%20TOR%20dated%2021.2.2019%20English.pdf.
[109] RBI/2018-19/118 FIDD.CO.FSD.BC.No.13/05.05.010/ 2018-19, Reserve Bank of India, February 7, 2019, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/notification/PDFs/NOTI1184643A836ED6B428E9DAE6452A84F3B3C.PDF.
[110] The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2018, July 18, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Airport%20Regulatory%20Authority/The%20Airports%20Economic%20Regulatory%20Authority%20of%20India%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
[111] National Aviation Safety Plan 2018-22, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, August 30, 2018, http://www.dgca.gov.in/sms/Safety%20Plan_India.pdf.
[112] F. No. 05-13/2014-AED Vol. IV, Requirements for Operation of Civil Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), Director General of Civil Aviation, August 27, 2018, http://dgca.nic.in/cars/D3X-X1.pdf.
[113] “Digi-Yatra – Reimagining Air Travel in India”, Ministry of Civil Aviation, August 9, 2018, www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/Digi%20Yatra%20Policy%2009%20Aug%2018.pdf.
[114] Subject: White paper on National Green Aviation Policy – regarding, No. AV-29012/58/2018-A-EC, Ministry of Civil Aviation, March 11, 2019, http://www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/Whitepaper%20on%20National%20Green%20Aviation%20Policy.pdf.
[115] “Cabinet approves setting up of SPV for disinvestment of Air India and its Subsidiaries/JV”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Civil Aviation, February 28, 2019.
[116] NABH Nirman 2018, Proposed transaction structure for Greenfield Airports, Ministry of Civil Aviation, August 14, 2018, http://www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/proposed%20transaction%20structure%20for%20greenfield%20airport%20.pdf.
[117] “Cabinet approves leasing out six airports - Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Guwahati, Thiruvananthapuram and Mangaluru through PPP”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, November 8, 2018.
[118] “Regional air connectivity infrastructure gets a boost”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, March 7, 2019.
[119] “Notification of Incidents and Investigation thereof.”, F. No.A.15011/2//2016/-AS(Pt.), Office of the Director General of Civil Aviation, November 16, 2018, http://dgca.nic.in/cars/D5C-C1.pdf.
[120] “Refund of Airline Tickets to Passengers of Public Transport Undertakings.”, File No. 23-16/2016-AED, Director General of Civil Aviation, May 2018, http://dgca.nic.in/cars/D3M-M2.pdf.
[121] “Facilities to be provided to passengers by airlines due to denied boarding, cancellation of flights and delays in flights.”, File No. 23-15/2016-AED, Director General of Civil Aviation, May 2018, http://dgca.nic.in/cars/D3M-M4.pdf.
[122] Notice No. AV- 13011/2/2018-DT(RCS), Draft Scheme for enhancing air connectivity between Indian states and international destinations, Ministry of Civil Aviation, August 21, 2018, http://www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/Draft%20UDAN%20Scheme%20document.pdf.
[123] “Proposal for enactment of the Cape Town Convention Act, 2018 for implementation of the Cape Town Convention/Cape Town Protocol in India”, AV.11012/1/2014-A (Vol.I), Ministry of Civil Aviation, October 8, 2018, www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/Cape%20Town.pdf.
[124] “Shri Jayant Sinha to head a 13 member Task Force for fast-tracking Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Civil Aviation, April 12, 2018.
[125] “Rationalisation of Flexi Fare Scheme”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Railways, October 31, 2018.
[126] “To Improve Passenger Amenities Railways Increases Freight Rates”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Railways, October 31, 2018.
[127] “Cabinet approves setting up of a Railway Zone at Vishakhapatnam”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, February 28, 2019.
[128] “Cabinet approves Redevelopment of Railway Stations by IRSDC as Nodal Agency, through simplified procedures and longer lease tenure”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Railways, October 3, 2018.
[129] “Cabinet approves closure of loss making Burn Standard Company Limited - a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE)”, Press Information Bureau, April 4, 2018.
[130] Bulk Data Sharing Policy & Procedure, No. RT-11036/46/2014-MVL, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, http://morth.nic.in/showfile.asp?lid=4532.
[131] “Implementation of the Directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in the matter of WP No.295/2012 of Shri.S.Rajaseekaran vs Union of India and Ors”, Ref. No:IRDAI/NL/CIR/MOT/ 137/08/2018, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, August 28, 2018, https://www.irdai.gov.in/ADMINCMS/cms/whatsNew_Layout.aspx?page=PageNo3575&flag=1.
[132] Office Memorandum, No.NH-24028/19/2018-H (pt.), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (Highways Section), March 9, 2019, http://morth.nic.in/showfile.asp?lid=4540.
[133] “Vehicle Location Tracking Devices and Emergency Buttons Mandatory for all New Public Service Vehicles Registered After 1st January 2019”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, October 31, 2018.
[134] Notification, G.S.R. 173(E), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, March 1, 2019, http://morth.nic.in/showfile.asp?lid=4529.
[135] “Proposed amendment to Electricity Act, 2003 – regarding”, No.42/6/2011/-R&R (Vol-VIII), Ministry of Power, September 7, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Proposed_amendment_to_Elelctricity_Act_%202003.pdf.
[136] “Proposed amendments in Tariff Policy – regarding”, No. 23/02/2018-R&R, Ministry of Power, September 10, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Seeking_comments_on_revised_provision_at_Para.pdf.
[137] “Government constitutes High Level Empowered Committee headed by Cabinet Secretary to address the issues of Stressed Thermal Power Projects”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Power, July 29, 2018.
[138] Report of the High Level Empowered Committee to Address the Issue of Stressed Thermal Power Projects, Ministry of Power, November 12, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/20_Nov_R1_Draft_Report_HLEC_Final_20_Nov.pdf.
[139] “Cabinet approves recommendations of Group of Ministers constituted to examine the specific recommendations of High Level Empowered Committee (HLEC) constituted to address the issues of Stressed Thermal Power Projects”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Power, March 7, 2019.
[140] Sub: Approval of the Government on the recommendations of Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted to examine the specific recommendations of High Level Empowered Committee (HLEC) constituted to address the issues of Stressed Thermal Power Projects, Ministry of Power, March 8, 2019, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/MoP_OM_dated_08_march_2019_reg_approval_of_govt_on_the_recommendations_of_GoM.pdf.
[141] “Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles – Guidelines and Standards”, No.12/2/2018-EV, Ministry of Power, December 14, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/scan0016%20%281%29.pdf.
[142] “Mechanism for implementation of New Environmental Norms for Thermal Power Plants (TPP) supplying power to distribution licensees under concluded long term and medium term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)”, Ministry of Power, May 30, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Letter_dated_30th_May_2018_on_New_Environmental_Norms.pdf.
[143] Environment (Protection) Amendment Rules, 2015, S.O. 3305 (E), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, December 7, 2015, http://www.moef.gov.in/sites/default/files/Thermal%20plant%20gazette%20scan.pdf.
[144] No 23/43/2018-R&R, Ministry of Power, August 27, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Direction_to_the_CERC_under_section_107.pdf.
[145] “Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) to provide for Purchase Preference (linked with local content) in respect of Thermal Power Sector”, No. 11/05/2018, Ministry of Power, December 20, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Thermal_Order_dt_28_12_2018.pdf.
[146] “Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) to provide for Purchase Preference (linked with local content) in respect of Transmission Power Sector”, No. 11/05/2018, Ministry of Power, December 20, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Trans_Order_dt_20_12_2018.pdf.
[147] “Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) to provide for Purchase Preference (linked with local content) in respect of Hydro Power Sector”, No. 11/05/2018, Ministry of Power, December 20, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Hydro_Order_dt%2020_12_2018.pdf.
[148] Draft Guidelines for short-term (i.e., for a period of more than one day to one year) Sale of Power by Power Generating Company and Distribution Licensees (the ‘Seller’) through Tariff based bidding process- Reg, No. 23/08/2019-R&R, Ministry of Power, March 6, 2019, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Draft_guidelines_for_short_term_Sale_of_Power_by_Power_Generating_company.pdf.
[149] “Cabinet approves Measures to promote Hydro Power Sector”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Power, March 7, 2019.
[150] Subject: Measures to Promote Hydro Power Sector, F.No.15/2/2016/-H-I 9 Pt), Ministry of Power, March 8, 2019, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/Measures_to_Promote_Hydro_Power_Sector.pdf.
[151] “Long-term growth trajectory of Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) for Solar and Non-Solar for a period of three years i.e., 2019-20 to 2021-22”, No.23/03/2016-R&R, Ministry of Power, June 14, 2018, https://powermin.nic.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/RPO_trajectory_2019-22_Order_dated_14_June_2018.pdf.
[152] “National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy”, File No. 238/78/2017-Wind, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, May 14, 2018, https://mnre.gov.in/sites/default/files/webform/notices/National-Wind-Solar-Hybrid-Policy.pdf.
[153] “Cabinet approves National Policy on Biofuels – 2018”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, May 16, 2018.
[154] Cabinet approves launch Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan” Press Information Bureau, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, February 19, 2019.
[155] “Scheme to support promotion of biomass based cogeneration in sugar mills and other industries in the country (up to March 2020)”, File No. 3/141/2017-CPG, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, May 11, 2018, https://mnre.gov.in/sites/default/files/schemes/scheme-Biomass-11052018.pdf.
[156] “Administrative Sanction – cum – Guidelines for implementation of the Central Sector Scheme, New National Biogas and Organic Manure Programme (NNBOMP) during the period 2017-18 to 2019-20, co-terminating with the 14th Finance Commission Period on 31.03.2020”, E-File No. 253/16/2017-Biogas, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, May 30, 2018, https://mnre.gov.in/sites/default/files/schemes/New-National-Biogas-Organic-Manure-Programme%28NNBOMP%29-upto-2020-1.pdf.
[157] “Cabinet approves Mechanism for procurement of ethanol by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to carry out the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme- Revision of ethanol price for supply to Public Sector OMCs”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, June 27, 2018.
[158] “Cabinet approves on Fixation/Revision of ethanol price derived from B heavy molasses/ partial sugarcane juice and 100% sugarcane juice under Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme for Ethanol Supply Year 2018-19”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, September 12, 2018.
[159] G.S.R. 107 (E), Gazette of India, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, February 5, 2019, http://www.egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2019/197698.pdf.
[160] “Ethanol procurement by Public Sector OMCs crosses 100 crore litres figure”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, October 27, 2016.
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[162] “Cabinet approves “Pradhan Mantri Jl-VAN yojana””, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, February 28, 2019.
[163] “Cabinet approves Reforms in Exploration and Licensing Policy for enhancing domestic exploration and production of oil and gas”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, February 19, 2019.
[164] “Exploration and Licensing Policy for Enhancing Domestic Exploration and Production of Oil and Gas”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, February 21, 2019.
[165] “Cabinet approves Policy Framework for exploration and exploitation of Unconventional Hydrocarbons”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, August 1, 2018
[166]“Cabinet approves Policy Framework to Promote and Incentivize Enhanced Recovery Methods for Oil and Gas”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, September 12, 2018.
[167] “Methodology for Linkage Rationalization for Independent Power Producers (IPPs)”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Coal, May 16, 2018.
[168] “Cabinet approves Methodology for allowing the allocate of coal mines for specified end use or own consumption to sell 25% of actual production on ROM basis in open market under the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, February 19, 2019.
[169] “CCEA approves continuation for the Central Sector Scheme of Exploration of Coal and Lignite for a period of 3 years from 2017-18 2019-2020”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, February 6, 2019.
[170] National Mineral Policy, 2019, Ministry of Mines, March 12, 2019, https://mines.gov.in/writereaddata/UploadFile/NMP12032019.pdf.
[171] “A Free and Fair Digital Economy: Protecting Privacy, Empowering Indians”, Report of the Committee of Experts under the Chairmanship of Justice B. N. Srikrishna, https://meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/Data_Protection_Committee_Report.pdf.
[172] The Information Technology [Intermediaries Guidelines (Amendment) Rules] 2018, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, December 24, 2018, http://meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/Draft_Intermediary_Amendment_24122018.pdf.
[173] S.O. 6227(E)., Ministry of Home Affairs, December 20, 2018, http://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2018/194066.pdf.
[174]“Cabinet approves National Digital Communications Policy-2018”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Communications, September 26, 2018.
[175]National Digital Communications Policy 2018, Ministry of Communication, http://www.dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/EnglishPolicy-NDCP_0.pdf?download=1.
[176] National Digital Communications Policy 2018 Draft for Consultation, Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, May 1, 2018, http://www.dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/2018%2005%2025%20NDCP%202018%20Draft%20for%20Consultation.pdf?download=1.
[177] National Policy on Electronics 2019, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, February 25, 2019, https://meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/Notification_NPE2019_dated25.02.2019.pdf.
[178] Draft National Policy on Electronics 2018, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, October 10, 2018, http://meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/Draft_NPE_2018_10thOct2018.pdf.
[179] “Cabinet approves National Policy on Software Products- 2019”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, February 28, 2019.
[180] National Policy on Software Products 2019, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, March 1, 2019, https://meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/national_policy_on_software_products-2019.pdf.
[181] G.S.R. 1211(E)., Ministry of Communications, December 14, 2018, http://dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/2018_12_17%20AS%20IFMC_1.pdf?download=1.
[182] “In-Flight Connectivity”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Communication, May 2, 2018.
[183] Telecommunication Mobile Number Portability (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2018, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, December 13, 2018, https://www.trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/RegulationsMNPEng13122018_0.pdf.
[184] Draft Mobile Number Portability (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2018, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, September 25, 2018, https://www.trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/DRegulation7thAmd25092018_0.pdf.
[185] The Telecommunication Tariff (Sixty Fourth Amendment) Order, 2018, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, September 24, 2018, https://www.trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/TTO64thAmdEng25092018_0.pdf.
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[187] “Cabinet approves provision of mobile connectivity in Left Wing Extremism Area”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Communications, May 23, 2018.
[188] “Consultation paper on Regulatory Framework for Over-The-Top (OTT) communication services”, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, November 12, 2018, https://www.trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/CPOTT12112018_0.pdf.
[189] Recommendation on Promoting Local Telecom Equipment Manufacturing, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, August 3, 2018, https://www.trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/Recommendations_LTEM_03082018.pdf.
[190] The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2019, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, February 12, 2019 https://prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Cinematograph%20%28A%29%20Bill%2C%202019.pdf.
[191] “Public comments sought on Cinematograph Act (Amendment) Bill”, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, January 3, 2019, https://mib.gov.in/sites/default/files/Public%20Notice%20-%20Amendment%20of%20Cinematograph%20Act%20Bill.pdf.
[192] “Feedback/comments on Draft Sports Broadcasting Signals (Mandatory Sharing with Prasar Bharti) (Amendment) Bill, 2018”, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, October 17, 2018, https://mib.gov.in/sites/default/files/Noticedated17october2018onwebsite.pdf.
[193] Guidelines for Journalist Welfare Scheme, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, March 5, 2019, https://mib.gov.in/sites/default/files/Revised%20guidelines%20for%20Journalist%20Welfare%20Scheme%20-%20English%20Version_0.pdf.
[194] “Boost to India’s Space Program”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, December 28, 2018.
[195] “Cabinet approves setting up a new company under Department of Space”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, February 19, 2019.
[196] Discussion Paper on National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, NITI Aayog, June 2018, http://www.niti.gov.in/writereaddata/files/document_publication/NationalStrategy-for-AI-Discussion-Paper.pdf.
[197] The Right to Education (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 (as passed by Parliament), Ministry of Human Resource Development, January 3, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/PassedLoksabha/166_C_2017_LS_Eng.pdf.
[198] The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers’ Cadre) Ordinance, 2019, Ministry of Human Resource Development, March 7, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Central%20Educat....
[199] The National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Bill 2019, (as passed by Parliament), Ministry of Human Resource Development, January 3, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/PassedLoksabha/203c_ls_eng_%20Teacher.pdf.
[200] Draft Higher Education Commission of India (Repeal of University Grants Commission Act) Act 2018, Ministry of Human Resource Development, June 27, 2018,
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[201] The Central Universities (Amendment) Bill 2018, Ministry of Human Resource Development, December 14, 2018, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/171_2018_Eng.pdf.
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[203] University Grants Commission Institutions Deemed to be Universities Regulations, 2019, University Grants Commission, February 20, 2019, https://www.ugc.ac.in/pdfnews/1295001_DEB-Regulation-2019.pdf.
[204] “University Grants Commission has approved UGC (Online Courses) Regulations, 2018 as landmark reform in the field of Higher Education”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Human Resource Development, May 24, 2018.
[205] “Ministry of HRD launches ‘SamagraSiksha’ scheme for holistic development of school education”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Human Resource Development, May 24, 2018.
[206] “Cabinet approves merger of National Council for Vocational Training, NCVT and National Skill Development Agency, NSDA to establish National Council for Vocational Education and Training”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, October 10, 2018.
[207] “PM launches Ayushman Bharat - PMJAY at Ranchi”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, September 23, 2018.
[208]“Cabinet approves Ayushman Bharat – National Health Protection Mission”, Press Information Bureau Cabinet, March 21, 2018.
[209] The Allied and Healthcare Professionals Bill, 2018, https://prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Allied%20Health-RS%20Intro-E-311218%20Bill%20Text.pdf.
[210] Reference of the Bill to the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee, Parliamentary Bulletin Part II, Lok Sabha, January 2, 2019, http://164.100.47.5/newsite/bulletin2/Bull_No.aspx?number=58452
[211] “Examination of Bills by the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare”, Bulletin Part II, Rajya Sabha, http://164.100.47.5/BulletinPart2/bulletin2_dates_files/05_04_2019.pdf.
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[213] The Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973, https://www.nhp.gov.in/UploadFiles/microsite/635960641909289061_1.pdf.
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[216] The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, December 19, 2018, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/PassedLoksabha/257-C%20_2016_Eng..pdf.
[217] Report No. 102, The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016, Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare, August 10, 2017, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/SCR-%20Surrogacy....
[218] The National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, December 13, 2018, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/RSBillTexts/PassedRajyaSabha/Palsy-RSP%20E-12%2012%2018.pdf.
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[220] The National Commission for Homoeopathy Bill, 2019, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, January 7, 2019, http://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Nationl%20commission%20for%20Homoeopathy%20bill%2C%202019.pdf.
[221] Reference of the Bill to the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee, Parliamentary Bulletin Part II, Rajya Sabha, January14, 2019, http://164.100.47.5/BulletinPart2/bulletin2_dates_files/14_01_2019.pdfhttp://164.100.47.5/newsite/bulletin2/Bull_No.aspx?number=58452.
[222] The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill, 2019, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, January 7, 2019, http://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Nationl%20commission%20for%20Indian%20system%20of%20medicine%20bill%2C%202019.pdf.
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[224] The Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Second Ordinance, 2019, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, February 21, 2019 http://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2019/198280.pdf.
[225] “Cabinet approves establishment of two new AIIMS at Tamil Nadu & Telangana under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, December 17, 2018.
[226] “Cabinet approves Setting up of New AIIMS at Manethi, Haryana”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, February 28, 2019.
[227] “Boost to Healthcare Infrastructure: Cabinet approves setting up of 3 new AIIMS”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, January 10, 2019.
[228] “Cabinet approves setting up of new AIIMS in Deoghar, Jharkhand”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, May 16, 2018.
[229] The Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, 2017, Ministry of Urban Development, July 18, 2017, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Immovable%20Property/Requisitioning%20of%20Immovable%20Property%20Bill,%202017.pdf.
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[232] “Carpet Area of Houses Eligible for Subsidy Under CLSS for Middle Income Group (MIG) Increased to 160 Sq.M for MIG -I and 200 Sq.M for MIG-II”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, June 12, 2018.
[233] “Model Building Byelaws 2016 & Urban Regional Development Plans Formulation and Implementation Guidelines 2014 Amended for Establishing EV Charging Infrastructure”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, February 15, 2019, http://www.pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1564744.
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[235] “Ease of Living Index 2018”, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, August 13, 2018, http://easeofliving.niua.org/.
[236] “Govt issues model guidelines for development & regulation of retirement homes”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, March 6, 2019.
[237] Model Guidelines for Development and Regulation of Retirement Homes, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, February 18, 2019, http://mohua.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/Retirement%20Model%20Guidelines%20Book.pdf.
[238] “Shillong (Meghalaya) gets selected as the 100th Smart City”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, June 20, 2018.
[239] “Cabinet approves Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification 2018”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, December 28, 2018.
[240] Draft Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2018, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, http://envfor.nic.in/sites/default/files/press-releases/DRAFT%20CRZ%20NOTIFICATION%2020181.pdf.
[241] Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2018, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, March 27, 2018 http://164.100.117.97/WriteReadData/userfiles/PWMnotification%201%20001.pdf.
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[245]“Cabinet approves continuation of the Centrally Sponsored Umbrella Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats beyond 12th Plan”, Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Press Information Bureau, September 5, 2018.
[246] The Dam Safety Bill, 2018, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, December 12, 2018, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/149_2018_Eng.pdf.
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[248] Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Notification, June 1, 2018, http://mowr.gov.in/sites/default/files/CWMA_GazatteNotification.pdf.
[249] Circulation of Draft River Basin Management Bill, 2018 for Public Consultation, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation, http://mowr.gov.in/sites/default/files/RBM_DraftBill.pdf.
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[251] “The Report-cum-Decision of the Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal”, August 14, 2018, http://mowr.gov.in/sites/default/files/MWDT-Vol-12.pdf.
[252]“Cabinet approves Revised Cost Estimate of Dam rehabilitation and improvement project”, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation, Press Information Bureau, September 19, 2018.
[253] “Cabinet approves “FMBAP” for Flood Management Works in entire country and River Management Activities and works related to Border Areas during 2017-18 to 2019-20”, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation, Press Information Bureau, March 7, 2019.
[254] The Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Women and Child Development, July 18, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Trafficking/Trafficking%20of%20Persons%20(Prevention,%20Protection%20and%20Rehabilitation)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
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[256] “Government constitutes GoM to strengthen legal & institutional frameworks to deal with & prevent sexual harassment at workplace”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Women and Child Development, October 24, 2018. http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=184354.
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[261] “Ministry of Tribal Affairs launches schemes of Minimum Support Price for Minor Forest produces to cover 50 items; Van Dhan Trifood and Friends of Tribes schemes also launched”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, February 28, 2019.
[262] “Cabinet approves continuation of sub-schemes under Umbrella programme for development of Scheduled Tribes for a period till March, 2020”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, February 13, 2019.
[263] “Cabinet approves restructuring of Multi-sectoral Development Programme for its continuation during remaining period of 14th Finance Commission as Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, May 2, 2018.
[264] “Cabinet approved revision in the list of Scheduled Tribes of Chhattisgarh”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, February 13, 2019.
[265] “The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2018”, Ministry of Culture, December 28, 2018, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/THE%20JALLIANWALA%20BAGH%20NATIONAL%20MEMORIAL%20Text.pdf.
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[267]Justice K. S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) and Anr. vs Union of India and Ors., W. P. (C.) No. 494 of 2012, September 26, 2018, https://www.sci.gov.in/supremecourt/2012/35071/35071_2012_Judgement_26-Sep-2018.pdf
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[283] The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018, Ministry of Science and Technology, August 9, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/DNA/DNA%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
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[294] The Consumer Protection Bill, 2018, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, January 5, 2018, https://prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Consumer%20Protection%20Bill%2C%202018.pdf.
[295] The New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Ordinance, 2019, Ministry of Law and Justice, March 2, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/The%20New%20Delhi%20International%20Arbitration%20Centre%20Ordinance%2C%202019.pdf.
[296] The New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Bill, 2018, Ministry of Law and Justice, January 5, 2018, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/ND%20International%20Arbitration%20Centre%20Bill%2C%202018.pdf.
[297] The Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2018, Ministry of Law and Justice, July 18, 2018, http://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Arbitration/Arbitration%20and%20Conciliation%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202018.pdf.
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[299] ‘Draft Report: Simultaneous Elections’, Public Appeal, Law Commission of India, August 30, 2018, http://www.lawcommissionofindia.nic.in/reports/Simultaneous_Elections.pdf.
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[301] “Consultation Paper on Sedition”, Law Commission of India, August 30, 2018, http://www.lawcommissionofindia.nic.in/reports/CP-on-Sedition.pdf.
[302] ‘Reform of Family Law’, Consultation Paper, Law Commission of India, August 31, 2018, http://www.lawcommissionofindia.nic.in/reports/CPonReformFamilyLaw.pdf.
[303] “Report No. 276: Legal Framework: Gambling and Sports Betting Including Cricket in India”, Law Commission of India, July, 2018, http://lawcommissionofindia.nic.in/reports/Report276.pdf.
[304] ‘277th Report: Wrongful Prosecution (Miscarriage of Justice): Legal Remedies’, Law Commission of India, August 30, 2018, http://lawcommissionofindia.nic.in/reports/Report277.pdf.
[305] “Cabinet approves strengthening the mechanism for resolution of commercial disputes of Central Public Sector Enterprises”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, May 16, 2018.
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[316] “Cabinet approves the Protection of Human Rights (Amendments) Bill, 2018”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Law and Justice, April 4, 2018.
[317]“Central government enhances its contribution in the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, September 27, 2018,
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[319] “AFSPA revoked from Meghalaya, eight police stations in Arunachal Pradesh”, Indian Express, April 24, 2018, http://indianexpress.com/article/india/afspa-removed-from-meghalaya-eight-police-stations-in-arunachal-pradesh-5148386/.
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[321] “Government notifies High Level committee for implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, January 6, 2019.
[322] “Cabinet approves high level committee to implement Clause 6 of Assam Accord”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, January 2, 2019.
[323] “Government set up high level committee chaired by Union Home Secretary to check mob lynching”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, July 23, 2018.
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[325] “Reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs) for admission in central education institutions, Ministry of Human Resource Development, http://mhrd.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/ews.pdf.
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[328] Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (Amendment) Draft Bill, 2018, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, http://socialjustice.nic.in/writereaddata/UploadFile/MWPSC%20Act,%202018l636580082691025377.pdf.
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[330] “Cabinet approves extension of term of the Commission to examine the issue of sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes”, Press Information Bureau Cabinet, June 13, 2018.
[331] “Cabinet approves setting up of a Commission to examine the Sub-Categorization within OBCs”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, August 23, 2017.
[332] “Cabinet approves proposal for Constitution of Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities”, Press Information Bureau, February 19, 2019.
[333] “Cabinet approves extension of tenure of the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis beyond 31.3.2019 for three years”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
[334] “97th Report: Draft Public Servants (Declaration of Assets and Liabilities and Minimum Value of Assets for Condonation or Exemption) Rules, 2017”, Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice, July 19, 2018, http://164.100.47.5/committee_web/ReportFile/18/104/97_2018_7_12.pdf.
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