Highlights of this Issue
First Session of 17th Lok Sabha begins
During the session, 40 new Bills, including Bills to replace Ordinances, have been listed for introduction, consideration and passage. Further, two pending Bills have been listed for consideration and passage.
President’s address to Parliament on policy priorities of new government
The address included achievements in key sectors such as macro-economy, employment, infrastructure, environment, agriculture, and education. It sets a target of reaching a $5 trillion economy in five years.
Policy repo rate reduced to 5.75%; reverse repo rate reduced to 5.5%
The Monetary Policy Committee reduced the benchmark repo rate and reverse repo rates by 0.25% each. It also indicated further cuts ahead as it shifted its policy stance from neutral to accommodative.
Current Account Deficit at 0.7% of GDP during the fourth quarter of 2018-19
Current Account Deficit in the fourth quarter (January- March) of 2018-19 decreased to USD 4.6 billion (0.7% of Gross Domestic Product) from USD 13 billion (1.8% of GDP) in the corresponding quarter of 2017-18.
The Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament
The Bill amends the definition of a “person” who may establish an SEZ. In addition to the existing categories, the Bill adds a trust, or any other entity which may be notified by the central government.
Eight Bills introduced in Lok Sabha; two Bills passed
Bills introduced include the Triple Talaq Bill, and the Aadhaar (Amendment) Bill. Further, Bills to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, and the Homoeopathy Central Council Act were passed by Lok Sabha.
High Level Committee submits report to RBI on digital payments in India
The Committee has set a target of ten-fold growth in digital transactions per capita, doubling the digital transaction value to GDP ratio and tripling the number of digital payment users in three years.
RBI releases Prudential Framework for Resolution of Stressed Assets
RBI has released a circular on resolution of stressed assets. It provides for a review period of 30 days, during which the lenders may decide on a Resolution Plan and an inter-creditor agreement between lenders.
Cabinet approves the Public Premises Amendment Bill, 2019
The Bill will enable an estate officer to evict unauthorised occupants from government residences in a specified manner. The officer may also levy damage charges for the accommodation held during the period of litigation.
GST Council gives two-year extension to the National Anti-Profiteering Authority
The National Anti-Profiteering Authority was established in November 2017 to ensure that reductions in GST rates or benefits of input tax credit are passed on to consumers by commensurate reductions in prices.
Ministry issues amendments to the Foreigners Tribunal Order, 1964
The amendments relate to: (i) authorities that can refer matters to the Tribunals, and (ii) the process for dealing with appeals related to the inclusion of names in the National Register of Citizens in Assam.
Government broadens terms of reference of task force drafting new direct tax law
The additional terms include: (i) anonymised verification and scrutiny, (ii) reduction in litigation and expeditious disposal of appeals, and (iii) reduction of compliance burden through simplification of procedures.
Parliament
First Session of 17th Lok Sabha begins
Vinayak Krishnan (vinayak@prsindia.org)
The first session of the 17th Lok Sabha commenced on June 17, 2019.[1] Lok Sabha will have 30 sitting days and Rajya Sabha will sit for 27 days. Two pending Bills have been listed for consideration and passage in the session. These are the Allied and Healthcare Professionals Bill, 2018, and the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2019. Further, 40 new Bills have been listed for introduction, consideration and passage. These include Bills to replace Ordinances such as the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019, and the Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers’ Cadre) Bill, 2019.
During the month, Parliament passed the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which allows trusts to establish SEZs. Further, two Bills have been passed by Lok Sabha. These were the Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019, and the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019.
For details of the legislative agenda during the session, see here.
President addresses first joint sitting of Parliament, outlines the agenda of the new government
Anya Bharat Ram (anya@prsindia.org)
The President of India, Mr. Ram Nath Kovind, addressed a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament on June 20, 2019.[2] He outlined the major policy achievements and objectives of the government in his address. Key highlights of the address include:
For a PRS summary of the President’s speech, see here.
Macroeconomic Development
Gayatri Mann (gayatri@prsindia.org)
Repo and reverse repo rate reduced to 5.75% and 5.5% respectively
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) released its first Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy Statement of 2019-20.[3] The policy repo rate (the rate at which the RBI lends money to banks) was reduced from 6.25% to 6%. Other decisions of the MPC include:
Current Account Deficit at 0.7% of GDP during the fourth quarter of 2018-19
India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) in the fourth quarter (January- March) of 2018-19 decreased to USD 4.6 billion (0.7% of Gross Domestic Product) from USD 13 billion (1.8% of GDP) in the corresponding quarter of 2017-18.[4] CAD in the previous quarter, i.e. the third quarter (October- December) of 2018-19 was USD 17.7 billion (2.7% of GDP). The year-on-year decrease in CAD was primarily due to a lower trade deficit (the difference between a country’s exports and imports) of USD 35.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2018-19, as compared to USD 41.6 billion in the corresponding period of the previous year. Foreign exchange reserves increased by USD 14.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2018-19, as compared with an increase of USD 13.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2017-18.
Table 1 shows India’s balance of payments in the fourth quarter of 2018-19.
Table 1: Balance of Payments, Q4 2018-19 (USD billion)
Q4 2017-18 |
Q3 2018-19 |
Q4 2018-19 |
|
Current Account |
-13.0 |
-17.7 |
-4.6 |
Capital Account |
25.0 |
13.5 |
19.3 |
Errors and Omissions |
1.3 |
-0.3 |
-0.4 |
Change in reserves |
13.2 |
-4.3 |
14.2 |
Sources: Reserve Bank of India; PRS.
In the financial year 2018-19, CAD increased to 2.1% of GDP from 1.8% in 2017-18. India’s trade deficit increased to USD 180.3 billion from USD 160 billion in 2017-18. Table 2 shows the balance of payments in 2018-19.
Table 2: Balance of Payments in 2018-19 (USD billion)
2017-18 |
2018-19 |
|
Current Account |
-57.2 |
-48.7 |
Capital Account |
54.4 |
91.4 |
Errors and Omissions |
-0.5 |
0.9 |
Change in reserves |
-3.3 |
43.6 |
Sources: Reserve Bank of India; PRS.
Finance
High Level Committee submits its report on deepening of digital payments
Anurag Vaishnav (anurag@prsindia.org)
The High Level Committee (Chair: Nandan Nilekani) on Deepening of Digital Payments submitted its report to the RBI.[5] The terms of reference of the Committee included: (i) reviewing the existing status of digital payments in India, (ii) identifying gaps and recommending measures to bridge them, (iii) assessing the current levels of digital payments in financial inclusion, and (iv) suggesting a medium-term strategy for deepening of digital payments. Key recommendations of the Committee include:[6]
For a PRS summary of the report, see here.
RBI releases Prudential Framework for Resolution of Stressed Assets
Anurag Vaishnav (anurag@prsindia.org)
Reserve Bank of India has released a prudential framework for resolution of stressed assets by banks.[7] The prudential framework revises an earlier circular of RBI (issued in February 2018) on resolution of stressed assets. The 2018 circular was struck down by the Supreme Court in April 2019. It held that the circular issued by RBI was outside the scope of the power given to it under Article 35AA of the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Act, 2017.[8]
The prudential framework states that lenders should recognise stress in loan accounts immediately on default, by classifying such assets as special mention accounts (SMA) in the following categories:
Table 3: Special Mention Account categories
SMA sub-categories |
Basis for classification (amount overdue between) |
SMA-0 |
1-30 days |
SMA-1 |
31-60 days |
SMA-2 |
61-90 days |
Source: Prudential framework on resolution of stressed assets, Reserve Bank of India; PRS.
The revised circular also allows lenders to categorise revolving credit facilities like cash credit into two SMA categories.
The prudential framework provides for a review period of 30 days from the day a borrower is reported to be in default. During this period, lenders may decide on a Resolution Plan or may choose to initiate legal proceedings for insolvency or recovery of the debt. Resolution Plan refers to a plan put forth to revive an entity from insolvency.
Further, all lenders should enter into an inter-creditor agreement (ICA) during this Review Period in all cases where a RP is to be implemented. Any decision agreed by the ICA by: (a) lenders representing 75% of the total outstanding credit, and (b) 60% of total lenders, shall be binding upon all lenders.
The Resolution Plan shall be implemented within 180 days from the end of the Review Period. The Review Period should not commence later than: (i) the reference date (if the account is in default on the reference date), or (ii) the date of first default after the reference date. The reference date for this purpose, for different amount of total exposure is noted in Table 4.
Table 4: Reference date for Resolution Plan
Total exposure to lenders |
Reference date |
Rs 2000 crore and above |
June 7, 2019 |
Rs 1500 - Rs 2000 crore |
January 1, 2020 |
Less than Rs 1500 crore |
To be announced |
Source: Prudential framework on resolution of stressed assets, Reserve Bank of India; PRS.
RBI constitutes Committee to review the ATM interchange fee structure
Anurag Vaishnav (anurag@prsindia.org)
Reserve Bank of India has constituted a Committee to examine ATM charges and fees with a view to give a boost to deployment of ATMs in unbanked areas.[9]
The terms of reference of the Committee include (a) reviewing existing costs, charges and interchange fees for ATM transactions, (b) reviewing pattern of usage of ATMs by cardholders, (c) assessing costs associated with the ATM ecosystem, and (d) making recommendations on optimal interchange fee.
The chairperson of the Committee will be Mr. V.G. Kannan (Chief Executive of the Indian Banks’ Association).
Ministry of Finance broadens the terms of reference of the task force set up to draft new direct tax law
Suyash Tiwari (suyash@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Finance has broadened the terms of reference of the task force set up to draft a new direct tax law.[10] The task force was constituted in November 2017 to review the Income Tax Act, 1961 and draft a new direct tax law keeping in view: (i) direct tax system prevalent in various countries, (ii) international best practices, (iii) economic needs of India, and (iv) any other connected matters.
The Ministry has added the following terms for consideration by the task force: (i) anonymised verification and scrutiny, (ii) reduction in litigation and expeditious disposal of appeals, (iii) reduction of compliance burden through simplification of procedures, (iv) mechanism for system based cross verification of financial transactions, and (v) sharing of information among the departments responsible for GST, customs and direct taxes, and the Financial Intelligence Unit.
The task force is required to submit its report by July 31, 2019.
GST Council approves extension of tenure of the National Anti-Profiteering Authority by two years
Suyash Tiwari (suyash@prsindia.org)
The GST Council approved extension of tenure of the National Anti-Profiteering Authority by two years.[11] The National Anti-Profiteering Authority was established in November 2017 to ensure that reductions in GST rates or benefits of input tax credit are passed on to consumers by commensurate reductions in the prices of goods and services.[12],[13] In case the Authority finds a violation of this provision by a taxpayer, it may order (i) a refund of the excess amount charged, (ii) reduction in prices, (iii) imposition of penalty, or (iv) cancellation of GST registration of the taxpayer.[14]
The Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017 specify that the Authority will cease to exist two years after the date its Chairman takes charge, unless the GST Council recommends otherwise. The tenure of Authority has been extended by two years (till November 2021).
CBDT issues revised guidelines for compounding of tax-related offences
Suyash Tiwari (suyash@prsindia.org)
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) issued revised guidelines for compounding of offences under direct tax laws.[15] Compounding of an offence refers to settlement of prosecution case against the offender in lieu of payment of due taxes and other charges by the offender. Other charges include penalties, interest on the amount due, and compounding charges (charges required to be paid for settlement of cases).
The revised guidelines make certain offences under the Income Tax Act, 1961 (which were compoundable earlier) non-compoundable in nature, i.e. prosecution cases filed under these offences cannot be settled by payment of due taxes and other charges. These offences are: (i) removal of or dealing with books of account (or other such evidences marked for seizure) against orders of the authorised officers (Section 275A of the Act), (ii) refusal to give the authorised officers access to books of account or other documents which are stored in electronic form (Section 275B of the Act), and (iii) removal, concealment, transfer, or delivery of property to thwart tax recovery (Section 276 of the Act).
Further, the revised guidelines make the following offences non-compoundable (in general): (i) offences against persons who have enabled others in tax evasion, (ii) offences related to undisclosed foreign bank account or assets, (iii) offences related to the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988, and (iv) offences related to the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015.
The revised guidelines came into effect on June 17, 2019. Applications for compounding made before this date will continue to be dealt with in accordance with the previous guidelines.
Law and Justice
Roshni Sinha (roshni@prsindia.org)
Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha
The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[16] It replaces an Ordinance promulgated on February 21, 2019.[17] Key features of the Bill are as follows:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha
The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[18] It replaces an Ordinance promulgated on March 2, 2019.[19] The Bill amends the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) 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.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Health and Family Welfare
Gayatri Mann (gayatri@prsindia.org)
The Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha
The Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[20] The Bill amends the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956 and replaces the Indian Medical Council (Second Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 that was promulgated on February 21, 2019. The Act sets up the Medical Council of India (MCI), which regulates medical education and practice. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Lok Sabha
The Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced and passed by Lok Sabha.[21] It amends the Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973 and replaces the Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 that was promulgated on March 2, 2019. The Act sets up the Central Council of Homoeopathy which regulates homoeopathic education and practice.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
The Dentist (Amendment) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha
The Dentists (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[22] The Bill amends the Dentists Act, 1948. The Act regulates the profession of dentistry and constitutes: (i) the Dental Council of India, (ii) State Dental Councils, and (iii) Joint State Dental Councils.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Education
Gayatri Mann (gayatri@prsindia.org)
The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teacher’s Cadre) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha
The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers’ Cadre) Bill, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[23] It replaces an Ordinance promulgated on March 7, 2019. The Bill provides for reservation of teaching positions in central educational institutions for persons belonging to: (i) Scheduled Castes, (ii) Scheduled Tribes, (iii) socially and educationally backward classes, and (iv) economically weaker sections. The key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Home Affairs
Vinayak Krishnan (vinayak@prsindia.org)
The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Lok Sabha
The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced and passed by Lok Sabha.[24] The Bill amends the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004 and replaces an Ordinance promulgated on March 1, 2019. The Act provides for reservation in appointment and promotions in state government posts, and admission to professional institutions for certain reserved categories. Professional institutions include government medical colleges, dental colleges, and polytechnics. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Ministry issues amendment to the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued amendments to the Foreigners (Tribunal) Order, 1964.[25] The Order provides for the creation of Tribunals to adjudicate on whether an individual is a foreigner. A foreigner is anyone who is not a citizen of India. They key amendments are:
Agriculture
Suyash Tiwari (suyash@prsindia.org)
Third advance estimates of production of major crops for 2018-19 released
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare released the third advance estimates of production of major foodgrains and commercial crops for the year 2018-19.[27] Table 5 gives a comparison of the third advance estimates for 2018-19 with the final estimates for 2017-18. Following are some of the highlights:
Table 5: Third advance estimates of production for 2018-19 (in million tonnes)
Crop |
Final 2017-18 |
3rd advance estimates 2018-19 |
% change over 2017-18 |
Foodgrains (A+B) |
285.0 |
283.4 |
-0.6% |
A. Cereals |
259.6 |
260.2 |
0.2% |
Rice |
112.8 |
115.6 |
2.5% |
Wheat |
99.9 |
101.2 |
1.3% |
Coarse Cereals |
47.0 |
43.3 |
-7.7% |
B. Pulses |
25.4 |
23.2 |
-8.7% |
Tur |
4.3 |
3.5 |
-18.4% |
Gram |
11.4 |
10.1 |
-11.3% |
Oilseeds |
31.5 |
31.4 |
-0.1% |
Soyabean |
10.9 |
13.7 |
25.7% |
Groundnut |
9.3 |
6.5 |
-29.7% |
Cotton* |
32.8 |
27.6 |
-15.9% |
Sugarcane |
379.9 |
400.4 |
5.4% |
*Million bales of 170 kg each.
Sources: Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; PRS.
Commerce and Industry
The Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament
Gayatri Mann (gayatri@prsindia.org)
The Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was introduced and passed by Parliament.[28] It amends the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005 and replaces an Ordinance that was promulgated on March 2, 2019. The Act provides for the establishment, development, and management of Special Economic Zones for the promotion of exports.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Ministry releases draft amendments to the Copyright Rules, 2013
Vinayak Krishnan (vinayak@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released draft amendments to the Copyright Rules, 2013, for public feedback.[29] The Copyright Rules, 2013, were notified under the Copyright Act, 1957. The Act defines the rights of authors of creative works such as books, plays, music, films and other works of art, and computer software. Key changes proposed in the draft amendments are as follows:
Housing and Urban Affairs
Prachee Mishra (prachee@prsindia.org)
Cabinet approves the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Amendment Bill, 2019
The Union Cabinet approved introduction of the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Amendment Bill, 2019.[30] The 2019 Bill seeks to replace the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Amendment Bill, 2017, which lapsed with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha.
The Bill seeks to ensure speedy eviction of unauthorised occupants from government residences, and increase the availability of such accommodation for eligible persons. The Bill will enable an estate officer to evict unauthorised occupants from government residences in a specified manner. The officer may also levy damage charges for the accommodation held during the period of litigation.
Energy
Prachee Mishra (prachee@prsindia.org)
Dispute resolution mechanism for wind/solar sector approved
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy approved the setting up of a dispute resolution mechanism for disputes between solar/ wind power developers, and the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)/ National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC).[31] Under the mechanism, a three member Dispute Resolution Committee will be set up. The Committee members will be eminent persons located in the NCR of Delhi. This mechanism will be applicable for all solar/ wind schemes and projects being implemented by the SECI/NTPC.
The Committee will consider the following type of cases: (i) all cases of appeals against decisions given by SECI on extension of time requests based on the terms of contract, and (ii) all requests for extension not covered under the terms of contract.
The recommendations of the Committee and the Ministry’s observations will be placed before the Minister for New and Renewable Energy for final decision.
Expert group constituted to review Indian Electricity Grid Code
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has constituted an expert group to review the Indian Electricity Grid Code.[32] The group is chaired by Mr. Rakesh Nath, ex-chairperson of the Central Electricity Authority and ex-member (tech) of the appellate tribunal for electricity. Comments on the Code are invited till July 12, 2019.[33]
The Code lays down the rules, and standards to be followed by the various agencies and participants in the system to plan, develop, maintain and operate the power system. The system must be operated in the most efficient, reliable, economic and secure manner, while facilitating healthy competition in the generation and supply of electricity.
Road Transport and Highways
Prachee Mishra (prachee@prsindia.org)
Disinvestment of Air India approved
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) had given in-principle approval to the strategic disinvestment of Air India and its five subsidiaries on June 28, 2017.[34] Following this, the CCEA set up an Air India Specific Alternative Mechanism (AISAM).
On March 28, 2018, the AISAM decided to not proceed with the disinvestment due to issues like volatile crude oil prices and adverse fluctuations in exchange rates. Since then, there has been an improvement in the financial and operational performance of Air India. Therefore, the central government has decided to go ahead with the disinvestment of the company, as per the recommendations of AISAM.
Ministry of Road Transport releases draft amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways released two draft notifications amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.[35],[36],[37],[38] These Rules provide details on licensing of drivers, construction, maintenance, and registration of motor vehicles, permits for vehicles, and control of traffic.
Exemption to battery operated vehicles: The first draft notification seeks to amend the Rules to exempt battery operated vehicles (electric vehicles) from payment of fees in certain cases. These include issue or renewal of registration certificate, or assignment of new registration mark (or number).
Minimum educational qualification for transport vehicle drivers: Currently, under the Rules, a transport vehicle driver must have passed class eight for obtaining a driving licence. The second draft notification seeks to remove this requirement. As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, a transport vehicle means a public service vehicle, a goods carriage, an educational institution bus, or a private service vehicle.
Comments on both the draft Rules are invited within 30 days from the date of publication (that is, July 18, 2019).
Jal Shakti
Anurag Vaishnav (anurag@prsindia.org)
Jal Shakti Abhiyan to be launched from July 2019
The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation will launch the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, a campaign aimed at rainwater harvesting and water conservation in 255 water-stressed districts in the country.[39] For the purpose of this campaign, districts with blocks where groundwater levels are critical or over-exploited are to be considered as water-stressed districts.
The ground water resources are assessed in units, that is, blocks/talukas/mandals/watersheds. These assessment units are categorised for ground water development based on two criteria: (a) stage of ground water development, and (b) long-term (generally for a period of 10 years) trend of pre and post monsoon water levels.
Units with stage of ground water development over 100% are categorised as over-exploited. Units with stage of ground-water development over 90% and a significant long-term water-level decline (both pre-monsoon and post-monsoon) are categorised as critical.
The campaign will be launched in two phases. The first phase would include all states in the country and would be operational from July 1 to September 15, 2019. The second phase would focus on states receiving retreating monsoon, and would be operational from October 1 to November 30, 2019.
External Affairs
Vinayak Krishnan (vinayak@prsindia.org)
Prime Minister visits Kyrgyz Republic and Maldives
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, visited Maldives and the Kyrgyz Republic.[40],[41] Key agreements signed with the countries are:
[1] Parliament Session Alert, June 22, 2019, https://prsindia.org/sites/default/files/Parliament%20Session%20Alert%20Budget%20Session%202019%20%2817LS%29.pdf.
[2] Address by the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind to the Joint Sitting of Two Houses of Parliament”, June 20, 2019, https://presidentofindia.nic.in/writereaddata/Portal/Speech/Document/683/1_sp200619.pdf.
[3] “Second Bi-Monthly Policy Statement 2019-20”, Press Release, Reserve Bank of India, June 6, 2019, https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=47225
[4] “Developments in India’s Balance of Payments during the Fourth Quarter (January-March) of 2018-19”, Reserve Bank of India, June 28, 2019, https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=47438.
[5] Report of the Committee on Deepening of Digital Payments, Press Releases, Reserve Bank of India, May 17, 2019, https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=47068.
[6] Report of the High Level Committee on Deepening of Digital Payments, Reserve Bank of India, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PublicationReport/Pdfs/CDDP03062019634B0EEF3F7144C3B65360B280E420AC.PDF.
[7] Prudential Framework for Resolution of Stressed Assets, Reserve Bank of India, June 7, 2019, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/notification/PDFs/PRUDENTIALB20DA810F3E148B099C113C2457FBF8C.PDF.
[8] Dharani Sugars and Chemicals Ltd vs Union of India, MANU/SC/0454/2019, https://www.sci.gov.in/supremecourt/2018/42591/42591_2018_Judgement_02-Apr-2019.pdf.
[9] Committee to Review the ATM Interchange Fee Structure, Press Releases, Reserve Bank of India, June 11, 2019, https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=47270.
[10] F. No. 370149/230/2017, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, June 24, 2019, https://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Lists/Latest%20News/Attachments/324/task-force-office-order-dated-24-06-2019.pdf.
[11] “FM chairs the 35th GST Council Meeting held today in the national capital;”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance, June 21, 2019.
[12] “Cabinet approves the establishment of the National Anti-Profiteering Authority under GST”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, November 16, 2017.
[13] “Government appoints Shri B.N. Sharma (IAS:1985) as Chairman of the National Anti-Profiteering Authority under GST”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance, November 28, 2017.
[14] Anti-Profiteering, Chapter XV, Central Goods and
Services Tax (CGST) Rules, 2017 (as amended up to April 23, 2019), http://www.gstcouncil.gov.in/sites/default/files/Rules-dynamic/23042019_CGST_Rules-2017-Part-A-Rules.pdf.
[15] F. No. 285/08/2014-IT (Inv. V)/147, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, June 14, 2019, https://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/news/guidelines_compounding_offencesdtl_2019_misccomm_14_6_19.pdf.
[16] The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Muslim%20women%20%28Protection%20of%20Rights%20on%20Marriage%29%20Bill%2C%202019.pdf.
[17] The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Ordinance, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Muslim%20Women%20%28Protection%20of%20Rights%20on%20Marriage%29%20Second%20Ordinance%2C%202019.pdf.
[18] The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Aadhaar%20and%20Other%20Laws%20%28Amendment%29%20Bill%2C%202019.pdf.
[19] The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019, https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Aadhaar%20and%20other%20Laws%20%28A%29%20Ordinance%2C%202019.pdf.
[20] The Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Lok Sabha, June 27, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/110_2019_English.PDF.
[21] The Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019, Ministry of AYUSH, Lok Sabha, June 27, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/PassedLoksabha/83C_%202019_LS_Eng.pdf.
[22] The Dentists (Amendment) Bill, 2019, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Lok Sabha, June 27, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/111_2019_Eng.PDFhttp:/164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/PassedLoksabha/83C_%202019_LS_Eng.pdf.
[23] The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers’ Cadre) Bill, 2019, Ministry of Human Resource Development, Lok Sabha, June 27, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/103_2019_English.PDF.
[24] The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019, Ministry of Home Affairs, https://prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Jammu%20and%20Kashmir%20Reservation%20%28Amendment%29%20Bill%2C%202019.pdf.
[25] G.S.R. 409(E), Ministry of Home Affairs, June 4, 2019, http://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2019/205117.pdf.
[26] The Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003, http://www.nrcassam.nic.in/images/pdf/citizenship-rules.pdf.
[27] Third Advance Estimates of Production of Foodgrains and Commercial Crops for 2018-19, Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, June 3, 2019, https://eands.dacnet.nic.in/Advance_Estimate/3rd_Advance_Estimates2018-19%20Eng.pdf.
[28] The Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2019, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, as passed by Parliament, June 27, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/103_2019_English.PDF.
[29] G.S.R 393(E), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, May 30, 2019, https://dipp.gov.in/sites/default/files/Draft_Copyright_Amendment_Rules_2019.pdf.
[30] “Crackdown on Unauthorised Occupants of Public Premises”, Press Information Bureau, Cabinet, June 12, 2019.
[31] No. 283/124/2018-GRID SOLAR, Grid Solar Power Division, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, June 18, 2019.
[32] No. ENGG/2012/1/2019-CERC, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission, June 10, 2019, http://www.cercind.gov.in/2019/whatsnew/Notice-10-06-19.pdf.
[33] No. ENGG/2012/1/2019-CERC, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission, June 21, 2019, http://www.cercind.gov.in/2019/whatsnew/IEGC_Extention19.pdf.
[34] “Govt to go ahead with Air India Disinvestment”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Civil Aviation, June 27, 2018.
[35] Notification, G.S.R 430 (E), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, June 18, 2019, .http://morth.nic.in/showfile.asp?lid=4588.
[36] “Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to remove requirement of minimum educational qualification for transport vehicle drivers”, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, June 18, 2019, http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1574849.
[37] “Ministry of Road Transport and Highways issues Draft Notification to exempt Battery Operated Vehicles from paying registration fees”, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, June 19, 2019.
[38] Notification, G.S.R 431 (E), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, June 18, 2019, http://morth.nic.in/showfile.asp?lid=4589.
[39] ‘Appointment of Central Prabhari officers in respect of Jal Shakti Abhiyan’, Office Memorandum, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, June 25, 2019, https://dopt.gov.in/sites/default/files/31-16-2019-EOMM-I.pdf.
[40] “Transcript of Media Briefing by Foreign Secretary on upcoming visit of Prime Minister to Maldives and Sri Lanka (June 06, 2019)”, Ministry of External Affairs, June 7, 2019, https://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit-detail.htm?31414/Transcript+of+Media+Briefing+by+Foreign+Secretary+on+upcoming+visit+of+Prime+Minister+to+Maldives+and+Sri+Lanka+June+06+2019.
[41] “Transcript of Media Briefing by Secretary (West) on upcoming visit of Prime Minister to Bishkek to attend the SCO Summit (June 10, 2019)”, Ministry of External Affairs, June 11, 2019, https://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit-detail.htm?31431/Transcript+of+Media+Briefing+by+Secretary+West+on+upcoming+visit+of+Prime+Minister+to+Bishkek+to+attend+the+SCO+Summit+June+10+2019.
[42] List of MOUs/Documents signed during the State Visit of Prime Minister to Maldives, Ministry of External Affairs, June 8, 2019, https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/31419/List_of_AgreementsMoUs_signed_during_the_State_Visit_of_Prime_Minister_to_Maldives.
[43] List of documents exchanged during the visit of Prime Minister to Kyrgyz Republic, Ministry of External Affairs, June 14, 2019, https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/31445/List_of_documents_exchanged_during_the_visit_of_Prime_Minister_to_Kyrgyz_Republic.
DISCLAIMER: This document is being furnished to you for your information. You may choose to reproduce or redistribute this report for non-commercial purposes in part or in full to any other person with due acknowledgement of PRS Legislative Research (“PRS”). The opinions expressed herein are entirely those of the author(s). PRS makes every effort to use reliable and comprehensive information, but PRS does not represent that the contents of the report are accurate or complete. PRS is an independent, not-for-profit group. This document has been prepared without regard to the objectives or opinions of those who may receive it.