Highlights of this Issue
Winter Session of Parliament concluded; ten Bills passed
Bills passed include the Dam Safety Bill, 2019; the Farm Laws Repeal Bill, 2021; and the High Court and Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Bill, 2021.
Bill to link electoral roll with Aadhaar passed by Parliament
The Election Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021 provides for linking electoral roll data with Aadhaar details, and provides multiple qualifying dates for enrolment in the electoral roll of a constituency.
Six Bills referred to Parliamentary Committees for further scrutiny
These include the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021; the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2021; the CA, CWA and CS (Amendment) Bill, 2021; and the Mediation Bill, 2021.
Guidelines for national COVID-19 vaccination program revised
The revised guidelines provide for third doses for priority groups starting January 10, 2022, and vaccination for children in the 15-18 years age group from January 3, 2022.
Two new vaccines and the first anti-viral drug for COVID-19 granted EUA
Emergency use authorisation for restricted use was granted to two vaccines, Corbevax and Covovax, and an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, for the treatment of COVID-19.
Current account deficit at 1.3% of GDP during second quarter of 2021-22
India’s current account balance recorded a deficit of USD 9.6 billion in the second quarter of 2021-22 due to widening of trade deficit and an increase in net outgo of investment income.
Report of the Committee on the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 tabled
The Committee recommended that the Bill should provide for protection of personal as well as non-personal data. Data fiduciaries must report every breach of personal data processed by them.
Standing Committee tables report on the Pesticide Management Bill, 2020
The Committee recommended expanding the powers of the Central Pesticides Board to overlook the functioning of the Registration Committee, and said that pesticides should be registered within two years.
Consumer Protection Rules on jurisdiction of Consumer Commissions notified
The Rules reduce the pecuniary jurisdiction of the District, State, and National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions due to increase in pendency of cases in the District Commissions.
Initiatives to promote semiconductor and electronic display industry notified
Various incentive schemes have been notified for promotion of design and manufacturing of semiconductors and electronic display, and related components.
Committees submit reports on various issues and implementation of schemes
These include reports examining schemes including the Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi. Reports on the suspension of telecom/internet services and its impact and ethical standards of media coverage were also submitted.
CAG releases reports on various issues
These include reports examining ground water management and regulation, and on the setting up and functioning of the new Indian Institutes of Technology.
Parliament
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
Winter session of Parliament concludes; 10 Bills passed, six referred to Committees
The Winter Session of Parliament was held from November 29, 2021 to December 22, 2021, for a total of 18 days.[1] The session was scheduled to end on December 23, 2021, but was curtailed by one day.
During the session, Parliament passed ten Bills (excluding an Appropriation Bill). Six of these Bills were introduced during the session. These include three Bills to replace Ordinances, viz., the Delhi Special Police Establishment (Amendment) Bill, 2021, the Central Vigilance Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2021, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendment) Bill, 2021. Other Bills passed in the session include the Farm Laws Repeal Bill, 2021, the High Court and Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Bill, 2021, and the Election Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
All other Bills introduced during the session (six of them) have been sent to Committees for further scrutiny. These are: (i) the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021, (ii) the Chartered Accountants, the Cost and Works Accountants and the Company Secretaries (Amendment) Bill, 2021, (iii) the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2021, (iv) the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021, (v) the Mediation Bill, 2021, and (vi) the National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021.
For more details on legislative business taken up during the Winter Session 2021, please see here. For details on the functioning of Parliament during the session, please see here.
COVID-19
As of December 31, 2021, there were 3.5 crore confirmed cases of COVID-19 in India.[2] Of these, 3.4 crore (98%) had been cured/discharged and 4.8 lakh (1.3%) persons had died. As of December 31, 2021, 84 crore people had received the first dose of a vaccine, of which 61 crore people had been fully vaccinated.[3] For details on the number of daily cases in the country and across states, see here.
Guidelines for national COVID-19 vaccination program revised
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
Owing to the new variant Omicron, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued revised guidelines on the National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme regarding third doses for priority group and vaccination for children.[4] The guidelines will come into effect from January 3, 2022. Key features are as follows:
Two new vaccines and the first anti-viral drug for Covid granted emergency use authorisation
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) granted emergency use authorisation for restricted use to two vaccines, Corbevax and Covovax, and an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, for COVID-19.[6]
Corbevax is developed by Biological E Limited, with support from the Department of Biotechnology.6 Covovax is produced by the Serum Institute of India under licence from Novavax.6 Apart from these, six COVID-19 vaccines have been granted emergency use authorisation in India. These are: (i) Covishield, (ii) Covaxin, (iii) Sputnik-V, (iv) mRNA-1273 (Moderna vaccine), (v) Janssen, and (vi) ZyCov-D.[7],[8],[9],[10],[11] These vaccines may be administered to all persons of 18 years of age and above. Note that Covaxin may be administered to children aged between 15-18 years as well. It was given emergency use authorisation for children aged between 12-18 years this month.4
Molnupirvir is an anti-viral drug produced by Merck. It will be manufactured by 13 companies for treatment of adult patients.6 It is the first anti-viral drug for COVID-19 to be granted approval in the country.
Guidelines issued for containment of COVID-19 in light of Omicron
Shubham Dutt (shubham@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued guidelines for containment of COVID-19 in light of increased detection of the new and highly transmissible variant Omicron across India. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order directing all states/UTs to implement the containment measures prescribed by these guidelines.[12] The order will be applicable till January 31, 2022. Key features of the guidelines include the following:
Scheduled international flights suspended
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a notification to extend the suspension of commercial scheduled international passenger services till January 31, 2022 owing to the new variant of concern, Omicron.[13]
In March 2020, due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, scheduled international flights were suspended.[14] The ban was extended several times since then. In September 2021, DGCA extended the ban on scheduled international flights till October 30, 2021.[15] In November 2021, DGCA had issued a notification to resume commercial scheduled international passenger services from December 15, 2021.[16]
Macroeconomic Development
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
Repo and reverse repo rates remain unchanged at 4% and 3.35% respectively
The Monetary Policy Committee released its bi-monthly Monetary Policy Statement.[17] The Committee decided to keep the policy repo rate (the rate at which RBI lends money to banks) unchanged at 4%. Other decisions of the Committee include the following:
Current account deficit at 1.3% of GDP during second quarter of 2021-22
India’s current account balance recorded a deficit of USD 9.6 billion (1.3% of GDP) in the second quarter (July-September) of 2021-22 as compared to a surplus of USD 15.3 billion (2.4% of GDP) in the second quarter of 2020-21.[18] This was primarily due to widening trade deficit and an increase in net outgo of investment income. In the first quarter (April-June) of 2021-22, current account balance had recorded a surplus of USD 6.6 billion (0.9% of GDP).18
Net inflow (inflow minus outflow) in the capital account increased to USD 40.1 billion as compared to USD 15.9 billion in the second quarter of 2020-21. The capital account captures transactions that lead to a change in the asset/liability position of entities in India.
Foreign exchange reserves increased by USD 31.2 billion in the second quarter of 2021-22 as compared to USD 31.6 billion in second quarter of 2020-21.
Table 1: Balance of Payments, Q2 2021-22 (USD billion)
|
Q2 |
Q1 |
Q2 |
Current Account |
15.3 |
6.6 |
-9.6 |
Capital Account |
15.9 |
25.5 |
40.1 |
Errors and Omissions |
0.4 |
-0.2 |
0.7 |
Change in reserves |
31.6 |
31.9 |
31.2 |
Sources: Reserve Bank of India; PRS.
Finance
The Chartered Accountants, the Cost and Works Accountants and the Company Secretaries (Amendment) Bill, 2021 introduced
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
The Chartered Accountants, the Cost and Works Accountants and the Company Secretaries (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[19] The Bill seeks to amend the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949, the Cost and Works Accountants Act, 1959, and the Company Secretaries Act, 1980. The three Acts provide for the regulation of the professions of chartered accountants, cost accountants and company secretaries, respectively. The Bill seeks to strengthen the disciplinary mechanism under these Acts, and provide for time bound disposal of cases against members of these professions. Key features of the Bill include:
The Bill has been referred to the Standing Committee on Finance. For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Bill correcting drafting error in NDPS Act, 1985 passed by Parliament
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was passed by Parliament.[20] It replaces the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021.[21] The Bill amends the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) to correct a drafting error.[22] The Act regulates certain operations (such as manufacture, transport, and consumption) related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.22
RBI releases prompt corrective action framework for NBFCs
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the prompt corrective action (PCA) framework for non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).[24] The PCA framework enables supervisory intervention and requires the supervised entity to implement measures for restoring its financial health. RBI noted that NBFCs have grown in size and have substantial interconnectedness with other segments of the financial system. The PCA framework seeks to strengthen the supervisory tools applicable to NBFCs. The framework will be effective from October 1, 2022. It will be reviewed after three years of being in operation. Key features include:
SEBI amends framework for issuing shares
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approved amendments to the SEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018.[25],[26] The 2018 Regulations provide the framework for public issue of shares. These amendments have been approved based on the recommendations of the Primary Market Advisory Committee. Key changes include:
Guidelines for privatisation, closure of non-strategic CPSEs released
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) released the guidelines for implementation of New Public Sector Enterprises (PSE) policy for central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) in non-strategic sector.[28] In February 2021, the new PSE policy was released which categorised most CPSEs into strategic and non-strategic sectors.[29] Defence, banking, power, and petroleum were some of the strategic sectors while the remaining sectors were classified as non-strategic. CPSEs in non-strategic sectors are to be privatised or closed. Key features of the guidelines include:
SEBI releases consultation paper on algorithmic trading by retail investors
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) released a consultation paper on algorithmic trading by retail investors.[30] Under algorithmic or algo trading, computers monitor live stock prices and initiate an order when given criteria are met. Comments have been invited on the following key issues:
Comments on the paper have been invited by January 15, 2022.
SEBI invites comments on one commodity one exchange model
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a consultation paper on “One Commodity One Exchange”.[31] SEBI noted that internationally, derivatives contracts on a specific commodity are traded as liquid contracts (which can be easily traded) only on one particular commodity exchange. A derivative is an instrument which derives its value from an underlying asset such as securities and commodities. SEBI observed that India should explore developing exchange-specific unique sets of commodities. This will help in reducing the fragmentation of liquidity. Key features of the proposed framework include:
Comments on the proposed framework are invited by January 6, 2022.
Law and Justice
Shubham Dutt (shubham@prsindia.org)
Bill to link electoral roll data with Aadhaar passed by Parliament
The Election Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was passed by Parliament.[32] The Bill amends the Representation of the People Act, 1950 and the Representation of the People Act, 1951 to implement certain electoral reforms.[33],[34] The 1950 Act provides for allocation of seats and delimitation of constituencies for elections, qualifications of voters, and preparation of electoral rolls. The 1951 Act provides for the conduct of elections, and offences and disputes related to elections. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Bill clarifying age for additional pension of High Court and Supreme Court Judges passed by Parliament
The High Court and Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Bill, 2021 was passed by Parliament.[35] The Bill amends: (i) the High Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1954, and (ii) the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1958.[36],[37] These Acts regulate the salaries and conditions of service of the judges of High Courts and the Supreme Court of India.
Under the Acts, all retired judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts and their family members are entitled to pension or family pension. They are also entitled to an additional quantum of pension or family pension when they attain a certain age in accordance with a specified scale. The scale contains five age brackets (with minimum age of 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100 years), and the additional quantum increases with age (from 20% to 100% of the pension or family pension). The Bill clarifies that a person will be entitled to the additional pension or family pension from the first day of the month in which they complete the minimum age under the concerned age bracket.
Note that orders by two High Courts in 2018 and 2020 led to the Bill being brought in. The Bill seeks to clarify the legislative intent, which was to provide the benefit of additional quantum of pension from the first day of the month in which a retired judge completes the minimum age of the concerned age bracket, and not from the first day of his entering that age, as had been interpreted by the High Courts.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Bill to promote mediation introduced in Rajya Sabha
The Mediation Bill, 2021 was introduced in the Rajya Sabha.[38] Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), where parties attempt to settle their dispute (outside courts) with the assistance of an independent third person (mediator). The Bill seeks to promote mediation (including online mediation and community mediation), and provide for enforcement of settlement agreements resulting from mediation. Key features of the Bill include:
The Bill has been referred to the Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice. For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Draft Notaries (Amendment) Bill, 2021 issued for consultation
The draft Notaries (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was released for consultation by the Ministry of Law and Justice.[39],[40] The draft Bill proposes to amend the Notaries Act, 1952.[41] The Act regulates the profession of notaries. Notaries are persons authorised to perform certain legal formalities (such as attesting or certifying contracts, deeds, and other documents as authentic). Key amendments proposed by the draft Bill include:
Personnel
Parliament passes Bill to extend tenure of Director of Enforcement
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
The Central Vigilance Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was passed by Parliament.[42] It replaces the Central Vigilance Commission (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021.[43] The Bill amends the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003.[44] Under the Act, the Director of Enforcement is appointed by the central government, on the recommendation of a Committee (chaired by the Central Vigilance Commissioner) for a minimum of two years. The Bill adds that the tenure of the Director may be extended by up to one year at a time, till the completion of five years from the initial date of appointment.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Parliament passes Bill to extend tenure of CBI Director
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
The Delhi Special Police Establishment (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was passed by Parliament.[45] It replaces the Delhi Special Police Establishment (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021.[46] The Bill amends the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946.[47] Under the Act, the CBI Director is appointed by the central government, on the recommendation of a Committee (chaired by the Prime Minister) for a minimum of two years. The Bill amends the Act to allow tenure of the Director to be extended by up to one year at a time, till the completion of five years from the initial date of appointment.
For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Standing Committee submits report on pensioner’s grievances
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
The Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice (Chair: Mr. Sushil Kumar Modi) presented its report on ‘Pensioner’s Grievances - Impact of Pension Adalats and Centralised Pensioners Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPENGRAMS)’.[48] As on March 31, 2020, there were 66.7 lakh central government pensioners (including family pensioners) in India. Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS summary of the report, see here.
Report on strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms of the government submitted
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
The Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice (Chair: Mr. Sushil Kumar Modi) submitted its report on ‘Strengthening of Grievance Redressal Mechanism of Government of India’.[49] Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS summary of the report, please see here.
Women and Child Development
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
Bill to increase minimum age of marriage of females introduced in Lok Sabha
The Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[50] The Bill amends the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 to increase the minimum age of marriage of females.[51] Key features of the Bill include:
The Bill has been referred to the Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports. For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Environment
Rajat Asthana (rajat@prsindia.org)
Bill amending Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 introduced in Lok Sabha
The Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[52] The Bill amends the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The Act regulates the protection of wild animals, birds and plants.[53] The Bill seeks to increase the species protected under the law, and implement the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).52 Key features of the Bill include:
The Bill has been referred to the Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change. For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Bill amending Biological Diversity Act, 2002 introduced and referred to Joint Committee
The Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[55] The Bill amends the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The Act provides for the conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the use of biological resources.[56] The Bill seeks to streamline research and patent applications, and encourage cultivation of wild medicinal plants and practice of indigenous medicine.55 Key amendments proposed by the Bill include:
The Bill has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. For a PRS summary of the Bill, see here.
Water Resources
Dam Safety Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
The Dam Safety Bill, 2019 was passed by Parliament.[57] The Bill provides for the surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of specified dams.57 It also provides for an institutional mechanism to ensure the safety of such dams. Key features of the Bill include:
For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
CAG releases report on ground water management and regulation
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) released its audit report on ‘Ground Water Management and Regulation’.[58] The report provides findings from the performance audit of ground water management and regulation for the period 2013-18 for 33 states/UTs (except Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mizoram, and Sikkim). It also evaluates the implementation of schemes on ground water management. Key observations and recommendations of CAG include:
Continuation of PMKSY
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) during 2021-26.[59] The scheme was earlier applicable for 2015-20.[60] It was later extended for a year till March 2021.60 The estimated cost for the scheme (along with the three components) for 2021-26 is Rs 93,068 crore.
PMKSY is an umbrella scheme consisting of two major components, the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP), and Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP), being implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. It also includes a watershed component, implemented by the Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development. PMKSY also includes the Per Drop More Crop scheme, implemented by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. AIBP, HKKP, and the watershed component have been approved for continuation till 2026.
The scheme seeks to: (i) enhance physical access to water on farms, (ii) expand cultivable area under assured irrigation, (iii) improve on-farm water use efficiency, and (iv) introduce sustainable water conservation practices.
Cabinet approves Ken-Betwa interlinking of rivers project
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
The Union Cabinet approved the Ken-Betwa Interlinking of Rivers Project.[61] The cost of the project is assessed to be Rs 44,605 crore (at 2020-21 price levels). The central government will provide Rs 36,920 crore as grant and Rs 3,027 as loan for the project, proposed to be completed in eight years. The project seeks to construct a dam and a canal linking the two rivers to transfer water from the Ken river to the Betwa river. The project will: (i) annually irrigate 10.62 lakh hectare in regions of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, (ii) provide drinking water to about 62 lakh people, and (iii) generate 103 megawatt (MW) of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
Sports
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021 introduced in Lok Sabha
The National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021 was introduced in Lok Sabha.[62] The Bill seeks to prohibit doping in sports and establish a National Anti-Doping Agency, which will replace the existing National Anti-Doping Agency. Doping is the consumption of certain prohibited substances by athletes to enhance performance. Key features of the Bill include:
The Bill has been referred to the Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports. For a PRS summary of the Bill, please see here.
Health
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
Bill to regulate assisted reproductive technology passed by Parliament
The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill, 2020 was passed by Parliament.[63] The Bill had been examined by the Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare which recommended constituting common authorities for regulating surrogacy and ART services.[64] The Bill as passed incorporates this suggestion. Key features of the Bill include:
For more details on the Bill, please see here.
Bill to regulate surrogacy passed by Parliament
The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2019 was passed by Parliament.[65] The Bill defines surrogacy as a practice where a woman gives birth to a child for an intending couple and agrees to hand over the child to them after the birth. The Bill had been examined by a Select Committee of the Rajya Sabha which suggested several amendments.[66] The Bill that was passed by Parliament incorporates the changes suggested by the Select Committee. Key features of the Bill include:
For more details on the Bill, please see here.
National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Amendment) Bill, 2021 passed by Parliament
The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Amendment) Bill, 2021 (NIPER Bill) was passed by Parliament.[67] It amends the NIPER Act, 1998. The Act established the NIPER, Punjab and declared it as an Institution of National Importance. An Institution of National Importance is an autonomous institute established with the power to hold examinations, grant degrees, diplomas, and other academic titles. These institutions receive funding from the central government. The Bill had been examined by the Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilisers which made recommendations to improve the functioning of the NIPERs.[68] Key amendments under the Bill include:
For more details on the Bill, please see here.
Agriculture
Standing Committee submits report on the Pesticide Management Bill, 2020
The Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing (Chair: Mr. P.C. Gaddigoudar) tabled its report on the Pesticide Management Bill, 2020 on December 21, 2021.[69] The Bill was introduced on March 23, 2020. The Bill replaces the Insecticides Act, 1968. It seeks to regulate the manufacture, import, sale, storage, distribution, use, and disposal of pesticides, in order to ensure the availability of safe pesticides and minimise the risk to humans, animals, and environment. Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
Media and Broadcasting
Report of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 tabled
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The report of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 (Chair: Mr P. P. Chaudhary) was tabled in Parliament.[70] The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha in December 2019.[71] The Bill provides for the protection of personal data of individuals and establishes a Data Protection Authority (DPA). It defines personal data as data about or relating to a natural person who is directly or indirectly identifiable. Key recommendations include:
For a PRS summary of the report, see here.
Initiatives to promote semiconductor and electronic display industry notified
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology notified various initiatives for promotion of semiconductor and electronic display industry.[72] These are aimed at promoting higher domestic value addition in electronics manufacturing. Key details are as follows:
Standing Committee submits report on ethical standards in media coverage
Shashank Srivastava (shashank@prsindia.org)
The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology (Chair: Dr. Shashi Tharoor) presented its report on ‘Ethical Standards in Media Coverage’.[78] As of January 2020, there were 1.45 lakh newspapers, 387 news and current affairs channels, and 495 radio stations operated by All India Radio. The Committee recommended forming a Commission to cover all aspects included in this report and submit their findings within six months. Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
Report on suspension of telecom services/ internet and its impact submitted
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology (Chair: Dr. Shashi Tharoor) submitted its report on ‘Suspension of Telecom Services/Internet and its Impact’.[79] Currently, suspension of telecom services (including internet shutdowns) is governed by the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency and Public Safety) Rules, 2017 notified under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.[80],[81] The 2017 Rules provide for temporary shutdown of telecom services in a region on grounds of public emergency (up to 15 days at a time).80 The 1885 Act empowers the central government to regulate various types of telecom services including internet services and grant licenses for them.81 Key observations and recommendations of the Committee are as follows:
For PRS summary of the report, please see here.
National Strategy on Blockchain released
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology released the National Strategy on Blockchain.[84] Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology based on a shared ledger between various parties involved in business transactions. The data structure used in blockchain maintains an unchangeable record of transactions in a time-sequenced manner, eliminating the need for a central entity to validate transactions. The Ministry highlighted the following key challenges in the adoption of blockchain: (i) scalability and transaction speed, (ii) data security and privacy, (iii) standardisation and interoperability, and (iv) skilled manpower. Key features of the Strategy include the following:
Time period for mandatory storage of call detail records increased to two years
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Department of Telecommunications has amended the unified license agreement to increase the mandatory storage period for certain types of records from one year to two years. The record types include: (i) commercial records, call detail record (CDR), exchange detail record, and internet protocol detail record (IPDR) with regard to communication exchanged over the telecom network, (ii) CDR/IPDR for internet including internet telephony service, and (iii) log in/log out details of all subscribers for services such as internet access, email, internet telephony, and internet-based television.[85] These records contain certain details about a call, SMS, or an event of internet access such as source and destination numbers in case of call or SMS, IP address and device identification number of a computer or mobile phone in case of internet access, and time and duration of communication. These requirements form part of the security conditions under the telecom licenses.
Guidelines for sharing of infrastructure by multi-system operators issued
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued guidelines for sharing of infrastructure by Multi-System Operators (MSOs).[86] MSOs are providers of cable TV services. Key infrastructure elements permitted to be shared among MSOs are: (i) headend equipment (for processing satellite signals) and transport streams for signals of TV channels, (ii) common hardware for Subscriber Management System (SMS) and Conditional Access System (CAS) applications. CAS is used to prevent unauthorised access. Earlier, an MSO was required to install its own independent headend. The MSOs willing to share infrastructure are required to submit a joint proposal to the Ministry.
Scheme for promotion of digital payments through RuPay debit card and BHIM-UPI notified
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology notified a scheme to incentivise acquiring banks for the following types of digital payments: (i) point of sale and e-commerce transactions using RuPay debit cards, and (ii) low-value person-to-merchant BHIM-UPI transactions (up to Rs 2,000).[87],[88] The scheme will be available for a period of one year from April 1, 2021.87 Acquiring bank is the financial institution that maintains a merchant’s bank account.
Under the scheme, acquiring banks will be paid a percentage of the value of a transaction at a specified rate (see Table 2).88 Incentives will be provided at a lower rate for merchants under the specified industry programmes which include government, insurance, mutual fund, railways, hospital, and fuel.88 To be eligible for incentives, a bank will be required to achieve at least: (i) 10% year-on-year growth in the number of RuPay debit card transactions, and (ii) 50% year-on-year growth in the number of BHIM-UPI transactions, in 2021-22.88 For calculating growth, transactions other than person-to-merchant transactions will also be considered.
Table 2: Rate of incentive to acquiring banks
Merchant Category |
PoS and eCom transaction through RuPay Debit Card |
Person to Merchant BHIM-UPI (up to Rs 2,000) |
Specified industries |
0.15% capped at Rs 6 |
0.15% |
Other than specified industries |
0.40% capped at Rs 100 |
0.25% |
Note: PoS refers to point of sale; eCom refers to E-commerce.
Source: Notification No. 24(1)/2020-DPD-Part (2), Ministry of Electronics and IT, The Gazette of India; PRS.
Industry
Standing Committee submits report on electric and hybrid mobility
The Standing Committee on Industry (Chair: Dr. K. Keshava Rao) presented its report on ‘Electric and Hybrid Mobility – Prospects and Challenges in Automobile Industry’.[89] As of 2019, electric vehicles (EVs) comprise 2.3% of all automobile sales in the world. In India, the share of EVs was 0.1%. In 2020-21, around 1.59 lakh EVs were sold in India, which is 0.8% of the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) sales in the same period (1.79 crore). Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS summary of the report, please see here.
Social Justice and Empowerment
Shubham Dutt (shubham@prsindia.org)
Standing Committee submitted report on scheme for constructing hostels for SC students
The Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment (Chair: Mrs. Rama Devi) submitted its report on ‘Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY) for SC boys and girls’.[90] BJRCY is a scheme under which financial assistance is provided by the central government for constructing new hostels, expanding existing hostel facilities, and repair and maintenance of operational hostels for students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC). Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS summary of the report, please see here.
Housing
Standing Committee submits report on PM Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi
The Standing Committee on Housing and Urban Affairs (Chair: Mr. Jagdambika Pal) presented its report on ‘PM Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi)’.[91] PM SVANidhi was launched in June 2020 as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat package to provide credit for working capital to street vendors to resume their businesses after the impact of COVID-19. The Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 provides for the regulation of street vendors in public places, and protection of their rights. Key observations and recommendations of the Committee include:
For a PRS summary of the report, see here.
Education
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
CAG releases report on setting up of new Indian Institutes of Technology
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) released its audit report on ‘Setting Up of New Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)’ in December 2021.[92] The report provides findings from the performance audit of the eight new IITs in Bhubaneswar, Gandhinagar, Hyderabad, Indore, Jodhpur, Mandi, Patna, and Ropar set up during 2008-09. It covers the activities of these IITs during 2014-19. Key observations and recommendations of CAG include:
For a PRS summary of the report, please see here.
Defence
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
Cantonment Land Administration Rules, 2021 notified
The Ministry of Defence notified the Cantonment Land Administration Rules, 2021 under the Cantonments Act, 2006.[93] The 2021 Rules supersede the Cantonment Land Administration Rules, 1937. They provide for classification and management of land in cantonment areas. Key features of the Rules include:
Table 3: Classification and management of cantonment land
Classification |
Uses |
Management authority |
Class A-1 |
Used by military authorities for purposes such as fortification and aerodromes |
Defence Estates Officer (certain area can be under military authorities) |
Class A-2 |
Not used by military authorities but there are specific military objections for their use for any other purpose |
Defence Estates Officer |
Class B-1 |
Used by Defence Department or any other ministry of central government |
Ministry or Department having control over the land |
Class B-2 |
Used by a state government department |
State government having control over the land |
Class B-3 |
Held by private persons |
Defence Estates Officer (those notified in the civil area will be with Cantonment Board) |
Class B-4 |
Land not included in any other class |
|
Class C |
For uses such as markets, slaughter houses, and water-works |
Cantonment Board |
Sources: Ministry of Defence; PRS.
Consumer Affairs
Consumer Protection Rules, 2021 notified
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution notified the Consumer Protection (Jurisdiction of the District Commission, the State Commission and the National Commission) Rules, 2021 under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.[94],[95] The Act provides for consumer dispute redressal commissions at the district, state, and national levels.95 The Act provides for the maximum pecuniary jurisdiction of the commissions at each level, based on the value of the goods and services. The 2021 Rules amend the jurisdiction for the commissions.
According to the Ministry, as per the pecuniary jurisdiction of consumer commissions under the 2019 Act, cases that could earlier be filed in the National and State Commissions were being filed in District Commissions.[96] This increased the workload of District Commissions significantly, leading to rise in pendency and delay in disposal of cases. Changes in the jurisdiction at each level are as follows:
Table 4: Pecuniary jurisdiction of the consumer disputes redressal commissions
|
2019 Act |
2021 Rules |
District Commission |
Up to one crore rupees |
Up to Rs 50 lakh |
State Commission |
More than one crore rupees, but less than Rs 10 crore |
More than Rs 50 lakh but less than two crore rupees |
National Commission |
More than Rs 10 crore |
More than two crore rupees |
Direct selling rules prohibiting promotion of pyramid schemes notified
Rajat Asthana (rajat@prsindia.org)
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs notified the Consumer Protection (Direct Selling) Rules, 2021.[97] Direct selling refers to the sale of goods or services directly to the end consumer, without the involvement of middlemen. The Rules have been notified under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.[98] The Act empowers the central government to take measures to prevent unfair trade practices in e-commerce and direct selling. The Rules specify obligations of the direct selling entity and direct sellers. A direct selling entity sells goods or services through authorised people (known as direct sellers).97 Key features of the Rules include:
Communication
Unified license to also cover voicemail/ audio conferencing/ audiotex services
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Department of Telecommunications notified changes in the Unified License Framework to also include authorisation for audio conferencing/ voicemail/ audiotex services.[100] Under the unified license framework, single license is issued for providing various types of telecom services including access service, internet service, and national and international long distance.[101] Authorisation may be granted for any or all of the services covered under this framework.101 Presently, a separate license is issued for audio conferencing/ voicemail/audiotex services.100,[102] Audiotex service involves automatic answering of calls and the subsequent provision of audio information to the callers.[103] It also covers the Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS).103 For existing licensees, migration to the unified license will be optional.100
Presently, no license fee is required to be paid under the separate license regime for the three services.[104] License fee at the rate of 8% of the Adjusted Gross Revenue will be applicable for the existing licensees under the separate license regime as well as new licensees for these services under the unified license framework.100,104,[105] Adjusted Gross Revenue is the value of gross revenue after deduction of certain taxes and charges.103
TRAI seeks views on ease of doing business in telecom and broadcasting sectors
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Telecom Regulatory of India (TRAI) released a consultation paper on “Ease of Doing Business in Telecom and Broadcasting Sector”.[106] It noted that the telecom and broadcasting sectors have emerged as key drivers of economic and social development. The consultation paper is aimed at identifying various bottlenecks and required reforms in processes, policies, and regulations to create a conducive business environment for these two sectors in India.
The consultation paper covers the processes of grants of permissions, registrations, and licenses for these two sectors by following entities: (i) Departments of Telecommunications, and Space, (ii) Ministries of Information & Broadcasting, Electronics & Information Technology, and Power, and (iii) TRAI. It has sought views on: (i) simplification, digitalisation, and unification of application, approval and appeal processes, (ii) streamlining of compliance and audit requirements, (iii) mechanisms to facilitate investors in exploring business opportunities, and (iv) issues with the present system of licencing, registration, and permissions which adversely affect the ease of doing business in these sectors.
Comments are invited until January 19, 2022.
TRAI invites comments on the regulatory framework for data centres, interconnect exchanges, and content delivery networks
Saket Surya (saket@prsindia.org)
The Telecom Regulatory of India (TRAI) released a consultation paper on “Regulatory Framework for Promoting Data Economy through Establishment of Data Centres, Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), and Interconnect Exchanges in India”.[107] TRAI noted that these are key infrastructure elements required for a digital ecosystem.
Data centres are physical facilities used to host data and applications. CDN is a system consisting of a distributed group of servers and networks. It is used to deliver the content to a point in the network which is closer to the point of user request. Based on the geographic location of the user, the origin of the webpage, and the location of the content delivery server, this system ensures faster delivery of content. Internet Exchange Point (IXP) is a technical facility to route traffic quickly and cost-effectively between network members by enabling interconnection. Commercially, the internet consists of a hierarchy of global, regional, national, and local providers. To enable access to the content of a parent CDN or website hosted on an international data centre, global IXPs interconnect with the local IXPs to pass the traffic to the local data centres and then to the child CDNs. Internet Service Providers provide the last mile connectivity to users for accessing the services. TRAI noted that the number of hops required by a network to process the user request is critically important. With the second-largest user base and fast-growing internet usage, there is a need for expansion of these infrastructure elements in the country.
TRAI has sought views on: (i) incentives and long-term measures to facilitate growth and investment in data centres, CDNs, and IXPs, (ii) building, safety, disaster recovery, and security standards for data centres, (iii) access to facilities such as dedicated fibre and electricity, and provision of concessional tariffs or subsidies, (iv) need for a unified data centre policy in India and centre-state coordination, (v) need for a regulatory framework for CDN and interconnect exchanges in India.
Comments are invited until January 13, 2022.
TRAI invites comments on promoting local manufacturing in television broadcasting
Rajat Asthana (rajat@prsindia.org)
The Telecom Regulatory of India (TRAI) released a consultation paper on “Promoting Local Manufacturing in the Television Broadcasting Sector”.[108] It noted that the size of the global market for broadcasting equipment is nearly USD 6.2 billion in 2021. North America, Europe, and China are the regions with leading market shares. Television (TV) penetration in India is comparatively low (only 55%). This implies that there is still a large untapped demand potential, which presents an opportunity to meet future demand through local manufacturing of broadcasting equipment.
Broadcasting equipment may be categorised into: (i) headend equipment (for processing satellite signals), (ii) transmission equipment (for distribution of cable signals), and (iii) consumer premises equipment (last-mile hardware such as set-top box). TRAI noted that most of the demand for equipment is being met through either imports or imports of semi knocked-down parts which are then assembled in India.
TRAI has sought views on: (i) need to promote local manufacturing in the television broadcasting sector, (ii) capabilities of Indian manufacturers to meet the broadcasting sector demand in India, (iii) measures to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian equipment manufacturers, and (iv) need to extend production-linked incentives to broadcasting sector and types of equipment to be covered for such incentives.
Comments are invited until February 2, 2022.
Power
Omir Kumar (omir@prsindia.org)
Comments invited on regulations for open access to inter-state transmission systems
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) invited comments on the Draft CERC (Connectivity and General Network Access to the Inter-State Transmission System) Regulations, 2021.[109],[110] The draft Regulations have been framed under the Electricity Act, 2003. The Act empowers the CERC to regulate the inter-state transmission of electricity.[111] The draft Regulations provide for non-discriminatory open access to consumers, generating companies, and distribution licensees for use of inter-state transmission systems (ISTS).109 Key features of the draft Regulations include:
Comments are invited until January 17, 2021.
[1] Vital Stats, Parliament functioning in Monsoon Session 2021, December 22, 2021, https://prsindia.org/files/parliament/session_track/2021/vital_stats/Winter_2021_Vital_Statistics.pdf.
[2] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website, last accessed on January 1, 2021, https://www.mohfw.gov.in/index.html.
[3] “Cumulative Coverage Report of COVID-19 Vaccination”, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, January 1, 2021, https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/CummulativeCovidVaccinationReport31december2021.pdf.
[4] Guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination of children between 15-18 years and precaution dose to HCWs, FLWs & 60+ population with comorbidities, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, December 27, 2021, https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforCOVID19VaccinationofChildrenbetween15to18yearsandPrecautionDosetoHCWsFLWs&60populationwithcomorbidities.pdf.
[5] Twitter, Bharat Biotech, December 25, 2021, https://twitter.com/BharatBiotech/status/1474786762039828480.
[6] Twitter handle of the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, December 28, 2021, https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1475699946544570372.
[7] “Press Statement by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Restricted Emergency approval of COVID-19 virus vaccine”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, January 3, 2021.
[8] “Russia’s Sputnik V has been approved for emergency use in India, Govt. authorises foreign-produced COVID vaccines with emergency approval of WHO-listed agencies”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, April 13, 2021.
[9] Twitter handle of Press Information Bureau, June 29, 2021, https://twitter.com/PIB_India/status/1409843877482098688.
[10] Twitter handle of the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, August 7, 2021, https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1423915409791610886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1423915409791610886%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fpib.gov.in%2FPressReleaseIframePage.aspx%3FPRID%3D1743567.
[11] “DBT-BIRAC supported ZyCoV-D developed by Zydus Cadila Receives Emergency Use Authorization”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Science and Technology, August 20, 2021.
[12] Order No 40-3/2020-DM-I(A), Ministry of Home Affairs, December 27, 2021, https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/MHAOrder_27122021.pdf.
[13] “No. 4/1/2020-IR”, Director General of Civil Aviation, December 9, 2021, https://www.dgca.gov.in/digigov-portal/Upload?flag=iframeAttachView&attachId=150829087.
[14] No.4/1/2020-IR, Director General of Civil Aviation, March 26, 2020, https://dgca.gov.in/digigovportal/Upload?flag=iframeAttachView&attachId=130618625.
[15] No. 4/1/2020-IR, Director General of Civil Aviation, September 28, 2021, https://www.dgca.gov.in/digigovportal/Upload?flag=iframeAttachView&attachId=150684415.
[16] “No. 4/1/2020-IR”, Director General of Civil Aviation, November 26, 2021, https://www.dgca.gov.in/digigov-portal/Upload?flag=iframeAttachView&attachId=150798370.
[17] Monetary Policy Statement, 2021-22, Resolution of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), December 6-8, 2021, Reserve Bank of India, December 8, 2021, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR13224993A3AFC54142A486167B2570F6C93F.PDF.
[18] Developments in India’s Balance of Payments during the Second Quarter (July-September) of 2021-22, Reserve Bank of India, December 31, 2021, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR1460E7BB6783CA524F92B8C2E1798084C77B.PDF.
[19] The Chartered Accountants, the Cost and Works Accountants and the Company Secretaries (Amendment) Bill, 2021 http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/161_2021_ls_Eng.pdf.
[20] The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendment) Bill, 2021, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/PassedLoksabha/151C_2021_LS_E.pdf.
[21] The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021, September 30, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/230086.pdf.
[22] Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/A1985-61.pdf.
[23] Court on its Own Motion vs The Union of India, High Court of Tripura, Criminal Reference No. 1 of 2020, June 4, 2021. https://services.ecourts.gov.in/ecourtindiaHC/cases/display_pdf.php?filename=U%2BbhtlrLe2adAHN8Tz%2F1d%2Feo6Wpl%2Fb%2FDZ9TPtLy5ivd1ySDDa7BclBtN7CzKBxiJ&caseno=Crl.Ref./1/2020&cCode=1&appFlag=.
[24] Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), Reserve Bank of India, December 14, 2021, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/notification/PDFs/139PCANBFCSC3389782516C440DAF56D30473BF005B.PDF.
[25] SEBI Board Meeting, Securities and Exchange Board of India, December 28, 2021, https://www.sebi.gov.in/media/press-releases/dec-2021/sebi-board-meeting_55018.html.
[26] Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018, Securities and Exchange Board of India, September 11, 2018, https://www.sebi.gov.in/web/?file=https://www.sebi.gov.in/sebi_data/attachdocs/nov-2021/1636610000922.pdf#page=1&zoom=page-width,-15,842.
[27] Review of certain aspects of Public issue framework under SEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018, Securities and Exchange Board of India, November 16, 2021, https://www.sebi.gov.in/reports-andstatistics/reports/nov-2021/consultation-paper-on-review-ofcertain-aspects-of-public-issue-framework-under-sebi-issueof-capital-and-disclosure-requirements-regulations2018_53983.html.
[28] No. DPE/3(1)/2021-DD, Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Finance, December 13, 2021, https://dpe.gov.in/sites/default/files/DPE_OM_DTD_13.12.21_Guidelines_on_New_PSE_Policy_0.pdf.
[29] No. 3/3/2020-DIPAM-IIB (E), Department of Investment and Public Asset Management, Ministry of Finance, February 4, 2021, https://dipam.gov.in/strategic-disinvestment.
[30] Consultation Paper on Algorithmic Trading by Retail Investors, Securities and Exchange Board of India, December 9, 2021, https://www.sebi.gov.in/reports-and-statistics/reports/dec-2021/consultation-paper-on-algorithmic-trading-by-retail-investors_54515.html.
[31] Consultation Paper on Developing unique set of commodities, Securities and Exchange Board of India, December 7, 2021, https://www.sebi.gov.in/reports-and-statistics/reports/dec-2021/consultation-paper-on-developing-unique-set-of-commodities_54473.html.
[32] The Election Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021, Lok Sabha, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2021/The%20Election%20Laws%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202021.pdf.
[33] The Representation of the People Act, 1950, https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/03_representation%20of%20the%20people%20act%2C%201950.pdf.
[34] The Representation of the People Act, 1951, https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/04_representation%20of%20the%20people%20act%2C%201951.pdf.
[35] The High Court and Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Bill, 2021, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2021/High%20Court%20Judges%20Bill,%202021.pdf.
[36] The High Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1954, https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/A1954-28.pdf.
[37] The Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1958, https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/A1958-41.pdf.
[38] The Mediation Bill, 2021, Rajya Sabha, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2021/Mediation%20Bill,%202021.pdf.
[39] Comments/views invited on the draft Notaries (Amendment) Bill, Ministry of Law and Justice, December 6, 2021, https://legalaffairs.gov.in/sites/default/files/Comments-Sought-on-NotariesAmendmentBill.pdf.
[40] The draft Notaries (Amendment) Bill, 2021, Ministry of Law and Justice, December 6, 2021, https://legalaffairs.gov.in/sites/default/files/Draft-of-NotariesAmendmentBill-2021.pdf.
[41] The Notaries Act, 1952, https://legalaffairs.gov.in/sites/default/files/The_Notaries_Act_1952_0.pdf.
[42] The Central Vigilance Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2021, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, December 3, 2021, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2021/CENTRAL%20VIGILANCE%20COMMISSION%20(AMENDMENT)%20BILL,%202021.pdf.
[43] CG-DL-E-14112021-231129, Gazette of India, Ministry of Law and Justice, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/231129.pdf.
[44] The Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003, https://cvc.gov.in/sites/default/files/cvcact_0.pdf.
[45] The Delhi Special Police Establishment (Amendment) Bill, 2021, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, December 3, 2021, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2021/Delhi%20Special%20Police%20Establishment%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202021.pdf.
[46] CG-DL-E-14112021-231130, Gazette of India, Ministry of Law and Justice, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/231130.pdf.
[47] The Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946,https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/A1946-25.pdf.
[48] Report no 110 on Pensioner’s Grievances - Impact of Pension Adalats and Centralised Pensioners Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPENGRAMS), December 10, 2021, https://rajyasabha.nic.in/rsnew/Committee_site/Committee_File/ReportFile/18/164/110_2021_12_12.pdf.
[49] Report No. 111: Strengthening of Grievance Redressal Mechanism of Government of India, Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice, December 10, 2021, https://rajyasabha.nic.in/rsnew/Committee_site/Committee_File/ReportFile/18/164/111_2021_12_12.pdf.
[50] The Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/163_2021_ls_Eng.pdf.
[51] The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/A2007-06.pdf.
[52] The Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/159_2021_ls_Eng.pdf.
[53] The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/A1972-53_0.pdf.
[54] What is CITES?, CITES, https://cites.org/eng/disc/what.php.
[55] The Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2021, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/158_2021_LS_Eng.pdf.
[56] The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, https://www.indiacode.nic.in/bitstream/123456789/2046/1/200318.pdf.
[57] The Dam Safety Bill, 2019, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/PassedLoksabha/190C_2019_LS_Eng.pdf.
[58] Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Ground Water management and Regulation, https://cag.gov.in/uploads/download_audit_report/2021/Report%20No.%209%20of%202021_GWMR_English-061c19df1d9dff7.23091105.pdf.
[59] “Cabinet approves implementation of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana for 2021-26” Ministry of Jal Shakti, Press Information Bureau, December 15, 2021.
[60] “Irrigation Schemes for the Benefit of Small and Marginal Farmers", Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Press Information Bureau, August 2, 2021.
[61] “Cabinet approves Ken-Betwa Interlinking of Rivers Project”, Press Information Bureau, December 8, 2021.
[62] The National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021, http://164.100.47.4/BillsTexts/LSBillTexts/Asintroduced/160_2021_ls_Eng.pdf.
[63] The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill, 2020, Lok Sabha, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2020/Assisted%20Reproductive%20Technology%20Bill%20Text%20passed%20by%20LS.pdf.
[64] 129th Report on the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill, 2020, Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare, March 19, 2021, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2020/SCR%20The%20Assisted%20Reproductive%20Technology%20(Regulation)%20Bill,%202020.pdf.
[65] The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2019, Lok Sabha, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2019/Bill%20text%20as%20passed%20by%20LS-%20Surrogacy%20bill,%202019.pdf.
[66] Report of the Select Committee on the Surrogacy Regulation Bill, 2019, February 5, 2020, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2019/Select%20Comm%20Report-%20Surrogacy%20Bill.pdf.
[67] The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Amendment) Bill, 2021, Lok Sabha, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2021/The%20National%20Institute%20Of%20Pharmaceutical%20Education%20And%20Research%20(Amendment)%20Bill,%202021.pdf.
[68] 23rd Report on the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Amendment) Bill, 2021, Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilisers, August 4, 2021, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2021/SCR%20-%20NIPER%20bill,%202021.pdf.
[69] Report no 36 on the Pesticide Management Bill, 2020, December 21, 2021, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2020/SC%20Report%20-%20Pesticide%20Bill.pdf.
[70] Report of the Joint Committee on the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, Lok Sabha, December 2021, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Joint%20Committee%20on%20the%20Personal%20Data%20Protection%20Bill,%202019/17_Joint_Committee_on_the_Personal_Data_Protection_Bill_2019_1.pdf.
[71] The Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 as introduced in Lok Sabha on December 11, 2019, https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_parliament/2019/Personal%20Data%20Protection%20Bill,%202019.pdf.
[72] “Rs.76000 crore (>10 billion USD) approved for development of semiconductors and display manufacturing ecosystem in India; Setting up of India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) to drive this sector”, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Press Information Bureau, December 15, 2021.
[73] No. EE-9/5/2021-R&D-E, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, The Gazette of India, December 21, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/232049.pdf.
[74] No. W-38/30/2021-IPHW, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, The Gazette of India, December 21, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/232055.pdf.
[75] F. No. W-38/6/2021-IPHW, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, The Gazette of India, December 21, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/232048.pdf.
[76] F. No. W-38/23/2021-IPHW, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, The Gazette of India, December 21, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/232047.pdf.
[77] Website of Semi-Conductor Laboratory as accessed on December 28, 2021, https://www.scl.gov.in/scl.html.
[78] Report no 27 on Ethical standards in media coverage, December 1, 2021, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Communications%20and%20Information%20Technology/17_Communications_and_Information_Technology_27.pdf.
[79] Report No: 26- Suspension of Telecom Services/Internet and its Impact, Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, December 1, 2021, “http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Communications%20and%20Information%20Technology/17_Communications_and_Information_Technology_26.pdf.
[80] Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, Ministry of Communications, August 7, 2017, https://dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/Suspension%20Rules.pdf.
[81] The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, https://dot.gov.in/act-rules-content/2442.
[82]Anuradha Bhasin Vs. UoI (WP No. 1031/2019), Supreme Court of India, January 10, 2020, https://main.sci.gov.in/supremecourt/2019/28817/28817_2019_2_1501_19350_Judgement_10-Jan-2020.pdf.
[83]CG-DL-E-10112020-223025, Ministry of Communications, Gazette of India, November 10, 2021, https://dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/2020_11_11%20PEPS%20AS.pdf.
[84] National Strategy on Blockchain, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, December 2021, https://www.meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/National_BCT_Strategy.pdf.
[85] Notification No. 20-271/2010 AS-I Vol-III, Department of Telecommunications, December 21, 2021, https://dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/21122021%20UL%20CDR%20two%20years.pdf.
[86] F. No. 45001/8/2019-DAS, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, December 30, 2021, https://mib.gov.in/sites/default/files/Guidelines%20for%20sharing%20of%20infrastructure.pdf.
[87] “Cabinet approves an incentive scheme for promotion of RuPay Debit Cards and low-value BHIM-UPI transactions (P2M)”, Union Cabinet, Press Information Bureau, December 15, 2021.
[88] Notification No. 24(1)/2020-DPD-Part (2), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, The Gazette of India; December 17, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/231960.pdf.
[89] Report no 309 on Electric & Hybrid Mobility – Prospects and Challenges in Automobile Industry, December 6, 2021, https://rajyasabha.nic.in/rsnew/Committee_site/Committee_File/ReportFile/17/163/309_2021_12_16.pdf.
[90] Report no. 26, Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment: ‘Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana for SC boys and girls’, Lok Sabha, December 2, 2021, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Social%20Justice%20&%20Empowerment/17_Social_Justice_And_Empowerment_26.pdf.
[91] Report no 10 on PM Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi), December 13, 2021, http://164.100.47.193/lsscommittee/Housing%20and%20Urban%20Affairs/17_Housing_and_Urban_Affairs_10.pdf.
[92] Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Performance Audit of Setting up of new Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), https://cag.gov.in/uploads/download_audit_report/2021/Report%20No.%2020%20of%202021_IITs_English_PDF%20A-061c2ed6ce12811.66323547.pdf.
[93] CG-DL-E-02122021-231557, Ministry of Defence, December 2, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/231557.pdf.
[94] G.S.R. 912(E), Gazette of India, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/232278.pdf.
[95] Consumer Protection Act, 2019, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2019/210422.pdf.
[96] “Centre notifies rules for Consumer Protection (Jurisdiction of the District Commission, the State Commission and the National Commission) Rules, 2021”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, December 30, 2021.
[97] G.S.R. 889 (E), Gazette of India, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, December 28, 2021, https://egazette.nic.in/WriteReadData/2021/232214.pdf.
[98] The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, https://consumeraffairs.nic.in/sites/default/files/CP%20Act%202019.pdf.
[99] The Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978, https://www.indiacode.nic.in/bitstream/123456789/1628/1/197843.pdf.
[100] “Licensing framework for Audio Conferencing/ Audiotex/ Voice Mail Services to be part of Unified License, decides Telecom Department”, Department of Telecommunications, Press Information Bureau, December 30, 2021.
[101] Website of Department of Telecommunications as accessed on December 30, 2021, https://dot.gov.in/unified-licnse.
[102] Notification No 846-53/2000-VAS, “Guidelines for issue of licence for voice mail/audiotext/unified messaging service”, Department of Telecommunications, July 16, 2001, https://dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/Guidelines%20for%20issue%20of%20license%20forVMS-Audiotex-UMS_0.pdf.
[103] “Consultation paper on Review of Voice Mail/Audiotex/Unified Messaging Services Licence”, https://www.trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/Consultation_Paper_Review_of_VMS_Audiotex_UMSL_14_june_2016.pdf.
[104] File No 11/10/2020-Policy, Department of Telecommunications, December 30, 2021, https://dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/Amendments%20in%20VoicemailAudiotexUMS%20dated%2030.12.2021%20w.e.f.01.01.2021.pdf.
[105] Notification No. 20-577/2016-AS-I (Vol-III), Department of Telecommunications, December 31, 2021, https://dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/Audiotex%20new%20chapter.pdf.
[106] Consultation Paper on “Ease of Doing Business in Telecom and Broadcasting Sector”, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, December 8, 2021, https://trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/CP_08122021_0.pdf.
[107] Consultation Paper on “Regulatory Framework for Promoting Data Economy through Establishment of Data Centres, Content Delivery Networks, and Interconnect Exchanges in India”, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, December 16, 2021, https://trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/CP_16122021_0.pdf.
[108] Consultation Paper on “Promoting Local Manufacturing in the Television Broadcasting Sector”, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, December 22, 2021, https://trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/CP_22122021_0.pdf.
[109] Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Connectivity and General Network Access to the inter-State Transmission System) Regulations, 2021, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission, December 16, 2021, https://cercind.gov.in/2021/draft_reg/Draft-CGNA-Regulations.pdf.
[110] Public Notice No. L-1/261/2021/CERC, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission, December 16, 2021, https://cercind.gov.in/2021/draft_reg/Notice-CGNA.pdf.
[111] The Electricity Act, 2003, https://cercind.gov.in/Act-with-amendment.pdf.
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.