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Highlights of this Issue
New Union government formed after general elections to Lok Sabha
Members from 41 parties were elected to Lok Sabha. BJP won 240 seats and formed the government with its allies.
First session of 18th Lok Sabha begins
The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha commenced on June 24, 2024 and will continue till July 3, 2024. The Lok Sabha Speaker was elected.
President addressed joint sitting of both houses of the Parliament
The address outlined major policy achievements in various sectors. It highlighted work in areas such as infrastructure, defence manufacturing, economic growth, and internal security.
Current account surplus of 0.6% of GDP recorded in the fourth quarter of 2023-24
Current account surplus in fourth quarter of 2023-24 was driven by a decrease in merchandise trade deficit and an increase in net services exports.
High-level Committee constituted to suggest reforms in examination process
The Committee will recommend: (i) reforms in the mechanism of examination processes, (ii) improvement in data security protocols, and (iii) changes in the structure and functioning of the National Testing Agency.
Draft Central Excise Bill, 2024 released for comments
The draft Bill seeks to replace the Central Excise Act, 1944 and provide for the levy and collection of central excise duty on goods produced or manufactured in India.
Draft guidelines to prevent unsolicited calls released for public comments
The draft guidelines seek to protect consumers from unsolicited and unwarranted business calls, SMS, and messages on social media platforms.
Cinematograph (Adjudication of Penalty) Rules, 2024 notified
The Rules prescribe the manner in which penalties will be levied by an authorised officer and the procedure for appeals. They also empower authorised officers with powers of investigation.
UGC releases curriculum and credit framework for postgraduate education
The Framework establishes the eligibility requirements for admission into a PG programme, design of different PG programmes and learning outcomes expected from the same.
Cabinet approves the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme
The Scheme will expand Central Forensic Science Laboratories and National Forensic Sciences University in India. It will be implemented between 2024-25 and 2028-29.
Rules to identify offshore mineral areas for granting concession notified
The Rules provide for the identification of mineral bearing areas for granting production lease and composite licences.
Cabinet approves viability gap funding for offshore wind energy projects
The scheme will support installation of a total of one gigawatt capacity of offshore wind energy. This will comprise of 500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
Parliament
New Union government formed after general elections to Lok Sabha
Arpita Mallick (arpita@prsindia.org)
Results to the elections to the 18th Lok Sabha were declared on June 4, 2024, and members from 41 parties were elected from 543 constituencies.[1] The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) formed the government with Mr. Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister.[2] BJP won the highest number of seats (240), followed by INC (99 seats).
Table 1: Party Position after the 2024 General Elections
Party |
No. of seats |
Bharatiya Janata Party |
240 |
Indian National Congress |
99 |
Samajwadi Party |
37 |
All India Trinamool Congress |
29 |
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam |
22 |
Telegu Desam Party |
16 |
Janata Dal (United) |
12 |
Others |
88 |
Total |
543 |
Source: Election Commission of India, General Election to Lok Sabha Results, 2024; PRS.
Note: Includes parties which won at least ten seats.
The new Cabinet ministers were sworn in on June 9, 2024.[3] The list of Ministers is given in the Annexure.
First session of 18th Lok Sabha begins
Arpita Mallick (arpita@prsindia.org)
The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha commenced on June 24, 2024. It is scheduled to be held till July 3, 2024, with eight sitting days.[4] Rajya Sabha’s 264th session began on June 27, 2024, and will conclude on July 3, 2024.
During this session, newly elected members of Lok Sabha took their oath. On June 26, 2024, Mr. Om Birla was elected as the Speaker of Lok Sabha. The President addressed both Houses of Parliament on June 27, 2024.
President’s Address highlights achievements of the government
Rutvik Upadhyaya (rutvik@prsindia.org)
The President of India, Ms. Droupadi Murmu, addressed a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament on June 27, 2024.[5] She outlined the major policy objectives and achievements of the government in her address. Key highlights of the address include:
Economy: In 10 years, India has risen from being the 11th largest to being the fifth largest economy in the world. From 2021 to 2024, India has grown at an average rate of 8% annually. The government is striving to make India the third largest economy in the world.
Industry: Sunrise sectors ranging from semiconductors to fighter jets and aircraft carriers are being promoted in mission mode. The north-eastern region will be a hub of Made-in-India chips.
Defence: India is manufacturing defence equipment worth more than one lakh crore rupees. In the last year, about 70% of defence procurement was sourced from Indian manufacturers. Defence corridors are being developed in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Infrastructure and transport: Feasibility studies will be conducted for bullet train corridors in the northern, southern and eastern regions. Government is making continuous efforts to reduce the cost of logistics.
Urban and rural development: Construction of three crore houses has been approved under PM Awas Yojana.
Home Affairs: AFSPA is being withdrawn from disturbed areas of the north-east in a phased manner. In the last 10 years, allocation for development of the north-eastern region has increased four times.
For a summary of the President’s Address, see here. For an analysis of progress made on policy announcements in the last five years, see here.
Finance
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
Draft Central Excise Bill, 2024 released for comments
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs released the draft Central Excise Bill, 2024 for comments.[6],[7] It seeks to replace the Central Excise Act, 1944.[8] The draft Bill provides for the levy and collection of central excise duty on goods produced or manufactured in India. The 1944 Act provides for the levy of Central Value Added Tax (CENVAT) on various goods produced or manufactured in India such as tobacco products, cigarettes, petrol, diesel, and aviation turbine fuel. Key features of the draft Bill include:
Assessment of excise duty: The draft Bill allows the manufacturer of excisable goods to self-assess the duty payable on such goods. The assessee must also file returns in the manner and frequency as prescribed. The central government may specify the category of goods where the Superintendent of Central Excise or Inspector of Central Excise will assess the excise duty payable. Currently, self-assessment of excise duty is provided under Central Excise Rules, 2017.[9]
Annual return: The draft Bill requires every assessee to file an annual return electronically. This must be filed within three years of the due date. Such return may include reconciliation of details declared in periodic returns furnished in the financial year. The central government may exempt any class of assessee from filing annual returns.
Appeal to High Court: The draft Bill provides for appeal against orders of the Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (in matters related to excise duty) to the High Court. However, such appeal must not be related to the rate of excise duty or value of goods for assessment. The High Court can admit appeals on being satisfied that the case involves a substantial question of law. Appeal to High Court had been repealed from the 1944 Act in 2005.
SEBI takes various decisions at its board meeting
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approved various decisions at its board meeting.[10] Key decisions are as follows:
Association with unregistered persons: The Board noted that certain persons and unregulated entities are inducing investors to deal in securities based on inappropriate claims. Persons regulated by SEBI and their agents must not be associated with any unauthorised person providing advice/ recommendation on securities. Association implies any monetary transaction, referral of client, and interaction of information technology systems. These restrictions will not apply to association: (i) with persons who are exclusively engaged in investor education, and (ii) through specified digital platform which does not provide unauthorised advice related to return.
Disclosure by FPIs: University funds and university related endowments that are eligible to be registered as foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have been exempted from providing additional disclosures. To avail this exemption, following conditions must be met: (i) fund must have less than 25% of its global assets as Indian equity assets, (ii) its global assets must be more than Rs 10,000 crore, and (iii) it must have filed appropriate tax returns in their home jurisdiction to prove that it is a non-profit exempt from tax.
Cybersecurity: The Board approved the Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience Framework for SEBI regulated entities. It classifies regulated entities in categories based on their span of operations, number of clients, trade volume, and assets under management. The framework classifies data into regulatory data, and IT and cybersecurity data. Regulatory data will have to be mandatorily localised while IT and cybersecurity data may be stored outside India. All entities must adopt the framework by April 1, 2025.
Macroeconomic Development
Tushar Chakrabarty (tushar@prsindia.org)
Repo rate kept unchanged at 6.5%
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India kept the policy repo rate (the rate at which RBI lends money to banks) unchanged at 6.5%.[11] Other decisions of the Committee include:
The standing deposit facility rate (the rate at which RBI borrows from banks without giving collateral) has been retained at 6.25%.
The marginal standing facility rate (rate at which banks can borrow additional money from RBI) and the bank rate (rate at which RBI buys bills of exchange) have been retained at 6.75%.
The MPC decided to remain focused on withdrawal of accommodation. This is expected to ensure that inflation progressively aligns with the target of 4%, while supporting growth.
Current account surplus of 0.6% of GDP recorded in the fourth quarter of 2023-24
India recorded a current account surplus of USD 5.7 billion (0.6% of GDP) in the fourth quarter (January-March) of 2023-24. In comparison, a deficit of USD 1.4 billion (0.2% of GDP) was recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2022-23.[12] The surplus in the last quarter was driven by a decrease in merchandise trade deficit from USD 52.6 billion to USD 50.9 billion and an increase in net services exports from USD 39.1 billion to USD 42.7 billion. In the third quarter (October-December) of 2023-24, current account deficit was USD 8.7 billion (1% of GDP).
The capital account registered a net inflow of USD 24.5 billion in the fourth quarter of 2023-24, significantly higher than the same quarter a year ago (USD 6.5 billion). In the third quarter of 2023-24, the net inflow into the capital account was USD 15 billion.
Foreign exchange reserves increased by USD 30.8 billion in the fourth quarter of 2023-24, higher than the increase of USD 5.6 billion registered in the same quarter a year ago. In the third quarter of 2023-24, foreign exchange reserves had increased by USD 6 billion.
Table 2: Balance of payments, Q4 2023-24 (USD billion)
Q4 2022-23 |
Q3 2023-24 |
Q4 2023-24 |
|
a. Exports |
115.8 |
106.6 |
121.7 |
b. Imports |
168.4 |
176.6 |
172.5 |
c. Trade balance (a-b) |
-52.6 |
-69.9 |
-50.9 |
d. Net services |
39.1 |
45.0 |
42.7 |
e. Other transfers |
12.2 |
16.2 |
13.9 |
f. Current account (c+d+e) |
-1.4 |
-8.7 |
5.7 |
g. Capital account |
6.5 |
15.0 |
24.5 |
h. Errors and omissions |
0.4 |
-0.3 |
0.5 |
i. Change in reserves (f+g+h) |
5.6 |
6.0 |
30.8 |
Sources: RBI; PRS.
Information and Broadcasting
Pratinav Damani (pratinav@prsindia.org)
Cinematograph (Adjudication of Penalty) Rules, 2024 notified
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting notified the Cinematograph (Adjudication of Penalty) Rules, 2024.[13] The Rules prescribe the manner in which penalties will be levied by an authorised officer and the procedure for appeals. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 decriminalised some offences under the Cinematograph Act, 1952 and provides for the levy of penalties.[14],[15] These include: (i) exhibiting films with ‘A’ certificate to any minor, and (ii) failure to comply with the directions of the Board of Film Certification. Key features of the Rules include:
Appointment of authorised officers: The central and state governments may appoint authorised officers for adjudicating penalty. In case of the central government, the authorised officer must not be below the rank of Under Secretary. In case of state governments, the officers must not be below the rank of: (i) Additional District Magistrates, (ii) Additional Collectors, (iii) Additional Deputy Commissioners of a district, or (iv) Under Secretary to the state government.
Levy of penalty: The quantum of penalty will be decided after considering specified factors including: (i) nature of the violation, (ii) amount of disproportionate gain or advantage, and (iii) repetition of the violation. The order deciding the penalty must be passed within 90 days of issuing the notice.
Powers of the authorised officer: The authorised officer may exercise certain powers to investigate violations. These include: (i) entering (or authorising another officer to enter) a place of exhibition, (ii) summoning individuals (in writing), and (iii) order for evidence considered relevant, such as surveillance footage and ticket scans.
Appellate process: The appellate authority must be an officer not below the rank of: (i) Deputy Secretary or Director where the authorised officer is of the rank Under Secretary, or (ii) the District Magistrate, where the authorised officer is of the rank Additional District Magistrate. Appeals must be filed within 30 days of the order by the authorised officer. The appellate authority must decide appeals within six months, wherever possible.
Consumer Affairs
Shirin Pajnoo (shirin@prsindia.org)
Draft Guidelines to prevent unsolicited calls released for public comments
The Department of Consumer Affairs issued draft guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Unsolicited and Unwarranted Business Communication, 2024.[16] The draft guidelines seek to protect consumers from unsolicited and unwarranted business calls, SMS, and messages on social media platforms. According to the guidelines, business communication has been defined as communication related to any goods or services including any transaction or service communication, but excluding personal communication. Unsolicited business communication refers to any promotional and service communication that is not as per the consent or registered preferences of the consumers. Key features of the draft guidelines include:
Applicability: The guidelines will cover all persons or establishments that (i) make business communication (maker), (ii) engage the maker of such communication, (iii) would be the intended beneficiaries from such communication, and (iv) in whose name the communication was made. Such persons or establishments must not engage in unsolicited or unwarranted business communication.
Unsolicited business communication: A person or establishment will be considered to be engaging in unsolicited and unwarranted business communication if it initiates such communication: (i) through a number series other than the one prescribed by TRAI/ Department of Telecommunications, (ii) despite the consumer being registered in the DND registry, (iii) without taking explicit consent from the consumer, (iv) without clearly identifying the calling entity and the purpose of call, and (v) through an authorised employee or agent.
Comments are invited until July 21, 2024.
Education
Rutvik Upadhyaya (rutvik@prsindia.org)
UGC releases curriculum and credit framework for postgraduate programmes
The University Grants Commission (UGC) released the ‘Curriculum and Credit Framework for Post Graduate Programmes’.[17] The Framework seeks to provide flexibility to: (i) pursue subjects different from those studied in undergraduate programmes (UG), (ii) pursue PG education in different modes of learning, (iii) pursue simultaneous academic or industry engagements and obtain credits for the same, and (iv) exit a PG programme after one year with a PG diploma. Key features of the Framework include:
Credit requirement and eligibility for PG programme: The Framework prescribes criteria for undergraduate students to be eligible for various types of PG programmes. For instance, to be eligible for a one-year MA, MCom or MSc degree, a candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree with Honours with minimum 160 credits. However, to be eligible for a two-year MA, MCom, or MSc degree, they need a three year/ six semester Bachelor’s degree with 120 credits.
Credit Distribution: In line with NEP, the Framework requires PG programmes to span one or two years. One-year PG programmes will contain 40 credits. This can be obtained by doing either course work, research (20 credits each), or both. A two-year PG Diploma contains 40 credits, which must be obtained through coursework only. Other two-year PG programmes also contain 40 credits. These can be obtained through either coursework, research, or both (20 credits each).
Flexibility in switching subjects in PG: The Framework permits graduate students to: (i) pursue a different subject in post-graduation, if they qualify in the entrance examination, and (ii) apply for a PG programme that was a major or minor in graduate studies. Under the Framework, certain students will be eligible for admission in Master in Engineering or a Master of Technology. These include those having completed: (i) a four-year UG programme, (ii) a three-year UG and a two-year PG programme or (iii) a five-year integrated programme, in STEM subjects.
Assessment: The Framework suggests assessments to be continuous as opposed to summative (this includes unit tests and semester-wise exams). It also suggests for assessments to be driven by learning outcomes. The National Higher Education Qualification Framework (NHEQF) delineates learning outcomes for UG and PG programmes.[18] It requires learning outcomes to be measured using criteria such as: (i) knowledge of the field, (ii) applicability of knowledge and skills, and (iii) employability.
High-level Committee constituted to suggest reforms in examination process
The Department of Higher Education, under the Ministry of Education, has constituted a high-level Committee to ensure transparent, smooth and fair conduct of examinations.[19] The Committee will make recommendations on: (i) reforming the mechanism of the examination process, (ii) improvements in data security protocols, and (iii) the structure and functioning of the National Testing Agency. Its terms of reference include analysing the examination process end-to-end, and evaluating existing data security protocols related to paper setting. The Committee will be chaired by Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, Chairman of the Board of Governors, IIT Kanpur, and the former Chairman of ISRO. Other members include heads of prominent education institutions and professors.
The Committee is required to submit its report to the Ministry before August 2024.
Agriculture
Tanvi Vipra (tanvi@prsindia.org)
MSP for Kharif crops fixed for marketing season 2024-25
The Union Cabinet approved Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for the 2024-25 marketing season for 14 Kharif crops.[20] MSP refers to the assured price at which the central government procures crops from farmers.
The MSP for paddy has increased by 5% and by 8% for pulses like tur.
Table 2: MSP for Kharif crops for 2024-25 marketing season (Rs per quintal)
Crop |
MSP 24-25 |
Increase in MSP 24-25 over production cost |
% change over MSP for 23-24 |
Paddy (common) |
2,300 |
50% |
5% |
Jowar (hybrid) |
3,371 |
50% |
6% |
Bajra |
2,625 |
77% |
5% |
Ragi |
4,290 |
50% |
12% |
Maize |
2,225 |
78% |
6% |
Tur/Arhar |
7,550 |
59% |
8% |
Moong |
8,682 |
50% |
1% |
Urad |
7,400 |
52% |
6% |
Groundnut |
6,783 |
50% |
6% |
Sunflower seed |
7,280 |
50% |
8% |
Soybean (yellow) |
4,892 |
50% |
6% |
Sesamum |
9,267 |
50% |
7% |
Nigerseed |
8,717 |
50% |
13% |
Cotton (medium staple) |
7,121 |
50% |
8% |
Sources: Press Information Bureau; PRS.
Draft National Policy on Farmer Producer Organisations released
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare released a Draft National Policy on Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).[21] The Policy seeks to consolidate existing FPOs, promote new ones, and create an ecosystem for their sustainable growth. FPOs deal with all activities in the value chain of agriculture, and largely cater to small farmers. Key features of the Draft Policy are:
Emulating the AMUL model: The Draft Policy suggests designing a three-tiered institutional architecture, in line with the AMUL model. The first tier will consist of FPOs with farmers from four to five Gram Panchayats. The second tier will consist of a Secondary Level FPO Union. The Union will collect and process the surplus from the first tier, and have limited market outlets. The third tier, i.e., the Tertiary Level FPO Federation will market tier 2 products in domestic and export markets. The Draft Policy recommends providing policy support to FPOs at each tier, such as providing subsidised land for storing machinery and integration of seller platforms with Open Network for Digital Commerce.
Institutional architecture at the Centre: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare will be a Central Nodal Department, and take all policy decisions. These decisions will be taken in consultation with the Central Committee on Policy and Coordination (Chaired by Agriculture Secretary), and Small Farmers’ Agribusiness Consortium, an autonomous body. The Department will engage with relevant Ministries to ensure that FPOs: (i) directly supply to PSUs, railways, and defence, (ii) undertake price support operations at MSP, and (iii) are exempt from stock limits for processing.
Institutional architecture for states: States will declare a department with relevant prior experience as the State Nodal Department. This Department will formulate and notify a state-level FPO policy within six months of notification of this Policy. This Department will strive to: (i) provide preferential licences for FPOs to access inputs, (ii) notify market infrastructure as ‘deemed markets’ under APMC Acts, (iii) allow eligible FPOs to sell produce to processors and exporters without the levy of market fee, and (iv) supply FPO products for the mid-day meal scheme.
Eligibility criteria of FPOs: FPOs, must be formed by farmer-producers, and must have at least 300 members, with exceptions for hilly and northeastern states. They must be incorporated as legal entities, and be registered with Registry Portal maintained by the Centre.
Comments are invited until July 2, 2024.
Home Affairs
Rutvik Upadhyaya (rutvik@prsindia.org)
Cabinet approves scheme to enhance forensic infrastructure in India
The Union Cabinet approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme with an outlay of Rs 2,254 crore.[22] It will be implemented between 2024-25 to 2028-29. The scheme will: (i) establish campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in the country, (ii) establish Central Forensic Science Laboratories, and (iii) enhance existing infrastructure of the Delhi campus of NFSU. The scheme seeks to address the shortage of trained forensic manpower in the country and help achieve a conviction rate of over 90%.
Coal
Atri Prasad Rout (atri@prsindia.org)
Draft guidelines on mining plans released for public feedback
The Ministry of Coal has released draft guidelines for formulation of mining plans for coal and lignite blocks for public feedback.[23] The draft guidelines require every coal and lignite block to have a mining plan. No block will be allowed to be mined without an approved mining plan. Key features of the draft guidelines include:
Details to be furnished in mining plans: A mining plan must encompass provisions for different phases of life of the mine as stage plans. These stages include first year, fifth year, tenth year, final year, and post-closure. The plan must provide specified details including: (i) proposed method of mining, (ii) annual coal production plan, (iii) safety management practices, (iv) infrastructure development plan, and (v) environmental management practices.
The guidelines specify that project owners must minimise ecological damages. They should phase out manual mining and move towards mechanised mining. They must conduct regular safety audits. The mine closure plan should provide for continuous rehabilitation of mining sites and skilling of local communities.
Process for approval: The Coal Controller Organisation (CCO) will be empowered to approve mining plans. CCO must dispose all applications with 30 days. The Ministry will set up a technical committee for scrutinising mining plans and provide recommendations. The Committee must complete its scrutiny within 15 days of the receipt of a mining plan. Any appeal against the decision of CCO may be filed before the Coal Secretary within 30 days of the order. Mining plans may be modified with the approval of CCO.
Compliance report: A compliance report must be submitted every five years to CCO. The report should include specified details such as changes made during implementation, proposed minor changes, stage plans for next five and ten years, revised balance life and revised calculation of mine closure activities.
Comments are invited until July 1, 2024.
Rules to identify offshore mineral areas for granting concessions notified
The Ministry of Mines has notified the Offshore Areas (Existence of Mineral Resources) Rules, 2024.[24] These has been issued under the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002. The Rules pertain to identifying offshore areas for granting mineral concessions. Key features of the Rules include:
Identification of areas for production lease: A production lease may be granted for an area for which: (i) at least general exploration has been completed, and (ii) a geological study report has been prepared. General exploration establishes the main geological features of a deposit. It includes an initial estimate of the size, shape, and structure of mineralised zones, and the quantity and grade of the mineral deposit. The production lease provides for undertaking mining.
Identification of areas for composite licence: A composite licence may be granted for an area for which: (i) at least the reconnaissance survey has been completed, or mineral potential of the mineral block has been identified based on existing geoscience data but resources are yet to established, and (ii) a geological study report has been prepared. A composite licence grants rights for exploration as well as mining. Reconnaissance refers to a preliminary survey to locate mineral resources.
Application to notify an area for composite licence: Based on the criteria outlined above, the central government will notify areas for granting composite licences. Any interested person may also submit a proposal to the government to notify an area for granting a composite licence. In his proposal, the person must furnish available geoscience data for determining the mineral reserves.
Power
Nripendra Singh (nripendra@prsindia.org)
CERC notifies new Regulations for grant of inter-state transmission licences
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has notified the CERC (Procedure, Terms and Conditions for Grant of Transmission Licence and Other Related Matters) Regulations, 2024.[25] These replace the Regulations issued on this subject in 2009.[26] The 2024 Regulations provide a framework for grant and administration of licences for inter-state transmission of electricity. Key changes under the 2024 Regulations include:
Exemption for certain purposes: Distribution licencees and bulk consumers will not need a licence to develop and operate transmission lines that connect their systems to the inter-state transmission system. Bulk consumers refer to consumers who avail supply at the voltage of 33 kV or above.25,[27] The 2009 Regulations did not grant such exemption to these entities.
Authorisation for additional works under existing licences: Under the 2009 Regulations, for undertaking certain additional transmission works subsequent to the grant of a licence, fresh licences had to be issued. The 2024 Regulations provide for the inclusion of such additional works under an existing licence. A licencee may apply to CERC to amend the existing licence for this purpose.
Cabinet approves viability gap funding for offshore wind energy projects
The Union Cabinet has approved a scheme to provide for viability gap funding to offshore wind energy projects.[28] Offshore wind energy refers to generation of electricity through wind turbines installed in the water bodies, usually at sea. Viability gap funding refers to financial support for projects that may be economically justified but fall short of financial viability.[29]
The scheme will support installation of a total of one gigawatt capacity, comprising 500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. These two projects are estimated to generate 3.7 billion units of electricity annually. The total support for these projects is expected to be Rs 6,853 crore. For establishing the wind energy projects, private developers will be selected through a bidding process. In addition, Rs 600 crore will be provided for upgradation of nearby ports. Development of ports will help in meeting logistical requirements for the wind energy projects.
Annexure
Below is a list of Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State (Independent Charge) and Ministers of State.
Table 3: Cabinet Ministers
Name |
Portfolio |
Mr. Narendra Modi |
Prime Minister |
Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions |
|
Department of Atomic Energy |
|
Department of Space |
|
All important policy issues |
|
All other portfolios not allocated to any Minister |
|
Mr. Raj Nath Singh |
Defence |
Mr. Amit Shah |
Home Affairs |
Cooperation |
|
Mr. Nitin Gadkari |
Road Transport and Highways |
Mr. Jagat Prakash Nadda |
Health and Family Welfare |
Chemicals and Fertilizers |
|
Mr. Shivraj Singh Chouhan |
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
Rural Development |
|
Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman |
Finance |
Corporate Affairs |
|
Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar |
External Affairs |
Mr. Manohar Lal |
Housing and Urban Affairs |
Power |
|
Mr. H. D. Kumaraswamy |
Heavy Industries |
Steel |
|
Mr. Piyush Goyal |
Commerce and Industry |
Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan |
Education |
Mr. Jitan Ram Manjhi |
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises |
Mr. Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh |
Panchayati Raj |
Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying |
|
Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal |
Ports, Shipping and Waterways |
Dr. Virendra Kumar |
Social Justice and Empowerment |
Mr. Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu |
Civil Aviation |
Mr. Pralhad Joshi |
Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution |
New and Renewable Energy |
|
Mr. Jual Oram |
Tribal Affairs |
Mr. Giriraj Singh |
Textiles |
Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw |
Railways |
Information and Broadcasting |
|
Electronics and Information Technology |
|
Mr. Jyotiraditya M Scindia |
Communications |
Development of North Eastern Region |
|
Mr. Bhupender Yadav |
Environment, Forest and Climate Change |
Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat |
Culture |
Tourism |
|
Ms. Annpurna Devi |
Women and Child Development |
Mr. Kiren Rijiju |
Parliamentary Affairs |
Minority Affairs |
|
Mr. Hardeep Singh Puri |
Petroleum and Natural Gas |
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya |
Labour and Employment |
Youth Affairs and Sports |
|
Mr. G. Kishan Reddy |
Coal |
Mines |
|
Mr. Chirag Paswan |
Food Processing Industries |
Mr. C R Patil |
Jal Shakti |
Source: Portfolios of the Union Council of Ministers, PMINDIA; PRS.
Table 4: Ministers of State (Independent Charge)
Name |
Portfolio |
Mr. Rao Inderjit Singh |
Statistics and Programme Implementation |
Planning |
|
Culture |
|
Dr. Jitendra Singh |
Science and Technology |
Earth Sciences |
|
Prime Minister's Office |
|
Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions |
|
Atomic Energy |
|
Space |
|
Mr. Arjun Ram Meghwal |
Law and Justice |
Parliamentary Affairs |
|
Mr. Jadhav Prataprao Ganpatrao |
Ayush |
Health and Family Welfare |
|
Mr. Jayant Chaudhary |
Skill Development and Entrepreneurship |
Education |
Source: Portfolios of the Union Council of Ministers, PMINDIA; PRS.
Table 5: Ministers of State
Name |
Portfolio |
Mr. Jitin Prasada |
Commerce and Industry |
Electronics and Information Technology |
|
Mr. Shripad Yesso Naik |
Power |
New and Renewable Energy |
|
Mr. Pankaj Chaudhary |
Finance |
Mr. Krishan Pal |
Cooperation |
Mr. Ramdas Athawale |
Social Justice and Empowerment |
Mr. Ram Nath Thakur |
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
Mr. Nityanand Rai |
Home Affairs |
Ms. Anupriya Patel |
Health and Family Welfare |
Chemicals and Fertilizers |
|
Mr. V Somanna |
Jal Shakti |
Railways |
|
Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani |
Rural Development |
Communications |
|
Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel |
Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying |
Panchayati Raj |
|
Ms. Shobha Karandlaje |
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises |
Labour and Employment |
|
Mr. Kirtivardhan Singh |
External Affairs |
Environment, Forest and Climate Change |
|
Mr. B. L. Verma |
Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution |
Social Justice and Empowerment |
|
Mr. Shantanu Thakur |
Ports, Shipping and Waterways |
Mr. Suresh Gopi |
Petroleum and Natural Gas |
Tourism |
|
Dr. L. Murugan |
Information and Broadcasting |
Parliamentary Affairs |
|
Mr. Ajay Tamta |
Road Transport and Highways |
Mr. Bandi Sanjay Kumar |
Home Affairs |
Mr. Kamlesh Paswan |
Rural Development |
Mr. Bhagirath Choudhary |
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
Mr. Satish Chandra Dubey |
Coal |
Mines |
|
Mr. Sanjay Seth |
Defence |
Mr. Ravneet Singh |
Food Processing Industries |
Railways |
|
Mr. Durgadas Uikey |
Tribal Affairs |
Ms. Raksha Nikhil Khadse |
Youth Affairs and Sports |
Mr. Sukanta Majumdar |
Education |
Development of North Eastern Region |
|
Ms. Savitri Thakur |
Women and Child Development |
Mr. Tokhan Sahu |
Housing and Urban Affairs |
Mr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary |
Jal Shakti |
Mr. Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma |
Heavy Industries |
Steel |
|
Mr. Harsh Malhotra |
Corporate Affairs |
Road Transport and Highways |
|
Ms. Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya |
Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution |
Mr. Murlidhar Mohol |
Cooperation |
Civil Aviation |
|
Mr. George Kurian |
Minority Affairs |
Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying |
|
Mr. Pabitra Margherita |
External Affairs |
Textiles |
Source: Portfolios of the Union Council of Ministers, PMINDIA; PRS.
[1] Note: Mr Rahul Gandhi was elected from two constituencies and resigned from Wayanad.
[2] “Press Communique”, Press Information Bureau, President's Secretariat, June 7, 2024. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2023509
[3] “Press Communique”, Press Information Bureau, President's Secretariat, June 9, 2024. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2023668
[4] Bulletin II, June 12, 2024, Lok Sabha, https://sansad.in/getFile/bull2mk/2024/BULLETIN%20PART%20II%201ST%20SESSION.pdf?source=loksabhadocs.
[5] “Address by The Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu to Parliament”, President of India, June 27, 2024, https://www.presidentofindia.gov.in/speeches/address-honble-president-india-smt-droupadi-murmu-parliament-0
[6] “CBIC invites suggestions on draft ‘Central Excise Bill, 2024’ in pre-defined format from stakeholders by 26th June 2024”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Finance, June 4, 2024, https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2022728.
[7] F.NO. CBIC-110267/80/2023-CX-VIII SECTION-CBEC, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, https://www.cbic.gov.in/636f1150-4924-47af-aba6-f5110a630304.
[8] The Central Excise Act, 1944, https://www.indiacode.nic.in/bitstream/123456789/19238/1/a1944-01.pdf.
[9] Central Excise Rules, 2017, https://upload.indiacode.nic.in/showfile?actid=AC_CEN_2_2_00038_194401_1523354126456&type=rule&filename=CENTRAL%20EXCISE%20RULES,%202017.pdf.
[10] SEBI Board Meeting, June 27, 2024, https://www.sebi.gov.in/media-and-notifications/press-releases/jun-2024/sebi-board-meeting_84448.html.
[11] Monetary Policy Statement, 2024-25, Resolution of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) June 5 to 7, 2024, Reserve Bank of India, June 7, 2024, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR453CDFC8E990AAE44398D61A08309F79665.PDF.
[12] Developments in India’s Balance of Payments during the Fourth Quarter (January-March) of 2023-24, Reserve Bank of India, June 24, 2024, https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR550BOPJANMAR2023243235C37BE11A42959A00B2D1F687FA35.PDF.
[13] Cinematograph (Adjudication of Penalty) Rules, 2024, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, June 7, 2024, https://egazette.gov.in/WriteReadData/2024/254623.pdf.
[14] The Cinematograph Act, 1952, https://www.indiacode.nic.in/bitstream/123456789/2170/5/a1952-37.pdf.
[15] The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, https://egazette.gov.in/WriteReadData/2023/248047.pdf.
[16] Draft Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Unsolicited and Unwarranted Business Communication, 2024, Department of Consumer Affairs, June 20, 2024 https://consumeraffairs.nic.in/sites/default/files/file-uploads/latestnews/Guidelines%20for%20the%20Prevention%20and%20Regulation%20of%20Unsolicited%20and%20Unwarranted%20Business%20Communication%2C%202024.pdf.
[17] ‘Curriculum and Credit Framework for Post Graduate Programmes’, University Grants Commission, June 14, 2024, https://www.ugc.gov.in/pdfnews/4682468_Curriculum-and-Credit-Framework-for-Postgraduate-Programmes.pdf.
[18] ‘National Higher Education Qualification Framework’, University Grants Commission, May 2023, https://www.ugc.gov.in/pdfnews/2990035_Final-NHEQF.pdf.
[20] Cabinet approves Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2024-25, Union Cabinet, Press Information Bureau, June 19, 2024, https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2026697.
[21] Draft “National Policy on Farmer Producer Organisations”, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, https://agriwelfare.gov.in/Documents/RecentInitiative/National_policy_onFPOs_18Jun2024.pdf.
[23] Draft Mining Plan Guidelines for Coal and Lignite Blocks, 2024, Ministry of Coal, June 18, 2024, https://www.coal.nic.in/sites/default/files/2024-06/18-06-2024.pdf.
[24] The Offshore Areas (Existence of Mineral Resources) Rules, 2024, The Gazette of India, Ministry of Mines, June 6, 2024, https://egazette.gov.in/WriteReadData/2024/254602.pdf.
[25] No. L-1/270/2023/CERC, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Procedure, Terms and Conditions for grant of Transmission Licence and other related matters) Regulations, 2024, The Gazette of India, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission, June 14, 2024, https://cercind.gov.in/regulations/188-Noti.pdf.
[26] No. L-7/165(180)/2008-CERC, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Procedure, Terms and Conditions for grant of Transmission Licence and other related matters) Regulations, 2009, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission, June 2, 2009, https://cercind.gov.in/2016/regulation/GZT/40.pdf.
[27] Regulation 2 (8), The Central Electricity Authority (Technical Standards for Connectivity to the Grid) Regulations, 2007, https://cea.nic.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/grid_connect_reg.pdf.
[28] “Cabinet approves Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme for implementation of Offshore Wind Energy Projects”, Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Power, June 19 2024, https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2026700.
[29]Viability Gap Funding, Invest India, as accessed on June 25, 2024, https://www.investindia.gov.in/faq-pdf/58/en#:~:text=The%20Viability%20Gap%20Funding%20(VGF,a%20process%20of%20competitive%20bidding.
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