Category Archives: government

‘Congress Considered Impossible To Implement GST During Their Time,’ Says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

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New Delhi: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman hit out at the Congress party, stating that while the Congress once considered the Goods and Services Tax (GST) impossible to implement, the Modi government not only rolled it out successfully but is now advancing it with second-phase reforms to ease the burden on common people.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Sitharaman said, “Is the Congress Party demanding five per cent tax on tobacco and gutkha? Congress Party wants us to give it at 5%. Congress Party considered it impossible to implement GST during their time. We have implemented it and are also undertaking second-generation reforms under the leadership of Modi ji so that people get relief on their day-to-day items.”

Sitharaman highlighted that the ongoing GST reforms are benefiting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and labour-intensive industries by simplifying compliance. She urged the Congress to clarify its stance on measures that benefit the people.

“MSMEs and labour-intensive units also get relief, due to which there will be easy compliance. Congress should decide whether it wants to oppose or support issues that are in the interest of the people. People will expose you,” she added.

In a significant announcement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed a sweeping reduction in GST rates on a wide range of essential items, automobiles, agricultural inputs, and electronic appliances.

The 56th GST Council meeting decided to rationalise GST rates into two slabs: 5 per cent and 18 per cent by merging the previous 12 per cent and 28 per cent rates.

On the essential items front, products of daily household use will now cost less. Items such as hair oil, shampoo, toothpaste, toilet soap bars, toothbrushes, and shaving cream, which previously attracted an 18 per cent GST, will now fall under the 5 per cent bracket.

Furthermore, Sitharaman announced a complete removal of GST on individual health and life insurance.

The reforms also bring significant benefits to farmers and the agricultural sector. Tractor tyres and parts, which were earlier taxed at 18 per cent GST, will now be taxed at just 5 per cent. Tractors themselves will see their rate reduced from 12 per cent to 5 per cent.

(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/congress-considered-impossible-to-implement-gst-during-their-time-says-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman

Punjab Floods: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Chouhan Assures Full Support From Centre – VIDEO

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**Punjab Battles Severe Floods: Centre Assures Full Support as Over 4 Lakh Acres Submerged**

Chandigarh: Punjab continues to reel under the fury of devastating floods. On Thursday, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Chouhan visited the worst-affected areas in Amritsar and Gurdaspur districts to assess the situation firsthand. Demonstrating solidarity with the flood-hit population, Chouhan even rode a tractor to reach inundated fields.

During his visit, Chouhan interacted closely with the farmers and local residents affected by the floods, assuring them of the Centre’s full support in this challenging time. Accompanied by senior BJP leaders, including Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu and State BJP Chief Sunil Jakhar, he praised the resilience of Punjabis. “Punjabis have always been at the forefront when it came to serving the country and humanity, but today the state is facing difficult times due to floods,” he said. “The Centre fully stands with the people of Punjab in this difficult hour.”

**Over 4 Lakh Acres of Agricultural Land Submerged**

Meanwhile, Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, who accompanied Chouhan during the visit, urged the Union Minister to sanction immediate relief and a massive financial package to mitigate the devastating impact of the floods. With more than four lakh acres of agricultural land submerged, the situation poses a serious threat to both state and national food security.

Khudian highlighted that paddy fields have been the worst affected, just weeks ahead of the harvesting season. “This devastation has resulted in significant losses for farmers and has adversely impacted the state’s agricultural economy,” he stated, calling for enhanced compensation to support the affected farming community.

**Dams Continue to Release Water Amid Ongoing Rains**

The flood crisis is further aggravated by continuous rainfall and increased water discharge from key dams in the region. A controlled outflow from the Bhakra Dam was necessary, as its water level on Thursday reached approximately 1,679 feet — just one foot below the maximum capacity level.

Similarly, the Pong Dam’s water level rose to 1,394.51 feet, exceeding its maximum permissible limit by about four feet. The water discharge from the Ranjit Sagar Dam was also increased following a rise in its reservoir level, signaling potential worsening of the flood situation in Punjab.

**Chief Minister Mann Falls Ill, Cancels Flood Relief Visits**

In a related update, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reportedly fell ill on Thursday due to a viral infection, resulting in fever. Consequently, his scheduled visits to flood-affected areas alongside Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal were cancelled. His health condition is being closely monitored as flood relief efforts continue.

**Rivers Ghaggar and Markanda Trigger Panic in Haryana**

The flooding threat is not confined to Punjab alone. The Ghaggar and Markanda rivers, flowing above the danger mark, have caused panic in various parts of Haryana including Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Sirsa districts. Authorities in these areas have issued evacuation orders, urging residents to move to safer locations as precautionary measures against further flooding.

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As Punjab and neighboring states grapple with the ongoing flood crisis, efforts from the Centre and local authorities aim to provide immediate relief and long-term support for affected communities. The situation remains dynamic, and updates will follow as relief operations progress.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/punjab-floods-union-agriculture-minister-shivraj-chouhan-assures-full-support-from-centre-video

Global, Domestic Firms To Invest ₹1.02 Lakh Crore In Indian Food Processing Sector: Govt

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New Delhi: The government has signed agreements with 26 overseas and domestic firms during the ‘World Food India’ summit, securing investments worth Rs 1.02 lakh crore in India’s food processing sector.

The summit, organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, was held at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital from September 25 to 28. In an official statement on Sunday, the ministry said that World Food India 2025 concluded on a historic note with investment commitments of unprecedented scale.

“Over the course of the four-day event, 26 leading domestic and global companies signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth a total of Rs 1,02,046.89 crore, marking one of the largest investment announcements in India’s food processing sector,” the ministry added.

On the first day of the summit, which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister, Union Food Processing Minister Chirag Paswan had asserted that MoUs worth over Rs 1 lakh crore would be signed during the event. “These MoUs are projected to generate direct employment for over 64,000 people and create indirect opportunities for more than 10 lakh individuals,” the statement said.

Among the companies that signed MoUs are Reliance Consumer Products, The Coca-Cola System in India, Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (Amul), Fair Exports (India) Pvt Ltd (Lulu Group), Nestlé India, Tata Consumer Products Ltd, and Carlsberg India Pvt Ltd.

Other signatories include BL Agro Industries, ABIS Foods & Proteins, ACE International, Patanjali Foods, Godrej Agrovet, Agristo Masa, Tiwana Nutrition Global, Haldiram Snacks Food, Indian Poultry Alliance, Mrs Bectors Food Specialities Ltd, Dabur India Ltd, Allana Consumer Products, Olam Food Ingredients, AB InBev, Cremica Food Park, Dairy Craft, Sundex Biotech, Naso Industries, and Bluepine Foods.

The investment commitments span diverse segments such as dairy, meat and poultry, packaged foods, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, spices and condiments, confectionery, edible oils, fruits and vegetables, and ready-to-eat products.

These proposed investments will be spread across multiple states including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and the north-eastern region.

Notably, Reliance Consumer Products Ltd has signed a Rs 40,000-crore agreement with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries to establish integrated food manufacturing facilities across the country. Additionally, three Coca-Cola bottlers in India will jointly invest Rs 25,760 crore (USD 2.96 billion) to expand the country’s food processing infrastructure through greenfield and brownfield projects.

Invest India, the national investment promotion and facilitation partner, assisted the Ministry of Food Processing Industries in signing these MoUs.

Beyond attracting substantial investments, the World Food India 2025 summit reaffirmed India’s position as a trusted global destination for food processing. “The event has laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth, innovation, and international collaboration, further consolidating India’s leadership in shaping the future of global food systems,” the government stated.

The ministry, in partnership with Invest India, will continue to work closely with industry stakeholders to facilitate these investments and ensure their effective implementation.

*(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/global-domestic-firms-to-invest-102-lakh-crore-in-indian-food-processing-sector-govt

Ben-Gvir pushes Israel terrorist death penatly law despite PMO objection

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Ben-Gvir Pushes Israel Terrorist Death Penalty Law Despite PMO Objection

Despite objections from officials and hostage families, the Knesset panel has pushed forward a bill that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir says is key to deterring terrorism.

Ben-Gvir attended a National Security committee meeting at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, on September 28, 2025, where the controversial legislation was discussed.

The bill, which aims to implement the death penalty for terrorists, has sparked significant debate, with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) expressing strong objections. Nevertheless, the proposal moved ahead in the Knesset panel, highlighting a divided stance within Israel’s leadership on the issue.

Photo Credit: NOAM MOSKOWITZ / KNESSSET SPOKESMAN UNIT

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868839

‘The picture is grim’: Conservative outlet flags ‘warning signs’ that GOP is losing ground

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The GOP was riding high, but is now being anchored down by a “political dud,” according to a conservative outlet.

The Washington Examiner, widely considered to be right-wing, published a report on Saturday titled, “Chucks in luck? Warning signs ahead for Republicans in next year’s Senate races.”

Just a few months ago, Republicans were riding high, giddy after having passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law. But as the saying goes, a few weeks can be an eternity in politics. And as autumn kicks in, it’s clear that cheer is turning into fear.

The weekend article states, “What gives? And what does it mean for the 2026 Senate races? As is usually the case with midterm elections in the Trump era, the answer is: ‘It’s complicated.'”

According to the report, there is one major concern for the Republicans.

“A big problem facing the GOP as 2026 draws near is that while the tax cuts in the GOP megabill should be popular, the legislation is overall proving to be a political dud with a 64% disapproval rating,” the article notes. This has prompted reports that President Donald Trump is looking to rebrand it as the “Working Families Tax Cut Bill.”

Some voters fret about Medicaid cuts hurting the poor. Others worry about the possibly adverse impact on hospitals. Additionally, many fear the debt and deficit implications.

The article adds, “Add to this that inflation sits higher than it was at the same point last year and about a percentage point above the Federal Reserve’s target rate, and it’s likely Republican Senate candidates will have to run with some semblance of an inflation anchor next year, just as former Vice President Kamala Harris did last year.”

Polling data supports this challenge, with 61% of those surveyed by The Economist and YouGov disapproving of Trump’s handling of inflation.

The situation appears grim, and this outlook does not even account for the historical trend that the party controlling the White House generally tends to do worse in the first midterm election of each presidency.

“Crazy though it may seem, the GOP could indeed be staring down a situation in which Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) ends up back in charge and gridlock once again becomes the name of the game in Washington, D.C.,” the Washington Examiner concludes.
https://www.rawstory.com/gop-picture-is-grim-2026/

High US tariffs pose risk to India’s growth: Crisil

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**High US Tariffs Pose Risk to India’s Growth: Crisil**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 05:01 PM*

A recent report by Crisil Intelligence has highlighted significant risks to India’s economic growth due to the high tariffs imposed by the US on Indian goods. These tariffs are expected to impact both Indian exports and investments adversely. However, the report also notes that domestic consumption is likely to remain a key driver of growth, supported by low inflation and prospective rate cuts.

**GDP Growth and Inflation Projections**

India’s GDP growth reached a five-quarter high of 7.8% in the first quarter of FY25-26, up from 7.4% during the same period last year. Despite this positive momentum, nominal GDP growth slowed to 8.8% compared to 10.8% in the previous year, according to Crisil Intelligence.

On the inflation front, the report forecasts that the consumer price index (CPI) inflation will ease to 3.5% in the current fiscal year, down from 4.6% last year. This moderation in inflation is expected to provide further support to economic stability.

**Factors Influencing Inflation Control**

Robust agricultural growth is anticipated to keep food inflation under control, although the full impact of recent excess rainfall is yet to be assessed. Additionally, lower crude oil prices and stable global commodity prices are expected to help contain non-food inflation. These factors combined are likely to play a crucial role in managing India’s inflation rates over the coming months.

**Policy Outlook: RBI Rate Cut Expected**

On the monetary policy front, Crisil Intelligence predicts that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will implement one more rate cut during this fiscal year, followed by a pause to assess the effects. Between February and June 2025, the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee had already cut the repo rate by 100 basis points. The central bank is currently awaiting the full transmission of these previous cuts before making further adjustments to interest rates.

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*In summary, while high US tariffs present challenges for India’s growth through their impact on trade and investment, domestic factors such as controlled inflation and accommodative monetary policy are expected to sustain economic momentum in the near term.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/us-tariffs-could-impact-india-s-growth-crisil/story

High US tariffs pose risk to India’s growth: Crisil

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**High US Tariffs Pose Risk to India’s Growth: Crisil**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 05:01 PM*

A recent report by Crisil Intelligence has highlighted that the high tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian goods could pose a significant risk to India’s economic growth. The September 2025 report emphasizes that these tariffs are likely to affect both Indian exports and investments negatively.

However, despite these challenges, domestic consumption is expected to remain the key driver of growth, supported by low inflation levels and anticipated rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

**Economic Indicators: GDP Growth and Inflation Projections**

India’s GDP growth reached a five-quarter high of 7.8% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025-26, up from 7.4% in the same quarter last year. Meanwhile, nominal GDP growth slowed to 8.8% compared to 10.8% during the corresponding period in the previous fiscal year, according to Crisil Intelligence.

On the inflation front, the report projects consumer price index (CPI) inflation to ease to 3.5% this fiscal year, down from 4.6% last year.

**Inflation Control: Factors Influencing Rates**

Robust agricultural growth is expected to help keep food inflation under control. However, the full impact of recent excess rainfall on agricultural output remains to be seen. Additionally, declining crude oil prices and stable global commodity prices are anticipated to contain non-food inflation, further aiding in the moderation of overall inflation rates in the coming months.

**Policy Outlook: RBI Likely to Implement One More Rate Cut**

On the monetary policy front, Crisil Intelligence forecasts that the RBI will introduce one more rate cut during the current fiscal year, followed by a pause. The central bank’s monetary policy committee had already reduced the repo rate by 100 basis points between February and June 2025. The RBI is now expected to await the complete transmission of these cuts before deciding on any further interest rate adjustments.

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*In summary, while high US tariffs present challenges to India’s export and investment sectors, strong domestic consumption, controlled inflation, and accommodative monetary policy are likely to support the country’s economic growth in the near term.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/us-tariffs-could-impact-india-s-growth-crisil/story

High US tariffs pose risk to India’s growth: Crisil

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**High US Tariffs Pose Risk to India’s Growth: Crisil**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 05:01 PM*

A recent report by Crisil Intelligence highlights that the high tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian goods could pose a significant risk to India’s economic growth. The September report cautions that these tariffs may adversely affect both Indian exports and investments.

However, the report also offers a positive outlook, noting that domestic consumption is expected to drive growth going forward. This optimism is supported by low inflation levels and anticipated rate cuts.

**Economic Indicators: GDP Growth and Inflation Projections**

India’s GDP growth reached a five-quarter high of 7.8% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025-26, rising from 7.4% in the same period last year. Despite this, nominal GDP growth slowed to 8.8% compared to 10.8% in the previous year for the same quarter, according to Crisil Intelligence.

On the inflation front, the report projects that consumer price index (CPI) inflation will ease to 3.5% in the current fiscal year, down from last year’s 4.6%.

**Inflation Control: Factors Influencing Inflation Rates**

The report emphasizes that robust agricultural growth is expected to help keep food inflation in check, though the full impact of recent excess rainfall is still under evaluation.

Additionally, lower crude oil prices and stable global commodity prices are likely to contain non-food inflation. These combined factors will play a crucial role in managing inflation in the coming months.

**Policy Outlook: RBI Likely to Implement One More Rate Cut**

Regarding monetary policy, Crisil Intelligence anticipates that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will implement one more rate cut during the current fiscal year, followed by a pause.

The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee had already cut the repo rate by 100 basis points between February and June 2025. The central bank is now expected to wait for the full transmission of these past cuts before making any further decisions on interest rates.

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In summary, while high US tariffs present notable challenges to India’s economic growth, strong domestic consumption, controlled inflation, and supportive monetary policy are poised to sustain India’s growth momentum in the near term.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/us-tariffs-could-impact-india-s-growth-crisil/story

Odisha Civil Services Exam Results Declared; Priyansu Pal Secures First Rank

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**Odisha Public Service Commission Declares Odisha Civil Services Examination 2023 Results**

The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) announced the results of the Odisha Civil Services Examination 2023 on Friday. A total of 398 candidates have successfully cleared the examination, including 144 women.

The recruitment process was conducted in three phases: preliminary and main (written) examinations held during April–May 2025, followed by personality tests in September.

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### Topper Profile: Priyansu Pal

Topping the merit list, Priyansu Pal, a resident of Angul district, secured the first rank. A mining engineering graduate from Government Engineering College, Keonjhar (2018), Priyansu had initially worked in a private firm before moving into a managerial role at a multinational company.

In January 2025, he resigned from his well-paying job to focus entirely on preparing for the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) exam. His dedication and hard work paid off, earning him the top spot in this year’s examination.

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### Other Top Performers

The second rank was claimed by Ananya Mishra, the only woman among the top 10 merit-holders, while Sovan Pattanaik secured the third position.

OPSC has clarified that the selection of candidates is provisional and contingent upon verification of original certificates by the appointing authorities.

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### Official Notification and Congratulatory Messages

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi extended his congratulations to the successful candidates via a post on X, stating:

> “My heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all who have succeeded in the Odisha Administrative Service Examination. Administrative service is a matter of pride and it plays an important role in the development trajectory of the state.
> I hope that you will work transparently, impartially, and with a people-oriented approach from the grassroots level for the development of the state.
> May your future career be bright, and I wish you progress in your professional life.”

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This year’s results reflect an impressive performance by candidates across Odisha, highlighting the growing talent and commitment of young professionals like Priyansu Pal and Ananya Mishra. These promising individuals are set to contribute significantly to state governance and development at the grassroots level.

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*For official details and notifications regarding the Odisha Civil Services Exam results, please visit the [OPSC website](#).*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/odisha-civil-services-exam-results-declared-priyansu-pal-secures-first-rank

Maharashtra Govt Announces ₹2,000 Diwali Gift For Anganwadi Workers & Helpers

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Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has announced a special Diwali gift for anganwadi workers and helpers serving under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. Each worker and helper will receive Rs 2,000 as a token of appreciation, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare said.

The government has sanctioned Rs 40.61 crore for this initiative, with a formal government resolution issued on Thursday.

Minister Tatkare emphasized the vital role anganwadi workers and helpers play in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. She stated, “Anganwadi workers and helpers play a crucial role in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. To acknowledge their dedicated service and add joy to the festive season, the state government has sanctioned this Bhau Beej gift. Every anganwadi worker and helper is a true strength of our society, and we endeavour to make their festival more joyful.”

The amount will soon be disbursed to the beneficiaries through the ICDS commissioner’s office. This decision is expected to bring festive cheer to thousands of anganwadi workers and helpers across Maharashtra, making their Diwali celebrations brighter, the minister added.

(Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-govt-announces-2000-diwali-gift-for-anganwadi-workers-helpers