Taxation & Fiscal Policy
Health and National Security Cess on Pan Masala
The revised taxation framework replaces compensation cess with the Health and National Security Cess specifically for pan masala, while tobacco products attract additional excise duty. This dual-levy structure aims to increase revenue from sin goods beyond standard GST rates.
Digital Payments
BRISKPE’s Payment AggregatorβCross Border Authorisation
BRISKPE received RBI’s final authorisation as a PA-CB under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. This enables both inward and outward cross-border payment flows for Indian businesses, supporting import-export transactions digitally.
Digital Payments
UPI Ecosystem: TPAP and PSP Bank Architecture
Rediff.com received NPCI approval as a Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) for UPI, with Axis Bank designated as its Payment System Provider (PSP) bank. This structure enables non-bank entities to offer UPI services through banking partnerships.
Innovation & Startups
IGNITE Programme for Deep-Tech Startups
Launched by FITT (IIT-Delhi) and IDFC First Bank, IGNITE bridges deep-tech research with funding, mentorship, and market access. The initiative helps innovation-led startups transition from proof-of-concept to market-ready commercialisation.
Environment & Conservation
Eco-Sensitive Zones Around Protected Areas
The ParvatiβArga Bird Sanctuary ESZ designation creates a protective buffer to strengthen conservation while enabling sustainable eco-tourism. ESZs restrict intensive industrial activities to protect ecologically significant areas.
Manufacturing & Strategic Industries
Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM) Scheme
India’s REPM scheme promotes domestic manufacturing of sintered rare earth permanent magnets, which are critical for clean energy systems, electric vehicles, and high-tech industries. This builds strategic self-reliance in critical components.
Agriculture & Bio-Economy
Himachal’s Green to Gold: Industrial Hemp
The “Green to Gold” initiative promotes industrial hemp as a regulated, multi-sectoral resource with applications in medicine, textiles, paper, cosmetics, and biofuel. This strengthens the bio-economy and sustainability goals.
Energy & Infrastructure
Dulhasti Stage-II Hydroelectric Project
The Dulhasti Stage-II project in Jammu and Kashmir comprises a 260 MW capacity with two units of 130 MW each. This adds to India’s renewable energy portfolio through hydroelectric power generation.
Regulatory Framework
Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007
This Act provides the regulatory framework for all payment systems in India, including digital wallets, payment aggregators, and cross-border payment services. RBI grants authorisations under this legislation.