New Viksit Bharat Guarantee Bill Faces Sharp Opposition in Parliament, Raising State Burden Concerns

December 17, 2025

New Viksit Bharat Guarantee Bill Faces Sharp Opposition in Parliament, Raising State Burden Concerns

The Viksit Bharat Guarantee Bill to repeal MGNREGA faces strong backlash in Parliament and outside. Critics warn it centralises control, raises costs for states, and weakens rural job guarantees.

Karnataka Revenue Deficit to Rise Amid GST Impact, Mines Tax Delay; FDI Soars

December 17, 2025

Karnataka Revenue Deficit to Rise Amid GST Impact, Mines Tax Delay; FDI Soars

Karnataka's revenue deficit could widen in 2025-26 due to GST rate cuts and delayed mine tax approval. Despite this, FDI inflows jumped 149%, reaching $5.6 billion in Q1.

Karnataka High Court Cuts Interest on Delayed Leave Encashment for NWKRTC Retirees to 6%

December 17, 2025

Karnataka High Court Cuts Interest on Delayed Leave Encashment for NWKRTC Retirees to 6%

The Karnataka High Court has ordered NWKRTC to pay 6% interest on delayed leave encashment to retired employees. The decision comes as public transport corporations face financial losses due to pandemic impact and government policies.

Rajya Sabha Approves 100% FDI in Insurance Through Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill

December 17, 2025

Rajya Sabha Approves 100% FDI in Insurance Through Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill

Rajya Sabha passed the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill, allowing 100% FDI in insurance. The Repealing and Amending Bill that removes 71 old laws was also cleared. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the move will boost foreign investment and lower premiums.

EU to Decide on Using €210bn Frozen Russian Assets to Fund Ukraine

December 17, 2025

EU to Decide on Using €210bn Frozen Russian Assets to Fund Ukraine

EU leaders meet Thursday to decide if they will use €210bn Russian frozen assets to fund Ukraine. The plan includes a €90bn loan, repayable if Russia pays reparations. Belgium opposes, fearing legal risks. Ukraine urgently needs funds to avoid bankruptcy amid stalled US aid and economic pressure.