The Indian government is introducing a 28% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on online gaming platforms starting from October 1. This move is aimed at regulating the rapidly growing industry and could lead to higher costs for gamers. It may also lead to compliance challenges for gaming platforms and a potential slowdown in growth, but stakeholders should stay informed and prepared for the changes.
The UNWTO declared Dhordo Village in Gujarat as the 'Best Tourism Village', a result of efforts from local communities, government initiatives, and international organizations. It's known for its stunning landscape, vibrant culture, and commitment to eco-friendly practices. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, savor local cuisine, and participate in cultural festivals. Reaching Dhordo is easy via road or rail networks, with nearby attractions such as the Wild Ass Sanctuary, Mandvi Beach, and Bhuj. This declaration boosts tourism in the region and serves as an inspiration for sustainable tourism worldwide.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the first phase of the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC) known as Yashobhoomi in New Delhi's Dwarka. This ambitious project aims to transform Delhi into one of the world's major hubs for conference tourism, creating employment opportunities for lakhs of young individuals. Additionally, the government has launched the 'PM Vishwakarma' scheme to provide traditional craftsmen and artisans with low-interest loans without the need for collateral. With an impressive financial outlay of ₹13,000 crore over five years, the scheme seeks to benefit around 30 lakh families of traditional artisans and craftsmen. Yashobhoomi is set to become one of the world's largest MICE facilities, and with its strategic location and connectivity to the Delhi Airport Metro Express line, it is well on its way to becoming a global hub.
The UK has secured £89 million in funding for 20 pioneering net zero technology projects, such as hydrogen-powered offroad vehicles and electric vehicle battery systems. This investment is part of a broader governmental initiative, the Automotive Transformation Fund, which aims to create a high-value, end-to-end electrified automotive supply chain in the UK. Additionally, £1.1 million in grant funding has been awarded to four projects through the Niche Vehicle Network Production Readiness Competition, including a zero-emission Ariel Nomad and a UK-made electric scooter. This move reinforces the UK's commitment to leading the charge in zero-emission vehicle technology and sets a precedent for sustainable practices.
ATIS's Next G Alliance and the Bharat 6G Alliance have joined forces to develop 6G wireless technologies. Their shared mission focuses on advancing 6G technology, positioning North America and India at the forefront of innovation in the wireless communication domain, respectively. The MoU formalizes this collaboration with a vision for secure and trusted telecommunications, resilient supply chains, and global digital inclusion. This partnership promises a brighter and more connected future for us all.
The G20 Summit 2023, hosted by India, has a human-centric and inclusive theme of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - One Earth, One Family, One Future.' Key highlights of the summit include discussions on accelerating the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a Green Development Pact to promote environmental sustainability, technological transformation and digital public infrastructure, advancing gender equality and women's empowerment, and strengthening multilateral institutions. Prime Minister Modi expressed his confidence that this summit would chart a new path towards human-centric and inclusive development.
The G20 Summit is an annual gathering of leaders from 19 major economies and the European Union. Its objectives include promoting economic stability and sustainable development, and it has achieved key milestones such as financial regulatory reforms and initiatives to combat tax evasion. It has played a critical role in addressing global crises such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent topics covered at the summit include sustainable development, climate change, digitalization, and inclusive growth. The G20 will need to address emerging issues to remain effective in shaping international cooperation.
The Nai Roshni Scheme is an ambitious initiative launched by the government to empower women across India through education, skill development, financial inclusion, and other measures. It emphasizes the importance of quality education, provides vocational training and workshops, encourages financial literacy, promotes entrepreneurship, focuses on health and hygiene, challenges stereotypes, reaches out to rural areas, involves the government in policy and implementation, and has seen great success. In the future, the scheme must strive for sustainability and scalability, while overcoming cultural resistance and logistical complexities. Through collaborations with various stakeholders, the Nai Roshni Scheme hopes to create a brighter tomorrow where every woman shines with her unique light.
- The KUSUM scheme is a pioneering initiative by the Indian government to promote the widespread adoption of solar energy among farmers and reduce their electricity bills. It comprises three components- A, B and C, that aim to enable farmers to generate solar power for their own consumption, earn revenue through energy sales, replace diesel pumps with solar pumps and reduce carbon emissions. This scheme brings forth various benefits like empowerment of farmers, sustainable agriculture and economic growth. Challenges faced include initial investment costs and technical awareness, which can be mitigated through subsidies and awareness campaigns. With efficient execution and continuous monitoring, this scheme has the potential to revolutionize India's energy landscape.
The Fame India Scheme is a government initiative designed to promote the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles in India. It provides financial incentives to manufacturers and consumers, develops charging infrastructure, incentivizes domestic EV manufacturing, has already had a transformative impact on the Indian automotive sector, and is expected to reduce carbon emissions in the future.