August 15, 2025 Friday India This Week 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng New s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tinent Pub li s h ed From th e U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 34 No. 33 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 01-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday August 15, 2025 “Elections are choreographed”: Rahul Gandhi alleges 1,00,250 votes rigged in Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka New Delhi [India], August 7 (ANI): Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Thursday slammed the Election Commission of India (ECI) and alleged that the elections are “choreographed”. Presenting Congress’ research on voting in the Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka, Gandhi alleged “vote chori” (vote theft) of 1,00,250 votes. Addressing a press conference, Rahul Gandhi said that Congress won other seats while Ma- hadevapura was swept by the BJP. “Elections are choreographed… Our internal polling told us we would win 16 seats in Karnataka; we won nine. We then focused on seven unexpected losses. We chose one Lok Sabha, and our team decided we could only focus on one Vidhan Sabha (seat). So we focused on Mahadevapur. Here is the broad math. All data is 2024 data from the Election Commission. Total votes polled in the Lok Sabha were 6.26 we go there, no record of those people living there. One family living in that house,” Rahul Gandhi alleged. “Invalid photos… Then the misuse of Form 6. Form 6 allows new people to become voters,” he added. Rahul Gandhi said that anti-incumbency hit every party but the BJP, which was seen in the Haryana and Madhya Pradesh polls. He said, “Anti-in- lakhs. The BJP won with 6,58,915, securing a margin of 32,707. But then we look at Mahadevapura, where Congress polls 1,15,586 and BJP polls 2,29,632. Congress wins all Vidhan Sabhas but this one. This seat wins them the election.” “We found 1,00,250 votes stolen. Stolen in five different ways. Duplicate voters, fake and invalid addresses, and bulk voters in a single address, on a building with 50-60 people living. But when Election Allegations see page 6 Introducing your new summer look. Ends September 2 Experience Amazing ©2025 Lexus, a Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Dr. Babu Stephen Elected as Global President of World Malayalee Council By Elisha Pulivarti – Special Business Correspondent, Washington, D.C. Wa s h i n g t o n , D.C. / Bangkok – The World Malayalee Council (WMC), the largest global organization representing people of Kerala origin, has elected Dr. Babu Stephen as its new Global President during its 14th Biennial Global Conference held in Bangkok. Joining Dr. Stephen in the new leadership team are Thomas Mottackal as Chairman, Shaji Mathew as Secretary General, and Sunny Veliath as Treasurer. A First-Generation Community Builder Dr. Stephen, CEO of DC Healthcare Inc. and President of SM Reality LLC in Washington, D.C., is a first-generation Indian-American leader who arrived in the United States nearly four decades ago. Since then, he has been at the forefront of community building, entrepreneurship, and cultural diplomacy, establishing strong political and professional connections both in Washington and in Kerala. Known for his involvement in media, philanthropy, and business, Dr. Stephen has Dr. Babu Stephen see page 9
August 15, 2025 Friday India This Week Indian envoy discusses energy security with US Senator Lindsey Graham amid tensions over Russian oil imports Washington, DC [US], August 10 (ANI): India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, spoke to US Senator Lindsey Graham to share New Delhi’s perspective on energy security, including the growing energy trade between India and the US.”Spoke to Senator @LindseyGrahamSC and shared with him the Indian perspective on our energy security, including increasing energy trade with the United States,” Kwatra said in a post on X. The conversation comes after US Senator Lindsey Graham on Friday (local time) urged India to use its influence with Russia to help end the war in Ukraine, calling it one of the most significant steps to improve India-US relations.”As I have been telling my friends in India, one of the most consequential things they could do to improve India-U.S. relations is to help President Trump end this bloodbath in Ukraine,” Graham posted on X.”India is the second largest purchaser of Putin’s cheap oil, the proceeds of which fuel his war machine. I hope Prime Minister Modi emphasised to Putin in their recent phone call the need to end this war in Ukraine justly, honourably and forever. I have always believed India has influence in this matter and I am hoping they will use it wisely,” he wrote. His comments came on the same day Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced he had a “very good and detailed” conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin.”Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend, President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine,” PM Modi said in a post on X. “We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.”However, the meeting with Senator Graham also comes amid escalating trade ten- sions, after US President Donald Trump imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on imports from India earlier this week in response to New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil. The new tariff, set to take effect after 21 days, will raise the total duty on Indian goods to 50 per cent. Trump cited national security and foreign policy concerns, claiming that India’s imports of Russian oil pose an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the United States.According to the White House order, the levy will apply to all Indian goods import- ed into the US, except for items already in transit or those qualifying for specific exemptions. In a strong domestic message, Prime Minister Modi addressed the US tariff decision directly on Thursday, reaffirming his government’s commitment to protecting the agricultural sector.”For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it,” PM Modi said. (ANI) completed the preparation and finalised the electoral college list for the upcoming Vice-Presidential Election 2025. The Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament, in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote, and the voting in such an election is by secret ballot. An election to fill a vacancy caused by the expiry of the term of office of Vice-President is completed before the expiry of the term. In case a vacancy arises by reasons of death, resignation or removal or otherwise, the election to fill that vacancy is held as soon as possible after the occurrence. The person so elected is entitled to hold office for a full term of five years from the date he enters office. (ANI) Kharge reaching out to INDIA bloc leaders to choose candidate for Vice Presidential election, meeting to be held soon New Delhi [India], August 12 (ANI): The leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc will likely hold a meeting on August 18 to discuss the candidate for the Vice Presidential election, sources said on Tuesday. The Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is in talks with the top leadership of the INDIA bloc parties, sources added. The position of Vice President has fallen vacant after Jagdeep Dhankar resigned citing health reasons. The Election Commission on August 1 announced that the polling to elect the Vice President of India will be held on September 9, and the counting will also take place on the same day. The last day for filing nominations for the Vice Presidential post is August 21. The candidature can be withdrawn till Au- gust 25. Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned on the first day of the Monsoon Parliament Session on July 21, citing health reasons.” To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the constitution,” Dhankhar’s resignation letter read. On Thursday, the Election Commission of India informed that it has US Relationship With India, Pakistan “Remains Unchanged, Diplomats Committed to Both”: Tammy Bruce Washington, DC [US], August 13 (ANI): State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the United States’ relationship with both Pakistan and India “remains unchanged,” adding that American diplomats are “committed to both nations.” Her remarks came after Pakistan Army Chief Gen Asim Munir’s comments in Florida, where he reportedly said Pakistan could use nuclear weapons to take down India and “half the world” in the event of an existential threat. Speaking at the State Department briefing, Bruce stated, “We had an experience with Pakistan and India, when there was a conflict, that could have developed into something quite horrible. There was immediate concern and movement with Vice President JD Vance, President Donald Trump, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in addressing the nature of what was happening.” Bruce emphasized the success of diplomatic efforts in preventing the conflict from escalating, saying, “We described the nature of the phone calls and the work we did to stop the attacks, bringing the parties together to create something enduring. It’s a very proud moment that Secretary Rubio, Vice President Vance, and the top leaders in this nation were involved in stopping that potential catastrophe.” She also noted, “The US relationship with both nations remains unchanged — good. The diplomats are committed to both nations.” Highlighting the US-Pakistan counterterrorism dialogue, which was held in Islamabad on Tuesday, she affirmed, “The United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the latest rounds of talks in Islamabad. The US and Pakistan discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats.” “For the region and for the world, the US working with both those nations is good news and will promote a future that’s beneficial,” she added. Notably, Munir visited the US for the second time in less than two months. The trip follows a private luncheon with Trump in June. He arrived in Washington on Sunday for a series of high-level meetings with senior US political and military leadership
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August 15, 2025 Friday India This Week Lok Sabha passes new Income Tax Bill without debate amid opposition protests New Delhi [India], August 11 (ANI): Lok Sabha on Monday passed the new Income Tax Bill without debate, hours after it was introduced in the House by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The Income Tax (No.2) Bill, 2025, which was introduced on Monday afternoon after the government on Friday last withdrew the Income Tax Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, incorporates almost all recommendations of the Select Committee, which examined the legislation. The Government had said in the budget in July 2024 that a time-bound comprehensive review of the Income-tax Act, 1961 would be undertaken to make the Act concise, lucid, and easy to read and understand. The new Income Tax Bill was passed without debate amid opposition protests over their demand for debate on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have witnessed continuous disruptions since the beginning of the monsoon session of Parliament over the opposition’s demand. The Government had introduced the Income Tax Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha on February 13, 2025, and it was referred to the Select Committee for examination. The Select Committee laid its report in the Lok Sabha on July 21, 2025. The new and amended bill also incorporates suggestions from stakeholders about changes that would convey the proposed legal meaning more accurately. There were corrections in the nature of drafting, alignment of phrases, consequential changes and crossreferencing and the government decided to withdraw the Income-tax Bill, 2025 and bring the Income Tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025. The new bill replaces the Income-tax Act, 1961, which has been subjected to numerous amendments since its passage more than sixtyfour years ago. As a result of these amendments, the basic structure of the Income-tax Act had been overburdened and language has become complex, “increasing compliance for taxpayers and hampering efficiency of tax administration”. The Objects and Reasons of the bill states that taxpayers, practitioners and tax administrators had also raised concerns about the complicated provisions and structure of the Incometax Act 1961. The new IncomeTax Bill was passed without debate amid opposition protests over their demand for debate on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have witnessed continuous disruptions since the beginning of the monsoon session of Parliament over the opposition demand. The Lok Sabha also passed the Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 without debate. The BJP MP Baijayant Panda-headed 31-member Select Committee had suggested a few changes to the legislation. In its report, the panel has suggested important changes to tighten definitions, remove ambiguities, and align the new law with existing frameworks. The Committee, in its 4,584-page report, had identified several drafting corrections based on stakeholder suggestions, which they believed were essential for clarity and unambiguous interpretation of the new bill. The parliamentary panel had made a total of 566 suggestions and recommendations in its report. To give significant relief to taxpayers, the committee had suggested changing the provision which disallows refunds if income tax returns are filed beyond the due date. Other recommendations of the committee included aligning the definition of micro and small enterprises with the MSME Act. For nonprofit organisations, the committee asked for clarification over the terms ‘income’ vs ‘receipts’, anonymous donations, and the removal of the deemed application concept. The panel asked for these to be fixed to avoid legal disputes. The report also recommended amendments in the bill for clarity on advance ruling fees, TDS on provident funds, lowtax certificates, and penalty powers. New Income Tax Bill provides flexibility for refunds if return filed late, incorporates suggestions of Select Committee The new Income Tax bill, which was passed by Lok Sabha on Monday, provides flexibility for allowing refund claims in cases where the return is not filed in due time and reduces the time period for filing TDS correction statements to two years from six years as provided in the Income Tax Act, 1961, government sources said. The Income Tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025, was passed without debate amid protests by opposition parties, hours after it was introduced in the House by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. It incorporates almost all suggestions of the Select Committee that examined the bill. The Income Tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025, which was introduced on Monday afternoon after the government on Friday last withdrew the Income Tax Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, incorporates almost all recommendations of the Select Committee, which examined the legislation. The provisions of the new Income Tax Bill will come into effect from the next fiscal. The Government had said in the budget in July 2024 that a time-bound comprehensive review of the Income-tax Act, 1961 would be undertaken to make the Act concise, lucid, and easy to read and understand. The new Income Tax Bill was passed without debate amid opposition protests over their demand for debate on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have witnessed continuous disruptions since the beginning of the monsoon session of Parliament over the opposition’s demand. Government sources said that according to the provisions of the new Income Tax Bill, the deduction under 80M of IT Act, 1961 (Clause 148 of the IT Bill, 2025) is also available to companies who have opted for the new regime. The deductions for commuted pension and gratuity for family members are provided under Clause 93 of the IT Bill, 2025. The provisions of MAT (Minimum Alternate Tax) and AMT (Alternate Minimum Tax) are separated as two sub-sections under section 206. Government sources said the provisions of AMT are applicable only to those non-corporates who have claimed deductions. LLPs who have only capital gains income are not liable for AMT if there is no claim for deduction. The word “profession” has been added after “business” in clause 187 to enable professionals with total receipts exceeding Rs 50 crore in a year the facility of prescribed electronic modes of payment. Flexibility has been provided for allowing refund claims in cases where the return is not filed in due time with the removal of Clause 263(1)(ix), the sources said, adding that the provisions related to carry forward and set-off of losses have been re-drafted for better presentation but with the same intent. The concept of receipt has been changed with the concept of income as was there in the Income-tax Act, 1961. The utilization of capital gains on acquisition of new capital assets shall be treated as application of income by a registered non-profit organization as was there in the Income Tax Act, 1961. Where application of regular income falls short of 85% of regular income on account of such income not being received or received late during the tax year, on an option exercised by the assessee, such income shall be deemed as application of income in the tax year in which such income is derived. The government sources said provisions relating to taxation of anonymous donations have been aligned with the existing provisions of the Income-tax Act, 1961 and exemption has been made available to mixed object registered non-profits organization also. Mixed object registered non-profits organization has clearly been specified, mandatory investment and deposit of deemed accumulated income of 15% of regular income in specified modes has been done away with. “For TDS correction statements, time period for filing statements has been reduced to two years from six years in the Income Tax Act, 1961 and this is expected to reduce the grievances of deductees substantially,” a source said. The amendments of Finance Act, 2025 which were required to be incorporated have now been made part of the new Bill. The amendments made by the Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 have also been made part of the new Bill. Government sources said that a number of reforms have been taken by the Government since 2014. There have been major system and process reforms. The law has also reformed over the last ten years which include corporate tax reforms, personal income-tax reforms, reforms in taxation of capital gains, and merging of two regimes of trust provisions. They said tax administration has been made more efficient, transparent, and taxpayer-friendly. Reforms in this regard include: annual information system which also uses verified third-party data to pre-fill returns; and central processing of returns. The tax policy reforms include corporate tax reforms, individual tax reforms, and presumptive tax provisions for non-residents which have been expanded to include cruise shipping, raw diamonds and also for those providing services and technology for electronic manufacturing. The Government had introduced the Income Tax Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha on February 13, 2025, and it was referred to the Select Committee for examination. The Select Committee laid its report in the Lok Sabha on July 21, 2025. The new and amended bill also incorporates suggestions from stakeholders about changes that would convey the proposed legal meaning more accurately. There were corrections in the nature of drafting, alignment of phrases, consequential changes and cross-referencing and the government decided to withdraw the Income-tax Bill, 2025 and bring the Income Tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025. The new bill replaces the Income-tax Act, 1961, which has been subjected to numerous amendments since its passage more than sixtyfour years ago. (ANI) (ANI)
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India This Week August 15, 2025 Friday “Elections are choreographed”: Rahul Gandhi alleges 1,00,250 votes rigged in Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka Election Allegations rom page 1 cumbency hits every single party in every democracy, but for some reason, the BJP is the only party that does not suffer from anti-incumbency in a democracy. Exit polls and opinion polls say one thing, but you saw in the Haryana and MP elections, and suddenly the results go in another direction with a massive swing. This also included our internal polling, which is sophisticated.” Flagging polling in multiple phases, he added, “There was a time in India with no EVMs; people voted on one day. Now, UP has a different voting day, and Bihar has some other day. Voting goes on for a month. This made us suspicious. Suddenly, the dates of the Haryana and Karnataka elections were changed.” Reiterating his claims on fake voters in the Maharashtra Assembly Elections, he alleged that the number of voters added to the list in the five months ahead of the polls was more than the people added in the last five years. “Maharashtra, we weren’t able to tell the logic behind it. In Maharashtra and Haryana, we saw it right in front of our faces. We said publicly and told EC, more voters were added in five months than in The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- AUGUST 15, 2025 Blaming others for your crimes! Why do you scream when others cheat, And call them names for the same crimes you’ve perfected? Why do you believe you should have power To serve the people of your land? If you love the perks that come with power, How can you call yourself a servant of the people You are using politics to further your own ambition, Rather than serving with true devotion. How can your community progress If your eye is set on power, and you genuflect At the command of a donor who can sway you With a penny and impose his demands? Justice demands fair play in every role; Community requires honest players. When honesty is traded for wealth and power, Casting aspersions on others is unfair. There is none perfect; all make mistakes. But the danger lies in reveling in them, And repeating them, seduced by gain, Reaping the crimes one shamelessly commits. Blaming others for the same offenses Is just a mask to hide one’s evil deeds. When power is the only game, losing it Feels like death—life itself becomes worthless. By Rajan George five years in Maharashtra. More voters than the entire population of Maharashtra. Huge jump in voter turnout after 5 pm. Our alliance got wiped out while the alliance swept in the Lok Sabha. At the state level, between Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha, one crore voters came in,” he alleged. Rahul Gandhi’s response comes after the Election Commission of India on Saturday claimed that Gandhi is yet to respond to its June letter regarding his allegations of “election rigging” in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The EC said the INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Dr. Babu Stephen Chief Editor: Rajan George Contributing Editors: Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online Congress leader has not responded to an official invitation extended to him nearly two months ago. “Why? Is it because his media statements were baseless?” ECI sources asked. In a letter dated June 12, the Election Commission had invited the Leader of the Opposition for an interaction regarding “rigging” in Maharashtra Assembly elections, which he raised in a write-up that he wrote for a newspaper on June 7. He had claimed that the same would be repeated in the Bihar assembly polls due later this year. The June 12 letter reads, “We presume that any issue regarding the conduct of elections would have already been raised through election petitions filed in the competent court of law by the INC candidates. However, if you still have any issues, you are welcome to write to us, and the Commission is also willing to meet you in person at a mutually convenient date and time to discuss all issues. A convenient date and time may be communicated in this regard at the email ID.” “Sign under oath,” Karnataka CEO asks Rahul Gandhi to submit electoral roll allegations in sworn affidavit Even as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi was in the midst of a news conference alleging poll irregularities, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of responded in stongly worded letter asking him to sign an affidavit detail his allegations made on the addition and deletion of electors. “It is understood that during a Press Conference held today, you had mentioned about the inclusion of ineligible electors and exclusion of eligible electors in the Electoral Rolls cited at Para 3. You are kindly requested to sign and return the enclosed Declaration/ Oath under Rule 20(3)(b) of Remember: the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, along with the name(s) of such elector(s) so that necessary proceedings can be initiated…” the letter stated. In his news conference Rahul Gandhi alleged that the elections were “choreographed.” Responding to the allegations, the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka wrote to the Lok Sabha LoP and called on him to submit a declaration under Rule 20(3)(b) of Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, along with the names of alleged duplicate voters to initiate proceedings. “It is understood that during a Press Conference held today (August 7), you had mentioned about the inclusion of ineligible electors and exclusion of eligible electors in the Electoral Rolls cited at Para 3. You are kindly requested to sign and return the enclosed Declaration/Oath under Rule 20(3)(b) of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, along with the name(s) of such elector(s) so that necessary proceedings can be initiated,” the Karnataka CEO said. “As you are aware, the electoral rolls are prepared in a transparent manner, as per the Representation of the People Act, 1950, the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 and the instructions issued by the Election Commission of India from time to time,” the state’s CEO added. Rule 20 under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 pertains to the inquiry into claims and objections. Subsection 3 (b) mentioned that, according to the discretion of the registration officer, the claimant can be required to submit evidence under oath. The letter has also rubbished the claim of Congress not being provided with electoral rolls, saying that the party was provided with the rolls in November 2024 and January 2025; however, at no point were any appeals filed by the party objecting to the rolls. “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” Jesus Christ
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August 15, 2025 Friday India This Week India, Singapore to Review Progress and Deepen Cooperation at 3rd Ministerial Roundtable in New Delhi Singapore City [Singapore], August 12 (ANI): The third India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) will be held in New Delhi on August 13, serving as an important ministerial-level platform to drive cooperation in new and emerging areas between the two countries, according to an official statement by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The ISMR will review progress since the second roundtable in Singapore in August 2024 and identify new growth opportunities to deepen bilateral collaboration. Leading the Singapore delegation is Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong. Other members of the Singapore delegation include Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo, Minister for Manpower and Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng, and Acting Minister for Transport and Senior Minister of State for Finance Jeffrey Siow. The Indian delegation will be led by Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, and Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Railways, and Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw. The roundtable continues the momentum of high-level visits and exchanges between India and Singapore, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. This milestone reflects both nations’ commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. Singapore-India relations are deep and broad-based, with 2025 also marking the 10th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership. Earlier this year, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam visited India, meeting President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In September 2024, Prime Minister Modi visited Singapore, where both countries agreed to elevate ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Economic cooperation remains a key pillar, anchored by the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) signed in 2005. Bilateral trade has grown from S$20 billion in 2005 to S$52.2 billion in 2023. Singapore is India’s top foreign investor, accounting for 24 percent of India’s FDI equity inflows since 2000. Indian investments in Singapore have risen from S$481 million in 2004 to about S$31.6 billion in 2023. Singaporean companies are investing in Indian manufacturing, sustainability, data centers, and technology innovation. Singapore also serves as a regional hub for many Indian start-ups, particularly in fintech and healthtech. In sustainability, both countries collaborate on next-generation industrial parks promoting economic growth and low-carbon development, including a jointly developed Framework for Net Zero Industrial Parks with Tamil Nadu, launched in June 2025. In digitalization, the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the Reserve Bank of India launched a real-time payments linkage between PayNow and India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in February 2023, enabling instant fund transfers. Capital market cooperation advanced through the NSE-SGX GIFT Connect, a derivatives trading linkage in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City. Plans are underway to explore cross-border data flows via a pilot corridor in GIFT City. Cybersecurity cooperation is expanding, with the first India-Singapore Cyber Policy Dialogue in October 2024 facilitating exchanges on national cyber strategies. Skills development also remains a priority, with Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education Services (ITEES) establishing five skills centers in India and expanding partnerships with Odisha and Assam in semiconductors, aerospace, AI, and other sectors. A Joint Flagship Programme for Skills Training is being established to target sectors of mutual interest, ensuring alignment with industry needs through private sector collaboration. In advanced manufacturing, the India-Sin- gapore Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership MOU, signed during Prime Minister Modi’s 2024 visit, promotes policy exchanges on ecosystem development, supply chain resilience, and workforce growth. Connectivity between the two nations is strong. Singapore’s PSA has operated four maritime terminals in India for over 25 years. Singapore Airlines owns a 25.1 percent stake in Air India, and SIA Engineering plans to collaborate on maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities for Air India’s expanding fleet. Both countries also aim to establish a Green and Digital Shipping Corridor to facilitate sustainable shipping and trade in green fuels. The third India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable will reinforce their strategic partnership and advance cooperation across diverse sectors to strengthen mutual growth and prosperity. PM Modi announces ex-gratia for victims of Dausa road accident New Delhi [India], August 13 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each person who died in the Dausa road accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured. The Prime Minister also expressed grief over the loss of lives and offered condolences to the bereaved families. In a post on social media X, the Prime Minister’s Office wrote, “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in an accident in Dausa, Rajasthan. Condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi.” According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ravi Prakash Sharma, 11 people from Uttar Pradesh’s Etah died in the collision between a pick-up truck carrying devotees from Khatu Shyam Temple and a trailer truck near Bapi village. The death toll rose to 11 after one of the injured succumbed in the hospital. DSP Sharma told ANI, “The total death count of the accident between a passenger pick-up and a trailer truck near Bapi now lies at 11 after one person admitted to the hospital succumbed to their injuries.” Meanwhile, Rajasthan Minister Kirodi Lal Meena stated that several accidents had happened on the same spot, and further requested the Centre’s support in reconstructing the spot.” Such a big incident is very rare... Many accidents happen at the spot where this accident happened. We demand that the central government give some amount so this place can be reconstructed,” Kirodi Lal Meena told ANI. He thanked the district administration and doctors for attending to the people injured in the accident. The Rajasthan Minister said, “Doctors are keenly attending to the injured. The Chief Minister has taken cognisance. I thank the district administration and doctors for properly attending to the injured people.” (ANI)
Trump claims tariffs on India hit Russia hard, calls it a “big blow” Washington, DC [US], August 12 (ANI): US President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that American tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil had delivered a “big blow” to Moscow, saying, “No one would have been so tough and I haven’t stopped there.” Speaking at a White House briefing, Trump added, “[It] doesn’t help when the president of the United States tells their largest or second-largest oil buyer that we’re putting a 50% tariff on you if you buy oil from Russia.” The comments come just days before Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. He said Russia has been “heavily impacted” by global pressure, including US trade actions on multiple countries. However, Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon official and Middle East analyst, told ANI that Washington’s tensions with New Delhi over Russian oil purchases were not entirely counterproductive. He noted that the US itself continues to buy certain strategic materials from Russia, and described the ongoing friction as a “stress test” that could eventually strengthen bilateral ties. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who defended India’s decision to purchase Russian oil, citing it as a necessary measure to safeguard the nation’s economic security and strategic interests. “PM Narendra Modi standing up for India’s rights is going to be an episode that historians remember where the US truly learnt that you can’t kick India around. Once this episode passes, India-US relations will improve significantly,” Rubin said. Last week, the White House announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, taking the total tariff on India to 50%. The move, Trump said, was in response to India’s continued purchases of Russian oil. The additional tariffs will take effect on August 27. However, India remains undeterred. Brushing off what it calls a “reckless tariff tirade”, New Delhi continues to stand by its trade relations with Moscow. At the same time, India is accusing the US of “double standards”. Despite its tough stance, the US itself con- New Delhi [India], August 12 (ANI): A bill introducing a “creditor-initiated insolvency resolution process” with an out-of-court initiation mechanism for genuine business failures—aimed at facilitating faster and more cost-effective insolvency resolutions—was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, amid opposition uproar over demands for a debate on the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. Sitharaman proposed sending the bill to a Select Committee, a motion that was approved by the House. According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons, the proposed amendments aim to reduce delays, maximize value for all stakeholders, and improve governance of processes under the Code. They seek to modify existing provisions to align with the Code’s objectives and introduce new provisions based on global best practices for resolving insolvency. Among other measures, the legislation introduces a creditor-initiated insolvency resolution process with an out-ofcourt mechanism for genuine business failures to speed up resolutions and minimize business disruption. Once implemented, this is expected to ease the burden on judicial systems, improve the ease of doing business, and enhance access to credit. August 15, 2025 Friday Dr. Babu Stephen Elected as Global President of World Malayalee Council Dr. Babu Stephen From page 1 tinues to import Russian chemicals and fertilisers. In a surprising twist — on August 6 — President Donald Trump claimed he had “no knowledge” that the US was still importing such products from Russia. That comment came just after India alleged that the United States continues to import uranium hexafluoride for its nuclear industry — along with fertilisers and other chemicals — all from Russia. A day later, on August 7, a senior US administration official confirmed that Russian chemical imports were indeed still entering the American market. But the official dismissed comparisons, stating that India imports billions of dollars’ worth of Russian goods, while US imports remain “modest.” The same official went further, accusing India of “intentionally taking advantage” of the ongoing war in Ukraine. F o l l o w i n g Trump’s announcement of a steep 50% tariff on Indian goods linked to trade with Russia, New Delhi issued a swift and pointed response. India’s Ministry of External Affairs called the US move “extremely unfortunate.” In an official statement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said: “India will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests.” New Delhi has also labelled the US tariffs as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” (ANI) Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha, to Be Examined by Select Committee The bill also proposes frameworks for “group insolvency” and “cross-border insolvency.” The group insolvency framework aims to efficiently resolve cases involving complex corporate group structures, minimizing value loss from fragmented proceedings and maximizing creditor returns through coordinated decision-making. The cross-border insolvency framework seeks to protect stakeholder interests in both domestic and foreign proceedings, promote investor confidence, and align Indian practices with international standards. It is also expected to improve recognition of Indian insolvency proceedings in other jurisdictions, according to the statement. (ANI) 9 been recognized for his commitment to the IndianAmerican community, receiving the NAMAM Excellence Award in 2018 for his contributions to business and community service. In his acceptance speech as WMC President, he highlighted the Indian diaspora’s achievements: “We have accomplished so much in every sphere—business, politics, medicine, science, and the arts. But this is just the beginning. Our shared heritage and unity will take us even further.” Rs. 1 Crore Scholarship Initiative for Nursing Students One of the highlights of the Bangkok conference was the announcement of a Rs. 1 crore scholarship program for female students from Kerala pursuing nursing studies abroad. The initiative, announced by Dr. Stephen, will initially benefit 100 students, selected by a committee representing Kerala’s 14 districts. Application guidelines and eligibility details will be released shortly. Outgoing Global Secretary General Dinesh Nair described the program as “a landmark step in empowering young women through education and strengthening Kerala’s global healthcare footprint.” Global Conference Brings Together the Malayalee World The Bangkok conference brought together over 565 delegates from countries including the U.S., Canada, Australia, several Middle Eastern nations, and India. P r o m i n e n t attendees included MP John Brittas, former MP K. Muraleedharan, MLA Saneesh Kumar, actress Sona Nair, and poet Murugan Kattakkada. The multi-day event featured cultural performances, leadership summits, and networking forums, all aimed at strengthening global Malayalee unity. About the World Malayalee Council Founded in 1995 in New Jersey, WMC is a non-sectarian, nonpolitical organization with a presence in over 53 countries. Its mission is to unite Malayalees worldwide, preserve cultural heritage, and foster mutual cooperation in economic, cultural, and social spheres. The organization operates through: • A Global Council for strategic leadership. • Six Regional Councils – covering America, Europe, Africa, Middle East, India, Far East, and Australia. • Provincial Councils serving local communities. • WMC also runs the Indian Worldwide Chamber of Commerce, connecting Malayalee entrepreneurs worldwide, and maintains a Global Office and Pravasi Service Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Looking Ahead With Dr. Babu Stephen’s election, WMC is set to expand its reach, enhance educational initiatives, and strengthen cultural bonds among Malayalees across the globe. His vision promises to blend business expertise with cultural leadership, ensuring that WMC continues to be both a global networking hub and a catalyst for social good. “This is a new chapter for WMC,” Dr. Stephen said. “Our heritage is our strength, and our unity is our future.”
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