Current Affairs, 26 March 2025
Lok Sabha Approves Finance Bill 2025: Key Highlights and Economic Impact
The Lok Sabha has officially passed the Finance Bill 2025, marking a significant shift in India's financial and taxation policies. The bill introduces various reforms to simplify tax compliance, boost economic growth, and support business innovation.
The key highlights include a revised income tax structure that provides relief to middle-class taxpayers, incentives for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and policy adjustments aimed at increasing foreign direct investment (FDI). The bill also proposes a reduction in corporate tax rates, making India a more attractive destination for global businesses.
Additionally, there is an increased focus on digital taxation, with measures to ensure fair tax contributions from multinational tech companies operating in India. Analysts predict that these reforms will drive economic stability and create new job opportunities across multiple sectors.
Ex-Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba Joins NITI Aayog as a Full-Time Member
Rajiv Gauba, a veteran bureaucrat and former Cabinet Secretary, has been appointed as a full-time member of NITI Aayog. With a career spanning decades in various government departments, Gauba brings a wealth of experience in governance, economic planning, and public administration.
His appointment is expected to strengthen NITI Aayog’s role in formulating strategic policies for India’s development. Gauba has played a pivotal role in key national initiatives, including urban development, smart cities, and digital governance.
Experts believe that his leadership will contribute to more effective policy implementation, particularly in areas such as economic growth, employment generation, and sustainable infrastructure development.
Delhi Budget 2025-26: Major Investments in Infrastructure and Social Welfare
The Delhi government has unveiled a Rs 1 lakh crore budget for the 2025-26 financial year, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure development, social welfare programs, and economic growth.
Key allocations include significant investments in metro rail expansion, the redevelopment of roads and flyovers, and enhancements in healthcare services. The budget also focuses on improving education by modernizing government schools and increasing financial support for higher education scholarships.
Additionally, provisions have been made to boost small businesses and start-ups, particularly those led by women entrepreneurs. The government aims to strike a balance between economic progress and welfare initiatives to ensure inclusive development.
Supreme Court Forms National Task Force
Recognizing the increasing concerns around student mental health, the Supreme Court of India has established a National Task Force to develop effective policies and support mechanisms.
The task force will work on integrating mental health education into school curricula, training educators in mental health awareness, and providing students with access to professional counseling services.
With rising academic pressure and digital distractions affecting students' well-being, this initiative aims to create a more supportive and healthy learning environment. The government is also planning awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage students to seek help when needed.
Bellatrix Aerospace and Astroscale Japan Join Forces
In a major step towards sustainable space exploration, Indian space technology firm Bellatrix Aerospace has partnered with Japanese company Astroscale to tackle the growing issue of space debris.
With the increasing number of satellites being launched into orbit, space debris has become a critical concern for global space agencies. This collaboration focuses on developing innovative technologies for active debris removal, ensuring the long-term safety of space missions.
The partnership will leverage Bellatrix Aerospace’s advanced propulsion systems and Astroscale’s expertise in satellite servicing and debris removal. The initiative aims to prevent future satellite collisions, protect valuable space assets, and promote responsible space operations.