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January 14, 2025

Tax relief may be Modi govt's strong message

NEW DELHI: The budget is likely to unveil several measures to support demand and prop up growth, recognising that the slowing economy needs help. The measures being considered include tax relief for the middle class, tariff measures to shield the industry from the adverse external environment, and initiatives to foster job creation and private investment, among others, said people familiar with the deliberations.A meeting in the Prime Minister’s Office last week discussed broad contours of the budget and more will be held to firm up details, they said.Budget 2025: Sitharaman likely to give India’s ‘aam aadmi’ what they want?The budget for FY26 will be presented on February 1.Buoyed by electoral wins in Maharashtra and Haryana, the Narendra Modi government is keen to deliver a stron

January 14, 2025

States' farm loan waiver dues crunch banks

Farm loan waiver dues from state governments are hampering banks in stepping up credit to priority sectors such as agriculture and rural development, said officials."Fiscal irresponsibility in managing farm loan waivers is straining both state economies and the banking sector," said one of the officials, who did not wish to be identified, adding that states have been announcing populist measures without considering their fiscal implications.The uncertainty and delays in reimbursements disrupt the operational efficiency of banks, eroding trust in state policies, a bank executive said on condition of anonymity. Delayed or absent reimbursements lead to liquidity crunch and choke their capacity to extend credit, he added.The Telangana government owes ₹20,865 crore to public sector and region

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