Changes to Income Tax Exemptions in the New Tax Regime

Reports suggest that the government is considering revising income tax exemptions, but the benefits will be exclusive to the New Tax Regime. Two significant changes are anticipated: an increase in the standard deduction limit and an expansion of the 20% tax slab, targeting relief for middle- and high-income taxpayers.

1. Increase in Standard Deduction Limit

The current standard deduction limit in the New Tax Regime stands at ₹75,000. Sources indicate that this could be raised to ₹1 lakh in Budget 2025. Last year, the deduction was increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. If implemented, taxpayers could reduce their taxable income by up to ₹1 lakh, directly lowering their tax burden. This change would benefit both salaried employees and pensioners, leaving more money in their hands.

2. Expansion of the 20% Tax Slab

The government is also expected to widen the scope of the 20% tax slab under the New Tax Regime. Currently, taxpayers earning between ₹12 lakh and ₹15 lakh are taxed at 20%. However, the government may extend this bracket to incomes up to ₹20 lakh. This revision would significantly reduce the tax liability for individuals earning between ₹15 lakh and ₹20 lakh, providing much-needed relief to middle- and high-income groups.

Final Decision Rests with PMO

While these potential changes are promising, the final decision will be taken by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). According to sources, the Finance Ministry has submitted a report suggesting that making the New Tax Regime more attractive is essential for phasing out the old tax system. The report emphasizes the need to enhance existing exemptions within the New Tax Regime, which currently offers tax-free income up to ₹7 lakh and limited deductions.

Fiscal Deficit Remains a Key Challenge

The Union Budget will be presented on February 1, marking Finance Minister Sitharaman’s eighth consecutive budget and the Modi government’s second full budget in its third term. Economists have highlighted the importance of controlling the fiscal deficit, which is projected to be 4.9% for the current financial year. The government aims to reduce this figure to below 4.5% by 2026, balancing fiscal discipline with taxpayer relief.

Stay tuned for Budget 2025, as these potential changes could mark a significant step toward a more taxpayer-friendly economy!

The statement issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) highlighted that its sub-committee decided to implement all actions under Stage III (‘Severe Air Quality’) and Stage IV (‘Severe+ Air Quality’) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect. Additionally, the previously enforced Stage I and II measures will continue to remain in effect.

The CAQM emphasized that “all actions under the GRAP schedule will be enforced, monitored, and reviewed by relevant agencies across NCR to ensure the AQI does not further deteriorate. Implementing agencies are advised to intensify their monitoring efforts. Citizens are urged to strictly adhere to the citizen charter under GRAP.”

Previously, on January 12, Stage 3 restrictions were lifted after rainfall in Delhi led to an improvement in AQI levels.

Impact of GRAP Stage 4 Restrictions: Online Classes and Vehicle Bans

Under Stage 4 restrictions, all construction activities are prohibited, the entry of non-essential polluting trucks into Delhi is banned, and schools—except for Grades 10 and 12—must transition to hybrid modes of instruction.

Non-essential diesel trucks are barred from entering Delhi, and locally registered BS-IV and older heavy diesel vehicles are restricted, except those providing essential services. During winters, Delhi-NCR enforces GRAP measures, classifying air quality into four stages:

• Stage 1 (Poor): AQI 201-300
• Stage 2 (Very Poor): AQI 301-400
• Stage 3 (Severe): AQI 401-450
• Stage 4 (Severe+): AQI above 450

Adverse meteorological conditions, vehicular emissions, stubble burning, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources lead to hazardous air quality levels in Delhi-NCR during winter months.

Chouhan recalled how India’s Constitution makers originally envisioned elections for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies to be held simultaneously at fixed five-year intervals. This system, which functioned effectively until 1967, was disrupted by the frequent misuse of Article 356, leading to the premature dissolution of state governments. Since then, elections in the country have become a year-round affair, with one poll following another, often overlapping and consuming administrative, financial, and political resources.

The minister pointed to recent examples, including the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, held just months before the Lok Sabha elections. He noted that the imposition of the Model Code of Conduct during these elections brought development work to a standstill. Administrative machinery, including officers, teachers, and police personnel, was diverted from their primary duties to manage the electoral process, delaying critical governance and disrupting essential services.

Chouhan also raised concerns about the economic burden of frequent elections. He emphasized that the funds spent on organizing repeated polls could be better utilized for public welfare projects. The constant election cycle, he added, forces political leaders to focus more on campaigning than on policymaking and governance, leaving little room to address long-term development goals.

The minister stressed that simultaneous elections would bring stability to the political landscape and allow governments to function efficiently. He urged policymakers to revisit the vision of the Constitution’s framers, who had intended for elections to be conducted in a well-structured, synchronized manner every five years. According to him, such a system would not only streamline governance but also ensure that public resources and attention are directed toward development rather than being consumed by electoral processes.

Chouhan’s remarks come at a time when the debate over “One Nation, One Election” is gaining momentum across political and academic circles. His call for action underscores the growing consensus that electoral reform is essential for India to achieve its developmental aspirations without unnecessary interruptions.

Today we are celebrating the 78th anniversary of Panchajanya. We are discussing eight major dimensions here and will continue such events and discussions in the future as well, added Mr. Hitesh Shankar, Editor, Panchajanya.

Mr. M.S. Tyagi, General Secretary of KKFI, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are thrilled to partner with Gravolite. Their unwavering commitment to quality reflects their dedication to the sport, and we are excited to have them as part of this landmark event.”

Mr. Sumit Bhatia, Chief Coach of the Kho Kho World Cup and the Indian team, added, “Athlete safety is our top priority, and having durable mats like those from Gravolite guarantees the protection of our players. We are confident that their products will meet the high standards of this global competition.”

Paras Maheshwari, Director of Gravolite, shared, “Our mats are crafted with the highest quality materials to meet international standards. We are proud to support the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 with our superior products, ensuring athletes have a safe and reliable surface to compete on.”

This partnership is a testament to Gravolite’s dedication to enhancing the standards of sports equipment, ensuring a safe and world-class experience for athletes, and fostering excellence in sports globally.

About Gravolite

Gravolite was founded in 1980 and is the leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance competitive sports flooring for multiple sports. The extensive experience of curating products to enhance performance for both the sports sector and the sportspersons has given Gravolite an international threshold to be known as one of the biggest, recognizable and appreciated companies across the sports Industry. For more: https://www.gravolite.com/

The adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems has enhanced crop yields across multiple crops, including wheat, sugarcane, and vegetables. Farmers using these systems have reported yield improvements ranging from 25% to 40%, depending on the crop type, with superior quality and consistency in produce.

Micro-irrigation has revolutionized fertilizer applications through 98% precision in fertigation. On average, farmers have reduced their fertilizer costs by ₹4,000–₹7,000 per hectare, minimizing waste and improving soil health.

With water resources under strain, the implementation of Premier Irrigation’s systems has resulted in saving approximately 22-30 million liters of water annually in the two states. By delivering water directly to the root zones, the systems ensure minimal evaporation and runoff, achieving up to 60% water savings.

Farmers have observed a 50% decline in weed growth due to targeted water delivery. This has reduced labor costs for manual weeding by ₹1,500 per hectare and decreased herbicide usage by 30%, lowering overall production costs.

The systems also offer additional benefits such as 15-20% energy sav

ings due to low-pressure operation and improved soil health, with over 80% of farmers reporting better soil conditions due to reduced erosion and nutrient leaching

Premier Irrigation has conducted over 500 workshops, Farmers meeting and field demonstrations, training 9256 farmers on the proper use and maintenance of micro-irrigation systems. These programs have increased adoption rates by 25% year-over-year, with significant farmer satisfaction.

In partnership with state agricultural departments and local cooperatives, Premier Irrigation has expanded the reach of micro-irrigation systems, contributing to a 10% growth in agricultural sustainability metrics in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. These efforts are expected to create a ripple effect, influencing practices in neighboring states.

Mr. Ram Prakash, a farmer from district Charkhi Dadri, Haryana remarked, “My wheat yield has increased by 25%, and I’ve saved 60% on water usage since switching to micro-irrigation (mini sprinkler). This technology has transformed my farming practices.”

Mr. Shivram, a farmer from Unnao district in Uttar Pradesh, remarked, “My tomato yield has increased by 20%, and I’ve saved 70% on water usage since switching to drip irrigation on my one-acre land. After seeing the benefits of drip irrigation, I have installed it on an additional 0.5 hectares. This technology has truly transformed my farming practices.”

Premier Irrigation Adritec continues to drive innovations that enhance resource efficiency, increase farm profitability, and support sustainable agriculture. With an ambitious goal of reaching 25,000 farmers by 2025, the company is setting a new benchmark in agricultural technology.

Reference:

1. Impact Analysis of Micro Irrigation System (MIS) on Yield, Water, Fertilizer Saving, and Farmer’s Economy

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328507495_Impact_Analysis_of_Micro_Irrigation_System_MIS_on_Yield_Water_Fertilizer_Saving_and_Farmer’s_Economy

2. Impact on Crop Yields and Water Productivity

https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-03/Efficiency%20of%20Micro-Irrigation%20in%20economizing%20water%20use%20in%20India%20Learning%20from%20potential%20and%20under%20explored%20states.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com

3. Water Conservation, Reduction in Weed Growth, Enhanced Fertilizer Use Efficiency,

https://pmksy.gov.in/microirrigation/Archive/August2015.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com

4. MICRO IRRIGATION

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2003188

5. Water Savings Per Hectare

https://icar.org.in/

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Smt. Krishna Chakraborty, Mayor of Bidhannagar; Sri. Sanjay Agarwal, President of Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad; Sri. Lalit Beriwala, Chairman of Trust Board of Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad; Sri. Amit Poddar, Secretary of Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad; Sri. Pradeep Todi, IPP of Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad & many other eminent personalities.

On the inaugural day, a grand Kalash Yatra was carried out from the CJ Block temple to the event venue, witnessing a large gathering of both men and women. Members of the organizing committee were also present, making it a significant occasion.

Sri. Sanjay Agarwal, President of the Saltlake Cultural Parliament, in his speech, invited more and more people to participate in this seven-day Shri Chaitanya Bhagwat Katha and absorb the essence of the divine story to accumulate immense spiritual merit. He acknowledged the overwhelming presence of devotees on the first day as a sign of the event’s success and its significant impact.

The event will continue at DJ-5, Oppst Central Park Mela Ground, Saltlake, from January 10 to 16, 2025, every day from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Key Differences Between SSY and SIP

Advantages of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)

1. Tax Benefits: SSY offers triple tax advantages under the EEE category:
   • The amount deposited is tax-deductible.
   • The interest earned is tax-free.
   • The maturity amount is entirely tax-exempt.
2. Fixed Returns: SSY provides a guaranteed return, currently 8.2% annually.
3. Eligibility: You can only invest if your daughter is below 10 years old.
4. Investment Limit: You can invest up to ₹1.5 lakh annually in SSY.

Disadvantages of SSY

• The investment tenure is rigid: deposits for 15 years with maturity after 21 years.
• Withdrawal is restricted until maturity.

Advantages of SIP

1. Higher Returns Potential: The average return on SIPs is around 12%, with the possibility of even higher returns depending on market performance.
2. Flexibility: SIPs allow you to start, stop, or modify your investments at any time.
3. No Investment Cap: Unlike SSY, there’s no annual limit on how much you can invest.
4. Age Neutral: You can start an SIP in your daughter’s name at any age.

Disadvantages of SIP

• No guaranteed returns, as SIPs are market-linked.
• Tax benefits are limited compared to SSY.

Comparative Returns Analysis: SSY vs. SIP

SSY Returns

• Monthly investment: ₹5,000
• Annual investment: ₹60,000
• Total investment over 15 years: ₹9,00,000

With an interest rate of 8.2%, the total maturity amount after 21 years is ₹27,71,031. This includes ₹18,71,031 as interest.

SIP Returns

• Monthly investment: ₹5,000
• Annual investment: ₹60,000
• Total investment over 15 years: ₹9,00,000

At an average return of 12%, the results are as follows:

• After 15 years: ₹25,22,880 (₹16,22,880 as interest).
• After 21 years: ₹56,93,371 (₹44,33,371 as interest), with a total investment of ₹12,60,000.

Conclusion: Which Is Better?

• Choose SSY if you want guaranteed returns, tax savings, and a secure government-backed scheme. It’s ideal for risk-averse investors looking for steady growth.
• Choose SIP if you are comfortable with market risks and seek higher returns with investment flexibility. Over a 21-year horizon, SIP can potentially offer significantly higher returns compared to SSY.

By aligning your investment goals with the features of these schemes, you can make the best decision to secure your daughter’s future.

While addressing the public meeting, Mr. Luthra said that “This event has been organized to understand the problems of the public. People are upset and unhappy due to the neglect of this area by the current government. We will try to ensure the solution of all these problems.

Luthra ji said, Congress does what it says. When the Congress party comes to power with the support of you people, it will bring the “Pyaari Didi Yojana” in honor of women, under which women will be given Rs. 2500 every month in the meeting.

During the meeting, Mr Luthra also assured that if he gets the support of the public, development work will be given priority in this area. He talked about making a concrete action plan on issues like cleanliness and drainage system. Along with this, he appealed to the people to support the Congress party in the upcoming assembly elections and contribute to the development of the area. The active participation of the youth in the public meeting and their commitment towards solving the problems gave a positive message.

A significant highlight of GIRI Trading Agency’s participation was the launch of 13 eagerly awaited books during a special event. These publications encompass literature, spirituality, cultural heritage, and philosophical thought, underscoring the company’s commitment to promoting knowledge and preserving Indian traditions. Notable titles being launched include: The Hindu Festival, Thus Spake The Divine, Akkalkot Shri Swami Samarth Leelamruta, Vel MaaRal, The Murugan and Ganesha Gita, and more inspiring works.

GIRI Publications, the publishing division of GIRI Trading Agency, has solidified its reputation as a leading name in South India’s literary scene. With a portfolio of nearly 1,000 titles, many of which have become bestsellers, GIRI Publications is synonymous with quality and authenticity in the fields of spirituality, tradition, and culture. This milestone reflects the organization’s unwavering dedication to promoting knowledge and preserving India’s rich heritage.

The book launch event graced by a distinguished Chief Guest Mr. Sethu Chockalingam, President, Bapasi, Mr. T. S. Raghavan, Former Head – The Indian Bank, Mr. P. Swaminathan, Spiritual speaker, Mr. Kannan Bhattacharya, Spiritual speaker, Astrologer, Mr. Kannan, Religious and social worker, Member of Jana Kalyan, Mrs. Matangi Balaji, Author, Dr. Arivazhagan, Author and Mrs. Lakshmi Ravi, Author, Mr. Senthil, Member of Bapasi further elevating the importance of the occasion. The presence of these distinguished individuals added prestige to the occasion, drawing a diverse audience, including literary enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and cultural connoisseurs.

About Giri

Giri has become one of the trusted brands since 1951, establishing itself as a premier retailer of Spiritual and religious products in India. Renowned for its rich culture and tradition, Giri offers a wide range of books, music, pooja essentials, idols, Indian festivity products, organic food products, handicrafts, and traditional attire. Over its 70+ years of service, Giri has consistently met the spiritual needs of its customers.

With 36 showrooms across Indian states like Tamilnadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Puducherry, Maharashtra, New Delhi, and the United States of America. Giri also maintains a global presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates. In 2024, Giri received the most prestigious FICCI award for Women Empowerment for Women in Senior Management Role, and the “THE BEST TOURIST FRIENDLY SHOPPING CENTRE in TAMILNADU” award in 2019.

For further information, please contact: Giri Trading Agency Private Limited

Hyderabad Superstars will be led by renowned coach Jonny Andrews, popularly known as ‘Jonny Pickleball’. Jonny comes with extensive experience in the sport having been associated with Pickleball since 2016 and will get an opportunity to train a formidable roster, including Indian Pickleball sensation Kuldip Mahajan, who was part of the winning team at the WPC held in Mumbai. Joining Mahajan are international stars such as Max Freeman, Ava Cavataio, Ross Whittaker, Madalina Grigoriu, Karolina Owczarek, Ben Cawston, and Ludovica Sciaky.

Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO of the World Pickleball League expressed his enthusiasm, “We are excited to welcome KLO Sports as the owners of the Hyderabad Superstars. Their deep understanding of the Indian sports landscape will be invaluable to the league. With their commitment to excellence and passion for promoting sports at various levels, we are confident that KLO Sports will elevate the franchise to new heights. Together, we look forward to creating memorable experiences for our fans and contributing towards the vision and the grandeur of the World Pickleball League.”

Srinath Chittoori, Co-Owner of KLO Sports, stated, “Driven by sheer passion, we are always seeking unique and exciting opportunities in the world of sports, and World Pickleball League presented just that. Impressed by Gaurav and Arati’s plans and vision for the league and the rapid rise of the sport’s popularity in India, we decided to associate with the World Pickleball League as team owners. We believe that with our investment, we can help nurture local and upcoming talent while building a strong community of players and fans. Our aim extends beyond simply creating a competitive team; we want to foster an environment where everyone can come together to celebrate the sport, share their passion, and embrace the fun and camaraderie that pickleball brings.”

Mr. Sanjay Jupudi, Co-Owner of KLO Sports, added, “We are thrilled to embark on this journey into the exciting world of pickleball—a sport that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The World Pickleball League is a fantastic platform to elevate its popularity and discover exceptional talent across the country. Hyderabad, with its vibrant sporting culture, has embraced pickleball with enthusiasm, and we are honored to represent the city in this league, adding to its rich sporting legacy. This moment is especially meaningful to me. As a 12-year-old, I and my 10-year-old cousin unknowingly created a version of this game, making it all the more rewarding to see pickleball gain recognition in India. We look forward to contributing to its growth and success in the country.”

The World Pickleball League will commence on January 24th at the iconic Cricket Club of India (CCI) in Mumbai. The league will feature teams from Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.

About the World Pickleball League (WPBL)

The World Pickleball League (WPBL), promoted by Natekar Sports and Gaming, founded by former India Number 1 Tennis players, Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, is at the forefront of revolutionizing pickleball in India. WPBL is dedicated to transforming pickleball through exceptional events, engaging fan experiences, and fostering a vibrant pickleball community while setting new standards for the sport. Set to debut in January 2025 with six teams, WPBL will also sponsor grassroots tournaments in each franchise city to develop local talent. With Sony Corporation as an investor and partner, WPBL works closely with the All-India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which is affiliated with the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) in the USA.

For more information, visit www.wpbl.org or follow us on social media:

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