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What are the payment procedures for FPO or Agricultural Cooperative Society under Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion & Facilitation) Act, 2020?
An FPO or an agricultural co-operative society shall make payment to the farmer immediately after sale, but not later than fourteen days from the date of aggregation or purchase subject to the condition that the receipt of delivery shall be given to the farmer on the same day.
When FPO aggregates or buys the scheduled farmers' produce from farmer in the trade area and sells such produce in raw form itself, it shall make the payment immediately after such sale, but not later than three days from the date of aggregation or purchase, if procedurally so required, subject to the condition that the receipt of delivery shall be given to the farmer on the same day.
What is the Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure scheme?
It is common knowledge that there is a need to promote agriculture marketing infrastructure projects for reducing the involvement of intermediates and minimizing post-harvest losses. A robust agriculture marketing infrastructure will ensure better remuneration to farmers and supply of better quality products to consumers and processing industries. During the XII plan period, the estimated investment for marketing infrastructure and value chain development was $ 8.61 billion .
To address this need, the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation (DAC), Govt. of India has introduced the Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure (AMI) Scheme by merging the earlier GrameenBhandaranYojana (GBY) and the Scheme for Development/Strengthening of Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure, Grading and Standardization (AMIGS).
What is agricultural biotechnology?
Agricultural biotechnology is an advanced technology that allows plant breeders to make precise genetic changes to impart beneficial traits to the crop plants we rely on for food and fiber.
For centuries farmers and plant breeders have labored to improve crop plants. Traditional breeding methods include selecting and sowing the seeds from the strongest, most desirable plants to produce the next generation of crops. By selecting and breeding plants with characteristics such as higher yield, resistance to pests and hardiness, early farmers dramatically changed the genetic make-up of crop plants long before the science of genetics was understood. As a result, most of today's crop plants bear little resemblance to their wild ancestors.
The tools of modern biotechnology allow plant breeders to select genes that produce beneficial traits and move them from one organism to another. This process is far more precise and selective than crossbreeding, which involves the transfer of tens of thousands of genes, and provided plant developers with a more detailed knowledge of the changes being made.
What are the benefits of Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion & Facilitation) Act, 2020?
This Act empowers farmers to freely sell their produce from farm gate directly to the buyers/exporters/processors/retailers who are offering better prices as alternative to APMC Markets without paying any market fee in trade area. It will help to reduce transportation cost of farmers produce from the farm gate to the mandis. It will also help in reducing post-harvest losses. The farmers can now store their produce in warehouses after harvest and sell it directly from such warehouses at appropriate time at suitable prices without bringing the produce to APMC Markets for selling.
Under Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion & Facilitation) Act, 2020, corporate companies are also becoming entity as 'farmer'?
Corporate companies are not included in the definition of farmer in this Act. Only Farmer Producers Organizations (FPOs), which are registered under any law, are included under the definition of farmer apart from individual farmers.
What is National Automotive Board (NAB)?
National Automotive Board provides a single platform for dealing with all matters relating to the automotive sector especially on matters pertaining to testing, certification, homologation, administering the automotive labs.
What is National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020?
The National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020 (NEMMP 2020) is intended to provide the future roadmap, establish a common set of priorities, broad principles and framework for the adoption of the full range of electric mobility solutions. The initiative aims at enhancing national fuel security, provide affordable and environment-friendly transportation and enable the Indian Automotive Industry to achieve global manufacturing leadership.
What is NATrIPs (National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project)?
NATrIPs is a unique joining of hands between the Government of India, a number of State Governments and Indian Automotive Industry to create a state of the art Testing, Validation and R&D infrastructure in the country. Presently there are 7 testing facilities finalised. They are:
a) GARC Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
b) iCAT Manesar, Haryana.
c) NATRAX Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
d) NCVRS Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh.
e) NIAMIT Silchar, Assam.
f) VRDE Ahmednagar, Gujarat.
g) ARAI Pune, Maharashtra.
What is Automotive Mission Plan (AMP) 2016-2026?
Automotive mission plan 2016-2026 targets India to be among the top three in the world for engineering, manufacturing and export of vehicles & auto components. You can find more details about achievements, vision and targets on the portal, link.
Which are the concerned government divisions/services for auto and auto-parts?
The Department of Heavy Industries, Government of India, deals with areas related to vehicles and automotive parts. Entire Automotive industry falls under the concern of Heavy Industries Department.
For how long the incentives for the electric and hybrid vehicles of the FAME scheme are applicable?
The Union cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the proposal for implementation of scheme titled 'Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India Phase II (FAME India Phase II)' for promotion of Electric Mobility in the country from 2019-20 to 2021-2022
Is the FAME incentive applicable for multiple xEV purchases by a customer? Or is it possible to get subsidy for bulk orders on a single person's name or on single company's names?
Yes, an individual may buy multiple xEVs and avail the demand incentive applicable for each of them.
Please visit the link for more information.
It is said that Electric Vehicles (EV) are also called as Emission Elsewhere Vehicle (EEV). Is it true that EVs are just transferring emission from city area to the place where power is being generated?
The fact is that a typical conventional hatchback has 130-140 gm/km of CO2 emission comparing to an electric vehicle for 100 gm/km when charged by grid and when solar charged, there is ~0 gm/km CO2 emission from an electric vehicle.
What is the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of hybrid and Electric vehicles (FAME) scheme?
The FAME scheme introduced in April 2012 is to be implemented over a period of 6 years till 2020 to support hybrid/electric vehicles market development and its manufacturing. Under this scheme, demand incentives will be availed by buyers (end users/consumers) upfront at the point of purchase and the same shall be reimbursed by the manufacturers from Department of Heavy Industries, on a monthly basis.
Is it necessary to sold sell old gasoline based vehicles to get subsidy under FAME India Scheme?
No, there is no such condition in the present guidelines.
For more information, please visit the following link.
How do citizen avail the demand incentive on the purchase of a xEV?
The demand incentive benefit will be passed on to the consumer upfront at the time of purchase of the xEV itself by way of paying reduced price.
Are Electric and Hybrid Vehicles available in the market are safe to drive?
Demand incentive under FAME India scheme is available only to vehicles that are regulated by the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) and meet other qualifying criteria laid out in the FAME scheme. As such these vehicles meet all the safety regulations as applicable in the country.
Is the FAME incentive applicable throughout the country?
Presently scheme is applicable in selected areas like as notified separately broadly covering following cities:
a) Cities under 'Smart Cities' initiatives.
b) Major metro agglomerations – Delhi NCR, Greater Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad.
c) All State Capitals and other Urban Agglomerations/Cities with 1 Million+ population (as per 2011 census)
d) Cities of the North Eastern States.
However, for 2 and 3 wheeler, scheme is applicable in entire country.
Which electric vehicles categories are not covered under this FAME scheme?
The following categories are not covered under the FAME scheme:
a) E-Rikshaw
b) Electric Bicycles.
c) Vehicles used for carrying person/goods used within closed premises like factory, airport etc.
d) Electric Chair-cars.
All those vehicles, which are not directly reducing fossil fuel, are not covered under FAME India Scheme.
What is Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)?
Regional Connectivity Scheme aims to make flying affordable for the masses, to promote tourism, increase employment and promote balanced regional growth. It also intends to put life into un-served and under-served airports.
What are the major objective under National Policy on Civil Aviation 2016?
Major objectives under National Policy on Civil Aviation:
i) Establish an integrated eco-system which will lead to significant growth of civil aviation sector, which in turn would promote tourism, increase employment and lead to a balanced regional growth.
ii) Ensure safety, security and sustainability of aviation sector through the use of technology and effective monitoring.
iii) Enhance regional connectivity through fiscal support and infrastructure development.
iv) Enhance ease of doing business through deregulation, simplified procedures and e-governance.
v) Promote the entire aviation sector chain in a harmonised manner covering cargo, MRO, general aviation, aerospace manufacturing and skill development
What is the procedure to carry out cargo services related transactions electronically with AAI?
Any exporter/importer/Customs House Agents/Airlines etc. who wish to transact electronically with AAI, would be mandatory required to get register with AAI at http://aaiclas-ecom.org Registration is mandatory for Message Exchange activities also.
Registration Process:
User has to fill up the physical registration form along with relevant documents and submit to Airports Authority of India (AAI). AAI would ascertain the correctness of the details submitted. Users are requested to fill valid E-Mail address and Phone Number(s) in Registration form to enable AAI to perform further communications regarding User ID and Password allocation. Users are requested to immediately change the password(s) assigned by AAI.
Non Registered Users are not restricted from functionalities pertaining to Consignment Status, Charges Calculation Estimate Sheet and Cargo Procedures. Same features are available for registered users. In addition, Registered Users enjoy the privilege of accessing functionalities related to Printing of Charge related Documents, Payment transactions and Pre- Deposit account related statements.
For more details please refer the link.
What is the procedure for seeking waiver of demurrage charges in import/ export?
All applications along with relevant documents for waiver of demurrage charges shall be submitted within 15 calendar days from the date the 'Passed out of charge' is issued by customs authorities. However, delay beyond 15 days for submission and upto 30 days would be considered by APD/GM(Cargo) & M(Ops) respectively with the reason for condonation of delay and local finance concurrence.
AAI has provisions for waiving demurrage charges accrued on export/import cargo, in deserving cases, as per laid down policy approved by the AAI Board. Salient features of the policy are as under:-
1. Acknowledge request of waiver submitted by hand, on the spot.
2. Process waiver applications within 15 days if within local powers, and 30 days in respect of cases referred to AAI Hqrs. where-ever all the relevant documents required are furnished along with applications.
3. Application for Waiver/Remission of demurrage charges to be made by the consignee/shipper within 15 days after the consignment is passed "Out of Charge" or "Let Export Order" by the Customs, to the Airport Director/ G.M.(Cargo)/Dy. General Manager(Cargo), AAI, at the respective airports. It should be accompanied with legible photocopies of relevant documents such as AWB, Bill of Entry (with Customs Examination Report, Pass "out of charge" etc.), Shipping Bill, Detention Certificate of statutory authority , if any.
4. The consignee/shipper can also make an Appeal to the AAI Appellate Authority for reconsideration of the order passed.
Copy of waiver policy is available with In-charge of Cargo Dept., AAI and on the website of AAI.
For further information please click here
What is the policy of Govt. of India on airport infrastructures?
As per the Govt. of India's Policy on Airport Infrastructures issued in December, 1999, no Greenfield airport will normally be allowed within a distance of 150 kms from the nearest existing airport. Where the Govt. decides to set up a new airport at such place through AAI on social economic consideration, even through the same is not economically viable, suitable grant-in-aid will be provided to AAI to cover both the initial capital cost as well as recurring losses.
For further information, please click here
Whether Passenger Service Fees (PSF) is levied to passengers fund development of new airports?
Passenger Service Fees (PSF) is levied to meet the expenditure on airport security and passenger facilities at the airports and it is not utilised to fund new development / upgradation of airports.
What is the Development Fee (DF) and why development fee is charged by airport operators?
Development Fee is a levy made under section 22A of the AAI Act, 1994, inter-alia, for funding or financing the cost of upgradation, modernization or development of the airport. The levy is in the nature of a "pre-funding" charge and is consistent with ICAO policies.
Which are the concerned industry associations for aviation sector?
Federation of Indian Airlines is the concerned industry association for aviation sector
What are the clauses under performance guarantee?
Some of the main clauses are as follows:
a) Airline operator must enter into a three year contract with the implementing agency.
b) Submit a performance guarantee fees of 5% of the total VGF amount.
c) Additional guarantee required for non-operational airports.
What are the proposal submission requirements of an airline / helicopter operator under the RCS?
As part of the the proposal submission, an applicant shall be required to submit information under the following categories, as may be specified in detail from time to time:
a) Information about the Applicant
b) Technical Proposal
c) Financial Proposal
Whether Banks are required to capture the details of ATMs in registration certificate as a 'place of business'?
No. Banks are not required to provide the details of ATMs while applying for registration. For the purposes of registration, ATM on its own does not constitute a place of business, as defined in the CGST Act, 2017.
Is it necessary for banks/ insurers to report the details of exempt and non-GST supplies in Table 8 of GSTR-1?
Yes. In the absence of any specific exemption to the banks/ insurers, the information is required to be provided in the said table.
Is a "Bill of Supply" to be issued by a bank for exempt services like interest on loans and advances, inter-se sale or purchase of foreign currency amongst banks?
As per clause (c) of sub-section (3) of section 31 of the CGST Act, 2017 read with Rule 49 of the CGST Rules, 2017, there is a requirement for issuance of bill of supply for supply of exempt services by Banks. It may be noted, however, that there is no need to issue a separate bill of supply in case any invoice or document has already been issued in accordance with the provisions of any other law. Further, in view of the provisions contained in sub-rule (5) of rule 54 of the CGST Rules, 2017, banks may issue any other document in lieu of bill of supply.
Would services provided by banks to RBI be also taxable?
Yes. Services provided by banks to RBI would be taxable as these are not covered by any of the exemptions or excluded from the purview of GST under the CGST Act, 2017 or under the IGST Act, 2017.
Is interest on debt instruments exempt from GST?
Yes. As debt instruments such as debentures, bonds etc. are in the nature of loans, interest thereon will be exempt from GST.
Whether insurance policies issued to Non-Resident Indians, where the premium is paid through the Non Resident External Bank account, will be 'export of services'?
No. The amounts paid from the Non-Resident External Accounts are paid in Indian Rupees and are not received in convertible foreign exchange. Therefore, the conditions for export of services as provided under section 2(6) of IGST Act, 2017 are not satisfied. Life Insurance services in such cases would be treated as inter-State supplies and subject to GST.
For more information, click here.
What is Health insurance?
The term health insurance is a type of insurance that covers your medical expenses. A health insurance policy is a contract between an insurer and an individual /group in which the insurer agrees to provide specified health insurance cover at a particular "premium".
What are the factors that affect Health Insurance premium?
Age is a major factor that determines the premium, the older you are the premium cost will be higher because you are more prone to illnesses. Previous medical history is another major factor that determines the premium. If no prior medical history exists, the premium will automatically be lower. Claim free years can also be a factor in determining the cost of the premium as it might benefit you with a certain percentage of the discount. This will automatically help you reduce your premium.
How much of the premium is used to purchase units?
The full amount of premium paid is not allocated to purchase units. Insurers allot units on the portion of the premium remaining after providing for various charges, fees and deductions. However, the quantum of premium used to purchase units varies from product to product.
The total monetary value of the units allocated is invariably less than the amount of premium paid because the charges are first deducted from the premium collected and the remaining amount is used for allocating units.
Would sale, purchase, acquisition or assignment of a secured debt constitute a transaction in money?
Sale, purchase, acquisition or assignment of a secured debt does not constitute a transaction in money; it is in the nature of a derivative and hence a security.
Are there any plans to help R&D in the biotechnology area?
The Department of Biotechnology and The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council have various schemes to support R&D through centres of excellence, industry partnerships and grants. The schemes are as follows:
Centres Of Excellence and Innovation in Biotechnology.
Research Resources, Service Facilities and Platforms.
Societal Development.
Biotech Parks and Incubators
Rapid Grant for Young Investigators
Glue Grant
Special Programmes-North-East region
Women Scientist Scheme
What is the National Biopharma Mission?
The NBM is an industry-academia collaborative mission for accelerating discovery research to early development for biopharmaceuticals innovate in India (I3). The aim of the mission is to enable and nurture an ecosystem for preparing India's technological and product development capabilities in biopharmaceutical to a level that will be globally competitive over the next decade, and transform the health standards of India's population through affordable product development. The department aims to achieve this through development of centres of excellence, strengthening of bio-clusters, creating shared infrastructure for product development, knowledge sharing etc.
To submit one's proposal under the NBM, access the following link with relevant details.
What are the benefits of Biotechnology?
This technology helps plants for pest resistance, helps plants to tolerate the stressful conditions like low temperature, drought, salt in soil, etc., helps to generate vaccines for the animals to fight against diseases, it is also used to produce pharmaceuticals etc.
What is the mandate of Department of Biotechnology?
The mandate is as follows:
1) Promote large scale use of Biotechnology.
2) Support R&D and manufacturing in Biology.
3) Responsibility for Autonomous Institutions.
4) Promote University and Industry Interaction.
5) Identify and Set up Centres of Excellence for R&D.
6) Integrated Programme for Human Resource Development.
7) Serve as Nodal Point for specific International Collaborations.
8) Establishment of Infrastructure Facilities to support R&D and production.
9) Evolve Bio Safety Guidelines, manufacture and application of cell based vaccines.
10) Serve as nodal point for the collection and dissemination of information relating to biotechnology.
Does BIRAC offer any capacity building support for researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs?
Yes, BIRAC conducts roadshows and Intellectual Property workshops to sensitize the target audiences about the BIRAC support for the entrepreneurs and relevance of intellectual property. It also provides a platform for the aspiring entrepreneurs to gain knowledge about effective grant writing skills from the experts in the domain.
Are BIOTECH projects approved by the Govt. of India ?
The portable plants, RCC digesters and waste to electricity plants which are designed and developed by BIOTECH have been approved by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India. So these types of plants installed in India are eligible for the subsidy from MNRE.
Does the Department offer any support to researchers in this sector? If yes, then at which stage of the research are they supported in?
Yes, the Department does offer support to researchers across all the stages of R&D - Ideation/ very early stage (SITARE, E-yuva), ideation to early stage (Biotechnology Ignition Grant Scheme (BIG)), ideation to late stage (Small Business Innovation Research Initiative (SBIRI)), (Biotechnology Industry Partnership Programme (BIPP)), translation (Promoting Academic Research Conversion to Enterprise (PACE)) and for social innovation (Social Innovation programme for Products: Affordable & Relevant to Societal Health) etc. This support is usually through awards, grants for research, provision of enabling platform for different stakeholders to collaborate and innovate. Usually, a researcher submits his/her proposal to Biotechnology Industry Assistance Council (BIRAC) based on which the support is provided.
Does the Government offer any grants or fellowships to the students in the biotechnology division?
The Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology offers various types of fellowships for students based on the level of education i.e. to encourage students who wish to pursue doctoral studies, post-doctoral studies. There is also an exchange programme between India and US in the field of biotechnology.
Does BIRAC also support in any exchange programs of researchers with other countries?
Yes, BIRAC and Centre of Entrepreneurial Learning (CEL) of Judge Business School, University of Cambridge have initiated a partnership that enables five BIRAC supported applicants to take part in CfEL's flagship intensive entrepreneurial boot-camp programme called "IGNITE", which is aimed at providing academics (PhDs, post-docs and scientists) entrepreneurial opportunities to explore their innovative ideas and transform them into a business project. CfEL provides one week intense mentorship and training to the BIRAC supported candidates and for second week encourage them to interact and learn from the Cambridge's entrepreneurial cluster.
What is Grand Challenges India (GCI)?
Grand Challenges is a family of initiatives fostering innovation to solve key global health and development. In 2012, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) signed an umbrella Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on mission-directed research and build Grand Challenges India to support health research and innovation which is the GCI. Under the GCI, proposals are called under various relevant topics on innovative solutions to help expand the pipeline of ideas to develop new preventions, therapies and interventions in this sector.
What is the funding pattern under TAFP?
Department of Heavy Industry has been instrumental in setting up Capital Goods Skill Council. Through this organization National Skill Standards are being notified with the purpose of defining skill needs of the industry. This way training institutions will be able to impart skills which are valued by employers in Industry. The Council has been targeted to benefit 10 million people in this way.
What is Technology Acquisition Fund Programme (TAFP)?
TAFP will provide financial assistance to Indian capital goods industry to facilitate acquisition of strategic and relevant technologies and also development of technologies through contract route, in-house route or JV.
What is the capital goods policy 2016?
National Capital Goods Policy is envisaged to provide ecosystem for capital goods growth and ensuring sustained incentive for domestic manufacturers to service domestic as well as export market demand.
What is Indian Electrical Equipment Industry Mission Plan 2012-2022?
The plan aims at assured availability of quality power at competitive rate which is a sine qua non for industrial and economic development.
For an efficient and developed power sector in a country of India's size, a strong domestic electrical equipment manufacturing base is essential.
Is there a focus on start-ups in capital goods sector?
One of the key recommendations of the National Capital Goods Policy is To create a 'Start-up Center for Capital Goods Sector' shared by Department of Heavy Industries and Capital Goods industry/industry association in 80:20 ratio to provide an array of technical, business and financial support resources and services to promising start-ups in both the manufacturing and services space.
What is Capital Goods in GST?
As per section 2(19) of CGST Act, Capital Goods means goods, the value of which is capitalized in the books of account of the person claiming the input tax credit and which are used or intended to be used in the course or furtherance of business.
What is the meaning of 'Unavailed Cenvat Credit of Capital goods' for the purpose of GST Act and Rules?
The expression 'unavailed CENVAT credit' means the amount that remains after subtracting the amount of CENVAT credit already availed in respect of capital goods by the taxable person under the existing law from the aggregate amount of CENVAT credit to which the said person was entitled in respect of the said capital goods under the existing law. For example, as per the existing provision of Cenvat Credit Rule, Cenvat credit on capital goods can be availed @ 50% on the year of purchase and 50% can be availed at any other subsequent year from the year of purchase. There is possibility that the unavailed cenvat credit be there on the appointment day.
What is DHI Capital Goods Scheme?
The DHI Capital Goods Scheme is a pilot scheme designed to support the industry to modernize technologies from current status to global level and beyond. For this two windows are provided. For those technologies, which are commercially not available for transfer, indigenous development at IITs and like institutions by a consortium of technology seekers grants support given upto 80% of the cost of development subject to maximum of $ 15.38 million per case within a budget of $ 38.46 million. Those technologies, which are commercially available and can be acquired by a company or a group of companies the scheme provides grant support upto 25% of the technology acquisition costs or $ 1.53 million whichever is less, within an overall budget of $ 7.69 million.
The scheme also supports establishment of Common Engineering Facilities by a group of user industries. Upto 80% of the project cost could be given as grants. The Scheme also supports setting up one each of Test Centre for Earthmoving & Construction Equipments and Industrial Park. ( 100% upto $ 15.38 million and upto 80% subject to maximum of $ 19.23 million).
Who can apply for DHI Capital Goods Scheme?
Generally, a group of industry beneficiaries can make a proposal. Technology developers or infrastructure SPVs could also make a proposal which includes Central/State PSUs.
Where are the forms for 'project import scheme' available?
The general information and related forms relating to application for seeking concessional rate of customs duty under 'Project Import' Scheme can be found at the following link.
What is CWC?
Chemical Weapons Convention is universal non-discriminatory, multilateral, disarmament treaty that bans the development, production, acquisition, transfer, use and stockpile of all chemical weapons. The treaty puts all the States Parties on an equal footing. Countries having stockpiles of chemical weapons are required to declare and destroy them in a specified time frame and those who produce and use chemicals that can be easily converted into chemical weapons have to be open and transparent about the use of such weapons.
For more details, please visit the following link.
What is the FDI limit in chemical sector?
100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is allowed under the automatic route in the chemicals sector.
What are OCPFs?
OCPFs comprise of two different categories of organic chemicals and these are Discrete Organic Chemicals (DOCs) and PSF chemicals.
Who are the key stakeholders under Chemicals sector in India?
Apart from Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers (Govt. of India), some of the important industry associations are as follows: -
Alkali Manufacturers Association of India
Association of Synthetic Fibre Industry
Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturers Association
Crop life India Dye Manufacturers Association of India
Indian Chemical Council
Indian Speciality Chemical Manufacturers Association
Organization of Plastic Processors of India
The All India Plastic Manufacturers' Association
What is a DOC?
Discrete organic chemical is defined as any chemical belonging to the class of chemical compounds consisting of all compounds of carbon except for its oxides, sulfides and metal carbonates, identifiable by chemical name, by structural formula, (if known) and by Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry number (if assigned). For instance: Acetic Acid ,Ethanol.
What are the objectives of the scheme for setting up of plastic parks in India?
The major objectives of the scheme are:
1) Increase the competitiveness, polymer absorption capacity and value addition in the domestic downstream plastic processing industry through adaptation of modern, research and development led measurers.
2) Increase investments in the sector through additions in capacity and production, creating quality infrastructure and other facilitation to ensure value addition and increase in exports.
3) Achieve environmentally sustainable growth through innovative methods of waste management, recycling, etc.
4) Adopt a cluster development approach to achieve the above objectives owing to its benefits arising due to optimization of resources and economies of scale.
What is the meaning of SCOMET?
SCOMET is an acronym for Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies.
What are dual-use goods and technologies?
Dual-use items are goods, software, technology, chemicals etc. which can be used for both civil and military applications. Such items require an authorization for exporting out of the country. India's list of items which need an export license is known as the SCOMET list.
Please visit the following link for more information.
Is export of SCOMET items regulated?
Yes, export of items in the SCOMET list is regulated as per India's Foreign Trade Policy. Export is either prohibited or is permitted under an authorization.
For more details, please visit the link.
What is Cluster Development Scheme (CDS)?
Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has announced the Scheme for Cluster Development Programme for Pharma Sector in July 2014 to enhance quality, productivity and innovative capabilities of the SME pharma sector in the country.
What is Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana/National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM)?
National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM) was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (MHUPA), Government of India in 24th September, 2013 by replacing the existing Swarna Jayanti Shahari RozgarYojana (SJSRY).The NULM will focus on organizing urban poor in their strong grassroots level institutions, creating opportunities for skill development leading to market-based employment and helping them to set up self-employment venture by ensuring easy access to credit. The Mission is aimed at providing shelter equipped with essential services to the urban homeless in a phased manner.
What is Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016?
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 is an Act of the Parliament of India which seeks to protect home-buyers as well as help boost investments in the real estate industry. The Act came into force from 1 May 2016. The key highlights of the act are:
1) Mandatory to register with Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) for all commercial and residential real estate projects where the land is over 500 square metres, or eight apartments for launching a project, in order to provide greater transparency in project-marketing and execution.
2) Registration of Real estate agents who facilitate selling or purchase of properties with RERA
3) Establish state-level Real Estate Regulatory Authorities (RERAs) to regulate transactions related to both residential and commercial projects and ensure their timely completion and handover.
4) Upon receipt of an application by the promoter, the Regulator Authority shall within a period of 30 days, grant or reject the registration. If the Regulatory Authority fails to grant or reject the application of the promoter within the period of 30 days, then the project shall be deemed to have been registered.
5) The registration, if granted, will be valid until the period of completion of the project as committed by the promoter to the Regulatory Authority. Extension by one year only due to force majeure and on payment of fee.
What are various components of NULM?
The following are the 7 components of NULM:
1) Social Mobilization and Institution Development (SM&ID).
2) Employment through Skills Training and Placement (EST&P).
3) Capacity Building and Training (CBT).
4) Self-Employment Programme (SEP).
5) Scheme of Shelter for Urban Homeless (SUH).
6) Support to Urban Street Vendors (SUSV).
7) Innovative and Special project (ISP).
Who can raise money through Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs)?
Following are the qualifications for Sponsor(s) of raising Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs)
1) Net worth of at least $ 15.38 mn in case of body corporate or a company or net intangible assets of $ 15.38 mn in case of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).
2) Minimum experience of at least five years and has completed at least two projects.
For further details, please refer to this link.
What is the support provided to Urban street vendors under NULM?
NULM aims at skilling of street vendors, support for micro-enterprises development, and their credit enablement. It also supports development of vendor market, vending zone & informal sector markets with infrastructure/civic facilities such as paving, water supply, solid waste disposal facility, lighting, storage space etc.
Who can raise money through Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)?
Following are the qualifications for Sponsor(s) of raising Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs):
1) Minimum holding of 5% of total units of REIT with a maximum of 3 sponsors.
2) Net worth of at least $ 15.385 mn on consolidated basis and $ 3.077 mn on individual basis.
3) Minimum experience of 5 years in real estate industry for each sponsor and where sponsor is a developer, at least 2 projects of sponsor should be completed.
What does India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited do?
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) provides long-term funding for infrastructure projects in India.
What are investment opportunities under Swachh Bharat Mission?
Swachh Bharat Mission aims to create a clean India by October 2, 2019, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, by constructing 12 million toilets in rural India, at a projected cost of INR 1.96 lakh crore ($ 29 billion). Government provides an incentive of INR 15,000 ($ 220) for each toilet constructed by a BPL family.
What is Smart City initiative by GOI?
The Smart Cities Mission is an urban renewal and retrofitting program by the Government of India with the mission to develop 100 smart cities across the country making them citizen friendly and sustainable.
What is 'Housing for ALL' (urban) scheme of Government of India?
'Housing for All by 2022' (Urban) scheme of Government of India covers entire urban area consisting of 4041 statutory towns of India. Under this scheme, central grant of $ 1538 per house, on an average, will be available under the slum rehabilitation programme.
What is the defence sector overview in recent times?
The Achievement report of the defence sector covering policy initiatives, R&D and other important areas can be accessed on the link.
Is there funding provided by the government for certain categories?
Yes, projects under 'Make-I' sub-category involves Government funding of 90%, released in a phased manner and based on the progress of the scheme, as per terms agreed between MoD and the vendor.
Are the any incentives for MSMEs under DPP?
DPP 2016 provides great impetus to the MSMEs with certain categories of 'Make' products earmarked exclusively for MSMEs.
How are the capital acquisition schemes classified under DPP?
Capital Acquisition schemes are broadly classified as 'Buy', 'Buy and Make' and 'Make'. In decreasing order of priority the procurement of defence equipment, under this procedure are categorised as follows:
1) Buy (Indian - IDDM).
2) Buy (Indian).
3) Buy and Make (Indian).
4) Buy and Make.
5) Buy (Global).
What is the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016?
The DPP is formulated to ensure timely procurement of military equipment, systems and platforms as required by the Armed Forces in terms of performance capabilities and quality standards, through optimum utilisation of allocated budgetary resources. It is worthwhile to mention that the document is not merely a procurement procedure but also an opportunity to improve efficiency of the procurement process to realize the vision of 'Make in India' in the defence sector.
How many JVs/ FDI proposals have been approved in the defence sector so far?
Since May, 2001 after opening the defence production sector for 100% participation in private sector, so far 36 JVs/FDI proposals have been approved for manufacture of wide range of licensable defence items.
What is the FDI inflow in the defence sector since the opening for Private Participation?
As per the FDI statistics available at DIPP's website, an FDI inflow of $ 5.12 million (INR 25.51 crores) has been received in the country till September 2017 (as per data available on DIPP's website).
Which is the Administrative Ministry for the grant of extension for Defence Industrial Licence? Where should the company apply for extension of Defence Industrial License?
Ministry of Defence, Department of Defence Production is the Administrative Ministry for grant of extension of Industrial licence under the I(D&R) Act, 1951 to the private sector. The Company may send their IL extension application to Contract Purchase Officer, Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, D(DIP) Section, Sena Bhawan, New Delhi.
What is the permissible FDI limit in the defence sector?
According to the revised guidelines, Foreign Investment Cap upto 49% is allowed through automatic route and beyond 49% under Government route, wherever it is likely to result in access to modern technology or for other reasons to be recorded. The foreign investment in defence sector is further subject to industrial license under the Industries (Development & Regulation Act), 1951.
What is the period for making an application under the PLI scheme?
In accordance with Para 6.1 of the Scheme, the Application Window shall be 4 months from the date of notification of the Scheme. Since the notification was published on 01.04.2020, applications under the Scheme shall be received upto 31.07.2020.
Can specified electronic components eligible under the Scheme be manufactured for any industry or application?
The items listed under the Target Segment, 'Specified Electronic Components' are agnostic to end-use or application and any company proposing to manufacture the items listed under the Specified Electronic Components (refer Annexure 1 of the PLI Guidelines) is eligible to apply under PLI Scheme subject to other eligibility and qualification criteria mentioned in the scheme notification and PLI guidelines.
What is the duration of the SPECS scheme?
SPECS shall be open for receiving applications for a period of 3 (three) years from the date of notification. Since the scheme was notified on 01.04.2020, applications under the scheme, complete in all respects, shall be received upto 31.03.2023. No application received after three years from the date of notification of the Scheme shall be considered for approval.
Will capital expenditure made before the date of application also be considered for determining eligible capital expenditure under SPECS?
Capital expenditure made on or after the date of acknowledgement of an application and within 5 years of date of acknowledgement of such application shall only be considered for determining eligible capital expenditure under the Scheme. Capital expenditure made before the date of acknowledgement of application under the Scheme shall not be considered for calculation of eligible capital expenditure under the Scheme. However, Capital expenditure made before the date of acknowledgement of application, but on or after the date of application, on the approved list of capital items, shall be considered for calculation of threshold.
Will the expenditure incurred on Land and Building be considered towards determining eligible capital expenditure under SPECS?
No, the expenditure incurred on land and building (including factory building / construction) required for the project / unit is not covered and, therefore, will not be considered towards determining eligible capital expenditure under the Scheme.
Can an applicant make more than one application under SPECS?
There is no restriction on any applicant from making multiple applications under the Scheme. A Project / Unit proposed under the Scheme may include manufacturing facilities at one or more proposed locations.
Can there be more than one Anchor Unit in an Electronics Manufacturing Cluster project as per the EMC 2.0 scheme?
There can be more than one Anchor Units for the purpose of fulfilling the criteria of minimum investment commitment and land purchase / lease as per Clause 2.1 of the Scheme Guidelines.
Can a Common Facility Center be built within a new Electronics Manufacturing Cluster project and claim benefits under the EMC 2.0 Scheme for both?
Yes. A CFC can be built within a new EMC project. However, the financial assistance eligible for such CFC will be considered as a part of the overall EMC Project and will be in accordance with the Scheme Guidelines.
Is the total size of Ready Built Factory (RBF) sheds limited to 10% as under the EMC 2.0 scheme?
10% of the total saleable / leasable land area is the minimum requirement. The Project Implementation Agency may decide to earmark additional area for Ready Built Factory sheds depending upon the market / industry requirements.
What is Electronics Development Fund Policy?
Electronics Development Fund Policy provides a framework to set up an Electronics Development Fund (EDF) as a Fund of Funds which will foster R&D and innovation in technology sectors like electronics, IT and nano-electronics. EDF will support Venture Funds and Angel Funds, which will be professionally managed and are dedicated to these sectors.
Is payment in cash for procurement, transportation/storage admissible under Operations Green Scheme?
No, payment for procurement, transportation and storage charges should be made only through banking channel.
For Mega food park, does the land needs to be changed from Agricultural to Industrial?
Yes, it is mandatory to have Change of Land Use (CLU). CLU is not required in case the land is already in a designated industrial area.
Whether new crop and/or new production cluster can be added in the list under the Operation Greens scheme?
Yes, with the recommendation of respective State Government along with requisite details of production and average price data during peak harvesting period for last three years, the same will be considered by Ministry.
How will food processors benefit under the Operations Green Scheme?
Food Processors are named as one of eligible entity to undertake intervention under the scheme. Their eligible quantity for procurement of crops for subsidy purpose will be capped with reference to installed capacity of their processing plant.
The subsidy on transportation and/or storage of raw materials will reduce the cost of production for the food processor, which will make their products competitive and attractive in the market.
Where can the crops be stored (under Operations Green Scheme)?
Crops can be stored at any suitable Storage such as licensed warehouse or Cold Storage, located at notified production clusters, consumption centers or any place en-route consumption center.
What is minimum land requirement for setting-up Mega Food Park?
The minimum land required for setting-up a Mega Food Park is 50 acres of contiguous land and free from any kind of encumbrance. The selection of land needs to be justified in terms of connectivity and availability of basic infrastructure such as approach road, power, water etc. as also in terms of availability of raw materials/market.
Whether FASTag account statement can be submitted in place of toll tax receipts under Operation Greens Scheme?
Yes, due to prevalence of FASTag facility at toll plazas, FASTag account statement can be submitted in place of toll tax receipts.
Which are eligible entities under the Operations Green scheme?
Food Processors, FPO/FPC, Co-operative Societies, Individual farmers, Group of Farmers, Licensed Commission Agent, Exporters, State Marketing/ Co-operative Federation, Retailers etc. engaged in processing/ marketing of fruits and vegetables.
Whether purchases done before 11 June 2020 will also be allowed (under Operations Green Scheme)?
No, for claiming subsidy registration on the portal is mandatory, which has been started from 11 June 2020.
What are the commodities under the Warehousing development and regulatory authority?
The authority had approved 115 commodities including cereals, pulses, oil seeds, spices, rubber, tobacco, coffee, etc. for issuing negotiable warehouse receipts and also 26 perishable commodities for cold storage.
What is CGHS?
For the last six decades Central Government Health Scheme is providing comprehensive medical care to the Central Government employees and pensioners enrolled under the scheme. In fact CGHS caters to the healthcare needs of eligible beneficiaries covering all four pillars of democratic set up in India namely Legislature, Judiciary, Executive and Press. CGHS is the model Health care facility provider for Central Government employees & Pensioners and is unique of its kind due to the large volume of beneficiary base, and open ended generous approach of providing health care.
CGHS provides health care through following systems of Medicine:
1) Allopathic
2) Homoeopathic
3) Indian system of medicine
4) Ayurveda
5) Unani
5) Siddha
6) Yoga
What do you mean by Family Floater Policy?
Family Floater is one single policy that takes care of the hospitalization expenses of your entire family. The policy has one single sum insured, which can be utilised by any/all insured persons in any proportion or amount subject to maximum of overall limit of the policy sum insured. Quite often Family floater plans are better than buying separate individual policies. Family Floater plans takes care of all the medical expenses during sudden illness, surgeries and accidents.
What are the different options for availing CGHS services to pensioners?
Pensioners Residing in CGHS covered areas:
a) They can get themselves registered in CGHS dispensary after making requisite contribution and can avail both OPD and IPD facilities.
b) Such Pensioners are not eligible for Fixed Medical Allowance in lieu of CGHS.
Pensioners residing in non-CGHS areas:
i) They can opt for availing Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA) at $15.38 per month by not paying any contribution.
ii) They can also avail benefits of CGHS (OPD and IPD) by registering themselves in the nearest CGHS city after making the required subscription. In such cases no Fixed Medical Allowance is given.
iii) They also have the option to availing FMA for OPD treatment and CGHS only for IPD treatments after making the required subscriptions as per CGHS guidelines.
How developed is the healthcare industry in India for investments?
Healthcare is one of the most promising sectors to invest in India. Being the second largest population of world, India has ever rising demand of good healthcare and world-class facilities. Healthcare industry, which comprises hospitals, health insurance, medical devices, clinical trials, outsourcing, telemedicine and medical tourism, is a $150 Bn industry as of 2018 and is expected to reach $280 Bn by 2022
What is Ayushman Bharat?
Ayushman Bharat is a centre-operated health scheme which can potentially cover over 10 crores poor and underprivilege families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries)
a. It provides coverage of up to INR5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization
b. National Health Protection Mission will incorporate the GOI sponsored schemes - Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS)
c. To regulate expenses, treatment payments will be made on the grounds of the package price (to be established in advance by the government)
d. For policy directions and better co-ordination, Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Mission Council (AB-NHPMC) will be established at the apex stage, chaired by the Minister of Health and Family Welfare of the Union
e. The benefits of the scheme are portable throughout the country and a beneficiary covered by the scheme will be allowed to receive cashless benefits from any public / private hospital throughout the country
What are the trending technologies in India's healthcare industry that I can invest in?
There are various trending technologies which are being used in healthcare. Some of the key technologies are:
Robotic Process Automation (RPA): RPA can assist healthcare organizations in improving operational effectiveness, reduce expenses and restrict human error when handling data (such as Clinical documentation, Physician credentialing, Patient self-pay admin, Medicare billing, etc.)
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR): AR has reduced our dependence on dissections and has invented new ways to study human anatomy.
3D printing: It has found many uses in curing physical injuries, ranging from precise casts to accurate replacement of bionic parts.
IOT: IoT-enabled systems have revolutionized patient monitoring, Realtime tracking of equipment, effective use of hospital equipment and has increased transparency in health insurance
Application of Big data & analytics: Big data relates to the vast amount of information generated by digitizing all that is collected and evaluated through different techniques
Is there any healthcare related GOI scheme similar to Ayushman Bharat?
Other GOI initiatives:
Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana
National Tobacco Control Programme
Integrated Child Development Service
Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana
Pulse Polio
What are the Centrally Sponsored Schemes under Ayurvedic, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy?
Please find below the details of Centrally sponsored schemes under AYUSH:
National AYUSH Mission (NAM) comprising of:
(i) AYUSH Services
(ii) AYUSH Educational Institution
(iii) Quality Control of AYUSH Drugs
Who are entitled for Central Government Health Scheme facilities?
The entitled parties include
1) All Central Govt. employees and their dependant family members residing in CGHS covered areas.
2) Central Govt. Pensioners and their eligible family members getting pension from Central Civil Estimates
3) Sitting and Ex-Members of Parliament.
4) Ex-Governors & Lieutenant Governors.
5) Freedom Fighters.
6) Ex-Vice Presidents.
7) Sitting and Ex-Judges of Supreme Court & High Courts.
What is the objective of Cyber Surakshit Bharat Programme?
The objective of the programme is to educate & enable the Chief Information Security Officers(CISO) & broader IT community to address the challenges of cybersecurity.
i)Create awareness on the emerging landscape of cyber threats.
ii)Provide in-depth understanding on key activities,new initiatives,challenges and related solutions.
iii)Applicable frame works,guidelines & policies related to the subject.
iv)Share best practices to learn from success & failures.
v)Provide key inputs to take informed decision on Cyber Security related issues in the irrespective functional area.
For further details please access following link.
What is E-district?
The e-District Mission Mode Project (MMP) is envisaged to strengthen the district administration of the state by providing ICT support to the participating departments and district administration in terms of providing centralized software application for selected category of citizen services and training for staff of the departments with a view to improve delivery of the citizen services being rendered by these departments. Services developed under e-District project would be delivered through various delivery channels like:
i) Direct access by Citizens through e-District portal as a registered user.
ii) Existing Atal Jana Snehi Kendra's / B1 / K1 service centres.
iii) Common Service Centres (To be established uptoGrama Panchayat Level).
What is NeGP?
The Government approved the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP), comprising of 27 Mission Mode Projects and 8 components, on 18 May 2006. In the year 2011, 4 projects - Health, Education, PDS and Posts were introduced to make the list of 27 MMPs to 31Mission Mode Projects (MMPs). The Government has accorded approval to the vision, approach, strategy, key components, implementation methodology, and management structure for NeGP. However, the approval of NeGP does not constitute financial approval(s) for all the Mission Mode Projects (MMPs) and components under it. The existing or ongoing projects in the MMP category, being implemented by various Central Ministries, States, and State Departments would be suitably augmented and enhanced to align with the objectives of NeGP.
What is Digital India Initiative?
The Digital India Project is a formalized program initiated on 2 July 2015 by the Government of India. The project envisages a total digital transformation of society and a knowledge-based economy.
What are the steps taken by Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY) to support the growth of the sector?
The steps taken are as follows:
a) Infrastructure support: The Department has set up Information Technology Investment Regions (ITIRs). These regions are supported equipped with excellent infrastructure.
b) R&D promotion: 150% of expenditure incurred on in-house R&D is also available under the Income Tax Act.
In addition to the existing scheme for funding R&D projects, the department has put in place the 2 key schemes:
i) Support International Patent Protection in Electronics & IT (SIP-EIT).
ii) Multiplier Grants Scheme (MGS).
c) Tax incentives: Over the years, the Government has been taking steps to bring down the total taxation level on electronics hardware.
What are the three visions of Digital India?
The DI initiative has been planned into three vision areas:
Digital infrastructure as a utility to every citizen is the vison which mainly talks about high-speed internet, mobile phone and bank account, access to a common service centre, private space on cloud, secure cyberspace
Governance and services on demand focuses on integrated services, availability of services on mobile platform, portable citizen entitlements on cloud, geospatial information systems as decision support systems
Digital empowerment of citizens concentrates on digital literacy, digital resources, digital resources and services in Indian languages, collaborative digital platform, no physical submission of documents
What is the overview of the IT BPM sector in India and the performance of this sector in recent times?
India's IT BPM industry amounts for 56% of the global outsourcing market size. The sector has witnessed a series of investments in recent times. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) has approved 67 proposals worth $ 2.5 bn; 16 venture funds have been set up and equity inflow of $ 1.8 bn in computer software and hardware sector.
You can find details regarding reforms, information on sub-sectors and government targets and initiatives in the Achievement report at the link.
What is e-education or Swayam?
The project Study of Active Networks –Education for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM) seeks to provide learners with learning opportunities whenever, anywhere and everywhere, but within a standardized framework. Therefore, SWAYAM is different because it exists in a controlled environment for massive open online courses (MOOCs). Cost-free courses are available from 9th to PhD for all graduates.
Which IT Enabled Services are considered to be part of BPO operations?
As per Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) notification No. 890E dated 26 September 2000, the list of eligible IT enabled services under BPO operations considered in IBPS are as under:
i) Back office operations.
ii) Call centres.
iii) Content Development or Animation.
iv) Data Processing.
vi) Geographic information System Services.
vii) Human Resource Services.
viii) Insurance Claim processing.
ix) Legal Databases.
x) Medical Transcription.
xi) Payroll.
xii) Remote Maintenance.
xiii) Revenue Accounting.
xiv) Support Centres.
xv) Website services.
As per NASSCOM, BPO includes following processes that may be IT-enabled, do not necessitate on-shore presence and are hence, offshore-able:
1) Customer Interaction & Support (CIS)- CIS includes all forms of IT-enabled customer contact, inbound or outbound, voice or non-voice based support used to provide customer services, sales and marketing, technical support and help desk services.
2) Finance & Accounting (F&A)- F&A includes activities such as general accounting, transaction management (account receivables and payables management), corporate finance (e.g. treasury and risk management, and tax management); compliance management and statutory reporting, etc.
3) Horizontal-specific BPM services- Services that are reasonably similar across industries. Horizontal BPM services include Customer Interaction and Support (CIS), Finance and Accounting (F&A) and other related processing services, Knowledge Services, Human Resource Management (HRM), Procurement BPM, etc.
4) Human Resources Processing- HR processing services includes services that support the core HR activities plus talent management activities and associated business processes such as benefits, payroll and talent management.
What is Digital Farming?
ICT has contributed to another agricultural revolution. Many ICT projects for the agricultural sector have been implemented by the government, state and private sectors such as Karshaka Information Systems Services and Networking (KISSAN) Kerala, Village Resource Center (VRC)–Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and e-Krishi. Collectively it is called digital farming.
What is the eligibilty criteria of ILDP Scheme?
All existing units in leather and leather products, including tanneries, leather goods, saddlery, leather footwear and footwear components sector having cash profits for 2 years, undertaking viable and bankable programmes on technology up-gradation on or after 29th August 2008 are eligible for assistance.
What is Central Sector Scheme Indian Leather Development Programme (ILDP)?
The scheme is aimed at enabling existing tanneries, footwear, footwear components, and leather products units to upgrade leading to productivity gains, right-sizing of capacity, cost cutting, design and development simultaneously encouraging entrepreneurs to diversify and set up new units in the areas.
Where are major production centers for leather and leather products in India?
The major production centers for leather and leather products in India are located in the states of :
1) Tamil Nadu – Chennai, Ambur, Ranipet, Vaniyambadi, Vellore, Pernambut, Trichy, Dindigul and Erode.
2) West Bengal – Kolkata.
3) Uttar Pradesh – Kanpur, Agra, Noida, Saharanpur; Maharashtra – Mumbai.
4) Punjab – Jallandhar.
5) Karnataka – Bangalore.
6) Andhra Pradesh – Hyderabad.
7) Haryana – Ambala, Gurgaon, Panchkula, Karnal and Faridabad.
8) Delhi.
9) Madhya Pradesh – Dewas.
10) Kerala – Calicut and Ernakulam / Cochin.
11) Rajasthan - Jaipur.
12) Jammu & Kashmir - Srinagar.
What is IDLS?
IDLS sub-scheme proposes to incentivize investment and manufacturing including job creation by providing backend investment grant/subsidy @ 30% of the cost of new plant and machinery to micro, small and medium enterprise and @ 20% of the cost of plant and machinery to other units for modernization/technology upgradation in existing units and also for setting up of new units. The proposal under this sub-scheme is to incentivize 1000 units in leather, Footware and Accessories & Components sector during the three years with proposed outlay of $ 65.38 mn.
What are the subschemes under IFLADP?
The following are the subschemes that would be implememted under IFLADP during 2017-2018 to 2019-2020
i) Human Resource Development (HRD)
ii) Integrated Development of Leather Sector (IDLS)
iii) Establishment of Institutional Facilities
iv) Mega Leather, Footwear and Accessories Cluster (MLFAC)
v) Leather Technology, Innovation and Environmental
vi) Promotion of Indian Brands in Leather, Footwear and Accessories
vii) Additional Employment Incentive for Leather, Footwear and Accessories sector
For further details please access following link
What is the Leather sector overview of India?
India is the second largest producer of footwear and leather garments in the world and accounts for 13% of the world's leather production of hides/skin. An overview of the sector can be accessed from the Achievement report on the link.
What are the major initiatives undertaken by the government in recent times in the leather sector?
Indian Leather Development Programme:
1. One of the major activities under Indian Leather Development Programme is to provide placement linked skill development training to unemployed youth.
2. Provide employment through well planned training in leather and footwear industry.
3. For augmentation of institutional infrastructure, assistance has been provided for establishment of two new branches of Footwear design and development Institute (FDDI) at Banur (Punjab) and Ankleshwar ( Gujarat).
4. Approval has been given for setting-up Mega leather Cluster (MLC) at Nellore, Andhra Pradesh.
When should we renew GOPA?
Grant of Permission Agreement (GOPA) is valid only for a period of five years. End of five years, please download the form of renewal of GOPA from www.mib.nic.in. This form has to be printed on two $ 1.53 non-judicial stamp paper and be signed similar to the way the GOPA was signed.
What is the penalty for not compliance with the eligibility conditions?
In the event of the failure of any Letter of Intent (LoI) holder to comply with the eligibility conditions for the Grant of Permission Agreement or failing to sign the Grant of Permission Agreement within the prescribed period, the full deposit of the bid amount shall be forfeited without further notice, and Letter of Intent and the allocation of frequency, if any, shall stand cancelled.
What is SACFA clearance and frequency allocation?
'SACFA' means the 'Standing Advisory Committee on Radio Frequency Allocation' of the Wireless Planning & Co-ordination wing of Ministry of Communications & IT, Government of India.
'Frequency Allocation' means the specific Radio Frequency (RF) carrier with associated technical parameters such as RF power, bandwidth etc to the particular FM channel as assigned by the Wireless Planning & Co-ordination wing of Department of Telecommunication, Ministry of Communications & IT, Government of India.
What is the eligibility criteria for getting permission of FM radio channel?
Only companies registered under the Company's Act, 1956 are eligible for bidding and obtaining permission for FM radio channels. However, following types of companies are not eligible to apply:
a) Companies not incorporated in India.
b) Any company controlled by a person convicted of an offence involving moral turpitude or money laundering/drug trafficking, terrorist activities or declared as insolvent or applied for being declared insolvent.
c) A company which is an associate of/or controlled by a Trust, Society or Non Profit Organization.
d) A company controlled by or associated with a religious body.
e) A company controlled by or associated with a political body.
f) Any company which is functioning as an advertising agency, is an associate of an advertising agency or is controlled by an advertising agency or person associated with an advertising agency.
g) Subsidiary company of any applicant in the same City.
h) Holding company of any applicant in the same City.
i) Companies with the same management as that of an applicant in the same City.
j) More than one Inter-Connected Undertaking in the same City.
k) A company that has been debarred from taking part in the bidding process or its holding company or subsidiary or a company with the same management or an interconnected undertaking.
l) The defaulters of conditions under Phase-I & Phase-II, who have contested the revocation of their letters of Intent/License Agreements/Bank Guarantees, thereby continue to be debarred from participating in any future bidding process.
What is the overview of the media and entertainment sector in India and the performance of this sector in recent times?
The Indian Media and Entertainment sector is valued at approximately $ 12 bn in 2015 and expected to double by 2020. Out of the various sub sectors, one of the highest growing sub-sectors would be digital advertising with a CAGR of 30%. Further, India is known to have the second largest TV market in the world.
The performance of the sector can be found in the achievement report at the following link.
Is the government proposing to create a regulatory agency for television broadcasters?
In 2006, the government had prepared a Draft Broadcasting Services Regulation Bill, 2006. The bill made it mandatory to seek license for broadcasting any television or radio channel or program.
It also provides standards for regulation of content. It is the duty of the body to ensure compliance with guidelines issued under the bill.
After the application of WOL, can we start the transmission before we have obtained the Wireless Operating License?
No, one is not legally supposed to begin the operational transmission. However, you can try doing test transmission.
Who is responsible for interpolations?
Any person who exhibits or permits to exhibit interpolated film is responsible. It has to be observed whether the characters involved in the main film are also involved in the interpolated bits. If it is so, then one can infer that the producer and the distributor may also be responsible for interpolation. According to Section 7(b) of the Act, if any person, without lawful authority, alters or tampers with in any film, after it has been certified, will be committing a crime under Cinematograph Act. It is to be noted that the burden of proving the lawfulness of the act shall lie on the person who altered or tampered with the certified film.
How are IVDs classified in India under Medical Device Rules, 2017? Who will have the responsibility of doing Classification of IVD as per Class A/B/C/D?
IVDs are classified under Chapter II, Rule 4, Sub-rule (2) of Medical Device Rules, 2017 on the basis of parameters specified in Part II of the First Schedule, in the following
classes, namely:
i) Low risk - Class A,
ii) Low moderate risk- Class B.
iii) Moderate high risk- Class C.
iv) High risk- Class D.
Reference Rule 4 (3): This rule specifies that Central Licensing Authority shall classify the Medical Devices.
Can an Applicant apply for incentives under the scheme in multiple target segments?
There shall be no restriction on any applicant applying in more than one target segment. However, the applicant shall be required to submit a separate application along with the application fee for each target segment and shall be required to separately meet the eligibility criteria of threshold Investment and Incremental Sales of Manufactured Goods for each application.
How much FDI is permitted under medical devices sector?
100% FDI is permitted under medical devices sector through automatic route.
Is the list of common facilities applicable in the scheme exhaustive?
The list of common facilities/center given in the list are indicative and states are encouraged to plan for facilities, the implementing agency considers useful.
If a company misses a threshold (investment / incremental sale) in one year but compensates for that in the next year by having met the total cumulative figure – Then will the company be eligible for the missed incentive?
In case an applicant does not meet minimum threshold criteria for any given year, the applicant shall not be eligible for disbursement of incentive for that particular year. However, the applicant will not be restricted from claiming incentive for subsequent years during the tenure of the Scheme, provided eligibility criteria are met for such subsequent years.
How will funds for the Medical Parks be disbursed?
Grant-in-aid will be released in four instalments in the following manner:
Installment Percentage of Funds Remarks/ Pre-requisites
First 30 On final approval of the project by the SSC and after the deposit of 30% of SlA's share in the project cost in the Trust and Retention Account (TRA) or Escrow or No Lien Account as the case may be, subject to the condition that all relevant environment clearances are in place.
Second 30 60% utilisation of the first instalment and after the proportionate expenditure has been incurred by the SIA with proportionate physical progress of the Medical Device Park as per the DPR.
Third 30 100% utilisation of first instalment and at least 60% utilization of second instalment and after the proportionate expenditure has been incurred by the SIA with proportionate physical progress of the Medical Device Park as per the DPR.
Fourth 30 100% utilisation of second and third instalments and SIA has mobilized and spent its entire share in proportion to the grant and completed the project in all respects.
Is assembly of products considered to be 'Manufacturing' under the scheme?
All activities applicable under the Central Goods and Service Tax 2017 definition of 'Manufacturing' will be eligible under the PLI scheme for incentives. (refer scheme guidelines for more information).
Who will be responsible for Maintenance of Assets?
State Implementation Agency shall be responsible for Operation and Management of assets created under the Scheme.
What are the eligible Investments, that will be calculated for the threshold Investment?
The investments that are eligible for the threshold investment calculation are:
Expenditure incurred on new Plant, Machinery, Equipment and Associated Utilities
Eligible investment includes expenditure on a new plant, machinery, equipment and associated utilities as well as tools, dies, moulds, jigs, fixtures (including parts, accessories, components, and spares thereof) of the same, used in the design, manufacturing, assembly, testing, packaging or processing of any of manufactured goods covered under target segments.
Expenditure incurred on new Research and Development (R&D)
Eligible investment includes capital expenditure on R&D and product development related to Target Segments.
Expenditure related to Transfer of Technology (ToT) Agreements
Eligible investment includes the cost of technology and initial technology purchase related to manufactured goods covered under Target Segments.
Associated Utilities
Expenditure incurred on associated utilities as defined in the scheme guideline shall be considered as Investment for determining eligibility under the Scheme.
(refer scheme guidelines for more information)
Will grants be applicable for investment for construction of roads, buildings, etc.?
No grant shall be given towards construction of roads, compound wall and buildings. However, as far as various scientific facilities/ centres are concerned, 30% of the estimated cost of the respective facility/ centre will be allowed from grant-in-aid towards the construction of the building.
Will the basic exemption limit from GST be applicable to the tiny and micro segment in mining?
Yes, the basic exemption limit of $ 15,385 ($ 7693 in the case of special category States) is applicable to the tiny and micro segment even in mining. However, a person engaged in making taxable supply and having aggregate annual turnover (more than $ 15,385in any State other than the special category States) would be liable to obtain registration under GST. The return has to be filed on monthly basis by regular taxable persons and on quarterly basis by the taxable persons registered under the composition scheme.
What are the Existing Legislative Provisions regarding safety, health and welfare of mine workers?
Under the Constitution of India, safety, welfare and health of workers employed in mines are the concern of the Central Government (Entry 55- Union List- Article 246). The objective is regulated by the Mines Act, 1952 and the Rules and Regulations framed thereunder which are administered by the Directorate- General of Mines Safety (DGMS), under the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment.
A list of the subordinate legislation under the Mines Act administered by DGMS are:
1) Coal Mines Regulations, 1957.
2) Metalliferous Mines Regulations, 1961.
3) Oil Mines Regulations, 1984.
4) Mines Rules, 1955.
5) Mines Vocational Training Rules, 1966.
6) Mines Rescue Rules, 1985.
7) Mines Creche Rules, 1966.
Will ITC be available on steel, timber and sometimes cement which are used in the underground mines to provide a protective device for security purpose?
Credit will not be available, if these goods are supplied for construction of an immovable property.
But if these are temporarily placed for protective purposes, credit will be available.
What are the activities of ENVIS Centre, MINENVIS ?
Maintains a database management system to cater to the requirements of various users/
stakeholders of the mineral industry and regularly publishes Newsletters and Monographs.
Who grants Mining Leases (ML) and Prospecting License-cum-Mining Lease (PL-cum-ML)?
As per the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act (MMDR) Amendment Act 2015, the grant of Mining Leases (ML) and Prospecting License-cum-Mining Lease (PL-cum-ML) happens only through an auction process.
Which are the concerned government offices/services under mining segment?
Following are government departments under mining sector:
i. The Ministry of Mines, Government of India
ii. The Geological Survey of India
iii. The Indian Bureau of Mines
Who grants mineral concessions in India?
The State Governments grant the mineral concessions for all the minerals located within the boundary of the State, under the provisions of the MMDR Act, 1957, and Mineral Concession Rules (MCR), 1960. Under the provisions of the MMDR Act, 1957 and MCR, 1960, prior approval of the Central Government is required in the several cases.
What are the key functions of the Ministry of Mines?
Ministry of Mines is responsible for survey and exploration of all minerals, other than natural gases, petroleum, atomic minerals for mining and metallurgy of non-ferrous metals like aluminium, copper, zinc, lead, gold, nickel etc. Also, the administration of the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development) Act, 1957 in respect to all mines and minerals other than coal, natural gas and petroleum comes under Ministry of Mines duties
Who has the authority to grant mining license?
Mineral Resources Department & respective State Government is empowered to sanction Prospecting License/Mining Lease.
What is the schedule of charges for Mining Leases?
Schedule for Mining Leases is as follow
For public sector organisation and private parties - INR. 15,000
For State Govt. agencies - INR. 7,500
For sale outside India to foreign buyers - US $ 881
INR. 1.50 per mining lease record subject to minimum charge of INR. 200 per district and per mineral.
What is refinery transfer price (RTP)?
RTP – Refinery Transfer Price or RGP (Refinery Gate Price) is the price paid by the oil companies to domestic refineries for purchase of finished petroleum products at refinery gate.
As per the Bureau of India Standards what is the definition of motor spirit?
Motor spirit means any hydrocarbon oil in the range of C4 -C12 (excluding crude mineral oil) obtained broadly by fractional distillation of crude oil which meets the requirements of Bureau of Indian Standards specification (BIS) No. IS-2796 and is suitable for use as fuel in spark ignition engines.
What is the use of furnace oil?
Major use of furnace oil (FO) /LSHS and LDO (Light Diesel Oil) is as a fuel in Power, Fertilizer, petrochemicals and steel sectors. Some of the fertilizer plants consume FO as feed stock also. Other industries engaged in manufacturing of cement, paper, pharmaceuticals, Synthetic fibers etc. consume FO/LSHS as fuels. LDO is broadly used for low RPM engines primarily employed in industry, transport and power sectors.
What are the regulations on usage of Furnace oil in NCR?
As per Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority (EPCA), usage of furnace oil would be strictly banned in NCR.
What is EPP or Export Parity Price?
Export Parity Price is the price which oil companies would realize on export of petroleum products. This includes Freight on Board (FOB) Price and advance license benefit (for duty free import of crude oil pursuant to export of refined products.
What do you mean by import parity price?
Import Parity Price (IPP) is the price that importers would pay in case of actual import of product at the respective Indian ports. This includes FOB price, Ocean freight, Customs duty, Port dues etc.
What are biofuels?
The National Policy on Biofuels categorises Biofuels as:
"Basic Biofuels" viz. First Generation (1G) bioethanol & biodiesel and "Advanced Biofuels" – Second Generation (2G) ethanol, Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) to drop-in fuels, Third Generation (3G) biofuels, bio CNG etc.
What are various types of petrol/ diesel available in India?
Various petrol types are as follows: MS 93/95, Bharat Stage (BS) IV, Bharat Stage (BS) VI, branded petrol (with additives) etc.
Various types of diesels are as follows: Light Diesel Oil (LDO), BS IV, BS VI, Bio Diesel, Branded Diesel (with additives) etc.
To know more about the Oil & Gas sector opportunity in India, please visit the Oil & Gas page at Invest India website.
For further details on Indian Petroleum and Natural Gas Statistics, please refer this link: http://petroleum.nic.in/sites/default/files/APR_E_1718.pdf
Under what situations IGST is applicable?
As per the GST law, if the location of the supplier and place of supply is in different states then IGST would be applicable.
What is EBP programme?
EBP (Ethanol Blended Programme) is the revision of ethanol prices for supply to Public Sector OMCs (Oil Marketing Companies). Currently this programme is being carried out in 21 States and 4 UTs with immediate target to achieve 10% ethanol blending in Petrol. This blended petrol is known as ethanol blended petrol.
Can an applicant avail both PLI and an alternative incentive from the Government?
Eligibility under the PLI Scheme shall not affect eligibility under any other scheme and vice versa.
Is special consideration given to North Eastern States and Hilly States?
Yes. In case of North Eastern States and Hilly States (i.e. Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, UT of Jammu & Kashmir and UT of Ladakh), the grant -in-aid will be 90% of the common infrastructure facilities. For all other states, the grant-in-aid will be 70% of the project cost of the common infrastructure facilities (CIF).
Who can be an Applicant under the Scheme for Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks?
This is a Central Sector Scheme and so a one-time grant-in-aid will be provided for creation of common infrastructure facilities in selected Bulk Drug Park proposed by a State Government. The scheme will be implemented through a State Implementing Agency (SIA), a legal entity, set up by the concerned State Government.
If a company is manufacturing two or more items, does the company have to fulfil qualification and eligibility criteria for each of the items individually under the PLI scheme?
An applicant can apply for more than one eligible product. However, a separate application along with the application fee is required to be submitted for each eligible product.
What are the skill development measures undertaken in Pharmaceutical sector?
To keep pace with the growing demand for highly skilled R&D professionals the government has undertaken the transformation of National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPERs)
How will the incentive be disbursed?
Where bank finance is involved, written commitment of the bank concerned to release proportionate funds shall also be necessary before release of Central Government assistance.
Grant-in-aid will be released in four instalments: 30%, 30, 30%,10% of the percentage of funds respectively. Clause 17 of the Guidelines details the instalments.
Percentage of Funds
Remarks/ Pre-requisite
On final approval of the project by the SSC and after deposit of 30 percent of SIA's share in the project cost in the Trust and Retention Account (TRA) or Escrow or No Lien Account as the case may be, subject to the condition that all relevant environment clearances are in place.
60% utilisation of the 1st instalment and after proportionate expenditure has been incurred by the SIA with proportionate physical progress of the bulk drug park as per the DPR
Against the production of Bills
100% utilisation of 1st instalment and at least 60% utilization of 2ndinstalment and after proportionate expenditure has been incurred by the SIA with proportionate physical progress of the bulk drug park as per the DPR
100% utilisation of 2nd and 3rd instalments
SIA has mobilized and spent its entire share in proportion to the grant and completed the project in all respects.
Who can be an Applicant under the PLI Scheme for APIs, KSMs and Drug Intermediaries?
The Applicant for the purpose of the Scheme shall be any Proprietary Firm or Partnership Firm or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) or a Company registered in India proposing to manufacture eligible products and making an application for seeking approval under the Scheme. The applicant shall make committed investment in a Greenfield Project.
Who can be a Proposer under the Scheme? What is the role of the Proposer?
The proposer for the purpose of the Scheme shall be a State Government and is an applicant under the scheme. The proposer shall submit a Project Report (PR) including the proposed cost of establishing the bulk drug park including cost of CIF. State Government can make only one proposal of Bulk Drug Park under this Scheme.
What principles does National Pharmaceuticals Policy follow while pricing drugs?
The key principles for the regulation of the prices are:
a) Essentiality of drugs.
b) Control formulations prices.
c) Market based pricing.
How will the incentive be disbursed under Bulk Drug Parks Scheme?
Grant-in-aid will be released in four instalments: 30%, 30, 30%,10% of the percentage of funds respectively. For details, click here.
(Clause 17 of the Guidelines details the instalments.)
What are Coastal Economic Zones?
Coastal Economic Zones (CEZ) are geographically contiguous districts within a State that are either coastal districts or districts having a strong port linkage. CEZs would link Major and Non-major ports, Industrial units and evacuation infrastructure into a single system at regional level. CEZs would fuel port-led industrialization program. Ministry of Shipping had identified 13 CEZ along the Indian coastline under Sagarmala Program. For details, please refer to link.
Which is the nodal agency for regulation of lighthouse tourism?
Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) is the nodal agency for regulation of lighthouse tourism.
For further details, please refer the link.
What are Coastal Zone Regulations?
Coastal stretches of seas, bays, estuaries, creeks, rivers and backwaters which are influenced by tidal action (in the landward side) up to 500 metres from the High Tide Line (HTL) and the land between the Low Tide Line (LTL) and the High Tide Line (HTL) is defined as Coastal Regulation Zone. Activities in such zones are subject to restrictions notified by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
Which are the major educational and training institutes for Maritime sector in India?
Indian Maritime University is the premier institution for maritime education in India. In addition, there are 133 maritime training institutes approved by administration which provide pre-sea and post-sea trainings to individuals taking up career in maritime sector.
Is Foreign investment allowed in Port & Shipping sector?
The Government has allowed 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the shipping sector. 100% FDI is allowed under the automatic route for projects related to the construction and maintenance of ports and harbours.
Is security clearance required by foreign investors and how can security clearance be obtained by foreign investors?
Yes, usually security clearance for foreign investors is obtained by project proponents. Foreign investors need to submit required documents with the project proponent who arrange to obtain security clearance.
What are the different modes of investment in Maritime sector?
Investors may take any of the following routes to invest in maritime sector:
a) EPC mode
b) PPP mode
c) Captive mode
d) Fully privately owned ventures
What FDI policies are made for ports and shipping sector?
100% FDI is allowed under the Ports & Shipping sector via automatic route.
Are there any subsidies/financial assistance available for Maritime projects?
Yes, financial assistance is available for certain identified sectors such as shipbuilding. Government has also announced exemptions from Customs and Central Excise duties on inputs used in shipbuilding. Tax holiday for 10 consecutive assessment years for infrastructure development including Ports and Inland Waterways also available. This may undergo procedural change with introduction of GST.
From where a person can get data for issue/transformation of a permit?
The requirements for conversion/issue of licence are specified in CAR Section 7 Series 'G' Part I and schedule-II of the aircraft rules. The requirements for CPL are also clearly spelled out in the application form for issue / conversions of CPL.
What are the investment opportunities available in railways sector?
The investment opportunities are available in the following areas:
1) Components manufacturing.
2) Infrastructure projects.
3) High speed train projects.
4) Railway lines to and from coal mines and ports.
5) Projects relating to electrification, high-speed tracks and suburban corridors.
6) Dedicated freight corridors.
7) The re-development of railway stations.
8) Power generation and energy-saving projects.
9) Freight terminals operations.
10) Setting up of wagon, coaches and locomotive units.
11) Gauge conversion.
12) Network expansion.
In which projects foreign investments is permissible under railways sector?
100 % FDI under automatic route is available for the following:
1) Construction, operation and maintenance of suburban corridor projects through PPP.
4) Railway electrification.
5) Signalling systems.
6) Freight terminals.
7) Passenger terminals.
8) Infrastructure in industrial parks pertaining to railway line/siding including electrified railways lines and connectivity to main railway line.
9) Mass Rapid Transport Systems (MRTS).
What is national railway plan?
The Government of India is going to come up with a 'National Rail Plan' which will enable the country to integrate its rail network with other modes of transport and develop a multi-modal transportation network.
What is the purpose of SFOORTI?
The Ministry of Railways, Government of India, has launched the Smart Freight Operation Optimisation & Real Time Information (SFOORTI) application to optimise freight operations and manage traffic flows.
What is R3i policy?
The policy aims to attract private sector participation in rail connectivity projects to create additional rail transport capacity. The policy allows for 4 models:
a) Cost Sharing-Freight Rebate.
b) Full Contribution- Apportioned Earnings.
c) Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).
d) Private Line.
What is the purpose of R2CI?
This new policy was initiated to improve rail connectivity to coal and iron ore mines. The policy offers the developer involved in the construction of the line to levy a surcharge on the freight over a period of 10–25 years.
The policy has two models, i.e. Capital Cost and SPV Models. The Capital Cost Model is relevant when there are 2 players, whereas the SPV Model is intended for a large number of players.
Define Participative models for rail connectivity and capacity augmented projects.
This policy supersedes the R3i and R2CI policies notified earlier. The policy provides for supplementing government's investment in rail infrastructure projects by private capital flows.
The policy contains the following models:
1) Non-government railway.
2) JV with equity participation by railways.
3) Capacity augmentation through funding by customers
4) Capacity augmentation – annuity model applicability.
5) Build Operate Transfer.
A few projects undertaken under the participative policy of Ministry of Railways include Jaigarh Port-Digni Port, Hamarpur-Rewas Port, Chiplun-Karad, Vaibhavwadi-Kolhapur and Indore-Manmad.
What is dedicated freight corridors?
It is a broad gauge freight corridor under construction in India by Indian Railway. There are 2 corridors in the country, i.e. the Western and Eastern freight corridors.
How much FDI is allowed under Metro sector?
Up to 100% FDI is permitted for Railway Infrastructure sector without any govt. approval. You can file your FDI application online along with supporting documents at http://fifp.gov.in.
What is rolling stock?
Rolling stock is all the engines and carriages including the locomotives, passenger coaches, freight wagons, guard's vans, etc. that are used on a railway.
What is the government's contribution for new technology under this sector?
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has taken up the following programmes on various New Technologies:
Chemical Sources of Energy (Fuel Cells)
Battery Operated Vehicles
Geo Thermal Energy
How many states are classified under solar city development programme?
Under the 'Development of Solar Cities Programme', there are in total 60 solar cities identified.
What is a solar city?
The Solar City aims at minimum 10% reduction in projected demand of conventional energy at the end of five years, through a combination of enhancing supply from renewable energy sources in the city and energy efficiency measures. The basic aim is to motivate the local Governments for adopting renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency measures.
What are the new technologies undertaken by the government in this sector?
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has taken up various programmes on new technologies. As part of these programmes, various projects pertinent to research, development and demonstration have been initiated. These initiatives have been at various research, scientific and educational institutes, universities, national laboratories, industry, etc. These projects are helping in the development of indigenous research and industrial base, expertise, trained manpower and prototypes/devices/systems in the country
a. Hydrogen Energy
b. Chemical Sources of Energy (Fuel Cells)
c. Battery Operated Vehicles
d. Geo Thermal Energy
e. Ocean Energy
f. Biofuels
What is strategy related to R&D?
R&D for technology development in industry -driven and goal oriented.
1. Involvement of industry and scientific establishment.
2. Access technological development elsewhere avoiding 'Reinventing the wheel'.
3. Indigenous R&D for new and emerging technologies and improvement of available technologies.
4. Time bound specific tasks for identified R&D activities to be assigned to recognized / identified industry and institutions with clear understanding on the achievement of results.
What is the state-wise electricity generation capacity?
The electricity generation capacity is listed state wise, which can be accessed from the link.
What is marine renewable energy?
Ocean renewable energy or marine renewable energy are terms used to describe all forms of renewable energy derived from the sea including wave energy, tidal energy, ocean current energy, salinity gradient energy and ocean thermal gradient energy.
What is Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion?
Ocean thermal energy conversion, or OTEC, uses ocean temperature differences from the surface to depths lower than 1,000 meters, to extract energy. A temperature difference of only 20°C can yield usable energy.
What is the expected Potential of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) in India?
OTEC has a theoretical potential of 180,000 MW in India subject to suitable technological evolution.
Where lies the focus of renewable energy sector?
Research, design and development efforts should invariably lead to manufacture of complete systems, even if these efforts are required to be shared among different institutions. Thus, there would be a need for system integration broadly covering the following areas: -
1. Alternate Fuels (hydrogen, biosynthetic)
2. Green Initiative for Future Transport (GIFT)
3. Green Initiative for Power Generation (GIPS)
4. Standalone new and renewable energy products
5. Distributed new and renewable energy systems
6. New and renewable energy products
7. MW scale grid interactive renewable electricity systems
Where can I find labelling requirements for food retail in India?
Depending upon the food category there are additional disclosures required to be made as per FSSAI regulations. Also, the packing material would need to comply with relevant packaged commodity regulations (Legal Metrology Act and rules issued thereunder).
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has published regulations that prescribe packaging and labelling requirements.
What is the trend of consumerism in India?
Consumerism is a social and economic system that promotes an ever-increasing purchase of goods and services. There is a substantial growth in consumerism in India. Based on improved and high purchasing power, it is forecasted that middle class will drive 75% of consumer spending in 2030.
If I want to set up online and I already operate as an SBRT, do I need special permission?
Subject to the conditions of SBRT under the FDI policy (link), a single brand retail trading entity operating through brick and mortar stores, is permitted to undertake retail trading through e-commerce.
Are there specific laws regarding the termination of employee contracts?
According to the Shops and Establishments Act, no employer shall dispense with the services of an employee who has been in their continuous employment for not less than three months, without giving at least one month's notice.
However, if the notice period prescribed under the Employment Contract of the employee is more than one month, the Company will have to provide the notice period as prescribed under the Contract. Please refer to the Shops and Establishments Act of the respective state for further details.
What is the digital influence on consumerism?
Consumer's degree of connectedness to digital media and online platforms will decide drivers of preferences. A well-connected (to digital world) consumer will have broader array of products and will be aware of the brands which may serve his needs.
Describe the term wholesale cash and carry as per the Foreign Direct Investment policy.
Cash & Carry Wholesale trading/Wholesale trading, would mean sale of goods/merchandise to retailers, industrial, commercial, institutional or other professional business users or to other wholesalers and related subordinated service providers.
Are there any legal requirements regarding apparel labelling?
There are legal labelling requirements regarding garments in loose form in retail stores, which can be found below through the Legal Metrology Rules, 2011.
Name or Description of Product
Size: Internationally recognizable size indicators - S, M, L, XL, etc. along with the details in metric notation in terms of cm or m as the case may be. Alternatively, the words 'TO FIT SIZE' instead of only 'Size' on the label may be used.
Name, full address and customer care number of the manufacturer
What is the PM Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme?
This is a Central Sector Scheme to facilitate street vendors to access affordable working capital loan for resuming their livelihoods activities, after easing of lockdown.
What is a marketplace and inventory based model of e-commerce?
1) Marketplace based model of e-commerce means providing an information technology platform by an e-commerce entity on a digital & electronic network to act as a facilitator between the buyer and seller.
2) Inventory based model of e-commerce means an e-commerce activity where inventory of goods and services is owned by e-commerce entity and is sold to the consumers directly.
Are there any required approvals and licenses or registrations that need to be procured in order to import apparel or other retail goods?
Approval or licensing requirements depend on the product proposed to be imported to India. Further, in the case of proposed foreign investment, compliance with relevant provisions of the FDI Policy 2017 will have to be ensured.
Additionally, any person interested in importing goods into India must follow certain rules and guidelines as laid down by The Companies Act 2013, RBI guidelines etc. They must pay GST, Income Tax and other taxes as per state ruling.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issues Import Export (IE) Codes which are required for importing or exporting goods. The issued IE Codes can be used by the entity throughout its existence and don't require any renewal or filing.
What is the Green Highways (Plantation, Transplantation, Beautification & Maintenance) Policy? What are the benefits of adopting this policy?
This is a Policy to promote greening of highway corridors with participation of the community, farmers, private sector, NGOs, and government institutions. Further, the policy provides comprehensive guidelines to ensure uniformity of operations pertaining to enhancement of highway landscapes. The community shall be benefited in terms of huge generation of employment opportunities, entrepreneurship development and environmental benefits. Overall, adoption of the policy will contribute to economic development of the country and the local groups can access their rights to the non-timber produce from the trees.
What are the Fiscal incentives provided by the Government in Road and Highway Sector?
Fiscal incentives for the sector are as follows:
1) 100% FDI through automatic route allowed subject to applicable laws and regulation.
2) Right of way (RoW) for project land made available to concessionaires free from all encumbrances.
3) NHAI/GOI to provide capital grant (Viability Gap Funding/Cash Support) up to 40% of project cost to enhance viability on a case to case basis.
4) 100% tax exemption for five years and 30% relief for next five years, which may be availed of in 20 years.
5) Duty free import of modern high capacity construction equipment.
What roles did Government play in highway sector?
National Highways Authority of India implemented the National Highways Development Project (NHDP) which is India's largest ever Highways Project in a phased manner. Prime focus of NHDP was to ensure enhanced safety features, better riding surface, road geometry and traffic management, bypasses and wayside amenities, over bridges and underpasses etc.
What is the scope of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), ?
The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), was launched by the Govt. of India to provide connectivity to unconnected Habitations as part of a poverty reduction strategy.
Does the road and highway sector provide any tax benefits post GST?
Few tax benefits post GST in the Roads & Highway sector are:
Interstate check posts removed, travel time of long-haul trucks, other cargo vehicles cut by at least one-fifth
Rate for all goods expected to be in the range of 18%
Logistics cost down to 10-12% of total value of goods
What is Value Engineering Programme?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India plans to implement 'Value Engineering Programme' in order to promote use of new technologies and material in highway projects being executed in India.
What is Special Accelerated Road Development Programme?
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has taken up an ambitious Special Accelerated Road Development Programme (SARDP-NE) for development of road network in the north eastern States of the Country.
What amount of Foreign Direct Investment is permitted in streets and parkways?
100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is allowed under the automatic route in the road and highways sector.
What is the development plan and budget of Bharatmala?
A total of around 24,800 kms is being considered in Phase I of Bharatmala. In addition, Bharatmala Pariyojana phase -I also includes 10,000 kms of balance road works under NHDP, taking the total to 34,800 kms at an estimated cost of INR. 5,35,000 cr. Bharatmala Phase I - is to be implemented over a five years period of i.e. 2017-18 to 2021-22.
what is the objective of Bharatmala programme?
Bharatmala Pariyojana program focuses on optimizing efficiency of freight and passenger movement across the country by bridging critical infrastructure gaps through effective interventions like development of Economic Corridors, Inter Corridors and Feeder Routes, National Corridor Efficiency Improvement, Border and International connectivity roads, Coastal and Port connectivity roads and Green-field expressways.
What are Inter- Company/Group Company and Intra-Company/Group Company transactions?
Inter-Company/Group Company transactions are those which occur between two separate legal entities e.g. transactions occurred between RCOM and RTL or transactions occurred between Vodafone Ltd and Vodafone South Ltd. are example of Inter-Company/Group Company transactions. Pass through charges between two legal entities may be routed through the bank only and not through mere ledger adjustment.
Whereas, Intra-Company/Group Company transactions are those which occur within same legal entity e.g. transactions occurred between RCOM, Delhi and RCOM UP (East) or transactions occurred between Vodafone South Ltd, AP and Vodafone South Ltd., Karnataka are example of intra-Company/Group Company transactions.
Please Note: Names of Companies used are for reference/illustration only.
What are the documents required for verification of deductions by the CCA offices?
The required documents are as follows-
1) Covering letter with check list for submission of documents in prescribed proforma.
2) Quarterly Statements of Revenue and Licence Fee (AGR).
3) Photocopies of invoices duly signed by the Authorised Signatory.
4) Payment proof duly signed by the Authorised Signatory.
5) Certified copy of the ledger in case of Intra-Company settlement along with Annexure-AG.
6) Certified copy of the statement of net settlement in Annexure-AO in case of Inter-Company settlement.
7) Certified copy of Statement of part payments made in annexure – PP in case of part payments made due to billing disputes.
8) Power of attorney by Authorised Signatory declaring that information and documents so provided are authentic and verified by the licensee.
9) Power of attorney should be submitted with the concerned CCA offices.
10) Complete Bank statements (with running page numbers) showing relevant payments of which 1st & last page (should not be blank) shall be signed by the Bank Authorities.
11) At the end of the Financial Year, Audited quarterly statements of Revenue and Licence Fee (AGR).
How much FDI is allowed under telecom sector?
100% FDI is allowed in telecom sector (of this upto 49% is allowed through the automatic route and beyond 49% under government route).
What are the advantages of investing in telecom sector?
Some key incentives for investors in the telecom sector are:
Basic customs duty (BCD) and special additional duty have been withdrawn.
Importers of mobile handset components such as chargers, adaptors, batteries and wired handsets need to pay only the countervailing duty of 12.5%.
A duty advantage of 10.5% exists for local manufacturers of mobile speakers and batteries
What are the government FDI policies for telecom sector?
100% FDI is allowed in telecom sector. 49% is allowed through the automatic route.
List the admissible deductions.
Deductions claimed on account of PSTN related call charges and roaming charges (Pass through charges/Interconnect Usage Charges) actually paid to eligible Telecom Service Providers and Sales Tax & Service Tax (if included in the Gross Revenue) actually paid to Government are admissible.'
What are the main objectives of the Market Intelligence in Textiles?
The main objectives of MIT are:
1) Provide Real-time Database for the Policy, Industry and Trade (Country level, product level).
2) Suggest remedial measures/ information on change in business environment in domestic segment.
3) Augmenting Market Information for export competitiveness and policy.
What is certificate of exemption and endorsement of GSP in Export Promotion & Quality Assurance?
An exemption certificate is issued to enable quota/duty free entry of the eligible items of Handloom origin at the importing end. GSP certificates (Form A) is issued for the eligible items for the following tariff preference giving (donor) countries:
Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, United States of America (USA), Republic of Belarus, Russian Federation, and European Union.
The European Union includes 28 countries Viz. Austria, Belgium,Czech Republic, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands (Holland), Republic of Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom (UK).
1) For Australia, the main requirement is exporter's declaration on the normal commercial invoice. Form A accompanied by the normal commercial invoice is an acceptable alternative, but official certification is not required.
2) In case of Canada and New Zealand, Official Certification is not required.
3) The United States does not require GSP Form A. A declaration setting forth all pertinent detailed information concerning the production or manufacture of the merchandise is considered sufficient only if requested by the district collector of the Customs.
Is ISO 9000 standards mandatory to the industry?
No, however, in the coming days, non-existence of certified quality systems would probably be treated as a trade barrier not because of any Government regulations but through the customers, who are having the wide choice in selecting their suppliers for getting consistent quality. It also demonstrates the intent for continuous improvement in the overall business function.
What are the government sponsored schemes in textile industry?
The Ministry of Textiles through the Textile Committee provides information on the various schemes available for the textile sector. The schemes are aimed at providing wholistic benefits and growth opportunities to this sector.
These schemes are:
Power-loom sector.
Technology upgradation.
Cluster development programme/ integrated textile parks.
Integrated Skill Development Scheme.
What number of COEs have been set up so far under materials and pieces of clothing part?
The Government is in the process of setting up of four centres of excellence. These are:
Geotech: Set up by the Bombay Textile Research Association (BTRA) & Ahmedabad Textile Industry`s Research Association (ATIRA), with BTRA as lead partner
Agrotech: Synthetic & Art Silk Mills Research Association (SASMIRA) & Man-made Textile Research Association (MANTRA) & Navsari Agriculture University with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi as knowledge partner with SASMIRA as lead partner.
Protech: Northern India Textile Research Association (NITRA) & Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi with NITRA as lead partner.
Meditech: South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) and AC College of Technology with SITRA as lead partner.
What is Export Promotion & Quality Assurance under Ministry of Textile?
The Export Promotion & Quality Assurance Division carries out functions under various Sections of The Textiles Committee Act, such as conducting technical studies in the textile industry, Promotion of textile exports, Establishing, adopting and recognizing standard specifications for textiles and packing materials, Specifying the type of quality control or inspection needs to be applied to textiles, providing training on the techniques of quality control to be applied to textiles etc.
What are the Centers Of Excellence (COEs)?
To provide infrastructure support at one place for thrust areas of the technical textiles, the Government is in the process of setting up of four centres of excellence.
What is Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS)?
ATUFS is set up to incentivise production and employment in the garmenting sector. The scheme would facilitate augmenting of investment, productivity, quality, employment, exports along with import substitution in the country.
What are the segments eligible for capital subsidy under Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUF)?
Capital investment subsidy will be available for entities in following segment:
Weaving, weaving preparatory and knitting
Processing of fibres, yarns, fabrics, garments and make up
Garments/ made-up manufacturing
Silk sector
Jute Sector
Is there a list of importers and exporters of technical textiles available?
There are 369 technical textiles importers and 680 technical textiles exporters in India as per the latest available figures. The list of exporters and importers along with contact details, export segment & product exported is available in the website link.
What is the CEPI (Comprehensive Environment Pollution Index)? How does it impact the location of TPPs?
CEPI is a number to characterize the environmental quality at a given location. CEPI scores are calculated from time-to-time by the CPCB to identify critically polluted areas and industrial clusters, by monitoring their air, land and water. CEPI Score is an important tool to identify those clusters where industrial development activities have been restricted due to their pollution levels. In 2010, the MoEF imposed a moratorium on the consideration of projects for EC, if they were located in 43 critically polluted areas. It has been reduced to 7 clusters as of September 2013. TPPs cannot be located in those places where the moratorium is imposed.
How long does it usually take for a plant to get Environmental Clearance?
It depends on the size of the plant. Usually 1 to 1.5 years is the time for a plant to obtain EC after filing of Application. The following are the time-bound activities according to the EIA Notification:
1) Issuance of ToR: To be issued within 60 days of Application submission by Project
Proponent.
2) Conducting of Public Hearing: The Public Hearing Report to be submitted to the MoEF/ SEIAA by the SPCB within 45 days of receiving request for hearing from the Project Proponent.
3) Issuance of EC: To be issued within 105 days of the Project Proponent submitting the
Final EIA.
What is the National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE)?
The National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) is one of the eight missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). NMEEE aims to strengthen the market for energy efficiency by creating conducive regulatory and policy regime and has envisaged fostering innovative and sustainable business models to the energy efficiency sector. The Cabinet had approved the NMEEE document, and funding for two years of the 11th Plan period (2010-12) with an outlay of $ 36.23 million. Continuation of NMEEE for the 12th Plan was approved by Cabinet on 6th August, 2014 with a total outlay of $ 119.23. The Mission seeks to upscale the efforts to unlock the market for energy efficiency which is estimated to be around $ 11.385 billion. The activities during the 11th Plan period created the institutional and regulatory infrastructure. The NMEEE spelt out four initiatives to enhance energy efficiency in energy intensive industries which are as follows:
a) Perform, Achieve and Trade Scheme (PAT), a market based mechanism to enhance the cost effectiveness in improving the Energy Efficiency in Energy Intensive industries through certification of energy saving which can be traded.
b) Market Transformation for Energy Efficiency (MTEE), for accelerating the shift to energy efficient appliances in designated sectors through innovative measures to make the products more affordable.
c) Energy Efficiency Financing Platform (EEFP), for creation of mechanisms that would help finance demand side management programmes in all sectors by capturing future energy savings.
d) Framework for Energy Efficient Economic Development (FEEED), for development of fiscal instruments to promote energy efficiency.
What are the completed transmission projects?
There are 260 projects/elements completed all over India in 2017-18 and all the details can be found at the link.
What are the upcoming projects transmission projects?
There are 285 projects coming in all over India. You can find a detailed map of these projects on the link.
What is TARANG?
TARANG is the Transmission App for Real time Monitoring and Growth to monitor the progress of transmission system in the country.
What is Central Electricity Authority and what is the information it provides?
Central Electricity Authority (CEA) is a statutory organization originally constituted under the Electricity Act, 2003. The organization releases monthly reports related, state wise installed capacity on the link.
How are thermal power plants (TPPs) classified among industries?
The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has classified TPPs as one of the 17 Red Category industries. Red Category denotes heavily polluting industry. For obtaining EC:
Category A projects are:
1) > 500 MW Coal/Lignite/Naphtha & Gas Based Fuel.
2) > 50 MW Petcoke, Diesel and all Other Fuels, including Refinery Residual Oil Waste (excluding Biomass).
3) > 20 MW Biomass Based or Non-Hazardous MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) as Fuel.
Category B projects are -
1) < 500 MW Coal/Lignite/Naphtha & Gas Based Fuel.
2) <50 MW or 3 MW Petcoke, Diesel and all Other Fuels, including Refinery Residual Oil Waste (excluding Biomass).
3) < 20 MW or 15MW Biomass Based or Non-Hazardous MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) as Fuel.
Why is there a proliferation of TPPs along the coast?
Situating a plant along the coast provides two important benefits to the Project Proponent:
1) Easy transport of imported coal through ports and captive jetties.
2) Easy availability of seawater for on-site seawater desalination technology for both once-through cooling and for boiler-feed water generation. This reduces fresh water requirement for running the thermal power plant.
What is the difference between Prasad Scheme and 'Spiritual Circuit' under Swadesh Darshan Scheme?
The 'PRASAD' scheme, focuses on development and beautification of the identified pilgrimage destinations. Whereas, in the 'Spiritual Circuit' identified under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, the thrust is on development of particular thematic circuit consisting of various religious/spiritual destination in a State and Union Territory.
What is Prasad Scheme?
Under the scheme 'Prasad', the Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for development and beautification of the identified pilgrimage destinations. Under the PRASAD scheme, thirteen sites have been identified for development, namely: Amritsar, Ajmer, Dwarka, Mathura, Varanasi, Gaya, Puri, Amaravati, Kanchipuram, Vellankanni, Kedarnath, Kamakhya and Patna. In Union Budget 2017-18, INR 100 crore has been allocated for Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD).
What is Swadesh Darshan Scheme?
Under the scheme 'Swadesh Darshan', the Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for infrastructure development of circuits. Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, 13 thematic circuits have been identified, for development namely: North-East India Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Tribal Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit. In Union Budget 2017-18, 959.91 crore has been allocated for the Integrated Development of Tourist Circuits around specific themes under Swadesh Darshan scheme.
What are the FDI policies for tourism & hospitality sector?
100% FDI is allowed under the automatic route in tourism and hospitality
100% FDI allowed in tourism construction projects, including the development of hotels, resorts and recreational facilities.
What are the different rates of an average hotel tariff or convenience lodging in India?
The GST rates applicable for accommodation in hotels, inns, guest houses, clubs, campsites or other commercial places meant for residential or lodging purposes will depend upon value of supply of a unit i.e. the declared per day tariff for a unit by the respective accommodation establishment. The slabs of GST rates applicable on declared tariff value are given below:
Tariff value less than Rs.1000 – Nil
Tariff value of Rs.1000 and above but less than Rs. 2500 or equivalent – 12% GST
Tariff value of Rs.2500 and above but less than Rs.7500 or equivalent - 18% GST
Tariff value of Rs.7500 or above - 28% GST
What GST rates will be applicable for travel by air?
The GST rates applicable on air tariffs are as below:
1. Travel by economy class - 5 %
2. Travel by other than economy class - 12 %
What is the minimum eligibility for sponsorship of events having potential for promotion of tourism to and/or within India?
The Ministry of Tourism invites proposals to support cultural,music, dance, literary, sports, cinema and other events which have potential or create potential for attracting large number of tourists, both domestic and international. The support to these events would be decided on a case to case basis based on the potentialfor promotion of tourism as well as the benefits that would accrue from it for thepromotion of Incredible India brand, subject to the following basic minimum eligibility conditions:
(i) The event to be supported may be held in India or abroad.
(ii) The event should have been in existence since the last five years or should have completed at least 5 editions as of 31.12.2013 and should be supported by a certificate to this effect from a Chartered Accountant.
(iii) The event should have a total expenditure of at least INR 1.00 Crore for each edition supported by audited statements of expenditure on the event for last five years.
What are the initiatives taken by the Indian government in the cruise tourism sector?
The following initiatives have been undertaken by GOI:
1. The government is in process to develop 5 ports as cruise tourism hubs. These are Mumbai, Goa, Mangalore, Chennai and Kochi. These terminals will have facilities such as hospitality, retail, shopping and restaurants.
2. 200 minor ports to be develop jetties for such cruise vessels.
3. The cruise tourism policy shall be introduced by government shortly.
What are the initiatives taken by the Indian government in the medical tourism sector?
1. A new category of visa "Medical Visa" has been introduced by Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, which can be given for specific purpose to foreign tourists coming to India for medical treatment
2. The Ministry of Tourism has included the promotion of Medical Tourism as new initiatives. The Marketing Development Assistance Scheme (MDA), administered by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, provides financial support to approved tourism service providers.
3. To boost medical tourism, the government today announced setting up of the National Medical and Wellness Tourism Board to provide help to those visiting the country for health care need. The Board, besides Ministry officials, will include other stakeholders such as hospitals, hoteliers, medical experts and tour operators.
What are the initiatives taken by the Union Government to develop rural tourism in India?
The tourism ministry has sanctioned INR 131 lakhs for the development of four rural tourism sites. The states in which these sites are Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Tripura.
This page has been last updated on - Jan 16, 2021