Policy

India also ranked second in terms of volume of legal demands for content removal, after Japan, Twitter — which has an estimated 1.75 crore users in India — recently appointed a Resident Grievance Officer, days after it designated a Chief Compliance Officer, and also released its first India Transparency Report on Sunday to comply with the new IT rules.

Govt waives import duty on raw materials for Covid test kits, APIs for Amphotericin B

Jul 13, 2021 | Health, Indian News, Non-Life, Pandemic, Policy

In a notification dated July 12, the Finance Ministry said the basic customs duty exemption on raw materials for manufacturing Covid test kits would be till September 30, 2021. While the exemption on specified API (active pharmaceutical ingredients)/ excipients for Amphotericin B would be valid till August 31.

China tightens control over cybersecurity in data crackdown

Jul 13, 2021 | Eco/Invest/Demography, International News, Non-Life, Policy, Regulation, Technology

Beijing is increasingly sensitive about control over information about its people and economy. Companies are barred from storing data about Chinese customers outside China. Companies including ride-hailing service Didi Global Inc, which recently made its US stock market debut, have been publicly warned to tighten data security.

Under the new rules, anyone in China who finds a vulnerability must tell the government, which will decide what repairs to make. No information can be given to “overseas organisations or individuals” other than the product’s manufacturer.

Medicare evaluating coverage for $56,000 Alzheimer’s drug

Jul 13, 2021 | Facts, Health, Non-Life, Policy

“We want to consider Medicare coverage of new treatments very carefully in light of the evidence available. Our process will include opportunities to hear from many stakeholders, including patient advocacy groups, medical experts, states, issuers, industry professionals, and family members and caregivers of those living with this disease” CMS( Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure said in a statement

UP CM terms rising population ‘hurdle in development’, unveils policy to stabilise it

Jul 12, 2021 | Eco/Invest/Demography, Indian News, Life, Non-Life, Policy

Besides seeking to achieve population stabilisation and reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths, the UP Population Policy also aims at preventing the death of children under the age of 5 years and improving their nutritional condition.

Zika Virus Disease: Karnataka intensifies vector control measures

Jul 12, 2021 | Eco/Invest/Demography, Health, Indian News, Non-Life, Policy

“In view of reporting of Zika Virus Disease (ZVD) in the neighboring State of Kerala, it is crucial to intensify the vector control measures in Karnataka also. The current monsoon season supports the widespread proliferation of Aedes mosquito, which is a vector for Zika Virus Disease,” a circular by the Commissionerate of Health & Family Welfare Services said.

Canada orders rail safety measures to reduce risk of wildfires

Jul 12, 2021 | Climate, Environment, Renewable Energy, Eco/Invest/Demography, International News, Non-Life, Policy

The order will require both Canadian National Railway Co. and Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. to take precautions against wildfires, including reducing train speeds, according to a Transport Ministry statement.On Friday, Nationally, trains will have to run at reduced speeds when there is extreme fire risk and when the outdoor temperature is high. CN and CP will also be required to come up with a fire risk mitigation plan and consult with indigenous communities about fire hazards.

CCEA clears LIC disinvestment; panel headed by FM to decide quantum of stake sale

Jul 12, 2021 | Eco/Invest/Demography, Indian News, Life, Policy

“The Cabinet Committee for Economic Affairs last week cleared the proposal of initial public offering of LIC. The alternative mechanism on disinvestment will now decide on the quantum of stake to be divested by government,” the official said.

PM Modi says farm sector needs post-harvest revolution; govt impetus on scientific ecosystem

Jul 12, 2021 | Eco/Invest/Demography, Indian News, Non-Life, Policy, Technology

”With the ever-increasing agricultural production, there is a need for post-harvest revolution and value addition.We are striving relentlessly to intensify our speed and scale to achieve this. We have been taking comprehensive steps to get a complete solution, from irrigation to sowing, harvesting, and earnings that are technology-enabled,” Modi said in a message to commemorate the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development’s foundation day.