This comes when many global agencies have revised upwards their global growth projections for 2024, which could further boost exports. US India’s top export destination, followed by UAE.
For FY25, Bihar's assumption of revenue surplus seems optimistic, while UP's seems doable. In Punjab, main concern is that targeted reduction in fiscal deficit is to come by cutting capex.
Household Consumption Expenditure Survey shows urban-rural gap has narrowed, particularly at lower levels of consumption, implying effectiveness of govt policies in improving rural incomes.
And despite a 0.8% contraction in the agricultural sector, the overall Q3 performance has prompted an upward revision in full-year growth estimates to 7.6% in the 2nd Advance Estimates.
Data in light of Advance GDP Estimates presents mixed picture of sales of passenger vehicles, improvement in indices capturing primary, capital & intermediate goods production.
The domestic economy continues to show resilience as reflected in the robust growth projections for the coming year. However, global challenges could pose headwinds...
Most global central banks acknowledge easing in inflation but note it remains above target. Recent geopolitical disruptions also pose upside risk to inflation, a view held by RBI as well.
Capital expenditure for next FY is achievable but could be challenging given this year's under-achievement. Moreover, rise of interest payments doesn't bode well for quality of expenditure.
The interim budget, to be presented on 1 February, is likely to maintain focus on fiscal consolidation along with a thrust on capital expenditure, although at a moderated pace.
In 2021, the government allowed telcos to convert interest on deferred spectrum payments and AGR dues into equity. This made it the single largest stakeholder in Vodafone Idea.
New Delhi has, in past, too, objected to Chinese construction activities in Shaksgam Valley. Work in this strategic region gathered pace after the 2017 Doklam stand-off.
A theme has not yet emerged for BJP & people see lack of a contest, which makes it unexciting. For all these reasons, 2024 is turning out to be an unexpectedly theme-less election.
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