Rich Farmers Gotta Pay Tax

Rajesh Shukla October 1, 2024

As India strides toward its vision of Vikshit Bharat (developed India), it must confront the realities of economic inequality, particularly in the agricultural sector, where disparities are deeply entrenched. Agriculture, employing nearly 50% of the population but contributing only 17% to the GDP, reflects a vast divide between smallholders with marginal incomes and a small group of wealthy farmers who control a substantial share of the sector’s wealth. To address this imbalance and drive India’s developmental goals, implementing a well-structured taxation policy for affluent farmers is essential. This would not only generate much-needed revenue but also promote greater economic equity....

THE FALLING CITY

Rajesh Shukla, Anil Padmanabhan September 20, 2024

EARLIER THIS WEEK, three-time chief minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, stepped down-six months ahead of what would have been the conclusion of his second full term at the helm. An accused in the liquor scam, the former chief minister was released on bail a few days earlier by the Supreme Court. Atishi is taking over as the new chief minister, giving the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) a new leadership in Delhi.

E-commerce is reshaping jobs and consumer welfare in India

Rajesh Shukla September 9, 2024

India's e-commerce landscape has grown significantly over the past decade, becoming a crucial part of the country’s retail ecosystem. As consumers increasingly turn to online shopping, the sector’s expansion raises questions about its impact on employment and consumer welfare. A recent report of Pahle India Foundation (PIF) in collaboration with People Research on India’s Consumer Economy (PRICE) offers insights into these effects, based on a survey of consumers, online sellers and traditional offline retailers across urban India.....

Click n Mortar, an Offline Story

Rajesh Shukla August 30, 2024

In the active markets of Varanasi, where traditional weavers have crafted intricate sarees for generations, a silent revolution is unfolding. It's not just the hum of looms that fills the air, but the buzz of smartphones and the click of digital transactions....

The Changing Landscape of India's Youth Employment: A Policy Perspective

Rajesh Shukla August 16, 2024

As India strides into 2024, the employment landscape for its youth is undergoing significant transformation, driven by changing economic opportunities and social dynamics. The latest PRICE data reveals that the largest proportion of young people, 26.8% (11.3 Crore), are currently students, underscoring the emphasis on education and skill development. This significant percentage indicates that today's youth are investing heavily in their future prospects, aiming for better employment opportunities in an increasingly competitive job market...