The World Opinion

Category: Economy

  • Most Fuel-Efficient SUVs: Brezza, Nexon, Venue, Sonet & XUV 3X0 Compared For Mileage | Auto News

    Brezza Vs Nexon Vs Venue Vs Sonet Vs XUV 300 Mileage: Currently, the Indian car market is dominated by sport utility vehicles (SUVs), especially the sub-4 meter compact SUVs. This segment boasts several popular contenders, such as the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Mahindra XUV 3XO. Let’s take a look at their powertrains and fuel efficiency.

    Maruti Suzuki Brezza
    Starting from Rs 8.34 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), it is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces 103 PS/137 Nm on petrol and 88 PS/121.5 Nm on CNG. The claimed fuel efficiency for the petrol variants is 19.89 kmpl and 25.51 km/kg for the CNG variants.

    Tata Nexon
    It starts from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom) and comes with two engine choices: 1.2-litre Turbo-Petrol and 1.5-litre Diesel. The petrol unit generates 120 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque while the diesel engine produces 113 bhp and 260 Nm. The claimed mileage of the Nexon varies from 17.01 kmpl to 24.08 kmpl depending on the engine and transmission.

    Hyundai Venue
    It is priced from Rs 7.94 lakh to Rs 13.48 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). There are three engine options: a 1.2-litre petrol (83 PS /114 Nm), a 1-litre turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel unit (116 PS /250 Nm). The mileage varies from 17.5kmpl to 23.4 kmpl.

    Kia Sonet
    Similar to the Venue, it is also available with three engine options: a 1.2-litre NA petrol engine (83 PS/115 Nm), a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine (120 PS/172 Nm), and a 1.5-litre diesel engine (116 PS/250 Nm). The claimed fuel efficiency varies from 18.7 kmpl to 22.3 kmpl.

    Mahindra XUV 3XO
    The prices for the XUV 3XO start at Rs 7.49 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with two engine options: a 1.2-litre turbo petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel. The petrol unit delivers 110PS/200Nm and 130PS/230Nm, depending on the variants while the diesel unit produces 117PS and 300Nm. It promises to return 18.06 to 21.2 kmpl mileage (claimed).

  • Union Budget 2024: As Salaried Individuals Demand Hike In ITR Bracket, Check 5 Major Sources Of Income That Are Tax Free In India | Personal Finance News

    New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to unveil the Union Budget 2024, the most awaited financial event of the year, on Tuesday, July 23.

    The statement on income tax, which directly affects people’s finances, is what the average person is most interested to hear about from the Finance Minister during the presentation of the Union Budget 2023. 

    Citizens will have to wait and see what the FM has in store for the average person. People could examine a few income categories that are not subject to income tax. These kinds of earnings are referred to as tax-free earnings.


    Here’s looking at 5 major sources of income that are tax free in India


    1. Gift received from relatives

    Gift received from relatives are exempt from tax by virtue of Section 56. The following will be considered as relative for the purpose of claiming such exemption.
     
    (a) Spouse of the individual;

    (b) Brother or sister of the individual;

    (c) Brother or sister of the spouse of the individual;

    (d) Brother or sister of either of the parents of the individual;

    (e) Any lineal ascendant or descendent of the individual;

    (f) Any lineal ascendant or descendent of the spouse of the individual;

    (g) Spouse of the persons referred to in (b) to (f).

    2. Agricultural income 

    Agricultural income is not taxable in the country. However, if you have non-agricultural income too, then while calculating tax on non-agricultural income, your agricultural income will be taken into account for rate purpose. Even if you have only agricultural income, you are advised to maintain some proof of your agricultural earnings/expenses.

    3. Provident fund

    Employee Provident Fund (EPF) offers tax-free returns for those employees who have had an active contribution for more than 5 years in his/her job. This is applicable even if the person has changed multiple organisations/employers in those 5 years.

    4. Scholarships

    Income earned on scholarship is tax free under sec 56(ii) of the Income Tax Act.

    5. Salary Components

    Chunks of your salary component that comes under reimbursement like transport allowance, meal coupons, mobile phone bills, internet bills, books and periodicals, leave travel allowance, leave travel concession etc is tax exempted.

  • Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express Accident: Multiple Coaches Derailed Near Gonda; 2 Dead, Dozens Injured | Railways News

    Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express Accident: In another tragic incident, around six coaches of Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailed near Gonda in Uttar Pradesh. So far, there are reports of two deaths while dozens of passengers are said to be injured. The accident took place around 2.40 pm. The six derailed coaches include at least four AC coaches. The accident happened near the Jhilahi station. The District Magistrate confirmed that at present 2 people have died while 2 others are seriously injured. “Apart from this, the injured are being taken to the hospital for treatment. At present, relief and rescue work is going on,” said Relief Commissioner, Uttar Pradesh.

    #WATCH | Gonda Train Derailment | Visuals of the Dibrugarh-Chandigarh Express which derailed in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda today.

    As per Gonda DM, two people have died and around 20 are injured in the incident. pic.twitter.com/xQ76a4qWXh


    — ANI (@ANI) July 18, 2024

    The driver of the train made a shocking claim saying that he heard a loud noise before the derailment. This raises suspicion on hand of anti-social elements in the train derailment. However, the truth will be out only after an inquiry.

    जनपद-गोंडा
    15904 चंडीगढ़ एक्सप्रेस ट्रेन हादसे में #sdrf_up टीम द्वारा राहत एवं बचाव कार्य किया जा रहा है। pic.twitter.com/VSyHj3cI1r
    — SDRF UTTAR PRADESH (@sdrf_up) July 18, 2024

    The train was enroute to Dibrugarh. A contingent of army jawans has reached at the site to help the local administration with a rescue operation. According to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister’s Office, CM Yogi Adityanath has taken cognisance of the train accident in the Gonda district. He directed the officials to reach the spot immediately and expedite the relief work. He also instructed for proper treatment of the injured.


    As per the instructions of Chief Minister Adityanath, one team of NDRF has been dispatched from Lucknow and Balrampur to Gonda. Five ambulances have been deployed for relief and rescue operations at the site of the train accident. Additionally, orders have been given to send more ambulances to the spot. A team of doctors is present at the site, providing first aid to the injured. The injured are also being shifted to the hospital.

    जनपद गोण्डा में हुई ट्रेन दुर्घटना अत्यंत दुःखद है।

    जिला प्रशासन के अधिकारियों को युद्ध स्तर पर राहत एवं बचाव कार्य संचालित करने और घायलों को शीर्ष प्राथमिकता के साथ अस्पताल पहुंचाकर उनके समुचित उपचार के लिए निर्देश दिए हैं।

    प्रभु श्री राम से घायलों के शीघ्र स्वास्थ्य लाभ हेतु…
    — Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) July 18, 2024

    The Relief Commissioner has dispatched an SDRF team from three districts to expedite the relief operations.

    Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has been briefed about the derailment of the Dibrugarh – Chandigarh express. He is monitoring the situation and the Government of Assam is in touch with relevant authorities, said the Assam Chief Minister’s Office.

    Reacting to the Dibrugarh-Chandigarh express derailment, Pankaj Singh, CPRO, North Eastern Railway said, “Medical van of Railways has reached the spot and rescue operation has been started. Helpline numbers have been issued. It happened around 2.37 pm.”

    Indian Railways Helpline

    The Indian Railways has issued helplines for the passengers and their families. The numbers are 0361-2731621, 0361-2731622, and 0361-2731623. The Lucknow division of North Eastern Railways has also issued helpline numbers which are as follow: Commercial Control – 9957555984, Furkating (FKG): 9957555966, Mariani (MXN): 6001882410, Simalguri (SLGR): 8789543798, Tinsukia (NTSK): 9957555959 and Dibrugarh (DBRG): 9957555960.

    The train derailment came a month after Kanchanjunga train accident in West Bengal. At least 11 people had died and more than 40 were injured in the accident that took place after a goods train collided with the stationary Kanchanjunga Express. 

  • Who Says Affordable Can’t Be Hot? This Rs 6.13 Lakh Car Becomes India’s Darling! | Auto News

    Best-Selling Car In June 2024: In India, nearly 3 lakh cars are sold every month. The highest-selling models are typically from Maruti Suzuki. Generally, Maruti cars also top the list of best-selling cars in the country most of the months. However, in recent months, the Tata Punch has shown remarkable performance. It has emerged as the best-selling car in several different months. 

    In June 2024, Tata Punch continued its success, attracting the most customers. Tata Punch sold a total of 18,238 units in June 2024, which is 66% more than the 10,990 units sold in June 2023. It has once again become the highest-selling car in the country. Available in more than 20 variants, the price ranges from Rs 6.13 lakh to Rs 10.20 lakh, (ex-showroom Delhi).

    Tata Punch: Engine, Transmission & Mileage

    It comes with a single engine option, which is a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol unit. There is also an option for a CNG kit. The engine delivers 86PS and 113Nm output. It can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT transmission. 

    However, CNG variants are only available with a manual transmission. It promises to return a mileage of up to 20.09kmpl on petrol and almost 26kmpkg on CNG. The Punch CNG comes with the brand’s twin-cylinder technology that allows to accommodate more boot space.

    Tata Punch Features & Rivals

    Its key features include a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, automatic climate control, a 7-inch touch screen, electronically folding mirrors, and a cooled glovebox. It comes with 2 airbags, ABS, EBD, TPMS, reversing camera with guidelines, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

    Sales-wise, it has left the competition far behind. However, the Hyundai Exter, Citroen C3, and Maruti Ignis are among some of its alternatives. Tata Punch was first launched in October 2021 and gained success in no time.

  • Stocks In Spotlight 18 July 2024: Five Stocks To Track Today | Markets News

    New Delhi: Markets continued its record-breaking run for the third straight day on Tuesday with Sensex and Nifty closing at fresh record high levels. Sensex ended at 80,716.55 and Nifty finished at 24,613. Markets were closed yesterday for Muharram.

    “Despite the recent slowdown in Nifty’s upward momentum, the overall sentiment remains positive, with a higher support base forming in the 24,150-24,350 range. Therefore, our advice remains focused on careful stock selection and effective trade management strategies,” Ajit Mishra – SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd said.

    Meanwhile, ahead of the market opening today, as per Zeebiz, Asian Paints, LTIMindtree, Tanla Platforms, Can Fin Homes are likely be in focus today.

  • Vodafone Idea Expands New Technology In Kolkata To Enhance Network Infrastructure | Companies News

    Kolkata: The post-acquisition of additional spectrum in the 900 Mhz band in Kolkata, telecom operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) announced an expansion of a new technology in 3000 sites across the city to enhance network infrastructure.

    This expansion is part of Vi’s broader strategy to upgrade its network infrastructure, following a successful Rs 18,000 crore Follow-on Public Offering (FPO). This upgrade aims at providing a stronger indoor coverage experience for users, with superior calling and faster data speeds, Vi said in a statement.

    Vi has also acquired additional spectrum in the recently concluded spectrum auction, committing Rs 31 crore for 0.4Mhz of spectrum in the 900 Mhz band in Kolkata Circle and Rs 376 crore for 7.6 Mhz of spectrum in the 900 Mhz band in West Bengal Circle.

    With these, Vi now has a total spectrum portfolio of 334.4Mhz in Kolkata and 536.8Mhz in West Bengal circles. “Our goal is to provide the best network experience, and this upgrade is a testament to our commitment to providing superior services to our customers,” Vodafone Idea Cluster Business Head, (West Bengal, Assam & North East), Naveen Singhvi said.

  • Mumbai’s First Underground Metro Line To Start From July 24 | Mobility News

    Mumbai’s first underground Metro rail corridor, known as Metro Line 3, will start operating from July 24, Bharatiya Janata Party’s general secretary Vinod Tawde said on Wednesday.
    He gave this information in a post on X. Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as Mumbai Metro Aqua Line or Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ Line, is a 33.5 km underground route that will connect south Mumbai to the city’s western suburbs and is expected to reduce the burden on the suburban locals. “Mumbai’s first underground metro (Aqua Line) is starting from July 24, which will give new impetus to the speed of the city,” Tawde said in his post. Last month, Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) successfully completed the trials of rolling stock for the underground Mumbai Metro Line 3. In his post, Tawde also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given a guarantee to make the life of Mumbaikars easier and this is going to be fulfilled through the Metro Line 3. Ashwini Bhide, managing director of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL), a joint venture between the Union government and the Maharashtra government, could not be reached for her comment, and a spokesperson of the MMRCL did not respond to the calls. The Metro Line 3 project is funded by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the total project cost, revised to Rs 37,276 crore as approved by the Union government in February this year, includes a JICA loan of Rs 21,280 crore.

  • Stock Markets Closed On Account Of Muharram, Bank Holiday In THESE States | Personal Finance News

    New Delhi: Indian stock markets are closed today in observance of the Muharram holiday, with trading set to resume on Thursday. Banks in several cities will also be closed on account of Muharram today. Though branches in these cities will be closed, online bank activities will continue to work.

    Sensex and Nifty closed at fresh record highs yesterday. The BSE Sensex settled at 80,716.55 points while the Nifty finished at 24,613.00 points.

    Muharram bank holiday on 17 July 2024:  Banks will be closed in the following states on account of Muharram today:

    Andhra Pradesh
    Bengal
    Chhattisgarh
    Himachal Pradesh
    Hyderabad
    Hyderabad
    Jammu
    Jharkhand
    Karnataka
    Madhya Pradesh
    Maharashtra
    Meghalaya
    Mizoram
    New Delhi
    Patna
    Rajasthan
    Tamil Nadu
    Telangana
    Tripura
    Uttar Pradesh

    Reserve Bank of India places its Holidays under three brackets –Holiday under Negotiable Instruments Act; Holiday under Negotiable Instruments Act and Real Time Gross Settlement Holiday; and Banks’ Closing of Accounts. However, it must be noted that the bank holidays vary in various states as well not observed by all the banking companies. Banking holidays also depend on the festivals being observed in specific states or notification of specific occasions in those states.

    Holidays of the mentioned days will be observed in various regions according to the state declared holidays, however for the gazetted holidays, banks will be closed all over the country.

  • Global PC Market Reach 62.5 Million PC Units Ahead Of Upcoming AI Boom | Markets News

    New Delhi: Global PC shipments grew 3.1 per cent in the second quarter this year to reach 62.5 million PC device units, the second consecutive quarterly growth in shipments (year-on-year), a report said on Tuesday.

    AI PCs remain the most popular topic in the PC industry. Laptops with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X platform have begun to trigger the first wave of the AI laptop boom, according to Counterpoint Research.

    The upcoming AMD Ryzen AI 300 and Intel Lunar Lake in the second half of Q3 2024 will further drive the popularity of AI PCs.

    HP had a 21 per cent market share in Q2 2024, while Dell had 16 per cent. Apple remained quiet in the latest quarter with an 8.5 per cent market share. According to the report, AI laptops will expand the AI PC market in H2 2024, driven especially by surging Windows on Arm AI devices at the end of Q2 2024.

    “H2 2024 will be the battlefield for AI PCs. Vendors are paving the way for the proliferation of AI PCs and the rise of a brand-new technology generation,” said senior analyst William Li.
    “However, due to the higher selling price of AI PCs, we believe enterprise (commercial) demand will run ahead of the mainstream consumer sector, although we may not see the most rapid adoption path in the first year of AI PCs,” Li added.

  • Budget 2024: Demands To Set Up 8th Pay Commission Pressed Before FM Sitharaman | Personal Finance News

    New Delhi: With just a week remaining for the Union Budget 2024 to be presented in Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, S B Yadav, Secretary General of the Confederation of Central Govt Employees and Workers has written a letter to the Cabinet Secretary, demanding the constitution of the 8th Pay Commission. 

    In the letter, the top three demands that have been put forth are –Immediate Constitution of 8th Central Pay Commission, Scrapping of NPS and Restoration OPS; and Releasing of 18 months DA/DR which was frozen during the COVID -19 Pandemic to employees and Pensioners.

    The following are the Charter of Demands that have been proposed by Yadav in his letter.

    1. Immediate Constitution of 8th Central Pay Commission.

    2. Scrap NPS, Restore OPS for all employees.

    3. To Release 18 months DA/DR which was frozen during the COVID -19 Pandemic to employees and Pensioners, Restoration of commuted part of pension after 12 years instead of 15 years at present.

    4. Remove 5% ceiling on Compassionate Appointment, grant compassionate appointment to all the wards/Dependents of the deceased employee.

    5. Fill up all vacant posts of all the cadres in all Departments, stop outsourcing and contractorization in Government Departments.

    6. Ensure Democratic functioning of Association/Federations as per provisions of JCM mechanism: (A) Grant recognition to Association/Federations which are pending, Withdraw the de-recognition orders of Postal Gr. C Union, NFPE, ISROSA. (B) Stop imposition of Rule 15 1(c) on service Association/Federations.

    7. Regularize Casual, Contractual labours and GDS employees, grant equal status to employees of Autonomous Bodies to that of CG Employees.

    8th Pay Commission Proposal Previously Sent

    A couple of weeks ago, the proposal to set up the 8th Central Pay Commission was sent by Shiv Gopal Mishra, Secretary, National Council (staff side, Joint Consultive Machinery for central government employees) to the Modi government.

    In his letter to the Cabinet Secretary, Mishra has urged the government to set up the 8th Pay Commission and deliberate on pay and allowances revisions.

    The 8th Central Pay Commission, once set up and recommendations are accepted, will impact the salary brackets of approximately 49 lakh government employees and 68 lakh pensioners.

    The pay commission is usually implemented after a gap of 10 years. Since the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission was accepted in 2016, the next will be in effect in 2026.

    If the government decides to set up the 8th pay commission, it will require over a year or 18 months for its recommendations to be submitted. And once 8th Pay Commission recommendations are accepted by the government, it is most likely that it will be implemented by 2026, as per media reports.