India’s Global Representation Shines at World Economic Forum Davos 2024

India’s Global Representation Shines at World Economic Forum Davos 2024

In a momentous stride towards global collaboration and dialogue, Mr. Vijay Goel and Mr. Sunil Kumar Gupta, Founders of Indo European Business has visited Switzerland to represent IEBF at the esteemed World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting Davos, slated to transpire against the breathtaking backdrop from January 15th to January 19th, 2024.

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IEBF has achieved a significant milestone during its visit to the WEF Annual Meeting, marked by the successful signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Government of Karnataka in the prescence of Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology; Sh. LK Atheeq, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Government of Karnataka; Smt. Gunjan Krishna, IAS, Commissioner for Industrial Development & Director of Industries & Commerce CEO, Invest Karnataka Forum, among other dignitaries. These agreements symbolize a shared commitment to pioneering initiatives that are poised to make a lasting impact on various sectors. Here are the key collaborations:

1. Manufacturing of Solar Panels, Inverters, and EV Charging Plants with Ampergia Americans:

   – Contributing to clean energy solutions and sustainable technology, boosting Karnataka’s leadership in renewable energy.

2. Providing Services for Employee Welfare Programmes with InstaPe Synergies Pvt. Ltd.:

   – Providing services that enhance the well-being of our workforce, fostering a supportive and motivated work environment.

3. Construction of Biopharmaceuticals and Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Hospitals with Pangaea Data:

   – Spearheading healthcare infrastructure development, aiming to improve accessibility and outcomes in Karnataka.

4. Manufacture of “Smart City” Infrastructure with Faction AI:

   – Enhancing urban living through innovative infrastructure solutions, contributing to the development of Smart Cities.

These collaborations underscore IEBF’s commitment to fostering positive change. Additionally, IEBF is in the process of signing various MoUs with distinct State Government, further expanding India’s impact in global market.

Adding to the grandeur of this international gathering, the WEF witnessed the participation of five prominent Indian states Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. This collective representation is designed to showcase the diverse tapestry of Indian culture, economic prowess, and historic richness, symbolizing the nation’s multifaceted essence on the global landscape.

World Economic Forum Davos

“This opportunity not only underscores the cultural, economic, and historic opulence of India but also reinforces our commitment to global collaboration and the pursuit of a more interconnected world,” Mr. Gupta stated.

This visit comes as a recognition of Mr. Goel and Mr. Gupta’s exceptional contributions and leadership in the growth of India, EU, UK, and Slovenia. Eagerly anticipating the opportunity to engage in profound discussions and collaborative endeavors, Mr. Gupta is poised to lend their perspective towards charting a course for a more promising future on the global stage.

Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Sunil Kumar Gupta, the Indo European Business Forum (IEBF) has recently spearheaded a groundbreaking Indo-Slovenian partnership. Since its inception in 2017, IEBF has played a pivotal role in facilitating the success of approximately 85% of businesses, ushering in excellence across diverse sectors such as business, finance, real estate, and art.

IEBF’s impactful initiatives extend to aiding 80% of businesses and investors in identifying lucrative investment opportunities within EU countries, the UK, and India. Mr. Goel and Mr. Gupta’s strategic leadership has positioned IEBF as a key player in fostering international collaborations, contributing significantly to the growth and success of businesses on a global scale. The forum’s commitment to excellence and its role in connecting diverse industries underscore their dedication to advancing economic partnerships and creating a robust global business network.

The Founders of IEBF, Mr. Vijay Goel and Mr. Sunil Kumar Gupta had the honor of meeting with the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra and the Hon’ble Minister for Large & Medium Industries and signing various MoUs. These engagements highlight our dedication to strong partnerships and collaborations, reinforcing IEBF’s role in shaping a sustainable and connected future.

The World Economic Forum serves as a splendid platform for thought leaders, influencers, and decision-makers to converge and discuss critical global issues. The participation of world leaders, businessmen, professionals and the delegation from five prominent Indian states adds a unique perspective to the ongoing dialogue.

Overseas Direct Investment: Comprehensive Study on the most Critical Investment Route

Overseas Direct Investment: Comprehensive Study on the most Critical Investment Route

Investment through Indian companies in foreign is a common phenomenon and several Indian companies have a presence in foreign companies by virtue of the formation of Joint Venture (JV) and Wholly Owned Subsidiaries (WOS). In contrast, Overseas Direct Investment by Indian residents has been revised to sanction overseas investment, with adequate manacles to prevent money from siphoning into foreign companies.

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Therefore, adequate measures and regulations have been introduced and are being revised constantly to prevent any such event.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) with effect from August 2022 has incorporated erstwhile FEMA (Transfer or Issue of Foreign Security) Regulations, 2004 and FEMA (Acquisition and Transfer of immovable property outside India) Regulation 1915 (OI Rules), which has introduced FEMA (Overseas Investment) Rules, 2022 (OI Regulation) and earlier regulations are considered superseded.

The FEMA (Overseas Investment) Directions, 2022 contains operational requirements under OI Rules and OI Regulations, including guidance regarding the interpretation, a grouping of conditions (under 3 categories, i.e., General provisions, Specific provisions, and Other operational instructions to AD banks).

In addition to that, it also contains particular compliance requirements from former ODI Master Directions and does not fall under OI rules and regulations.

With that, overseas investment in foreign is constricted unless completed in accordance with FEMA Act, OI Rules, and Regulations. This blog provides you with an overview of the latest notified and revised rules and regulations, including board amendments in RBI ODI.

India’s outbound investments have undergone a significant transformation, not only in terms of their scale but also in their geographical distribution and the sectors they target. Analyzing the trends in direct investments over the past decade reveals that while both inbound and outbound investment flows were relatively slow in the early part of the decade, they gained momentum in the latter half.

Over the last decade or so, there has been a noticeable shift in the destinations of overseas investments. In the first half, these investments were primarily focused on resource-rich nations like Australia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Sudan. However, in the latter half, there was a shift towards nations offering greater tax advantages, such as Mauritius, Singapore, the British Virgin Islands, and the Netherlands.

Indian companies primarily engage in foreign investments through mergers and acquisitions (M&A). A developing country like India continually seeks opportunities to invest abroad as it contributes to the overall economy. These overseas investments by Indian companies also play a role in enhancing the performance of the country’s service and manufacturing sectors and contribute to addressing the challenge of rising unemployment rates. With the increasing M&A activity, companies gain direct access to new and broader markets, as well as advanced technologies, allowing them to expand their customer base and establish a global presence.

Overview of Amendments in RBI ODI

Investments made by individuals residing in India in foreign countries broaden the scale and range of business activities for Indian entrepreneurs. They offer global avenues for expansion, enabling easier access to technology, research and development resources, access to a broader global market, and lower capital costs. These advantages enhance the competitiveness of Indian businesses and contribute to the strengthening of their brand reputation.

Furthermore, such overseas investments serve as significant catalysts for foreign trade and the transfer of technology. This, in turn, leads to increased domestic employment, higher levels of investment, and overall economic growth through these interconnected relationships.

In alignment with the principles of liberalization and the facilitation of a more business-friendly environment, the Central Government and the Reserve Bank of India have undertaken a progressive simplification of procedures and a rationalization of rules and regulations governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. As a significant step in this direction, a new Overseas Investment framework has been put into operation.

The Central Government has issued the Foreign Exchange Management (Overseas Investment) Rules, 2022, through Notification No. G.S.R. 646(E) dated August 22, 2022, and the Reserve Bank of India has notified the Foreign Exchange Management (Overseas Investment) Regulations, 2022, under Notification No. FEMA 400/2022-RB dated August 22, 2022. These regulations supersede the previous Notification No. FEMA 120/2004-RB dated July 07, 2004 (Foreign Exchange Management – Transfer or Issue of any Foreign Security – Amendment – Regulations, 2004) and Notification No. FEMA 7 (R)/2015-RB dated January 21, 2016 (Foreign Exchange Management – Acquisition and Transfer of Immovable Property Outside India – Regulations, 2015).

The new framework simplifies the existing system for overseas investments by Indian residents, extending its coverage to a broader spectrum of economic activities, and substantially reducing the necessity for seeking specific approvals. This, in turn, will alleviate the burden of compliance and the associated compliance costs.

Some of the significant changes introduced by the new rules and regulations:

  • Improved clarity in defining various terms and concepts.
  • Introduction of the “strategic sector” concept.
  • Elimination of the need for approval in several cases, including deferred payment of consideration, investments or disinvestments by Indian residents under investigation by investigative agencies or regulatory bodies, issuance of corporate guarantees for second or subsequent level step-down subsidiaries (SDS), and write-offs related to disinvestments.
  • Introduction of a “Late Submission Fee (LSF)” for delays in reporting.

Permission for Initiating Overseas Investments:

  1. An individual residing in India is allowed to make or transfer investments or financial commitments abroad under the general permission/automatic route, subject to the regulations outlined in the OI Rules, Regulations, and these guidelines. Consequently, overseas investments can be made in a foreign enterprise engaged in legitimate business activities, either directly or through second or subsequent-level step-down subsidiaries (SDS) or special-purpose vehicles (SPV).
  2. To make the intended financial commitment, the person should complete Form FC as provided in the “Master Direction – Reporting under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999,” supported by the necessary documents, and approach the designated authorized dealer (AD) bank to facilitate the investment or remittance.
  3. In cases where approval is required, the applicant should approach their designated AD bank, which will then submit the proposal to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) after conducting a thorough examination and providing specific recommendations. The designated AD bank, before forwarding the proposal, must submit relevant sections of Form FC in the online Overseas Investment Declaration (OID) application and include the transaction number generated by the application in their reference. The proposal should be accompanied by the following documents:
    • Background and brief details of the transaction.
    • Reason(s) for seeking approval mentioning the extant FEMA provisions.
    • Observations of the designated AD bank with respect to the following:
      • Prima facie viability of the foreign entity;
      • Benefits which may accrue to India through such investment;
      • Financial position and business track record of the Indian entity and the foreign entity;
      • Any other material observation.
    • Recommendations of the designated AD bank with confirmation that the applicant’s board resolution or resolution from an equivalent body, as applicable, for the proposed transaction(s) is in place.
    • Diagrammatic representation of the organisational structure indicating all the subsidiaries of the Indian entity horizontally and vertically with their stake (direct and indirect) and status (whether operating company or SPV).
    • Valuation certificate for the foreign entity (if applicable).
    • Other relevant documents properly numbered, indexed and flagged.

Mode of Payment

Regarding the method of payment for overseas investments made by an individual residing in India, the following provisions must be adhered to, as per regulation 8 of the OI Regulations. Additionally:

Pricing Guidelines

  1. Before facilitating any transaction related to overseas investments, the Authorized Dealer (AD) bank must ensure compliance with the regulations specified in rule 16 of the OI Rules. Regarding the documents to be collected by the AD bank, they should adhere to a policy approved by their board, which should consider factors including valuation based on internationally accepted pricing methodologies. The AD bank is required to establish and implement a board-approved policy within two months from the date of issuance of these guidelines.
  2. This policy can also address situations where valuation may not be mandatory, for instance, in cases involving transfers due to merger, amalgamation, demerger, or liquidation, where the price has been approved by a competent court or tribunal in accordance with Indian laws and/or the host jurisdiction. Another scenario could be when the price is readily available on a recognized stock exchange, and so on. The policy should also clearly specify additional documents, such as the audited financial statements of the foreign entity, which the AD banks may request to verify the legitimacy in cases where investments are being written off.

Obligations of the Person Resident in India

Reporting

  1. All reporting related to overseas investments made by individuals residing in India should follow the guidelines specified in regulation 10 of the OI Regulations. This reporting should be done through the designated Authorized Dealer (AD) bank using the updated reporting forms and instructions outlined in the “Master Direction – Reporting under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.” The reporting forms can be downloaded from the Reserve Bank’s website at www.rbi.org.in. Any incomplete submissions will be treated as non-submissions.
  2. Any acquisition of foreign securities resulting from the conversion of Indian Depository Receipts (IDRs) must be duly reported, either as Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) or Overseas Portfolio Investment (OPI), as applicable.
  3. The Annual Performance Report (APR) should be certified by a chartered accountant in cases where statutory audits are not applicable, including for resident individuals. It’s important to note that in cases where APR is required to be jointly filed, one investor may be authorized by the other investors to submit the APR, or they may jointly file the report.
  4. When a resident individual engages in overseas investments, they must adhere to the reporting requirements outlined in the OI Regulations. Additionally, reporting should also be carried out as per the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) guidelines when such investments are considered part of the LRS limit. It’s worth noting that the acquisition of foreign securities through inheritance or gift, in accordance with paragraph 2 of Schedule III of the OI Rules, is not counted against the LRS limit and, therefore, does not require reporting under the LRS.

Delay in Reporting

  1. If an individual residing in India has experienced a delay in filing or submitting the necessary forms, returns, or documents, they have the option to file or submit these documents and pay the Late Submission Fee (LSF) through the designated Authorized Dealer (AD) bank, as specified in regulation 11 of the OI Regulations.
  2. The Late Submission Fee (LSF) for delays in reporting transactions related to overseas investments will be calculated based on the following matrix:
Sr. No.Type of Reporting delaysLSF Amount (INR)
1Form ODI Part-II/ APR, FLA Returns, Form OPI, evidence of investment or any other return which does not capture flows or any other periodical reporting7500
2Form ODI-Part I, Form ODI-Part III, Form FC, or any other return which captures flows or returns which capture reporting of non-fund based transactions or any other transactional reporting[7500 + (0.025% × A × n)]

Notes:

a) “n” is the number of years of delay in submission rounded-upwards to the nearest month and expressed up to 2 decimal points.

b) “A” is the amount involved in the delayed reporting.

c) LSF amount is per return.

d) Maximum LSF amount will be limited to 100 per cent of ‘A’ and will be rounded upwards to the nearest hundred.

e) Where an advice has been issued for payment of LSF and such LSF is not paid within 30 days, such advice shall be considered as null and void and any LSF received beyond this period shall not be accepted. If the applicant subsequently approaches for payment of LSF for the same delayed reporting, the date of receipt of such application shall be treated as the reference date for the purpose of calculation of LSF.

f) The option of LSF shall be available up to three years from the due date of reporting/submission under OI Regulations. The option of LSF shall also be available for delayed reporting/submissions under the Notification No. FEMA 120/2004-RB and earlier corresponding regulations, up to three years from the date of notification of OI Regulations.

g) In case a person resident in India responsible for submitting the evidence of investment or filing any forms/returns/reports, etc. as per OI Regulations/earlier corresponding regulations, neither makes such submission/filing within the specified time nor makes such submission/filing along with LSF as provided in regulation 11 of OI Regulations, such person shall be liable for penal action under the provisions of FEMA, 1999.

(3) The LSF may be paid by way of a demand draft drawn in favour of “Reserve Bank of India” and payable at the Regional Office concerned (in accordance with UIN mapping given in the table below).

Sr.NoUIN with prefixUIN mapped to
1.AHRO Ahmedabad
2.BGRO Bengaluru
3.BL or BY or PJRO Mumbai
4.BN or CA or GA or GHRO Kolkata
5.CG or JM or JR or KA or ND or PT or WRRO New Delhi
6.HYRO Hyderabad
7.KO or MARO Chennai

Restrictions and prohibitions

  1. Authorized Dealer (AD) banks are prohibited from facilitating transactions involving any foreign entity engaged in activities mentioned in rule 19(1) of the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules or located in countries/jurisdictions as advised by the Central Government under rule 9(2) of the OI Rules. It’s important to clarify that financial products linked to the Indian Rupee include non-deliverable trades related to foreign currency-INR exchange rates, as well as stock indices connected to the Indian market, among other things.
  2. Individuals residing in India are not allowed to make financial commitments to a foreign entity that has invested or plans to invest in India at the time of such commitment or at any time thereafter, either directly or indirectly, resulting in a structure with more than two layers of subsidiaries. This restriction is in accordance with rule 19(3) of the OI Rules. It’s also specified that no additional layer of subsidiaries should be added to any structure that already has two or more layers of subsidiaries after the notification of the OI Rules/Regulations.

Please note that the term “subsidiary” is defined as an entity in which the foreign entity has control, which includes a stake of 10% or more in an entity, as per the OI Rules.

Financial commitment by an Indian entity

An Indian entity, subject to the overall limit specified in Schedule I of the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules and in compliance with Regulation 3 of the OI Regulations, is permitted to make financial commitments through Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) as outlined in Schedule I of the OI Rules, financial commitments through debt in accordance with Regulation 4 of the OI Regulations, and non-fund-based financial commitments in line with Regulations 5, 6, and 7 of the OI Regulations. Furthermore:

  1. In cases of security swaps, both legs of the transaction must adhere to the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), as applicable.
  2. When a registered Partnership firm from India invests in a foreign entity, it is acceptable for individual partners to hold shares on behalf of the firm in the foreign entity, provided that the host country’s regulations or operational requirements necessitate such holdings.
  3. Financial commitments through debt [Regulation 4 of the OI Regulations] – Authorized Dealer (AD) banks are authorized to facilitate outward remittances for financial commitments through debt only after obtaining the necessary agreements/documents to ensure the legitimacy of the transaction. An Indian entity is not allowed to lend directly to its overseas second or subsequent-level step-down subsidiary (SDS). Additionally, a resident individual cannot make financial commitments through debt.
  4. Regarding financial commitments through Guarantees [Regulation 5 of the OI Regulations]:
    • In the case of performance guarantees, the specified time for contract completion is considered the validity period of the guarantee.
    • No prior approval from the Reserve Bank of India is required for remitting funds from India due to the invocation of a performance guarantee extended in accordance with OI Rules/Regulations.
    • Any guarantee, up to the amount invoked, will no longer be considered part of the non-fund-based financial commitment but will be categorized as a financial commitment through debt. The invocation of such guarantees must be reported in Form FC.
    • The roll-over of guarantees is not regarded as a new financial commitment. However, such roll-overs should be reported in Form FC.
    • A group company of the Indian entity may provide a guarantee in compliance with the OI Regulations if it is eligible to make ODI as per the OI Rules. Such a guarantee will count towards the utilization of the financial commitment limit of the group company and must be reported by the respective group company. In the case of a resident individual promoter, this guarantee will be counted towards the financial commitment limit of the Indian entity and reported accordingly. The concept of utilizing the net worth of the subsidiary/holding company by the Indian entity is no longer applicable. Additionally, when computing the financial commitment limit of the group company, any fund-based exposure of the group company to the Indian entity or of the Indian entity to the group company should be subtracted from the net worth of the group company.
  5. The provisions related to financial commitments through pledge/charge [Regulation 6 of the OI Regulations] are summarized below:
Security by Indian entityIn whose favourFacility availedAmount reckoned towards financial commitment
A) Pledge the equity capital of the foreign entity /its SDS outside India.AD bank or a public financial institution in India or an overseas lender.Fund/non-fund based facilities for Indian entity.Nil.
Fund/non-fund based facilities for any foreign entity/its SDSs outside India.The value of the pledge or the amount of the facility, whichever is less.
A debenture trustee registered with SEBI in India.Fund based facilities for Indian entity.Nil.
B) Create charge on its assets (other than A above) in India [including the assets of its group company or associate company, promoter and / or director].AD bank or a public financial institution in India or an overseas lender.Fund/non-fund based facility for any foreign entity/its SDS outside IndiaThe value of charge or the amount of the facility, whichever is less
Overseas or Indian lender.Fund/non-fund based facilities for Indian entity.Nil.
C) Create charge on the assets outside India of the foreign entity/ its SDS outside India.An AD bank in India or a public financial institution in India.Fund/non-fund based facility for any foreign entity/its SDS outside India.The value of the charge or the amount of the facility, whichever is less.
Fund/non-fund based facility for Indian entity.Nil.
A debenture trustee registered with SEBI in India.Fund based facilities for Indian entity.Nil

6. Financial commitments through pledges or charges must adhere to the following conditions:

  • The value of the pledge or charge, or the amount of the facility, whichever is less, will be considered against the financial commitment limit, provided that such a facility has not already been counted towards the prescribed limit.
  • The overseas lender for whom the pledge or charge is created must not be from a country or jurisdiction where financial commitments are not permitted under the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules.
  • The creation and enforcement of such pledges or charges must comply with the relevant provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) or the rules, regulations, or directions issued under FEMA.
  • The assets on which the charge is created must not be securitized.
  • If the duration of the charge is not specified upfront, it should align with the period of the facility (e.g., a loan or other financial facility) for which the charge has been established.
  • In case of the enforcement of a charge created on domestic assets, those domestic assets should only be transferred through a sale to a person residing in India.
  • When creating a pledge involving shares of an Indian company in favor of an overseas lender, the pledge should also comply with the existing FEMA provisions as outlined in the FEMA (Non-Debt Instruments) Rules, 2019.

(7) The provisions regarding Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) in financial services activities [as per paragraph 2 of Schedule I and paragraph 2 of Schedule V of the OI Rules] are summarized as follows:

Indian entityODI in foreign entitySubject to the financial commitment limit, reporting and documentation as per the OI Rules/Regulations and other applicable provisions as under
a) Engaged in Financial Services activityEngaged in Financial Services activitySubject to the provisions contained in paragraph 2(1) of schedule I of the OI Rules. Where such investment is in IFSC, the requisite approval by the financial services regulator concerned shall be decided within 45 days from the date of receipt of application complete in all respects failing which it shall be deemed to be approved
Not engaged in Financial Services activitySubject to the guidelines issued by the respective regulator
b) Not engaged in Financial Services activityEngaged in Financial Services activity except banking or insuranceIndian entity has posted net profits during the preceding three financial years. However, an Indian entity not meeting 3-year profitability condition may make such ODI in a foreign entity in IFSC in India.
Engaged in general and health insuranceApart from the 3 years profitability criteria, such insurance business is supporting the core activity undertaken overseas by such Indian entity. For instance, health insurance to support medical/hospital business, vehicle insurance to support the manufacturing/export of motor vehicles, etc.
c) Overseas investment in any sector by banks and non-banking financial institutions regulated by the Reserve Bank shall be subject to such other conditions as may be stipulated by the regulatory department concerned of the Reserve Bank in this regard.
d) A foreign entity will be considered to be engaged in the business of financial services activity if it undertakes an activity, which if carried out by an entity in India, requires registration with or is regulated by a financial sector regulator in India.
d) A foreign entity will be considered to be engaged in the business of financial services activity if it undertakes an activity, which if carried out by an entity in India, requires registration with or is regulated by a financial sector regulator in India.

(8) The limit on financial commitments is determined by paragraph 3 of Schedule I of the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules. Additionally:

  • The utilization of funds held in the Exchange Earners’ Foreign Currency (EEFC) account, as well as the amount obtained through the issuance of American Depository Receipts (ADR) or Global Depositary Receipts (GDR) and ADR/GDR stock-swap for making financial commitments, will be considered within the financial commitment limit. However, financial commitments made through these resources prior to the date of notification of the OI Rules/Regulations will not be counted towards the limit.
  • When the proceeds from External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) are used to make financial commitments, this utilization will be counted towards the financial commitment limit. However, only the portion of the ECB that exceeds the amount corresponding to the pledge or creation of a charge on assets, which has already been included in the financial commitment limit, will be counted.

Overseas investment by resident individuals

With effect from August 05, 2013, resident individuals (either individually or in conjunction with another resident individual or with an Indian entity) were granted the ability to engage in Overseas Direct Investment (ODI). A resident individual can make overseas investments following the guidelines provided in Schedule III of the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules. Additionally:

(1) If a resident individual has made an ODI without control in a foreign entity, and that foreign entity subsequently acquires or establishes a subsidiary or second or subsequent-level step-down subsidiary (SDS), the resident individual is not permitted to gain control in that foreign entity.

(2) Overseas investments involving capitalization, securities swaps, rights/bonus issues, gifts, and inheritances will be categorized as ODI or Overseas Portfolio Investment (OPI) based on the nature of the investment. However, investments, whether in listed or unlisted entities, through sweat equity shares, minimum qualification shares, and shares/interest under Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP) or Employee Benefits Schemes, which do not exceed 10% of the foreign entity’s paid-up capital/stock and do not lead to control, will be categorized as OPI.

(3) In the case of security swaps, both legs of the transaction must comply with the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), as applicable. If a security swap results in the acquisition of equity capital that does not conform to the OI Rules/Regulations (e.g., ODI in a foreign entity engaged in financial services activities or a foreign entity with a subsidiary/SDS), such equity capital must be divested within six months from the date of acquisition.

(4) Resident individuals are not permitted to transfer any overseas investments as gifts to individuals residing outside India.

(5) Shares/interest acquired under ESOP/Employee Benefits Schemes – Authorized Dealer (AD) banks may allow remittances for acquiring shares/interest in an overseas entity under schemes offered directly by the issuing entity or indirectly through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) or SDS. If the investment qualifies as OPI, the employer must report it in Form OPI as per Regulation 10(3) of the OI Regulations. If the investment qualifies as ODI, the resident individual must report the transaction in Form FC.

(6) Foreign entities are allowed to repurchase shares issued to residents in India under any ESOP Scheme, provided that

(i) the shares were issued in compliance with the rules/regulations under FEMA, 1999,

(ii) the repurchase follows the terms of the initial offer document, and

(iii) the necessary reporting is conducted through the AD bank.

(7) While there is no specific limit on the amount of remittance made for the acquisition of shares/interest under ESOP/Employee Benefits Schemes or the acquisition of sweat equity shares, such remittances will count towards the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) limit of the individual concerned.

Overseas investment by a person resident in India, other than an Indian entity or a resident individual

A person residing in India, who is not an Indian entity or a resident individual, can engage in overseas investment in accordance with Schedule IV of the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules. Additionally:

(1) Mutual Funds (MFs) and Venture Capital Funds (VCFs)/Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) may invest overseas in securities as specified by SEBI within an overall cap of USD 7 billion and USD 1.5 billion, respectively, as outlined in paragraph 2 of Schedule IV of the OI Rules. Furthermore, a limited number of eligible MFs are permitted to invest cumulatively up to USD 1 billion in overseas Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), subject to SEBI’s approval. These investments shall be classified as Overseas Portfolio Investment (OPI), regardless of whether the securities are listed or not.

(2) MFs/VCFs/AIFs interested in availing this facility should approach SEBI for the necessary permissions. The operational details regarding eligibility criteria, individual limits, identification of recognized stock exchanges, the investible universe, monitoring of aggregate ceilings, etc., will be in accordance with the guidelines issued by SEBI. General permission is granted to these investors for selling the securities they acquire.

(3) An Authorized Dealer (AD) bank, including its overseas branch, may acquire or transfer foreign securities in accordance with the regulations and laws of the host country in the normal course of its banking business. The provisions in the OI Rules/Regulations do not apply to such acquisition or transfer of foreign securities by an AD bank.

(4) A bank in India, licensed by the Reserve Bank of India under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, may acquire shares of the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) in line with SWIFT’s by-laws. This is permissible provided the bank has received permission from the Reserve Bank to join the ‘SWIFT User’s Group in India’ as a member.

(5) Any overseas investment made by a sole proprietorship or an unregistered partnership firm can be carried out by the proprietor or the individual partners within their limits under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) as per Schedule III of the OI Rules. If the proposed investment is in a strategic sector, any application for an overseas investment exceeding the LRS limit should be made under the government approval route.

(6) Overseas investments by registered trusts and societies may be made under the approval route, in accordance with paragraph 1 of Schedule IV of the OI Rules.

Overseas investment in an IFSC in India by a person resident in India

A person residing in India can engage in overseas investment within an International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in India in accordance with Schedule V of the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules. Here are some additional details:

  1. A person residing in India, whether it’s an Indian entity or a resident individual, can make investments (including sponsor contributions) in the units of an investment fund or vehicle established in an IFSC as Overseas Portfolio Investment (OPI). This means that, in addition to listed Indian companies and resident individuals, unlisted Indian entities can also make such investments within an IFSC.
  2. The restriction on making Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) only in an operating foreign entity or not making ODI in a foreign entity engaged in financial services activities by resident individuals does not apply to investments made within an IFSC. However, such investments should not be made in any foreign entity engaged in banking or insurance. Such foreign entities in IFSC may have subsidiaries or second or subsequent-level step-down subsidiaries (SDS) in IFSC. They may also have subsidiaries or SDS outside IFSC where the resident individual does not have control over the foreign entity. A resident individual who has made ODI without control is not allowed to gain control in a foreign entity that subsequently establishes or acquires a subsidiary/SDS outside India.

Acquisition or Transfer of Immovable Property outside India

The acquisition or transfer of immovable property outside India is subject to the provisions outlined in Rule 21 of the Overseas Investment (OI) Rules. Additionally:

  1. An Authorized Dealer (AD) bank may permit an Indian entity with an overseas office to acquire immovable property outside India for the business and residential purposes of its staff. This is permissible as long as the total remittances do not exceed the following limits, which are specified for both initial and recurring expenses:
    • 15% of the average annual sales, income, or turnover of the Indian entity over the last two financial years or up to 25% of the net worth, whichever is higher.
    • 10% of the average annual sales, income, or turnover over the last two financial years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, overseas investments made by Indian residents play a crucial role in expanding the scale and scope of business activities for Indian entrepreneurs. These investments provide access to global opportunities for growth by facilitating technology transfer, research and development, access to wider markets, and reducing capital costs. They enhance the competitiveness of Indian entities and boost their brand value. Additionally, overseas investments contribute to foreign trade, technology transfer, domestic employment, increased investment, and overall global economic growth. The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi is also promoting, “One Family. One Future. One Earth.”.

To support and facilitate overseas investments, the Central Government and the Reserve Bank of India have simplified procedures and rationalized rules and regulations under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. This effort has led to the operationalization of a new Overseas Investment regime, represented by the Foreign Exchange Management (Overseas Investment) Rules, 2022, and the Foreign Exchange Management (Overseas Investment) Regulations, 2022.

These regulations introduce several significant changes to the existing framework, including improved clarity in definitions, the introduction of the concept of “strategic sector,” the removal of the requirement for approval in specific cases, and the introduction of a “Late Submission Fee (LSF)” for reporting delays. These changes aim to reduce the compliance burden and associated costs, making overseas investments more accessible and efficient for Indian residents.

Overall, the regulatory amendments are designed to foster ease of doing business and promote overseas investments while ensuring proper oversight and compliance with FEMA Act, OI Rules, and Regulations. The revised framework supports Indian entrepreneurs in harnessing global opportunities and contributes to their success on the international stage.


Written & Compiled by CA Sunil Kumar Gupta

Founder Chairman, SARC Associates

sunilkumargupta.com

Cyber Security – An Insurance From Cyberattacks or Crimes

Cyber Security – An Insurance From Cyberattacks or Crimes

Introduction of Cyber Security

Justify Text Alignment

On the internet, data or information is widely spread and with each year, technology is becoming more comprehensive and complicated, and so do cyberattacks. Digital crime is also enhancing with great intensity and certainly, it is not restricted to any specific Internet-accessible platforms. Different devices such as desktops, smartphones, and tablets each might carry a particular level of digital defense, yet each device contains certain vulnerabilities which provide a pathway for hackers to attune to the devices.

On the positive side, particular digital security tools and services operate parallel to these negative tech counterparts.

In this section, we will emphasize on the introduction of cyber security and other associated concepts of the same. Cyber security refers to the set of techniques that are used to conserve the integrity of networks, programs, and data from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. Information technology includes a broader category that preserves all information assets, be it in hard copy or digital form. The term cyber security is not restricted to computers, but it is also implemented to the varied inter-connected systems such as computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, or data.

Cyber crime

The digital safety tool is tremendously flexible and possessed by distinct industries and of various designs or types. Various devices such as navigation apps, game apps, and social apps always have access to the internet, like our desktops, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and others. Similar to that, even if you are pursuing a store or listening to music, there is a probability that you are engaging in the environment utilizing the necessities of cybersecurity’s modern definitions. 

Contemporary, cyber security jobs contain the digital defense of information or data. Typically, it includes information storage protection, identification of intrusion, and response to cyber-attacks that seek to steal personal information. The scope of cyber security is huge and the niche of cyber security to digitally instantly raises concern. In India, cyber crimes are covered by the Information Technology Act, 2000, and Indian Penal Code, 1860 to prevent cyber crimes. The primary one takes care of issues associated with cyber crimes and electronic commerce, while the latter one, provides an outline and definition, including punishments, which we will discuss later in the blog.

Cybercrime

It is to be noted that, cybersecurity encompasses –

1. Network Security

Primarily, cyber security emphasizes on data storage and transfer, while the network is much broader. As its name defines it, in general, network security includes the defense, maintenance, and recovery of networks. It contains cyber security as a defensive way to protect all network users from digital threats, even if a provided cyber attacker pertains more purposes than mere conservation of data exploitation.

With the objective to conserve the integrity, safety, and sustainability of network users, the professionals operating the same must emphasize on securing connection privacy to prevent cyber security.

The network security services also include anti-virus software, malware detection tools, firewall upgrades, virtual private networks (VPNs), and other security programs. As mentioned, the terms cyber security and network security are often used interchangeably, which often cover similar bases and deviate at intersections where data storage and data tracking need to overlap.

2. Information Security

Several commercial workplaces use synchronized facets of day-by-day operations. It handles user login, schedule management tools, project software, and telecommunication, among others.

It conserves sensitive information from unpermitted activities containing inspection, modification, recording, and other disruption or destruction. The objective of information technology is to ensure the safety and privacy of significant data such as details of a customer account, financial data, or intellectual property.

3. Operational Security

Operational security is also known as procedural security, which is referred to as a risk of managing processes to view the activity from the perspective of an adversary with the objective to conserve sensitive information from attackers. It includes the below-mentioned steps, as follows –

  1. Identification of sensitive data: Identify the sensitive data containing product research, intellectual property, financial statements, customer information, and employee information; this will be the data one will require to protect resources.
  2. Identification of potential threats: For every category of sensitive information, one must identify the potential threats. It is to be noted that, while you look for potential third-party risks, also watch out for internal threats.
  3. Analyzation of security holes and other vulnerabilities: One must access their information and means of safeguarding and determine the loopholes or other weaknesses associated with security.
  4. Enhance the level of security with respect to each vulnerability: Rank the distinct vulnerabilities based on the likelihood of attacks, the extent of damage, and the duration of recovery from the same.
Short case study - Cyber crime
Short case study - Cyber crime

What Are the Different Types of Cybersecurity?

In this section, we will highlight the different types of cyber security. Cyber security pertains to a wide field possessing distinct disciplines, which mainly can be characterized as follows –

Cybersecurity

a.    Network Security

Major cyberattacks take place over a network and in order to ensure network security, network security solutions need to be utilized which are designed primarily to identify and block such attacks. Moreover, these solutions include data and access controls like Data Loss Prevention (DLP), IAM (Identity Access Management), NAC (Network Access Control), and NGFW (Next-Generation Firewall) application controls with the motto to enforce safe web use policies.

Besides this, in order to ensure multi-layered network protection, advanced technologies such as IPS (Intrusion Prevention System), NGAV (Next-Gen Antivirus), Sandboxing, and CDR (Content Disarm and Reconstruction) are utilized. However, this won’t be enough to prevent such attacks, therefore, network analytics, threat hunting, and automated Security Orchestration and Response (SOAR) must be used.

b.    Cloud Security

Multi-National Companies (MNCs), large organizations, firms, and even startups are constantly adopting cloud computing, which makes cloud security a major priority considering that it engages in data storage, software information, networking, analytics, and intelligence over the internet with the sole objective to provide instant innovation, flexible resources and economies of scale.

Considering the threat to cloud security could result in a breach of security, therefore, it is significant to obtain a cloud security strategy containing cyber security solutions, controls, policies, and services that allow you to protect the entire cloud deployment against such attacks.

c.    IoT Security

The full form of IoT is, the “Internet of Things”, which offers several productivity benefits to an organization, however, the same device tends to introduce the same organization to potential cyber security threats which result in breaches of vulnerable devices inadvertently connected to the internet. IoT security preserves devices from discovering and classification of connected devices, including automatic segmentation to administer network activities and utilizing IPS as a patch (virtual) in order to restrict the exploitation of vulnerable IoT devices.

Cybercrime

a.    Application Security

Like any other activities mentioned here, web applications are also connected to the internet which again impose threat due to flaws in application such as injection, broken authentication, misconfiguration, and cross-site scripting.

Application security is an appropriate way to prevent bot attacks and malicious interactions with APIs and web applications.

b.    Mobile Security

Mobile security is often overlooked which allows access to corporate data, including exposing businesses to threats through malicious applications (apps), phishing, instant messaging attacks, and phone mirroring to name a few. Mobile security preserves such attacks and prevents operating systems and devices from such attacks.

c.    Zero Trust

This traditional security model is a perimeter-emphasized model, which builds walls around the valuable assets of the organization. On the contrary, this imposes distinct issues like imposing possible inside threats and instant dissolution of the perimeter of the network. This security focuses on a granular approach in order to ensure security, including protecting individual resources by a combination of micro-segmentation, observing and enforcement of role-based access controls.

d.    Endpoint Security

As mentioned earlier, the zero trust security model stipulates the creation of micro-segments around data segments wherever they might be. A way to prevent this is by using endpoint security. Endpoint security allows firms, organizations, and companies to preserve end users using devices like laptops, mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, and desktops with data and network security controls, advanced threat prevention such as anti-phishing and anti-ransomware, and technologies.

In this section, we have understood the types of cyber security; now let’s move to the importance of cyber security to establish a better understanding of preventing cyberattacks since with the introduction of technologies, our vulnerability towards cyberattacks is constantly increasing.

The importance of cyber security differs based on the users or who is utilizing the technologies, it could be a student, business or organization, or banking sector, among others.

What Are the Distinct Importance of Cyber Security?

Importance of Cybercrime

1.      Importance For Digital World

Cybersecurity imposes significant threats to the digital world, especially, when the world is connected with each other digitally. For instance, in 2017 breach of Equifax exposed the data of over 145 million users, while in 2018 the breach of Marriot exposed the data (personal information) of 800 million individuals.

Such breaches of personal data or information had significantly affected the companies financially, most significantly resulting in losing customers. Hereto, cyber security is important to preserve businesses and persons from probable threatening consequences of data or security breaches.

2.      Importance For Banking Sector

The banking sector is the backbone of any sector since a breach of the banking sector of an economy would result in a breach of names, emails, addresses, phone numbers, and other personal information, which further allows access to account information, containing account numbers and balances of customers.

Therefore, such breaches permit the hacker to access an abundance of sensitive data breaches, which could be the reason for fraud and malicious purposes.

3.      Importance For Business or Organizations

The importance of cyber security for businesses or organizations allows hackers to access the data or personal information of customers or clients, which could also include information or details of credit or debit cards. This also results in businesses or organizations paying millions or billions to hackers.

4.    Importance For Students

Cybersecurity is significant for students as well, which allows hackers to access their bank details and credit or debit card information, including access to their Social Security numbers.

With an understanding of the importance of cyber security, let head on to the features of cyber security in the next section.

What Are the Features of Cyber Security, One Should Know?

The entire world is interconnected with the internet, which has significantly enhanced during the pandemic through the usage of web applications or other websites. Despite bringing the entire world close, this has also presented an opportunity for cybercriminals to breach into our systems or mobiles. Considering the level of harm it can cause for an individual or organization or firm, everyone must immediately attain more knowledge with respect to the understanding of features of cyber security. An adequate understanding of the features of cyber security could be the primary step toward establishing a defense against such breaches and attacks.

Features of Cybercrime

1.    Prevention from external threats

External sources are causes for cyberattacks or breaches through phishing, denial of services, endangered web applications, and hostile email attachments, among others. Hereto, such security applications attached to respective systems constantly monitor or prevent these external threats.

2.    Regulatory compliance for security

Information security is significant for any organization or firm, be it the healthcare sector or banking sector, or finance sector. Considering that, all the organizations or firms pertain to an eccentric set of standards, practices, regulations, and compliance with respect to data or information collected by them.

Regulatory compliance is basically ensuring conformance with compliance requirements to laws, specifications, and guidelines processes associated with the business.

3.    Fortification from internal threats

Prevention from internal threats is as much as essential as ensuring preservation from external threats since both inflict threats on the organization or firm. The primary reason for triggering internal threats is misconfiguration, employee mistakes, faulty choices of employees, or bad actors.

Although, a definitive security system and a cybersecurity team attenuate these threats or attacks from organizations or firms.

4. Cloud-based security services

The cloud-based security services refer to the backend brain security systems which utilize a wide range of tools with the objective to ensure proper analytics and intelligence threat. Such services pertain a monitoring security endpoints and pervade machine learning models with the objective to ameliorate the scanning for all-inclusive objectives.

5.    Consolidated solutions

Cybersecurity solutions should provide an absolute panacea to preserve the system of organizations or firms from the wide range of threats. In order to do so, the concerned security experts must know when and how to ensure complete utilization of anti-spam, anti-virus, anti-malware, content filters, and wireless security, among others.

This comprehensive protection or solution tends to preserve the system from such threats or attacks without compromising the confidentiality and security of data and enterprises.

6.    All-inclusive security system: detection, prevention, & response

A wide range of security threats or cyber-attacks can be prevented or blocked by ensuring timely detection or tracking of the same. In order to do so, appropriate platforms are used that tracks such attacks and spontaneously send alert and response to them. The tools such as hardware and software firewalls, network analyzers, SSL or TLS proxy servers, and other web applications or apps or platforms are used.

Cybersecurity Security Awareness & Indian Economy

The Internet had brought a wave of transformation in everyone’s life by altering the way of communicating, sharing updates, playing games, shopping, and even making friends. The internet is affecting every part of our daily life.

Considering its effect on our daily lives and every sector of the economy, it is significant to attain the proper education regarding the proclamation of information with the objective to prevent cyberattacks or crimes, including reenacting that students play a crucial role in creating an ecosystem of cyber security with the motto to restrict cyber-attacks or crimes.

Cyberspace interconnects us globally and keeping in the view that its usage is constantly expanding, the rate of cybercrimes, especially against children and women are rising such as cyberstalking, cyberbullying, cyber harassment, child pornography, and rape content, among others. With the objective to create a safe and sound cyber ecosystem, it is essential to follow cyber-safe practices.

With that, let’s move on to cyber crimes laws in India –

a.    Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act)

The IT Act enacts cyber laws in order to regulate electronic means of communication, and trade, including commerce to prevent computer crimes. The overview of the act is defined as –

An Act to provide legal recognition for transactions carried out by means of electronic data interchange and other means of electronic communication, commonly referred to as “electronic commerce”, which involve the use of alternatives to paper-based methods of communication and storage of information, to facilitate electronic filing of documents with the Government agencies and further to amend the Indian Penal Code, the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, the Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 1891 and the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

Penalty & Compensation

  1. Section 43 of the IT Act

The provisions under section 43 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 defines as –

If any person without the permission of the owner or any other person who is in charge of a computer, computer system, or computer network-

“(i) accesses such computer, computer system or computer network or computer resource; (ii) downloads, copies or computer system or computer network or computer resource; (ii) downloads, copies or extracts any data, computer data-base or information; (iii) introduces or causes to be introduced any computer contaminant or computer virus; (iv) damages or causes to be damaged any computer, computer system or computer network data, computer database or any other programmes; (v) disrupts or causes disruption; (vi) denies or causes the denial of access to any person authorised to access; (vii) provides any assistance to any person to facilitate access in contravention of the provisions of this Act; (viii) charges the services availed of by a person to the account of another person by tampering with or manipulating any computer, computer system or computer network; destroys, deletes or alters any information residing in a computer resource or diminishes its value or utility or affects it injuriously by any means; (x) steal, conceals, destroys or alters or causes any person to steal, conceal, destroy or alter any computer source code with intention to cause damage; he shall be liable to pay damages by way of compensation to the person so affected.

It simply signifies that if an individual commits cybercrimes like computer damage to a victim without the consent of the same. Then the owner of the computer is entitled to a refund of the entire damage. While section 66 is applicable to any conduct provided in Section 43 which is considered to be dishonest and fraudulent the cyber criminal is punishable with imprisonment of up to 3 years or with a fine which might extend up to rupees five lahks, or both.

While section 66 is applicable to any conduct provided in Section 43 which is considered to be dishonest and fraudulent the cyber criminal is punishable with imprisonment of up to 3 years or with a fine which might extend up to rupees five lahks, or both.

2. Further Extension of Section 66

Section 66B is defined punishment for deceitful stealing of computer resources or communication devices, it is defined as –

Whoever dishonestly receive or retains any stolen computer resource or communication device knowing or having reason to believe the same to be stolen computer resource or communication device, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years or with fine which may extend to rupees one lakh or with both.

Section 66C, includes information associated with punishment related to identity theft such as using an electronic signature, password, or any other unique identification feature fraudulently or dishonestly, which describes punishment as –

Whoever, fraudulently or dishonestly make use of the electronic signature, password or any other unique identification feature of any other person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years and shall also be liable to fine with may extend to rupees one lakh.

Section 66D, this section involves information associated with punishment for cheating by personation by using computer resources, which is defined as –

Whoever, by means for any communication device or computer resource cheats by personating, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years and shall also be liable to fine which may extend to one lakh rupees.”

Section 66E, this section of the information technology act includes information related to punishment associated with privacy violations such as taking pictures of private areas, and publishing/ transmitting these images without the consent of the concerned individual. If found guilty, the criminal would be punished with imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine, which can extend up to rupees two lakh or both. Section 66F, the section 66F of the Information Technology Act defines punishment associated with cyber terrorism, be it to threaten the unity, integrity, security, or sovereignty of India or to strike terror in the people. In such cases, the cybercriminal would be punished with imprisonment, which could extend to life imprisonment

3.    Section 67

Section 67 includes punishment associated with publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form, as –

Whoever publishes or transmits or causes to be published or transmitted in the electronic form, any material which is lascivious or appeals to the prurient interest or if its effect is such as to tend to deprave and corrupt persons who are likely, having regard to all relevant circumstances, to read, see or hear the matter contained or embodied in it, shall be punished on first conviction with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years and with fine which may extend to five lakh rupees and in the event of second or subsequent conviction with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years and also with fine which may extend to ten lakh rupees.”

b.  Information Technology Rules (IT Rules)

The different aspects of data collection, transmission, and processing are covered under this rule as –

It includes details related to sensitive information personal details withheld by entities such as –

  • Password;
  • Financial information such as Bank account or credit card or debit card or other payment instrument details ;
  • Physical, physiological, and mental health conditions;
  • Sexual orientation;
  • Medical records and history;
  • Biometric information;
  • Any detail relating to the above clauses as provided to the body corporate for providing service;
  • Any of the information received under the above clauses by the body corporate for processing, stored, or processed under lawful contract or otherwise

This section defines a set of rules, procedures, practices, and sensitive personal data or information which needs to be complied with. Moreover, an audit will be duly conducted once a year or as required.

The Information Technology (Guidelines for Intermediaries and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 help in maintaining the safety related to the online safety of data of users, which administer the role of intermediaries or social media intermediaries with the objective to restrict the data transmission on the internet.

It includes guidelines for the cyber cafes to be complied with, and it includes registration of cyber café to generate unique identification numbers, identification of users, and management of physical layout and computer resources, among others.

This Act includes information related to the electronic service delivery of certain services like applications, certificates, and licenses, by electronic means. It specifically emphasizes on the services provided by the government signifying compliance requirements related to the Creation of a repository of electronically signed electronic records by Government Authorities, Procedures for making changes in a repository of electronically signed electronic records, among others.

This Act includes rules related to distinct CERT-In Rules as per Rule 12 of the CERT-In Rules, providing a 24-hour response help desk. This help desk is operational 24 hours to report the cyber security incidents of persons, organizations, and companies, in case they experience cyber attacks.

c.    Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC)

The Indian Penal Code, 1860 includes mentioned sections to prevent cyber crimes –

1. Section 292

This section excises control over punishment related to the publishing or transmission of obscene material or sexually explicit material digitally or electronically. In such case, a fine of 2000 or imprisonment of up to 2 years would be imposed.

2. Section 354C

It defines punishment related to taking or publishing images of the private parts of a woman, including actions. The section 354C is defined as –

Any man who watches, or captures the image of a woman engaging in a private act in circumstances where she would usually have the expectation of not being observed either by the perpetrator or by any other person at the behest of the perpetrator or disseminates such image shall be punished on first conviction with imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be less than one year, but which may extend to three years, and shall also be liable to fine, and be punished on a second or subsequent conviction, with imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be less than three years, but which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.

3. Section 354D

It includes provisions associated with cyber stalking are included in this section, including tracking, emailing, including attempts to contact her through digital means or electronically. It is defined as –

Whoever commits the offence of stalking shall be punished on first conviction with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years and shall also be liable to fine; and be punished on a second or subsequent conviction with imprisonment or either description for a term which shall not be less than three years but which may extend to seven years and with fine which shall not be less than one lakh rupees:

Provided that the count may, for adequate and special reasons to be mentioned in the judgement, impose a sentence of lesser period of imprisonment than specified minimum imprisonment.

4.    Section 420

This section includes punishments related to cheating and dishonesty associated with property delivery, which imposes imprisonment of up to 7 years along with fine for crimes such as fake websites or online or cyber frauds.

5.    Section 463

Section 463 involves a punishment of 7 years or a fine, or both for the creation of false documents or false electronic records or part of a document or electronic record.

6.    Section 465

This section is defined as –

Whoever commits forgery shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.”

d.      Companies Act, 2013

The Companies Act 2013 includes the daily obligations to be complied with by the corporate stakeholders. Each provision associated with the Information Technology Act, 2000 related to electronic records involving the manner and format of electronic recording, as far as it is in variance with the concerned Act would be applicable to records of the electronic form provided under Section 39

Considering that, the Indian government has taken certain initiatives to prevent cyber-attacks or crimes as follows –

Cyber Crime Awareness Booklet on Cyber Security Awareness

Under Cyber Security Awareness, the tips for preventing cybercrime are –

  • To keep your devices or mobile phones updated with advanced or updated safety patches.
  • Use the appropriate security software (latest version) to preserve your system or devices.
  • Always use or download the software or applications from trusted or known sources, and restrict from using pirated software on your system or devices.
  • Protect your devices or mobile phones with strong PIN codes or passwords and do not share the same with anyone.
  • Restrict sharing your net banking password, One Time Password (OTP), ATM/ mobile banking PIN, or CVV, among others with anyone, even if someone claims to be an employee of the bank.
  • Ensure to change the default admin password of the wifi router to a strong one and keep your wireless network encrypted.
  • Be cautious when using public wifi, including avoiding entering your personal and professional information or details while using these networks.
  • Use the virtual keyword to access net banking services on public computers and be sure to log out from the same after completion of the online transaction. Moreover, ensure to delete the browser history.
  • Be certain to scan all the email attachments from viruses prior to opening the emails, including ignoring downloading from untrusted emails.
  • Be cautious while sharing your identity proof, especially the one which identifies your personal or company identity.
  • Keep the IMEI code of your mobile in a safe place that can be the only access to you, an operator could blacklist or block or phone using your IMEI code, if your mobile phone is stolen.
  • Prior to entering your ATM PIN, observe your surrounding and the people around you.
  • Engaged in a detailed discussion of safe internet practices with your family and friends, including motivating them to follow the same in order to prevent cybercrimes or attacks.
  • Avoid sharing bank details or card details on e-wallets it enhances the possibility of theft or fraud due to a breach of security.
  • Contact the concerned authorities instantly if you think your safety is compromised.

Cyber Hygiene for cyberspace

Under the cyber hygiene initiative of the government, the Indian government has introduced some dos and don’ts to be followed in cyberspace emphasizing on different platforms.

Cyberspace is a complex and dynamic environment of interactions among people, software, and services supported by the worldwide distribution of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) devices and networks. The exponential increase in the number of internet users in India clubbed with rapidly evolving technologies has brought in its own unique challenges. Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Cyber & Information Security (CIS) Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs has prepared this manual to disseminate Cyber Hygiene Best Practices for the benefit of Industrial Bodies/General Public/Government Officials. This should not be considered an exhaustive list of precautions for Cyber Hygiene but baseline precautions that are to be taken.

  • Computer safety tips
Computer safety tips
  • USB device security
USB device security
  • Password security management
Password security management
  • General Internet Safety Precautions
General Internet safety Precautions
General Internet safety Precautions
  • Financial Transactions – Safe Practices
Financial Transactions - Safe Practices
  • Social Media Platforms – Safety Tips
Social Media Platforms - safety tips
  • Mobile Phone Safety
mobile phone safety
  • Malware and E-mail Security Practices
Malware and E-mail Security Practices

Above mentioned is how the Indian government is promoting cyber security, emphasizing email security practices in social media. However, in the next section, we will describe various steps taken by the government to promote cyber security, especially for students.

Describe Various Steps Taken by the Government to Promote Cyber Security For Students

The cyber-attacks are becoming highly challenging as well as sophisticated nowadays, especially through the usage of social media platforms, emails, chatrooms, and websites, among others.

Email spoofing (a technique used in spam and phishing attacks to trick users into thinking a message came from a trusted person or entity), cyberbullying (using an electronic means of communication to bully an individual), job frauds, banking frauds, identity theft, among others have increased with the time, especially after covid, as it has given a kick start to a new era of digitalization. Though, covid-19 has pushed distinct sectors of the economy to work digitally, which certainly contributes to the growth of the economy, while on the other hand, the same can be seen as a significant cause of the increase in cybercrimes.

Let’s commence with how the Indian government is taking initiatives to prevent cyberbullying is often referred to as cyber harassment under which electronic means are used to bully or harass an individual  –

How to stop cyber-bullying?

With the understanding of it, let’s move on to how the Indian government is helping in the prevention of cyber-grooming, which is referred to a situation in which an individual, often an adult befriends a child online and builds an emotional connection with the intention of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or trafficking –

How to Prevent  cyber-Grooming

Besides social media, the Indian government, like any other economy is taking appropriate initiatives to prevent cybercrime. Recently, the Central government introduced and launched “Cyberdost” (February 2019) – a Twitter handle that is responsible for creating awareness regarding cybersecurity in order to create awareness regarding the same, @cyberdost has tweeted 1066+ tweets containing videos, images, and creatives providing general safety tips to prevent cybercrimes or attacks.

Besides this, we have to dive a little deep into how the Indian government is promoting cyber security, then we would like to highlight that the Indian government has actively engaged in –

  • Radio campaigns
  • SMS sharing with respect to creating awareness against cybercrimes
  • Publicly publishing videos, images, and creatives providing general safety tips to prevent cybercrimes or attacks
  • Publication of Handbook emphasizing “cyber safety of adolescents or children”
  • Publication of Best security practices to reduce or prevent cybercrimes against government bodies
  • Cyber safety and security awareness are being organized through C-DAC along with Police Department of various states

All such measures have been taken keeping the mission of preventing cybercrime.

Conclusion

Just like the entire world, the Indian economy is also considerate regarding the problems introduced by cyber security. This blog highlighted how the Indian government is promoting cyber security, we would like to emphasize that, be it issuing measures, tips, and practices to be followed to prevent cybercrimes with respective departments or ministries, the Indian government has formed the relevant policies and measures to prevent such hideous actions, which does not only cause loss of money but affects the life of a person.

Besides this, the Indian government has successfully introduced and implemented Acts and schemes to prevent cyber security attacks or crimes, such as Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act), Indian Penal Code, 1860, and Information Technology Rules (IT Rules), among others. Also, considering the risk imposed by cyber crimes, the Indian government has appropriately included daily obligations to be complied with by the corporate stakeholders to restrict the same issue. The Indian government has dedicated most of its resources not only to making India a developed country, however, also to preventing the breach of information through incorporating legal and technological advances without compromising digitalization.


Written & Compiled by CA Sunil Kumar Gupta

Founder Chairman, SARC Associates

sunilkumargupta.com

India GDP in Trillion: A Path to Become a $30 Trillion Economy

India GDP in Trillion: A Path to Become a $30 Trillion Economy

The bold and big thinking of Indian leaders is pushing India to become a $30 trillion economy in the next 30 years.

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In a short span of a year, the Indian economy has quickly expanded, from the timely action of the RBI to tame inflation to expanding consumption – India is skyrocketing towards growth and development. 

Recently, India has emerged as one of the most powerful countries, since it surpassed the UK to become the 5th largest world economy. However, a question is still being asked whether India can put itself forward as a $30 trillion economy.

Certainly, India holds the potential to become a $30 trillion economy which is clear from the fact that the nominal GDP (GDP at the current rate) has taken a big swing in the April-June quarter, i.e., Rs 64.95 lakh crores, according to the June rupee-dollar exchange rate it stands at $823 billion.

Moreover, it is also claimed that India surpassed the UK’s GDP in March itself, which was $813 billion, while India GDP was $864 billion

However, as per 2021 April’s GDP outlook report of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), India’s GDP ($3.18 trillion) was right behind UK’s GDP ($3.19 trillion) in 2021. Conversely, it has also been anticipated that India would become a $3.54 trillion economy by the end of 2022 if compared to the UK’s projected GDP which would be $3.38 trillion.

From the estimated data and India GDP growth, it can be seamlessly prognosticated that India will soon become a $3.54 trillion economy by the end of 2022 considering its present growth. 

Although, in which year it can become a $30 trillion economy will depend on many factors. 

With that, let’s see some facts, how the India GDP surpassed the GDP of the UK?

How India GDP Growth Has Surpassed the UK?

The timing could not have been more auspicious when India emerged as the 5th largest world economy at midnight after the entire country celebrated Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, that’s its 75th Independence day. Moreover, after overtaking the UK, India is all set to skyrocket to be the third-largest world economy by 2029.

The path taken by India since 2014 reveals it is likely to get the tag of the third largest economy in 2029, a movement of seven places upward since 2014 when India was ranked 10th. India should surpass Germany in 2027 and Japan by 2029 at the current rate of growth (as per estimated figures).

From the estimated data, it can be safely projected that India has been moving in the right direction, and we can conclude that India GDP rank will surpass the world economic leaders in the coming years.  

How India pipped the UK, our colonial rulers –

How India's GDP Growth Has Surpassed the UK
  • Due to pent-up demand, the consumption in the service sector is bouncing back, as consumers are stepping out and spending (as per 2019-2020 data). One of the major reasons for the increase in demand is the “ abundance of festivals” celebrated in India.
  • While the world is on the brink of recession, our economy is growing by 7%.
  • As per the Finance Secretary, the government is on the pathway to meet the fiscal deficit target of 6.4% (Rs. 16, 61,196 crores) in the current fiscal year ending in March 2023, while currently, it is Rs. 15, 91,089 crores as per revised estimates for 2021-22.
  • The Real Gross Fixed Capital Formation of the country is expected to grow by 6.8% (2021-22), previously it was -9.8 (2020-21).

Yet, with the commendable achievement of India, one aspect which can not be ignored is, that “the per capita income of India is low, as India ranked 144 positions out of 190 countries.

It indicates a clear picture of poverty, income disparity, and our inability to account for inflation, wealth, or saving, therefore, even after achieving the milestone of being recognized as the “world’s fifth largest economy” the Indian economy is lagging behind in distinct aspects.

Whether India Will Be Able to Transform Itself Into a $30 Trillion Economy or Not | India GDP Growth

India GDP growth in the last 10 years, reflects a meritorious change, as it jumps to 8.9% in 2021 from 5.5% in 2012, especially after sinking as low as -6.6% in the previous year.

With the magnificent elevation in GDP of India, it can unequivocally be noticed that we are perfectly poised on the passageway to aspire to be a $30 trillion economy in the next 30 years. Though, it seems like a far-fetched dream, yet, beyond doubt it’s not rocket science as with our magical power of demographic dividend, youth power, and power of democracyIndia can proudly establish itself as a $30 trillion economy. 

Although, India encounters varied stumbling blocks to be finally crowned as a $30 trillion economy, such as –

The Economic Issues in India

The-Economic-Issues-in-India.

1. Low Per Capita Income

Even after 75 years of Independence, India continues to be a developing country, whose one feature is low per capita income. However, in 2020-21 low per capita income has dropped to Rs 1.27 lakh from Rs 1.32 lakh in 2019-20, while in 2021-22 it is estimated to be 1.50 lakh.

Apart from this, the problem of unequal distribution of income exists in India, which is one of the significant contributors and obstacles to economic development.

Proposed solution –

  • Increase in farmers’ income – India’s 54.6% of the population works in the agriculture sector and historically, India has always kept prices of agricultural products low. However, due to the introduction of schemes like the Farm Acts, the Indian government can allow farmers to earn high profits. Therefore, with the increase in profit of farmers, they can provide support to the other economic sectors through their consumption. For instance, products like fertilizers, working attire, and tools are a necessity for farmers, especially if they are planning to expand their business. So, this increase in expenditure will generate more job opportunities.
  • Urbanizing India’s rural population – Urbanization drives growth, due to the prominent nature of the Indian agricultural population, moving certain farmers into rural areas could allow them to generate employment and increase agricultural productivity by minimizing the working of a number of farmers on the same land. Therefore, it will help in growing India’s medium-sized cities. Moreover, the Indian government can promote migration by providing incentives to farmers, including investment in infrastructure development and urban services. Further, the new urban population will generate a resurgence of the housing market and provide more lending opportunities to banks. This in return will result in more development and urbanization, thus, would create more international investment and manufacturing export opportunities.

2. Dependence on Agriculture

Over 54.6% of the population is dependent on agriculture to earn a livelihood, which only contributes 20.2% to the national income, reflecting low productivity. Fortunately, in the Union Budget 2022-23, Rs 1.24 lakh crores have been allocated to the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation, and Farmers’ Welfare.

The measures are taken by the government, such as financial and the introduction of policies, positively solve the problem of individuals working in the agriculture sector.

Proposed solution –

  • Technological advancement – Apart from increasing the farmers’ income and urbanizing India’s rural population (earlier mentioned points), the Indian government can emphasize on the introduction of technologies in agriculture. Since, technology can assist farmers in predicting the climate, decreasing water usage, increasing yield, and their net profit margins. That in return increases India GDP growth rate.
  • Digital Credit Policy – Though the Indian government has already launched several credit policies to ensure easy access to loans with fewer legal formalities, yet, farmers could not able to avail the benefits of credit. That could be solved by combining easy access to loans with a digital credit policy, under which loan filing would become much simpler. 

3. High Population

Another factor, which is the stumbling block in economic development is heavy population pressure. Contemporary, India is the second most populous country, after China, yet, the per capita income of our country is low, which results in income disparity, and the inability to account for inflation, wealth, or saving. 

Further, in order to take care of the well-being of the population of the country, the government has to allocate high funds to fulfill basic requirements like food, shelter, medicine, schooling, electricity, hygiene, and more.

Proposed solution –

  • India can put more emphasis on programs like “AI for Youth” under which youth will be trained to be future-ready for AI development. Therefore, will commence the trend of entrepreneurship and contribute to India GDP growth.
  • To create “future entrepreneurs” the government can put more emphasis on the improvement of the soft skills of a student which are core for all professionals, rather than emphasizing on traditional studying methods.
  • Preventing the migration of India’s youth to other countries (to search for better opportunities) can be done through the creation of better jobs in all sectors.
  • The Indian government could provide subsidiaries to scientists, engineers, and other students (youth) who persist in talents but lack financial support.
  • Females/ women should be prepared to lead the fields which are considered non-fit for them, that’s how we will have another Sarla Thukral, Mithali Raj, and more.

4. Existence of Under-employment And Chronic Unemployment

Unemployment of any kind is a curse of any economy, be it developed or developing, and being a developing country, India is also encountering similar problems. Therefore, due to the abundance of labor, it is challenging for the government to generate employment opportunities for the entire population.

In addition to that, due to a deficiency of capital, secondary and tertiary occupations are inadequate, which results in under-employment and chronic unemployment.

Proposed solution –

  • Unemployment is a constant problem in the Indian economy and the Indian government has introduced several schemes to minimize unemployment such as Atmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana, etc. However, India’s world-beating growth is not creating as many jobs, considering that India should put more emphasis on improving the education system and job training.
  • Even though the employment rate has increased, employers couldn’t hire due to a lack of skills in freshers. Therefore, there is a need to give importance to the soft skills of students.
  • The Indian government can invest in the establishment of more industries and infrastructure development projects to minimize under-employment.
  • Training in the workplace, youth employment services, and career education could be a great way to improve skills, create more entrepreneurs, and allow students to choose the right career.

5. Leisurely Improvement in Rate of Capital Formation

From the beginning, one thing that pertains is a deficiency of capital in India, though, in 2021-22, the Gross Fixed Capital Formation of the country is expected to grow by 6.8%. Therefore, reflecting positive growth, yet, considering the high population growth, India could use better measures to increase the rate of gross capital formation.

Proposed solution –

  • Saving and investment from household savings or government policy need to be increased by improving the money flow, that in return increases the private investment or fixed asset acquisition. Therefore, increase in gross fixed capital formation.
  • Resident enterprises in the country can be increased to increase the gross fixed capital formation. For instance, oil extraction occurs in open seas, so the associated fixed capital is allocated to the national territory, in which the relevant enterprises are resident.

The mentioned economic issues have many potential solutions (as mentioned above) and it is no doubt that with time India has made progress in many fields. 

Certainly, from the 5 worst economies in the world to the world’s 5th largest economy, India has truly proven it’s worth and how its leaders have been working in all directions to tame the world to see India growing and expanding as a world power. 

What Are The Strengths Of The Indian Economy?

India, the fastest growing economy has to realize the strengths of demographic dividend, youth power, and the power of democracy. It is no doubt, from the year 2014 to 2022, India has witnessed tremendous growth in distinct aspects – be it science and technology, innovation, agriculture, the service sector, or digitalization.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Modi Ji, India has built a modern economy, lifted millions of individuals from poverty, become a space and nuclear power, and developed robust foreign policies. 

Since 2014, India has come a long way, leaving a string of landmarks, which defines its journey. This section of the blog will trace the strengths of the Indian economy and India will become a $30 trillion economy.

Strengths of Indian economy.

1. Mixed Economy

The Indian economy is a perfect example of a mixed economy, which means private and public both sectors co-exist in India and function smoothly. On one hand, the public sector operates on heavy and fundamental industries, while on the other hand, private sectors have gained importance (due to liberalization). 

That provides a model for a “public-private partnership” where both, private and public sectors can work together through the adequate contribution of financial resources, management expertise, technology, and other resources.

2. An Emerging Market

India has emerged as a vibrant economy, which contributes to the stable the India GDP growth rate, even amidst global downstream, India continues to show positive India GDP growth trends, especially with the introduction of policies such as an automatic route for FDI in India, including measures taken by the government to attract domestic and foreign investment such as –

  • Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) Project Development Cells (PDCs)
  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes
  • PLI Scheme
  • Make in India 
  • Investment Clearance Cell (ICC)
  • One District One Product (ODOP) and more.

All the initiatives taken by the Indian government reflect the high prospect for growth.

3. Expansion in The Role of Agriculture

As mentioned, the largest part of our population is engaged in agriculture, which also contributes to the India GDP growth of the country. The introduction of the “green revolution” and other “bio-technological” improvements in agriculture has made Indian agriculture more efficient and has increased the surplus too.  

Including that, government initiatives such as PM Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) (provides insurance on naturally grown crops,) Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), and National Project on Organic Farming schemes – have pushed our agriculture sector towards growth. Moreover, PM Modi Ji’s government has also been working to incorporate AI in agriculture, which will again be an immense step towards development.

4. Service Sector

Due to liberalization and economic reforms India’s service sectors are flourishing, especially with the introduction of schemes like Make in India, and Digital India Mission, including schemes to boost the “12 champion service sectors” that are IT & ITeS, Tourism, and Hospitality, Medical Value Travel, Transport and Logistics, Accounting and Finance, Audio Visual, Legal, Communication, Construction, and Related Engineering, Environmental, Financial and Education – India is truly making immense progression in the service sector.

The service sector is the largest sector in India, estimated to grow by 8.2%.in 2021-22, after a contraction of 8.4% the previous year. 

5. Demographic Dividend

The human capital of India is young, which reflects that India is a proud owner of the maximum percentage of youth. The “youth” is not only highly motivated but also the greatest asset of a country, if skilled and trained adequately. And in order to provide diversified training to the youth, Hon’ble PM Modi Ji’s government has introduced schemes such as –

  • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 
  • Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS)
  • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKK)
  • Scheme for Higher Education Youth in Apprenticeship and Skills.
  • National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme.
  • National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building.
  • Green Skill Development Programme.

With the introduction of such programs and schemes, the Indian government is constantly taking measures to train and enhance the skills of youth, in order to create human capital to maximize the growth prospects of the country.

Moreover, the availability of maximum human capital in India attracts investment opportunities in India, hence, contributes India GDP growth.

6. High Purchase Price Parity (PPP)

Purchase Price Parity (PPP) refers to the rates of currency conversion, which tries to equalize the purchasing power of other currencies by obliterating the differences in price levels between countries.

The PPP of India stood at 23.14 in 2021, which reflects that India is one of the countries with the highest PPP. That means that the same product would cost less in India, than in other countries, for instance, the price of the same shoes would be high in the US, say $50 (3,982.53), however, would say Rs 2000 in India. 

This opens up the possibility of exports to other countries, since raw materials are economical in India, thereby contributing to India GDP growth.

7. Rapid Growth of Urban Areas

Urbanization is one of the keys to improve the growth of the economy and under the leadership of Hon’ble Narendra Modi Ji several measures have been taken to provide distinct facilities in rural areas such as electricity, schools, employment, banks, and financial institutions, transportation facilities, and more. 

Along with that, more scheme has been introduced with the purpose to ensure further development, such as –

  • Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)
  • Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM)
  • Aadarsh Gram Yojana (AGY) :- SAGY, VAGY & SPAGY.
  • Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY)
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (Center 60 : State 40)
  • Swaranjayanti Khand Utthan Yojana (100 % State

8. Digitalization

Digitalization in India, once a traditional country, is now a home of AI system designers and will soon become an AI hub, especially when the government is taking adequate measures to support digitization. India stands 4th in the largest producer of AI-relevant scholarly papers and has introduced initiatives like AI for Youth (commenced in 2020) to make the youth future ready for AI developments. 

Apart from that, our hon’ble PM also talks about making work from home a reality, which will allow more women to participate in the workforce, ensure energy saving, and will allow youth to manage studies and work conveniently.

9. Science and Technology (AI)

India is among one of the top countries in the world and in order to be successful in science and technology, the Indian government has launched schemes like INSPIRE “Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research” or Abdul Kalam Technology Innovation National Fellowship”, and other schemes with the purpose to encourage innovation in this sector.

It is no doubt that India is prosperously achieving success through launching Mission mars, or GSAT- 19.

10. Startup Hub

With the introduction of startup culture in India, India is becoming a startup hub, since due to schemes introduced by the Indian government, now startups are receiving concessions, subsidiaries, and more. 

Some of the schemes are –

  • Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana.
  • Credit Guarantee Trust Fund for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTSME).
  • Financial Support to MSMEs in ZED Certification Scheme. 
  • Credit Linked Capital Subsidy for Technology Upgradation (CLCSS).
  • Design Clinic for Design Expertise to MSMEs.

Conclusion 

India has overthrown one of the cultural, technological, and scientific leaders by conquering the position of the world’s fifth-largest economy, thereby, reflecting an increase in India GDP growth.  

India has always strived hard to adopt the best possible measures and strategies, which are in the interest of the economy as a whole and which have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. From our track record, we envision the path of a $30 trillion economy, through a constant emphasis on fair and credible policies and measures that will eliminate unemployment issues, improve technological development and infrastructure, ensure adequate utilization of economic resources, and other aspects associated with economic development.

Moreover, under the guidance of our honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India will soon become a $5 trillion economy and will head strategically on the path to becoming a $30 trillion economy.

Written & Compiled by CA Sunil Kumar Gupta

Founder Chairman, SARC Associates

sunilkumargupta.com

PM’s Deliberations On Easy Lending Norms By Commercial Banks

PM’s Deliberations On Easy Lending Norms By Commercial Banks

During speech at the conference on 18th November, 2021 on ‘Creating synergies for seamless credit flow and economic growth’, our Prime Minister said “Indian banks are strong enough to play a major role in imparting fresh energy to the country’s economy, for giving a big push and making India self-reliant. I consider this phase as a major milestone in the banking sector of India”.

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On this great occasion I wish to congratulate the Hon’ble Prime Minister on behalf of the industry, for suggesting various measures to commercial banks for easing out loan delivery process for providing better opportunities to business enterprises and start-ups. Our country’s outlook is now to intensify and spread the economic activities by providing hassle free loans to entrepreneurs.  In the post Covid scenario, RBI’s role has to play an important role for boosting up economic activities and encouraging the banks to sanction loans at easy terms.

Prime Minister reiterated that banks have sufficient liquidity and coupled with the fact that now there is no backlog for provisioning of NPAs as NPAs in public sector banks are at the lowest compared to the five years back and this has led to upgrading of outlook for the Indian Banks by the International agencies. The Prime Minister said that apart from being a milestone, this phase is also a new starting point and called upon the banking sector to support the wealth creators and job creators. The Prime Minister empathetically said “It is the need of the hour for the banks of India to work proactively to bolster the wealth sheet of the country along with their balance sheets”.

PM urged bankers to identify the productive potential of citizens and go beyond the traditional banking when it comes to nourish their business intelligence and entrepreneurial dreams with quick release of loan funds.  PM further stressed upon the need to go away with the feeling that lender is approver and customer is an applicant or receiver. Instead of waiting for the customers to come and seek loans, bankers have to come forward to analyse the credit appetite of both existing and potential customers and provide consultancy services with customized solutions and unified policies. In this way, banks have to adopt the model of partnership in which both partners share the benefits.

The Prime Minister said that due to recent implementation of various schemes, a huge pool of data is now available in the country. The Prime Minister emphasized that the banking sector must take advantage of this facility. He also listed the opportunities presented by the flagship schemes like PM Awas Yojana, Svamitva and Svanidhi and asked banks to participate and play their proactive role in these schemes.

Prime Minister said the scale at which corporates and startups are coming forward today is unprecedented and it is the opportune time to strengthen, fund, invest in India’s economic aspirations. 

Some Highlights of Hon’ble PM’s Speech

Reduction In NPA 

He quoted detailed reports while saying that NPA ratio of public sector banks has now come down to the lowest during last 5 years and they are flushed with liquidity. PM quoted that public sector banks have recovered around 5 lakh crores of bad loans during last years but such news did not make headlines in core media due to illegitimate activities of some defaulters. 

Need For Massive Credit Push

Inspite of the current Covid situation, it is assumed that economy will recover at growth rate of 8.7% to 10.5% during current fiscal. This study sounds good but a massive credit push is essential for businesses to remain operational without hindrance and to expand to new horizons.

Studies have also found that growth rate of non-food bank credit has increased to 6.8% in September, 2021 as compared to 5.1% during same period last year. Industrial loans however have seen the growth of only 2.5%. CARE ratings also hint that weekly average (net) liquidity surplus in banking system grew from Rs.4.5 lakh crores at the end of June, 2021 to around Rs.7.5 lakh crores as of September-end.

Time For Action To Contribute to Economy 

Bank’s participation in the growth of nation’s economy is undeniable. Banks maintain strict protocols while sanctioning loans. This exercise makes entrepreneurs to wait for long period and delay the process for unwanted reasons. Bankers must overlook traditional methods to approve loans. 

PM assures the banks with dependable words and announced to provide all possible help. It is however important for loan seekers to maintain all records and provide all necessary documents for faster disbursal of loan funds. 

Make Loan Dispensation Process Easy And Time Bound

He also appreciated the proposal to set up the web-based project funding tracker. This proposal will make all ministries and banks to work in tandem. PM also suggested adding this proposal as an interface to Gati Shakti Portal. Faster loan disbursal process will also help to effectively cope with other big challenges of unemployment and fund crunch.

Access https://www.rbi.org.in/ to read more information.

Conclusion 

In view of the abovementioned facts, it may be safe to conclude that the Government is fully committed to support Indian economy by promoting businesses and providing easy availability of funds through banks. It becomes pertinent for banks to be proactive in considering genuine loan requests and make sure that the funds sanctioned are being used only for the said purpose. Misuse of bank funds may land customer and/or concerned authorities into trouble and may attract various penal actions. 

In order to find more details on the given subject, you may refer to the author at https://www.sunilkumargupta.com.

“AatmaNirbhar Bharat” Measures: Rs. 20 lakh crores Economic Package 2020

“AatmaNirbhar Bharat” Measures: Rs. 20 lakh crores Economic Package 2020

We congratulate our Hon’ble Prime Minister & Finance Minister for announcing the economic package in 5 parts to make India self-reliant (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) i.e., #AatmaNirbharBharat and for better opportunities for post-COVID-19. I am happy to share some points from my report published on 9th May 2020 on various social media platforms and where the  Government was tagged, also found a place in the package like:

  1. Release of pending payment of MSMEs from PSUs
  2. Increasing the existing loan limit of the MSME sector by 20%, without any additional collateral securities
  3. Creation of a digital market for MSMEs
  4. Ease and deferment of labour law: Now, all occupations have been opened for women and permitted to work at night with safeguards. Major State Governments are now working on relaxing or deferring the labour law applicability
  5. The Indian Government has always been reviewing its policies in the best interest of the country. The focus should now be drawn on improving India’s performance in ease of doing business by reviewing and rationalizing its policies in Dealing with Construction Permits, Getting Electricity, Registering Property, Paying Taxes, Trading across Borders, Enforcing Contracts, Resolving Insolvency, Employing Workers and Contracting with the Government. The government has started working on ease of doing business  relating to easy registration of property and fast disposal of commercial disputes for making India one of the easiest places to do business as a part of the next phase of Ease of Doing Business Reforms.     
  6. Ease of Corporate Law and IBC laws to enhance businesses and to believe in entrepreneurs
  7. De-punitive and de-criminalisation of corporate and business laws:
    a) lower penalties for all defaults for Small Companies, One person Companies, Producer Companies & Start-Ups.
    b) decriminalization of Companies Act violations involving minor technical and procedural defaults (shortcomings in CSR reporting, inadequacies in board reports, filing defaults, delay in holding AGM).
    c) majority of the compoundable offences sections are to be shifted to internal adjudication mechanism (IAM) and powers of RD for compounding enhanced (58 sections to be dealt with under IAM as compared to 18 earlier).
    d) 7 compoundable offences altogether dropped and 5 to be dealt with under an alternative framework

All these will enable businesses to complete their pending compliances without payment of any additional filing fees, thereby the entrepreneurs may focus on the growth of their businesses and simultaneously de-clog the criminal courts and NCLT.

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