The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the introduction of digital initiatives to enhance transparency in the upcoming Karnataka assembly election on May 10. The EC apps will feature a 'Know Your Candidate' section with election affidavits, and the C-Vigil app will allow citizens to report malpractices. The ECI will establish 58,282 polling booths, with special provisions for persons with disabilities and elderly voters to vote from home. The model code of conduct is now in effect, with key dates for nominations and polling outlined.

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) announced that starting April 1, UPI payments made through Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs) like digital wallets will incur a 1.1% fee for transactions above Rs 2,000. Regular UPI transactions between bank accounts will remain free. This move aims to increase revenue for banks and payment service providers. The fee will be reviewed by September 30, 2023. NPCI clarified that the new charges apply only to merchant transactions and not to customers.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice has recommended that the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) reduce the 15-month selection cycle for civil services examinations to six months. The lengthy process is seen as detrimental to candidates' prime years and health, contributing to low turnout rates. The committee also suggested appointing an expert group to assess the current recruitment scheme's fairness to both urban and rural candidates and recommended releasing the preliminary test answer key before the mains examination.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice has recommended that the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) reduce the 15-month selection cycle for civil services examinations to six months. The committee highlighted the negative impact of the lengthy process on candidates' physical and mental health and the low turnout for the exams. It also suggested appointing an expert committee to assess the current recruitment scheme and ensure equal opportunities for all candidates. Additionally, the committee recommended that UPSC release the preliminary test answer key before the mains examination and allow candidates to raise objections.

Union Minister Hardeep S. Puri emphasized the role of youth in driving innovations within the Smart Cities Mission, highlighting initiatives like the Urban Learning Internship Programme and the India Smart Cities Fellowship Programme that enhance youth employability. At the National Youth Conclave 2023, Puri and Dr. Ravi Mittal underscored the importance of youth involvement in smart city projects, with the government investing significantly in youth development. The article portrays a positive outlook on India's future leadership, driven by its young population.

The Centre is tightening regulations on e-pharmacies through the proposed Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill, 2022, which includes penalties for data breaches and may lead to banning e-pharmacies over data privacy and malpractice concerns. The bill, expected to be tabled in Parliament during the Monsoon session, aims to protect patient data and regulate the online sale of drugs. The Drugs Controller General of India has issued show-cause notices to several e-pharmacies, including Tata 1mg, Amazon, and Flipkart, for alleged violations.

The Centre is tightening regulations on e-pharmacies with the proposed Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill, 2022, which includes penalties for data breaches and may lead to banning e-pharma companies over data privacy and malpractice issues. The bill, supported by the parliamentary standing committee, is expected to be tabled in Parliament during the Monsoon session. Additionally, the revised New Drugs, Medical Devices and Cosmetics Bill, 2023, aims to regulate online drug sales and protect patient data privacy. The Drugs Controller General of India has issued notices to several e-pharmacies for alleged norm violations.

The Digital India Act, set to be tabled in July, aims to drive key innovations for the next decade, addressing future technology needs and protecting consumers. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized the legislation's role in managing rapid technological disruptions and ensuring online privacy. The Act, replacing the IT Act, 2000, will undergo extensive stakeholder consultations before finalization.

The Digital India Act, set to be tabled in Parliament by July, aims to drive key innovations for the next decade, addressing rapid technological disruptions such as AI and blockchain. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized the Act's future-readiness and its role in safeguarding data and online privacy. The legislation, replacing the IT Act, 2000, will undergo extensive stakeholder consultations before finalization.

The Uttar Pradesh government has proposed a budget of Rs 6,391 crore for e-mobility and road connectivity projects for the fiscal year 2023-2024. Key allocations include Rs 1,306 crore for the Delhi-Ghaziabad Meerut Corridor Regional Rapid Transit System, Rs 465 crore for the Agra Metro Rail Project, and Rs 585 crore for the Kanpur Metro Rail project. Additionally, Rs 3,600 crore is earmarked for digital connectivity initiatives, including tablets and smartphones for students. The budget also includes provisions for new medical colleges, infrastructure development, and the Uttar Pradesh Electronics Manufacturing Policy.

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das initiated the first digital transaction via UPI to Singapore's Ravi Menon, marking the launch of real-time digital payment services between India and Singapore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the role of the Digital India program in fostering technological innovation and financial inclusion. The UPI-PayNow linkage is seen as a milestone in India-Singapore relations, enhancing cross-border fintech connectivity and benefiting the Indian diaspora in Singapore. The initiative underscores India's leadership in digital payment systems.

India has set a three-month deadline for drafting a digital competition law aimed at curbing anti-competitive practices by US BigTech companies. A 16-member committee led by Corporate Affairs Secretary Manoj Govil will examine global regulatory frameworks and propose a Digital Competition Act. The move follows recommendations from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance and comes amid global regulatory challenges faced by companies like Meta, Amazon, Twitter, and Google. The committee will also review existing provisions in the Competition Act, 2022, and consider the need for new legislation to address digital market challenges.

India is set to end the competition free run for US BigTech companies by drafting a Digital Competition Act within three months. The Union government has appointed a 16-member committee led by Corporate Affairs Secretary Manoj Govil to examine anticompetitive practices and global regulatory frameworks. Despite opposition from US BigTech companies and lobbying by the Asia Internet Coalition, the government remains firm on enacting stringent regulations. The committee will review existing provisions and consider the need for a new regulatory mechanism. The European Parliament's Digital Markets Act serves as a model, aiming to curb BigTech's market dominance. The Competition Commission of India will support the panel, highlighting ongoing issues with Google.

India is set to draft a Digital Competition Act within three months to regulate anti-competitive practices by US BigTech companies. A 16-member committee led by Corporate Affairs Secretary Manoj Govil has been appointed to study global regulatory frameworks and propose the new law. The move follows recommendations from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance and aims to create a fair and transparent digital ecosystem. The Competition Commission of India will support the committee, which will also review existing competition laws. The European Parliament's Digital Markets Act serves as a reference for the new legislation.

Train passengers in India can now order meals via WhatsApp, thanks to a new service by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). The service, which will be rolled out in two phases, allows passengers to book meals from restaurants at stations enroute through an AI-powered chatbot. This initiative aims to enhance customer convenience and transparency, with about 50,000 meals already being served daily through IRCTC's e-catering services.

In the Budget 2023, Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that states and cities will be encouraged to undertake urban planning reforms to transform into ‘sustainable cities of tomorrow’. The Smart Cities Mission, launched in 2015, is a key initiative under which a new Rs 10,000 crore Urban Infrastructure Development Fund will be established, managed by the National Housing Bank. The fund aims to create urban infrastructure in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. Cities will also be incentivized to improve credit worthiness for municipal bonds through property tax governance reforms and ring-fencing user charges on urban infrastructure.

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized digitization and e-governance in the Union Budget 2023-24, announcing the use of PAN as a Common Business Identifier and expanding Digilocker services for the fintech sector. The budget also allocates Rs 7,000 crore for the third phase of the e-court project to enhance judicial efficiency and transparency. Additionally, 100 labs for developing 5G apps will be established in engineering institutions to explore new business models and employment opportunities. The budget is seen as growth-focused, supporting critical sectors like DigitalIndia, fintech, agriculture, and skills.

The Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of three new AI hubs at top educational institutions as part of Budget 2023, aiming to position India as a leader in AI technology. A new National Data Governance Policy will be introduced to streamline KYC processes and anonymize individual data, fostering innovation and research. The AI hubs will involve collaboration with industry players to develop applications in agriculture, health, and sustainable cities. Additionally, a one-stop solution for identity and address updates using DigiLocker and Aadhaar will be implemented.

President Droupadi Murmu addressed the joint sitting of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, emphasizing India's strength in Digital India and 5G technology, which is recognized globally. She highlighted the country's efforts in combating cyber security risks and the successful implementation of digital initiatives such as the Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile trinity, One Nation One Ration Card, and DBT, which have brought transparency and prevented many from falling into poverty during the Covid pandemic. The World Bank report acknowledged India's effective systems. Murmu also noted the rapid adoption of digital technology by small businesses and the government's support for startups and micro street vendors through schemes like PM SVANidhi and Swamitva Yojana.

The 74th Republic Day celebrations in India will be accessible both physically and digitally, thanks to the Digital India initiative. The event will be live-streamed on major national news channels and online platforms, including the official website and the Press Information Bureau. The Union government has introduced an online 'Invitation Management Portal' named 'Aamantran' for easy e-ticket booking. This year's chief guest is Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and the theme is 'Nari Shakti' or 'Women Power'.

The Indian government is facing speculation about postponing the first digital census, initially planned for 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and recent surges in cases. Despite this, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has appointed three senior IAS officers—Nirupama Dange, Debajyoti Dutta, and Navjot Khosa—as Directors of Census Operations and Citizen Registration in Maharashtra, Assam, Punjab, and Chandigarh. The digital census will feature self-enumeration via mobile apps and is expected to take about 12 months once initiated. The census, a decennial exercise since 1872, collects extensive socio-cultural and demographic data.

The Union government of India is advancing its digital infrastructure and regulatory framework to curb BigTech's influence, introducing multiple legislations and the Digital India Innovation Fund to support deep tech startups. Global tech companies like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Twitter have expressed concerns over the proposed Digital Personal Data Protection bill and other regulations, citing potential compliance burdens. The Internet and Mobile Association of India has praised the bill for balancing innovation with user interests. The government aims to enhance e-governance and digital connectivity, linking numerous Gram Panchayats and creating new Wi-Fi hotspots under the BharatNet project.

India is considering a new Digital Competition Act to regulate anti-competitive practices by global technology giants, following the European Union's Digital Markets Act. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance has recommended identifying top tech players as systemically important digital intermediaries and implementing a code of conduct-based approach. The Union government aims to tighten regulations on companies like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Google, Apple, Amazon, and Flipkart face scrutiny for anti-competitive practices. Sundar Pichai met with Indian officials to discuss responsible regulation. The EU has also taken steps to curb BigTech's market dominance, including fines and potential sanctions.

The number of vacant positions in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFS) has reached 3,393, causing a significant administrative crunch. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) reports that several key government departments are operating without full-time secretaries. Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that the government is working to fill these vacancies through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations and other measures. The intake of IAS, IPS, and IFS officers has been increased to address the shortage, with specific annual targets set for the coming years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP achieved a historic victory in the Gujarat state assembly elections, winning 156 out of 182 seats, while the Congress party secured a narrow win in Himachal Pradesh with 40 seats. The Aam Aadmi Party failed to make an impact in both states. Modi praised the BJP's performance and attributed the success to the hard work of party workers. The results reflect the political landscape ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with BJP maintaining dominance in Gujarat and Congress showing resilience in Himachal Pradesh.

The state administration in Rajasthan has become more assertive amid a growing political divide within the ruling Congress party. The IAS Association has demanded action against state minister Ramesh Meena for humiliating an IAS officer, a move supported by the IPS and IFS Associations. This unprecedented mobilization among bureaucrats highlights the ongoing feud between factions led by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot. The article underscores the challenges in governance and the political infighting affecting the state's administration.

The Indian government has amended the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) to allow top administrators, including senior bureaucrats and other officials, to receive foreign hospitality without prior central government permission by submitting applications online. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs issued revised guidelines mandating online submission of applications with necessary documents at least two weeks before the proposed journey. The amendments also specify situations where no prior permission is needed, such as visits funded by the government, personal trips self-financed, hospitality from Indian nationals abroad, and certain government-approved exchanges and courses.

India, following its success with UPI, has launched a pilot for its digital currency, the e-Rupee, becoming the 11th country globally to introduce a digital currency. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued two versions of the e-Rupee: retail (CBDC-R) for general transactions and wholesale (CBDC-W) for interbank transfers. The pilot includes nine banks and aims to make the inter-bank market more efficient and reduce transaction costs. The RBI emphasizes that the CBDC is to complement existing money forms and enhance the digital economy, financial inclusion, and payment system efficiency. Globally, 10 countries have fully launched digital currencies, with 105 countries exploring CBDCs, and several cross-border CBDC projects are under study.

India, following the success of its Unified Payments Interface (UPI), has launched a pilot for its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), known as the e-Rupee, joining China in the global digital currency landscape. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced two versions of the e-Rupee: retail (CBDC-R) for general use and wholesale (CBDC-W) for financial institutions. The pilot involves nine banks and aims to enhance financial inclusion and efficiency in the monetary system. Globally, 19 G20 countries are exploring CBDCs, with 16 in development or pilot stages. The initiative is expected to bolster India's digital economy and provide an additional payment avenue without replacing existing systems.

The digital ecosystem in India is preparing for challenging times as new IT rules expand the government's scope to demand more accountability from digital platforms. The amendments, which came into force last week, target both major US tech companies and smaller digital platforms, holding them accountable for data breaches and misinformation. The rules also establish Grievance Appellate Committees for consumer redressal and impose legal obligations on social media companies to prevent prohibited content. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar indicated that further penalties could be imposed if the new rules do not yield effective results.

The digital ecosystem in India is preparing for challenging times as new IT rules expand the government's scope to demand greater accountability from digital platforms. The amendments, which came into force last week, target both major US tech companies and smaller digital platforms, holding them accountable for data breaches and misinformation. The rules also establish Grievance Appellate Committees for consumer redressal and impose legal obligations on social media companies to prevent prohibited content. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar indicated that further penalties could be imposed if the new rules do not yield effective results.

The digital ecosystem in India is preparing for challenging times as new IT rules expand the government's scope to demand greater accountability from digital platforms. The amendments, which came into force last week, target both major US tech companies and smaller digital platforms, holding them accountable for data breaches and misinformation. The rules also establish Grievance Appellate Committees for consumer redressal and impose legal obligations on social media companies to prevent prohibited content. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar indicated that further penalties could be imposed if the new rules do not yield effective results.

Elon Musk has completed his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter, resulting in the dismissal of top executives including CEO Parag Agrawal. Musk's takeover concludes a legal battle with Twitter's previous management, who had accused him of attempting to back out of the deal. Musk aims to transform Twitter into a digital town square for open debate, while reducing content moderation. The acquisition has sparked discussions about the potential return of former US President Donald Trump to the platform, as well as hopes for increased neutrality and transparency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi digitally transferred Rs 16,000 crore as the 12th instalment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, benefiting 10 crore farmers across India. This scheme, which provides Rs 6,000 annually to eligible farmers, has disbursed over Rs 2 lakh crore so far. Modi emphasized the role of technology in bridging the urban-rural gap and enhancing agricultural exports. He highlighted the success of e-NAM in enabling farmers to sell produce nationwide, with transactions exceeding Rs 2 lakh crore.

A government data tip-off involving analysis of Employees Provident Fund accounts has exposed moonlighting activities in the Indian IT sector, leading to the termination of 300 Wipro employees. The practice involves employees working for multiple IT firms simultaneously, which is not illegal if tax liabilities are settled. However, it raises concerns over data misappropriation and ethical breaches, especially among senior techies with access to critical data. IT companies are now using technology to monitor devices and conduct background checks to prevent moonlighting. Wipro and Tata Consultancy Services are encouraging employees to return to the office, and Infosys has warned against dual employment. Wipro's Rishad Premji has strongly condemned moonlighting, equating it to cheating.

The Unified Payment Interface (UPI) has expanded to Oman, marking a significant milestone in India's digital payment ecosystem. A formal agreement was signed between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Central Bank of Oman, facilitating the use of RuPay debit cards in Oman. This move is expected to benefit Indian workers and professionals in Oman by enabling seamless digital remittances. The expansion is part of a broader strategy to integrate UPI with global payment systems, with countries like Australia and Russia showing interest. UPI transactions in India reached a record Rs 11.16 lakh crore in September, reflecting its growing adoption.

The Indian government is proposing new regulatory frameworks under the 'Telecom Bill 2022' and the forthcoming 'Digital India Act' to bring over-the-top (OTT) platforms, BigTech, social media platforms, and satellite-based communication services under stricter compliance and licensing norms. The 'Telecom Bill 2022' draft, open for public consultation, aims to include OTT communication services, internet-based communication services, and broadcasting services under telecommunication services, potentially requiring revenue sharing with the government. The 'Digital India Act' will increase compliance burdens for social media platforms and regulate OTT content, with mechanisms to block harmful content. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is studying international legislative frameworks to finalize the proposed act.

The Indian government is proposing new regulations under the 'Telecom Bill 2022' and the forthcoming 'Digital India Act' to bring over-the-top (OTT) platforms, BigTech, and social media platforms under a stricter compliance regime. These regulations will require these services to obtain licenses and share revenue with the government, increasing their operational costs. The Digital India Act aims to enhance content monitoring and address misinformation and cyber threats. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is studying international legislative frameworks to finalize the Act, which will include mechanisms for blocking harmful content.

The Indian Union IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the draft of the 'Indian Telecom Bill 2022' for public consultation, which proposes exemptions for press messages from interception with certain national security exceptions. The announcement follows MoS for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar's statement on building a large AI data database for Indian companies, with potential exceptions for foreign companies. The Data Protection Bill and Digital India Act are expected to address digital data protection and regulate OTT platforms. The Andhra Pradesh government faces allegations of data theft through the 'Seva Mitra' app during the TDP's governance, with a committee report accusing the party of mining personal data and political affiliations.

The Indian Union IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the draft of the 'Indian Telecom Bill 2022' for public consultation, addressing data security and regulation of BigTech, OTT, and social media. The bill exempts accredited press messages from interception except in emergencies or for public safety. The public comment period ends on October 20. Union MoS for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, discussed creating a large AI data database for Indian companies, with potential exceptions for foreign companies. The Data Protection Bill and Digital India Act are expected to establish a comprehensive digital regulatory framework, including a data protection authority, and increase compliance for BigTech. The Andhra Pradesh government faces allegations of data theft through the 'Seva Mitra' app during the TDP's governance, with a committee claiming the party mined personal data and targeted voters.

The Union government has appointed Sunil Barthwal as the new Union commerce secretary, replacing BVR Subrahmanyam, who will retire at the end of the month. Subrahmanyam will take on the role of chairman and managing director of the India Trade Promotion Organization on a two-year contract. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has also approved several other key appointments and in-situ upgrades across various departments, including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, and Ministry of Power.

A significant number of top IAS officers in Uttar Pradesh are seeking voluntary retirement, with five resignations in just over a month. The latest to resign is G Srinivasulu, a 2005 batch IAS officer. Other officers who have sought VRS include Vidya Bhushan, Renuka Kumar, Juthika Patankar, and Vikas Gothwal, citing personal, family, or health reasons. This trend comes as the Union government faces a shortage of key administrators and is attempting to retain top bureaucrats through service extensions. The situation is exacerbated by the upcoming retirements of several senior IAS officers at the Centre.

The Union government is facing an administrative crisis as four senior IAS officers, including defence secretary Ajay Kumar, revenue secretary Tarun Bajaj, commerce secretary BVR Subrahmanyam, and mines secretary Alok Tandon, are set to retire in the coming months. The government may mitigate the crisis by granting extensions under Fundamental Rules. Currently, several government departments and commissions are experiencing significant vacancies. Union MoS Jitendra Singh addressed concerns about the intake of IAS and IPS officers, citing recommendations to maintain quality and capacity.

AI-backed algorithms may soon assist students in making higher education decisions by analyzing critical student data. Gaurav Goel of Toprankers is developing such technology to guide students in choosing the best courses. Union Minister Rajkumar Ranjan Singh emphasized the inseparable role of technology in education, especially post-pandemic. Various policymakers and industry experts discussed the importance of digital learning, quality education, and the need for innovations to bridge educational gaps. Microsoft India highlighted the need for affordable education and hybrid learning models.

The Indian Air Force's operations with Chinook helicopters face uncertainty after the US Army grounded its fleet of H-47 Chinook helicopters due to issues with engine components. The grounding was prompted by reports of non-specification O-rings causing fuel leaks and engine fires. Honeywell, the engine manufacturer, denied responsibility, attributing the problem to modifications by the US Army. The Indian Air Force, which operates 15 Chinooks, is seeking further details from Boeing. Despite the grounding in the US, the Indian Air Force continues to use the helicopters in challenging terrains like Ladakh.

The Indian Union government is planning to amend the export policy for certain types of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to simplify compliance with the Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies (SCOMET) scheme. The amendment will exempt specific UAV systems from SCOMET Category 5B, subject to a general licensing procedure. This move is part of the government's efforts to boost the drone sector's turnover from Rs 80 crore to an estimated ₹12,000-15,000 crore by 2026 and position India as a global hub for drone exports.

Top cabinet ministers from seven Indian states discussed the future of digital governance at the ETGovernment DigiTech Conclave 2022, emphasizing the importance of sharing technology learnings among states to improve governance. Telangana IT Minister KT Rama Rao advocated for a common platform for technology sharing to bridge knowledge gaps. Ministers from Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Assam, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab highlighted their respective states' digital initiatives, including e-governance models, digital literacy, and technology integration in various sectors. The discussions underscored the role of technology in enhancing transparency, accountability, and service delivery.

The Union government has confirmed that there are no plans to introduce service charges on UPI transactions, emphasizing UPI as a digital public good. This announcement follows the Reserve Bank of India's deliberations on a discussion paper regarding charges on various payment systems, including UPI. The government maintains a zero-charge framework for UPI transactions, supporting the digital economy's growth. The RBI is seeking stakeholder feedback on potential charges for other payment systems, with a focus on policy development.

India is preparing to introduce the Digital India Act (DIA) in the Winter Session of Parliament, replacing the IT Act 2000. This new legislation aims to address contemporary digital challenges, including data protection, child and women's safety, and misinformation. The DIA will impose stricter regulations on social media and OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon, potentially criminalizing deliberate misinformation and other cyber threats. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is studying international frameworks to finalize the Act, which will include mechanisms for blocking harmful content and regulating OTT content beyond current self-regulatory systems.

India is preparing to introduce the Digital India Act (DIA) in the Winter Session of Parliament, replacing the IT Act 2000. This new legislation aims to address modern digital challenges, including child and women's safety, social media compliance, and digital crime. The DIA will impose stricter regulations on OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon, potentially criminalizing misinformation and other cyber threats. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is studying international frameworks to finalize the Act, which will also empower authorities to block harmful content on social media temporarily.

Facing a shortage of top administrators, the Union government of India has elevated 16 bureaucrats to the joint secretary level. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the promotions, which include IAS, IA&AS, IRS, and IPoS officers. Notable appointments include Dodda Venkata Swamy as chairman of the Marine Products Exports Development Authority and Manoj Kumar Dwivedi as joint secretary in the Department of Personnel & Training. The move aims to address the shortage of IAS officers on central deputation and includes a proposed amendment to the IAS Cadre Rules to allow the Centre to post IAS officers without state government reservations.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has appointed Piyush Goyal, a senior Nagaland cadre IAS officer, as the CEO of the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID). Goyal, who is currently an additional secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, replaces Ashish Gupta. The article also mentions other key government appointments, including Ashok K K Meena as CMD of the Food Corporation of India and Archana Varma as director of the National Water Mission.

The Union government has extended the tenure of Rajiv Gauba, the top civil servant of India, by one year, allowing him to remain as Cabinet Secretary until August 30, 2023. This marks his second extension, with the first granted in 2021. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved this extension. Gauba, a 1982 batch IAS officer from the Jharkhand cadre, has held several significant positions, including Union Home Secretary and Jharkhand Chief Secretary. He played a crucial role in the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir as a Union Territory.

The Union cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a Rs 1.64 lakh crore revival package for BSNL, including a merger with Bharat Broadband Nigam Limited. The package aims to enhance rural digital connectivity, upgrade 2G/3G to 4G in remote villages, and improve BSNL's financial viability. The government will provide significant financial support, including spectrum allocation, capital expenditure funding, and viability gap funding. The revival plan is expected to stabilize BSNL's revenue and expand its optical fibre network, ultimately aiming for profitability by FY 2026-27.

Droupadi Murmu has been elected as India's first tribal President, winning by an overwhelming margin with over 64% of the total votes. She will succeed President Ram Nath Kovind and be sworn in as the 15th President on July 25. Murmu's victory was marked by significant cross-voting from opposition lawmakers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders congratulated her, highlighting her background and the historic nature of her election.

The Union government faces a significant shortage of IAS officers for central deputation, with only 397 out of 563 officers joining in the past five years. Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced proposed amendments to the IAS Cadre Rules, 1954, to address this issue by allowing the Centre to post IAS officers on central deputation, bypassing state government reservations. This proposal has strained Centre-state relations, as it reduces state governments' influence over their IAS officers. The amendments aim to make state IAS officers more accountable to Central authorities.

The Union government of India is preparing to introduce the Registration of Press and Periodicals Bill to regulate digital news media under a governmental framework. This bill will replace the outdated Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, and will require digital news publishers to register with the Registrar of Newspapers of India. The move follows the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology's recent draft proposal on the Digital Media Ethics Code, aiming to address gaps in current legislation. The bill is expected to be presented to the Union cabinet and pushed in the upcoming Monsoon session of Parliament.

Five top administrators, including IAS and IPS officers, have been arrested across India, raising concerns about corruption in the bureaucracy. Gujarat-cadre IAS officer Kankipati Rajesh was arrested for alleged bribery in weapon license sanctions. Other arrests include Jharkhand's Pooja Singhal for money laundering, Karnataka's J Manjunath and IPS officer Amrit Paul for separate corruption cases, and Jharkhand's Syed Riaz Ahmed for sexual harassment. Despite Union government data indicating a decline in corruption complaints, these arrests cast doubt on the figures.

The National Health Authority (NHA) has onboarded over one lakh government and private healthcare facilities onto the Health Facility Registry (HFR) under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). This milestone is expected to enhance the adoption of digital health platforms across India. The ABDM aims to create an interoperable digital healthcare ecosystem, with the HFR serving as a comprehensive repository of health facilities. Dr. R S Sharma, CEO of NHA, emphasized the benefits of the registry in making quality healthcare accessible and affordable. The majority of verified facilities are in states like Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the transformative impact of the Digital India initiative during the Digital India Week 2022. He highlighted how digital technology has eliminated the need for physical queues in various services, reducing corruption and middlemen. Modi launched several digital initiatives, including 'Digital India Bhashini', 'Digital India GENESIS', 'Indiastack.global', 'MyScheme', and 'Meri Pehchaan', positioning India as a leader in the fourth industrial revolution. These initiatives aim to enhance governance and provide scalable digital solutions globally.

The Union government has appointed senior Uttar Pradesh cadre IAS officer Parameswaran Iyer as the next NITI Aayog chief, succeeding Amitabh Kant. Additionally, senior Himachal-cadre IPS officer Tapan Kumar Deka has been named the new Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief, replacing Arvinda Kumar. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved these appointments. The government also extended the service tenure of Punjab cadre IPS officer Samant Kumar Goel as Secretary of the Research & Analysis Wing (RAW) for an additional year.

The National Payments Corporation Of India's international arm, NPCI International, has signed an MoU with France's Lyra Network to enable acceptance of UPI and RuPay Cards in France. This move is part of a broader strategy to expand digital payment systems globally, with UPI transactions already available in Bhutan, Singapore, Nepal, and the UAE, and discussions underway to extend services to the US, West Asia, and other European countries. Union Communication Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, attending a technology event in Paris, highlighted the significance of this partnership for digital payment inclusivity. The Reserve Bank of India is also exploring UPI for cross-border remittances, particularly in G20 countries. The recent RBI approval to link credit cards with UPI, currently limited to RuPay cards, marks another step in the integration of digital payment systems.

The Election Commission of India announced that the Presidential elections will be held on July 18, with results declared on July 21. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan and Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi are among the potential NDA candidates. The final NDA candidate will be announced by the BJP after its Parliamentary Board meeting. The ruling NDA may have an edge, but it will be a challenging task for the BJP to secure its candidate's victory. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought support from regional leaders Naveen Patnaik and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, who have assured their support pending the final candidate announcement.

Stryker, a global medical technology company, has launched a new R&D center in Gurugram, India, with a capacity of 1,000 employees. The center aims to develop innovative healthcare solutions and houses a unique Neurovascular Innovation Lab. The Indian government, through Union minister of state for finance Dr Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad, has offered incentives under the Production Linked Incentives scheme to encourage such technology-backed facilities. The new center is part of Stryker's strategic innovation hubs and is expected to leverage India's talent and research capabilities to serve global markets.

The Delhi airport authority is set to launch RFID-powered 'BAGG TRAX' tags to help passengers track their checked luggage in real-time. This new technology, a first in Indian airports, will provide SMS alerts to passengers about their luggage's location. Initially available to select frequent flyers at Terminal 3, the tags will soon be available for purchase at all terminals. The initiative aims to assist both domestic and international passengers, including those in transit.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has transferred IAS officers Sanjeev Khirwar and Rinku Dugga from Delhi to Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, respectively, following allegations of misuse of sports facilities at Thyagraj Stadium. The action was taken after a report from the Delhi chief secretary highlighted the misuse. The newly appointed Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena, and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia have also taken steps to address the issue, including extending the operational hours of sports facilities.

Senior IAS officer Sanjeev Khirwar is accused of disrupting athletes' practice sessions at Thyagraj Stadium, Delhi, to walk his dog, leading to calls for action by the Delhi government and opposition parties. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia announced extended hours for sports facilities in response to the incident. Opposition leaders, including BJP's Praveen Shankar Kapoor and BJD's Amar Patnaik, have demanded an inquiry and action against Khirwar. The incident coincides with Vinai Kumar Saxena's swearing-in as the new Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.

Indian Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are increasingly adopting digital strategies to enhance global competitiveness. The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is facilitating innovation and accessibility, while RailTel is focusing on data centres and broadband services. The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) are advancing digital transformation through initiatives like UPI, DISHA, and AI chatbots. Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) has fully transitioned to e-office operations, integrating technology across departments. These efforts align with India's broader digitization drive, emphasizing the inevitability of digital transformation.

Indian defence production is projected to exceed Rs 1,50,000 crore by 2025, with significant contributions from both private and public sectors. Commodore Siddharth Mishra (Retd) of Bharat Dynamics highlighted the growing demand for the AKASH Weapon System, with orders from 21 countries and expectations of Rs 25,000 crore in orders by 2025. Atul Dinkar Rane of BrahMos Aerospace noted the high demand for the BrahMos system, which will be launched from a new facility in 4-5 years. The Union government has cleared 49 indigenously built defence systems for export, aiming to reduce reliance on imports. The Russia-Ukraine war has underscored the need for India to produce equipment domestically, with future wars likely to be fought with advanced missile technology.

Experts at the ETGovernment National PSU Summit 2022 emphasized the importance of technology in making Indian Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) globally competitive. Key discussions included the success of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, RailTel's digital strategy, ONGC's paperless initiative under DISHA, and Indian Oil Corporation's AI adoption. Bharat Heavy Electricals highlighted its complete shift to e-office and technological integration. The sentiment towards these initiatives and organizations was predominantly positive, showcasing India's strides in digital transformation and self-reliance.

Indian Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are encouraged to expand their technology outreach and focus on hardware offerings, supported by the Centre's Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi emphasized the importance of improving hardware capabilities and highlighted the success of the Digital India program, particularly in the fintech sector. The need for PSUs to adopt technology rapidly and collaborate with start-ups was stressed by Arvind Kumar, Director General of Software Technology Parks of India. Hari Babu Srivastava from DRDO advocated for breaking silos and supporting indigenous technology to propel growth. The CoVin app and GeM were cited as successful examples of indigenous technology and rapid adoption.

The Government-e-Marketplace (GeM) portal has surpassed 10 million orders since its inception in 2016, marking a significant milestone in India's Digital India initiative. The portal achieved an annual procurement of Rs 1 lakh crore in FY 2021-22, driven by increased buying activities from various ministries and departments. The procurement value is expected to reach Rs 1.5 lakh crore in the current financial year, with projections of Rs 3-4 lakh crore in two years and Rs 10 lakh crore in six to eight years. GeM has become one of the largest government e-procurement platforms globally, with over 40 lakh sellers and 59,000 buyers.

The Union government has appointed Alkesh Kumar Sharma as the new secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) to drive India's $1 trillion digital economy goal. Sharma will oversee the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) initiative, part of a $10 billion plan to build a semiconductor ecosystem. The initiative has received endorsements from major players like Dell, Sony, ISRO, and the Atomic Energy Department. Other significant administrative changes include new appointments in various ministries and departments.

Alkesh Kumar Sharma has been appointed as the new secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) by the Union government, with a mandate to drive India's $1 trillion digital economy goal. Sharma will oversee the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) initiative, part of a $10 billion plan to establish a semiconductor ecosystem in India. The initiative has garnered support from major technology players like Dell, Sony, ISRO, and the Atomic Energy Department. The article also details other significant administrative changes within the Indian government, including appointments in various ministries and departments.

Alkesh Kumar Sharma has been appointed as the new secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) in India, tasked with driving the country's $1 trillion digital economy goal. The government aims to launch indigenous chipsets by 2023-24 under the Digital India RISC-V programme, part of a $10 billion plan to build a semiconductor ecosystem. Sharma's appointment is seen as a strategic move to prioritize the Digital India initiative. The article also mentions other key administrative changes within the Indian government.

The Union government has appointed Alkesh Kumar Sharma as the new secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) to drive India's $1 trillion digital economy goal. Sharma will oversee the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) initiative, part of a $10 billion plan to build a semiconductor ecosystem. The government aims to launch indigenous chipsets by 2023-24. Sharma's appointment is seen as a strategic move to prioritize the Centre's Digital India drive. Other key administrative changes include appointments in various ministries and departments, reflecting a broader reshuffle of senior IAS officers.

The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) has launched a unique face recognition technology to facilitate the digital filing of life certificates for pensioners, significantly increasing digital compliance to 30% among Central Government Pensioners in 2021. The new technology, accessible via the AadhaarFaceRD app, simplifies the process, allowing pensioners to submit their life certificates online. The initiative is supported by the India Posts and Payment Bank, which has mobilized postmen and Gramin Dak Sevaks to assist pensioners, and 12 public sector banks offering doorstep banking services. The National Informatics Center, the Union ministry of electronics and information technology, and UIDAI have collaborated to develop this technology.

India is leading the global e-governance race with over 1.3 billion Aadhaar card holders, significantly contributing to the digital identity ecosystem. A report by Juniper Research indicates that the global number of digital identity users is expected to reach 6.5 billion by 2026, driven by the pandemic's acceleration of digital identity adoption. The report emphasizes the importance of robust processes and third-party governance in digital identity systems and predicts that digital identity revenue will exceed $53 billion globally by 2026. The Indian government is highlighted for its extensive use of Aadhaar in linking government-funded schemes.

Senior IAS officer Shubhra Saxena filed a complaint in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, alleging that her ex-husband Shashank Gupta threatened her and another IAS officer, Neha Sharma. Saxena, who is the special secretary of medical education in UP and a 2009-batch UPSC topper, claimed that Gupta, along with his bouncers, has been stalking her and her daughter, exerting threats and pressure. A police complaint was lodged at Kotwali police station on charges of intimidation, defamation, and other relevant sections of the IPC. The state police have begun an investigation following the report.

India has experienced a significant increase in digital transactions, with the digital ecosystem transforming the banking sector, as discussed at the ETGovernment National Governance Virtual Summit. Sanjeev Kaushik from the Union ministry of finance highlighted the growth in digital transactions, while other speakers like Dr. Saurabh Garg and Dinesh Kumar Khara emphasized the role of fintech innovations and UPI transactions in revolutionizing financial services. The summit also addressed the impact of the Aadhaar Payment Bridge on DBT transactions and the role of digital infrastructure in the economy.

The Union government has reassigned six senior IAS officers under the Central Staffing Scheme and given additional charge to senior Andhra-cadre IPS officer VSK Kaumudi as secretary (security) in the cabinet secretariat. The officers reassigned include Armstrong Pame, Pooja Pandey, Rabindra Reang, Arun Kumar Mishra, Udaya Narayan Das, and Anoop Khinchi, who will take up various roles related to census operations and citizen registration across different states. The appointments are effective immediately and are subject to further orders or the appointment of regular incumbents.

With the impending retirement of Madhya Pradesh DGP Vivek Johri, senior IPS officer Sudhir Kumar Saxena is considered the leading candidate for the position. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved Saxena's repatriation to his parent cadre. The state government is yet to finalize the top three IPS officers for the Union Public Service Commission's approval. Other contenders include Pawan Kumar Jain, Shailesh Singh, and Rajendra Kumar Mishra. The appointment is significant as the state is set to hold elections in 2023.

In a significant administrative reshuffle, the Union government has appointed Abhishek Singh, CEO of Digital India Corporation, as the new CEO of the National e-Governance Division (NeGD). The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also elevated 16 senior IAS officers to joint secretary level positions across various departments. Key appointments include Ramesh Kumar Sudhanshu as CEO of MyGov, Geetha Meetina as Joint Secretary in the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and several others in departments such as Commerce, Telecommunications, and Women & Child Development.

The outgoing Maharashtra DGP Sanjay Pandey expressed his disappointment and cited 'injustice' as he marked his exit. Pandey, who was replaced by Rajnish Seth, highlighted the challenges and attempts to undermine his work during his tenure. He called for long-term introspection and administrative reform to support honest police leadership. Pandey's statements reflect his dissatisfaction with the administrative decisions and legal discourse that affected his career.

The UPA government is facing widespread criticism for its claims of fighting corruption, which are contradicted by its history of scams and inaction unless prompted by the judiciary. Despite using anti-corruption as an election campaign point, the Congress party is seen as rewarding corrupt leaders with party tickets. The rise of AAP and the loss of urban voter support suggest a significant shift in the political landscape, challenging the UPA's credibility and social connect.