meta waves

 Introduction: The GST Council in India convenes periodically to discuss and refine tax structures. Each meeting brings forth a mix of positive and negative developments, often revealing new ironies and fallacies within the economy.  This article sheds light on certain inconsistencies, focusing on the taxation of non-branded atta or wheat, the exemption of cricket games like IPL from GST, and the associated revenue generation. Taxing Essentials, Exempting Entertainment: One of the glaring ironies in the Indian tax system is the imposition of GST on non-branded atta or wheat, an essential commodity consumed by the poor. Despite the burden on those struggling to make ends meet, cricket, a form of entertainment, remains exempt from GST. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the governing body of cricket in India, enjoys tax-free status despite being the wealthiest cricket governing body globally. Example: A daily wage laborer, s...

 Introduction: The Indian economy is currently grappling with a decision that has sparked debates across various sectors. The ban on laptop imports has ignited discussions on economic strategies, the role of competition, and the implications for both consumers and industries. This article dissects the ban's rationale, consequences, and potential impact on India's growth trajectory. The Laptop Ban's Irony: In a globalized world, India's export of software and IT services surpasses the oil export volume of many Middle Eastern countries. This feat is a testament to India's soft power and intellectual capital, made possible by the decentralized infrastructure of the technology industry. The paradox arises when a country renowned for its IT prowess bans laptop imports, raising eyebrows about the wisdom behind such a decision. Examples: While India's expertise in IT and software is internationally recognized, the laptop ban contrad...

 Many Indian scholars who embark on a PhD journey may face challenges such as navigating a complex system of fellowships, dealing with exploitation, and encountering a preference for foreign-trained individuals. This article explores the challenges faced by Indian academia and the reasons why some Indian scholars are opting to pursue their PhDs overseas.  In the world of academia, the pursuit of a PhD is often seen as the pinnacle of intellectual achievement. However, in India, this journey is fraught with challenges that go beyond the rigors of research. Stories of student exploitation by guides, irregular fellowships, and a preference for foreign-trained individuals over Indian PhDs are all too common. For some, a PhD is seen as a way to prolong their stay in the university campus when job prospects are bleak. However, this is a far cry from the West, where a PhD is a result-oriented program, decently funded, and offers better career opportunities in the private sector. The ...