Suresh Kuttiyadi

Alcohol prices in India vary significantly across states due to differing excise duties and taxes, with Goa having the lowest levies. This disparity undermines the 'one nation, one tax' principle, encouraging bootlegging and revenue loss for high-tax states. Industry bodies advocate for tax rationalization to promote sustainable revenue growth and discourage excessive consumption, but finance ministers are hesitant to relinquish taxation powers.

After Pahalgam, India should hit back hard, but not with an all-out war. Instead a breakdown of Pakistan – economically, politically, ideologically, and strategically – should be India’s option

Telangana's draft bill on gig workers revives the debate once led by Rajasthan, where a pioneering 2023 law remains stalled. Gig workers in Rajasthan struggle with low earnings and lack of social security, as the promised welfare measures face bureaucratic delays. Amidst this, a cooperative framework and union efforts offer a glimmer of hope for a more equitable future.

The Supreme Court has affirmed that in gangrape cases, proving each accused committed the complete act of rape isn't necessary for conviction. The court emphasized that if one member of a group commits rape with shared intent, all involved are equally responsible and punishable under Section 376(2)(g) of IPC, highlighting the principle of joint liability based on common intention.

Punjab's assembly will convene a special session due to a water-sharing dispute with Haryana, triggered by the Centre's directive for Punjab to release additional water. Punjab is resisting, claiming it lacks surplus water, leading to escalated tensions ahead of annual water allocation. Political solidarity is seen in Punjab, while Haryana defends its demand, intensifying the conflict.

India has a massive advantage over Pakistan in a conventional war. But when it comes to nukes, there is very little that separates the two

Warren Buffett lauded Tim Cook's leadership at Apple, acknowledging his significant contribution to Berkshire Hathaway's financial gains. Despite reducing Berkshire's Apple stake, Buffett emphasized Cook's unique ability to develop Apple, drawing a comparison to Steve Jobs. Since Cook became CEO in 2011, Apple's stock has surged, driving its market capitalization to over $3 trillion.

BJP has praised a Sikh student for questioning Rahul Gandhi about the 1984 Sikh massacre during an interaction at Brown University. The student challenged Gandhi on reconciliation efforts with the Sikh community, citing past Congress actions and impunity for leaders like Sajjan Kumar. BJP criticized Gandhi's response and also attacked him for referring to Lord Ram as a mythological figure during the same event.

Amid escalating tensions, the IAF chief briefed PM Modi on operational readiness, including long-range fighter sorties and heightened air defense. This meeting, following a similar briefing from the Navy chief, underscores India's preparedness for potential punitive strikes against Pakistan. The IAF is conducting regular combat air patrols and increasing operational readiness platforms, with Rafales equipped for swift action.