An economist at SBI, Soumya Kanti Ghosh, dismissed concerns about low voter turnout in the first two phases of the 2024 general elections, labeling them as a "myth." He suggested that analyzing the absolute number of votes cast provides a better measure of turnout. Ghosh noted a 0.4 percent increase in the absolute number of votes cast in the initial phases. While acknowledging a 3.1 percentage point deviation from the 2019 voting trend, Ghosh predicted a potential "J-shaped" growth in the remaining phases.
The consultants are classified into three categories/grades. Eligible candidates must possess Masters or MBA degree in or with Economics or Finance or similar subjects or ICWA or CA as their essential qualification.
The appointment of Manoj Panda means that the finance commission is now at full strength and can begin its work in earnest, which includes deliberations with economists and experts as well as visits to states and discussions with local and municipal bodies to get a comprehensive picture of their financial issues.
For every rupee they contribute towards central taxes, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala receive a far less as compared with what Bihar and UP corner. Redistribution of resources helps less-developed states bridge the inequality gap. But the southern states aren’t happy. What’s the way out?
The Commission confronts some challenging issues in the shorter-than-usual tenure it has got. It will have to balance centralization and subsidiarity needs while ensuring that local governments are well funded in accordance with sound principles of governance.