The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 28th October 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Beyond Intoxication

Why in News?

A nine-judge Bench of the Supreme Court of India (SC), in an 8:1 decision, ruled that states have the authority to impose taxes not only on alcoholic beverages but also on 'industrial' alcohol.

• This decision expands states' revenue-generating capabilities, with significant implications for both taxation and federalism.

Background of the Dispute of Taxing Industrial Alcohol:

Background:

Why is the taxation of industrial alcohol controversial?

• Overlapping constitutional entries:
  • The issue involved two entries in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.
  • Entry 8 of List II (State List) allows states to control intoxicating liquors.
  • Entry 52 of List I (Union List) gives the Centre the power to manage industries.
  • Entry 33 of List III (Concurrent List) gives the Centre authority over any industry that Parliament decides is in the public interest.
• Centre claims its jurisdiction:
  • The central government argues that industrial alcohol falls under its control because it is mentioned in the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951.
  • This Act was enacted by Parliament based on the powers outlined in the Union and Concurrent Lists.

The Private Sector Holds the Icey to India's e-bus Push

Why in News?

Recently, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister India has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) for implementation of a scheme titled 'PM E-DRIVE Scheme'.

About PM E-DRIVE Scheme:

The PM E-DRIVE scheme has a budget of Rs 10,900 crore for two years to promote electric mobility in India.

Components of the Scheme

• Subsidies and Demand Incentives: The scheme sets aside Rs 3,679 crore to encourage the purchase of electric two-wheelers (e-2Ws), three-wheelers (e-3Ws), electric ambulances, trucks, and other new types of electric vehicles.
• E-Vouchers for EV Buyers: Buyers of electric vehicles will receive an e-voucher under the scheme to access demand incentives. This e-voucher will be linked to their Aadhaar and sent to their registered mobile number after they make a purchase.
• E-Ambulance Deployment: A budget of Rs 500 crore is designated to introduce electric ambulances. This initiative aims to offer safe and eco-friendly transportation for patients. Performance and safety standards for these e-ambulances will be created in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), and other relevant parties.
• Incentives for E-Trucks: This component allocates Rs 500 crore to encourage the use of electric trucks, which significantly contribute to air pollution. Individuals with a scrapping certificate from authorized MoRTH Vehicle Scrapping Centres (RVSFs) will qualify for these incentives.
• Charging Infrastructure: To help reduce concerns about running out of power and to support the growth of electric vehicles, Rs 2,000 crore will be invested in setting up public charging stations (EVPCS) in cities with high electric vehicle usage and along selected highways.