From the Editor

Priority economics

This latest edition of the Governance Watch deals with the intricate and complex issue of economic administration in India.

Cover Story

Income Tax in dire need of reform

The history of the taxation since time immemorial has been the history of the attempts of one class to make other classes pay for their expenses or, more appropriately, for the expenses of the state.

Chaffing under Big Brother

The Indian Revenue Service (IRS) and the Indian Economic Service (IES) are two ends of the economic administration spectrum in the country.

IES a rising power

Last year the number of posts for economic advisers in central ministries were increased to 89 from 52.

'Most jobs in ministries involve economic decisions'

If the IAS allowed the IES officers at higher positions, how would they have a larger-than-life role in the Central government?

'The government provides opportunities to officers at all levels'

The formation of IES was in the context of India launching herself on the path of economic development in the early 1950s.

Column

False funding policy

The Indian diamond industry has been in the grip of an unprecedented liquidity crisis, the likes of which not seen for the last 50 years.

Policy Shift

Throw of dice

After weeks of hectic negotiations between various political parties, the Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation and Resettlement Bill could be introduced in the second half of the Monsoon session which reopens on April 22 after the traditional lay off.

Accountability

Tightening the noose

It is a peculiar case of how secrecy and protection of the right to privacy of the income tax returns of Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) can override larger public interest.