The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday approved the biggest tax reform since Independence.
Apart from the much-reported constitutional and political hurdles on a national Goods and Services Tax (GST), there is another basic one. Barely half of dealers in the country have a Permanent Account Number (PAN) from the tax department.
With the results of the Jammu & Kashmir assembly elections out, hectic lobbying among the political parties has started, with a visible sign of the People's Democratic Party and the Congress warming-up to form the government.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and three of his cabinet colleagues are among 44 candidates whose fate will be decided on Tuesday in the third phase of polling in 16 seats spread across Budgam, Pulwama and Baramulla districts.
Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Tuesday joined the ongoing controversy over Gen (retd) V K Singh's statement on Jammu and Kashmir politicians, saying if he discloses the former Army chief's advice to him years ago, it would be big embarrassment for everyone.
The party also said it would be a travesty to treat the current unrest in the Valley as a mere law and order problem.