INDIA’S ANGUISH
   Date :03-Sep-2020

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WHEN top powers in the world are in a hate-mode against the United Nations (UN), India has maintained its balanced consistent position of setting in reforms in the international body. In this context, India’s concern over some countries conveniently stalling the reforms in the most powerful UN organ, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), should serve as an alarm bell to the international community as the issue pertains to larger global security in an increasingly dangerous spike in terrorism. India’s strong words on the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) being “held hostage” and being used as a “convenient smokescreen” by some countries to delay the proposed reforms are borne out of the recent nasty experiences where countries like China have been putting roadblock in the reforms to settle personal scores. It is imperative for a crucial agency like the UNSC to look into the behaviour of some of its member-nations, for, the leeway to twist and stall important programmes would result in a weak and delayed response to emerging security threats in the world. The UNGA is expected to address the issue soon.
 
RELIEF & CONCERN
 
BY ALLOWING telecom firms such as Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel and Tata Teleservices to make staggered payment of their Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)-related dues, the Supreme Court has handed the companies some breathing space and big relief from an impending financial crisis. Yet, the 10-year period for payment of dues may not be enough for companies like Vodafone Idea due to the weak financial foundation it has after incurring big losses in the competition. Vodafone Idea owes dues worth Rs. 53,000 crore -- that includes up to Rs. 24,729 crore of spectrum dues and Rs 28309 crore in licence fee -- to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Despite the latest ruling by the apex court the sharp fall in the company’s market shares indicates that telecom industry in India is on verge of becoming a two-pony race. Though situation is not that grim for Bharti Airtel, prevailing economic slowdown can always cast its effect on the telecom sector. The company’s rising debts and fall in revenues may also have a cascading effect on the consumer as the stiff demand to pay Rs 9000 crore upfront can affect the finance sector, too.