Latest news with #Damocles
Irish Independent
7 hours ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
The Irish Independent's View: Government must wake up to state watchdog's spending warning
These are the words of American economic historian Thomas Sowell. It might seem as if our Government has gone to some lengths to prove him right on both counts in the eyes of the Fiscal Advisory Council (FAC). The state watchdog is concerned that spending is up almost 6pc already this year. 'At the current pace of growth, overruns of €2bn are likely,' the Fiscal Assessment Report says. The extravagance can once again be traced back to bumper corporation tax receipts. As we know, the incoming billions are the envy of many European leaders; and a source of considerable indignation to Donald Trump. The US president has made it plain that though he 'likes' us, we are causing him a world of pain when he sees what he regards as 'US tax dollars' flowing out of American coffers and into those of the Emerald Isle. He has warned he is 'coming for them' and we have no reason to doubt him. The FAC has been warning for the past few years that over-reliance on such golden windfalls could leave the State dangerously exposed when they come to an end, as they inevitably will. Today's warning is even more shrill. It notes that while phenomenal levels of excess corporation tax are keeping Ireland in surplus, 'without these revenues, there would be a substantial deficit, despite a strong economy'. The report acknowledges that while the tide of good fortune could persist for a while yet, it will turn, so depending on it is 'high risk'. It also notes how just three companies account for most of the excess corporation tax. A particular worry of the council is that the over-runs are not being acknowledged in new forecasts. Every blessing ignored becomes a curse Its chairperson, Seamus Coffey, even raised a concern about the 'plausibility' of the numbers being presented. He said it's hard to know precisely how overstretched government departments are, because monthly figures are not supplied. The projected figures for 2025 expenditure remain unchanged, even though it is likely to rise by €3.7bn. This, the report states, is 'simply not credible'. ADVERTISEMENT Philosopher Paulo Coelho said: 'Every blessing ignored becomes a curse.' Taking a rosy financial future for granted, which is written on such shifting sands, could come at extreme cost. Spending what we can afford really ought not be such a radical concept. There is a sword of Damocles over the world's economy thanks to Trump's tariffs. The potential for wider wars in the Middle East or Ukraine could also wreak global trade havoc. Relying on the comfort of things we have taken for granted tends to come with a rude awakening. How long can we continue to get away with pressing the snooze button on the FAC's alarm calls?
Time of India
14 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Telangana high court junks petition against CPI MLA's poll win
Hyderabad: Stating that baseless election petitions should not be kept hanging like the sword of Damocles over the heads of legislators for long as they distract them from pursuing public service goals wholeheartedly, the Telangana high court on Monday dismissed a petition challenging the victory of CPI's Kunamneni Sambasiva Rao from Kothagudem assembly constituency. The petition, filed by a voter, Nandu Lal Agarwal, alleged that Rao had suppressed his wife's name in his election affidavit violating Rule 4A of the Conduct of Election Rules and his nomination papers were improperly accepted by the Returning Officer. He also claimed that Rao's election affidavit was allegedly notarised by an advocate whose notary certificate had expired. Arguing for Rao, senior counsel G Vidya Sagar said that as per the modified form there was no need to mention the names of spouse and dependents. He also pointed out even the complainant could not dispute that his two children are not dependents. Justice K Lakshman ruled that Rao had substantially complied with disclosure norms by providing his wife's PAN, income details and assets even if her name was omitted. The notary's renewal application was pending when the affidavit was signed, and the subsequent validation by authorities regularised the document, the judge said. The judge said that the electorate's mandate should not be overturned on technicalities without concrete evidence of malpractice and dismissed the petition.
Mint
29-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
Vodafone Idea Q4 preview: Losses mount, AGR burden clouds outlook
NEW DELHI : Vodafone Idea Ltd is set to report a loss for another quarter amid mounting financial pressure and fresh concerns over its survival owing to pending adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues. The telecom operator, which will declare March quarter earnings on 30 May, is expected to report a net loss of ₹7,162.5 crore—an average of six brokerage firms' estimates—slightly narrower year-on-year but widening sequentially. Its loss stood at ₹6,609 crore in the preceding quarter and ₹7,675 crore in the year-ago period. Revenue is projected to come in at ₹11,030 crore, reflecting a 4% improvement from the year-ago period but down marginally from ₹11,117 crore in the preceding quarter. Better network, slower subscriber churn A sequential widening of losses is expected due to higher operating costs from expanding the network footprint. Besides, weaker revenue growth owing to continuous subscriber loss is also expected to weigh on Vodafone Idea's financials. Also Read: Sword of Damocles hangs over Vodafone Idea's bank guarantees A weak top line and higher expenses are also expected to affect the company's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda). 'We expect Ebitda to decline 5.2% on-quarter/ +3.1% on-year to ₹4,470 crore on a dip in revenue, and operating cost is likely to rise from expansion in network footprint," said analysts at ICICI Securities in a note dated 5 April. Vodafone Idea has been improving its 4G services and has also started rolling out 5G, with Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Patna being the first circles. On 15 May, the company launched 5G in Delhi and said it was targeting to expand the services in all 17 circles by August 2025. Analysts expect the company to spend the guided ₹8,000 crore capex in the second half of 2024-25, implying a sharp increase in capex in the March quarter. Even though the company has been losing subscribers for some time, analysts said an improvement in the network could slow its subscriber churn. Compared to the loss of 5 million subscribers each in the September and December quarters, the company's subscriber churn is expected to slow down to around 2.5 million in the March quarter, according to analysts' estimates. This is because of network improvement starting November 2024 and an increase in the company's 4G subscribers. The company is experiencing churn among the lower-end revenue users. As of December end, Vodafone Idea had 200 million mobile subscribers. 'We believe that Vodafone Idea is still some point away from showing positive net adds. We expect Q4 Arpu (average revenue per user) to be largely flat on-quarter," said analysts at BofA Securities in a 7 April note. Also Read: Two months after second lifeline, Vodafone Idea again raises survival fears An average of six brokerage firms' estimates shows that Vodafone Idea's Arpu is expected to increase marginally to ₹164 from ₹163 in the previous quarter. A largely flat Arpu can be attributed to two fewer days during the March quarter, which offset the benefit of the company's improved subscriber mix. Further, the July 2024 tariff hike has completely passed through the company's Arpu by end-Q3FY25, analysts at JM Financial said in a 4 April note. AGR spectre When the company reports its earnings on Friday, investors will closely look for its commentary on the AGR dues, any clarity from the government on possible relief, fundraising prospects, the company's sustainability post 2025-26, and future tariff hikes. In a 27 May exchange filing, Vodafone Idea said it would also consider and evaluate any and all proposals for raising funds in one or more tranches, either by way of a rights issue or further public offer or private placement (including preferential allotment or qualified institutions placement) or through any other permissible mode, in its board meet on Friday. On 17 April, Vodafone Idea submitted a representation to the government, seeking a waiver of interest, penalty, and interest on penalty on its AGR dues. The telco said the AGR liability demand from the government stands at ₹83,400 crore as of March end, with an annual instalment of approximately ₹18,000 crore due starting 31 March 2026 for the next six years. In comparison, Vodafone Idea generated ₹8,400-9,200 crore cash annually in the last three years. In a court petition, it said it would not be able to operate beyond the current fiscal year without bank funding, which remains elusive as lenders remain wary of its dues linked to AGR. The Supreme Court, however, dismissed the plea on 19 May. Also Read: No plan to merge Vodafone Idea and BSNL: Scindia Vodafone Idea has been trying to raise bank funding of ₹25,000 crore for quite some time now. However, banks want the AGR matter resolved before processing further loans. 'The government may have to extend the moratorium or increase its stake in the telco," said analysts at IIFL Capital in a 20 May note. In March, the government offered another reprieve to the company by converting an additional ₹36,950 crore worth of statutory dues into equity. The second dues conversion took the government's stake in Vodafone Idea to 49%.
Hans India
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
MyVoice: Views of our readers 25th May 2025
Scourge of terrorism hangs like sword of Damocles The scourge of terrorism and geopolitics are the current hot topics that everyone should understand and decide the further course of action. Pakistan is a haven for most of the terrorist outfits. The country is playing into the hands of the US and some western powers by sheltering, aiding, guiding and training terrorist groups as admitted by its defence minister. Breeding terrorism has become the identity of Pakistan. Every terror group openly or indirectly promotes the benefits of the affluent, especially under the cloak of religion. For the U.S. and most western nations war and terrorism play an important role in sustaining their economy as manufacture and sale of weapons hold a strategic place in their economy. Maintaining a war-like climate and nurturing terrorism are closely related to their economy. Therefore, such countries cannot endorse India's resolve to annihilate terrorists' outfits in Pakistan. We must understand that India's diplomatic outreach is only to keep the nations informed of India's necessity to address the menace and not to count upon their support. Containing the influence of China and Russia is the top of countries promoting a capitalist economic order. Pakistan is needed for both groups. In the name of saving Islam, Turkey is helping Pakistan instead of focusing on developments. It is wasting all its resources to promote terrorism. After having lost East Pakistan, the country is likely to lose Balochistan, which has 44 per cent land mass and 1.5 million population. Both are Muslims dominating areas. Terrorism promoted in the name of God and religion is harming Pakistan in terms of territorial loss, economic backwardness and country's ruining. It is time to wake up and correct its course before it becomes too late. Because the conditionalities imposed by IMF are sure to pave for a widespread social crisis. India should rely on its own strength. Before taking up a 'fight to finish' attack on Pakistan,New Delhi has a lot to do at home. Ensuring an overwhelming support of the people of Kashmir is crucial. Ensuring the support of all political parties and not utilising the developments for electoral gains are equally important. It should also be kept in mind that though Pak may not win a war against India it can still cause enough damages, which may have their negative impact on our economic course, which is already threatened by the ongoing tariff war. A G Rajmohan, Arunodaya colony, Anantapur-4 Tackle Pak with an iron hand I carefully read the article 'The scourge of terrorism and geopolitics' that was published in the columns of The Hans India. The writer very articulately speaks about the extent of support Pakistan is providing to terror activities and their scheming machinations. Terrorism exists in Pakistan because the country's policymakers are actively promoting such perpetrators. This needs to be eliminated with an iron hand. Kant S Deodhar, Mega Hills, Madhapur, Hyderabad Beijing back to its dirty game Even as China's past actions suggest little concern for a nation's sovereignty, its latest move to rename parts of Arunachal Pradesh is nothing but a crude attempt to reiterate its claim on the state which has been and will continue to remain an integral part of India. Moreover, for Beijing, when Yarking river is a strategic asset and changing the name of Arunachal Pradesh as 'Zangnan' to claim it as the southern part of Tibet is a vain and preposterous move that is nothing but provocation coming in the middle of India--Pakistan tensions only seem to serve as political leverage in the power play with India. This is nothing new because Beijing is adept in resorting to dirty old tricks. In fact, when China's plans are prima-facie illegal, its mistaken belief that this will bring India to the bargaining table to discuss boundary issues is nothing but a figment of imagination. Apparently, China, irresponsible and aggressive country, is well known not to honour its own agreements made with India on border issues in the past must understand that merely rechristening few places in the North-eastern state will not make any difference to its status not will it alter the ground reality. By and large, China flexing its muscles by stepping up construction activity along the Himalayan frontier and resorting to false narratives to put pressure on India while sticking to its intransigent position relating to border issues reveals its duplicity. Keeping in view China's game plan to lay claim on territories of other sovereign nations by saying it is its own, New Delhi must continue to strengthen its capability and capacity in the North-eastern region by enhancing its monitoring to safeguard peace in the border areas while thwarting the nefarious designs of Beijing. K R Srinivasan, New Bhoiguda Secunderabad-3 Focus on prevention and early detection of thyroid disorders Thyroid diseases are among the most prevalent endocrine disorders globally and India is no exception. Around 4.2 crores of Indians are affected by thyroid related diseases. Thyroid dysfunction is common, readily identifiable and easily treatable, but if undisguised or untreated, it can have profound adverse effects. Iodine is a crucial component in producing thyroid hormones. Over one billion people globally lead lives in iodine-deficiency. The studies indicate that one per cent of men and five per cent of women have detectable thyroid disorders. This year's theme: To increase awareness about thyroid disorders and highlight the importance of early detection and proper treatment, 'World Thyroid Day' is being observed every May 25 since 2008. Although small, the thyroid gland regulates essential body functions like metabolism, temperature p, mood, heartbeat, and growth. Early detection, timely treatment, and consistent follow ups can help manage thyroid problems effectively. The theme of the World Thyroid Day – 2025' is 'Prevention and Early Detection of Thyroid Disorders' - a timely reminder and timely action can make a significant difference. The aim is to encourage individuals to take common symptoms like fatigue, weight change, or neck swelling seriously and consult a doctor as early as possible. The burden in India: In India, more than 42 million people are estimated to have thyroid disorders. The problem is that many individuals remain unaware of their conditions. A delay in diagnosis can lead to serious complications like infertility, heart problems, and mental health issues. Regular screening, early detection, and lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in managing these disorders. The common thyroid disorder symptoms are fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, hair loss, cold sensitivity, heat sensitivity, depression, puffy face, muscle weakness, constipation, dry skin, irregular periods, and swelling in the neck. Types and risks of thyroid disorders: Disorders occur when the thyroid becomes underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism). The thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, and goitre are also the other types of thyroid disorders. The major risk factors responsible for thyroid disorders are iodine deficiency or excess, autoimmune diseases, family history, gender, age factor, radiation exposure, hormonal medications, pregnancy and postpartum, and smoking. Activities like educational programs, free thyroid checkup camps, social media campaigns, sharing patient experiences, and distribution of printed material on thyroid disorders can be planned and executed on this day. Dr Burra Madhusudhan Reddy, L.M.D. Colony, Thimmapur, Karimnagar. Wise to have polling booths in housing societies The Election Commission's decision to set up polling booths inside housing societies across the country is a welcome move. It's true that inmates, especially elderly people, residing in skyscrapers, hesitate to go to polling booths to cast their votes. This results in the polling percentage getting reduced. The new move will help improve poll percentage. Hope this is implemented in Tamil Nadu during the next year's Assembly polls. Take early Covid precautions This has reference to the latest news about Covid. We are all aware that three years back, the deadly virus claimed thousands of lives across the globe. Now that there are signs of a recurrence of Covid, the medical and health care authorities must start issuing mandatory safety precautions and guidelines across the country. Even more important is to ensure that these advisories are strictly implemented by the authorities and the people must abide by the guidelines as an effective check from its spread. Gudipati Shanti Priya New Bowenpalli Secunderabad-11 'Yashoda AI—Your AI Sakhi' a boon for women The launch of 'Yashoda AI—Your AI Sakhi' is a giant leap towards empowering women with digital awareness and AI literacy. Led by the National Commission for Women, this initiative is a game-changer in promoting inclusive digital empowerment. By equipping women with essential skills in AI, cybersecurity, and digital safety, we're paving the way for a brighter future. Let's hope this initiative bears fruit and women across India become leaders in shaping the country's tech-savvy future. Sridevi Tejaswani. K, Secunderabad Contain the high levels of greenhouse gas The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has reported that greenhouse gas levels have reached record highs. India is suffering from severe climate change leading to rising temperatures, unpredictable monsoons and loss of biodiversity as well environmental pollution. Renewable energy, afforestation and sustainable life are required strictly to reduce greenhouse gas. Every Indian must be made aware of the poisonous effects to greenhouse gas emissions. Climate change is not an issue in a specific region but a global challenge. We must pay heed and protect the world from unexpected situations. Abdullah Jameel Azmi, Azamgarh (UP) Congress exposing itself post Operation Sindoor The recent remarks made by Congress leaders regarding Operation Sindoor have ignited significant political controversy. Although the party officially backs the military initiative, internal disagreements have emerged. Prominent leaders such as Shashi Tharoor expressed support and praised the operation's execution, while others raised concerns about aspects like the cost of drone deployment and potential international repercussions. The BJP quickly capitalised on this division, accusing Congress of echoing Pakistan's narrative and failing to present a unified front on matters of national security. This discord has deepened existing political polarisation, providing the BJP with a strategic opportunity to reinforce its national security credentials. The ruling party has projected itself as the sole guardian of India's defence interests, using the controversy to rally nationalist sentiment and frame Congress as weak and divided. In contrast, Congress's fragmented messaging has introduced electoral vulnerabilities, as it struggles to appeal to both nationalist constituencies and critics of aggressive military policies. Public perception in such matters holds considerable weight, especially in the context of elections. If the BJP succeeds in presenting the operation as a decisive and patriotic act, it could further consolidate its support among voters concerned with national defence. Conversely, Congress's ambiguous position may be seen as indecisive, potentially leading to diminished electoral confidence. The ramifications extend beyond domestic politics into the realm of foreign policy. BJP's assertive stance against terrorism aligns well with the strategic interests of global partners like France, the United States, and Israel, strengthening India's image as a proactive security player. Domestically, the controversy has revealed strains within the INDIA opposition alliance, with parties like TMC and AAP potentially distancing themselves from Congress to safeguard their own nationalist appeal. This disunity plays into BJP's hands, allowing it to undermine the opposition's coherence and present itself as the only party with a clear and consistent defence policy. For Congress, the challenge lies in reconciling internal differences while preserving alliances critical to mounting an effective challenge in upcoming elections. Looking ahead to the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, Operation Sindoor could become a defining issue in shaping the national political narrative. BJP appears poised to benefit if it sustains its portrayal of the operation as a landmark in India's security doctrine. In contrast, unless Congress coalesces around a unified and persuasive position, it risks appearing divided and reactive. This episode underscores how military actions and the discourse surrounding them can significantly influence political legitimacy, voter sentiment, and leadership credibility in the years to come. Amarjeet Kumar, Hazaribagh Operation Sindoor was a smart move Apropos your edit page Bold Talk (May 24), I am afraid that there should be no controversy whatsoever about operation Sindoor as it has been internationally acclaimed. The Congress party and its allies are at the receiving end having invited the wrath of the people with their remarks on Operation Sindoor. This war was the right step at the right time because the most heinous terrorists, born, fostered, abetted and strategically targetted against India from the soul of Pakistan kept on striking our soil at different places. The recent barbaric act in Pahalghan deserved a befitting reply. The Chief of the Army Staff of Pakistan, Munir, who has since been elevated as field marshal, is opposed to Hindus. Hence, terrorists specifically kill Hindus. Your columnist referred to the Indo- Pak war in 1971 to release Bangladesh and aptly mentioned that Sam Manekshaw differed with the then PM Indira Gandhi about the correct time to strike, which she understood and agreed. We won. Similarly, Modi had elaborate consultations with the heads of forces and others concerned and gave a free hand to the forces and they did a fantastic job. Modi has done well also in sending all-party delegations all over the world to impress upon the world leaders the threat that India has been facing from Pakistan and the need for undertaking Operation Sindoor. Dr T Ramadas, Visakhapatnam
Forbes
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Linkin Park And Sleep Token Manage The Same Incredible Chart Feat
Linkin Park and Sleep Token each claim three simultaneous top 10s on Billboard's Hot Hard Rock Songs ... More chart, while Ghost nearly matches the feat. MONTERREY, MEXICO - FEBRUARY 5: Linkin Park performs during a concert as part of the 'From Zero World Tour' at Estadio Banorte on February 5, 2025 in Monterrey, Mexico. (Photo by Medios) Throughout the past year, Billboard's Hot Hard Rock Songs chart has been dominated by just a handful of big names. Linkin Park, Sleep Token, and Ghost have all scored multiple smashes, some of which have remained on the tally for months at a time. The current ranking highlights just how popular these acts are and how the competition between them is playing out, as two of them manage an impressive feat — and the third just narrowly fails to joins them. Both Sleep Token and Linkin Park earn back-to-back-to-back top 10 hits this week. The two bands each claim a trio of tunes sitting next to one another inside the top 10 on the list of the most-consumed hard rock cuts in the U.S. Ghost nearly pulls off the same accomplishment but falls short by just one position. For the second consecutive frame, Sleep Token occupies the top three spots on the Hot Hard Rock Songs chart. Last week, "Damocles" debuted at No. 1, and it now refuses to budge. Behind that single are two previous leaders, "Caramel" and "Emergence," at Nos. 2 and 3, respectively. Linkin Park claims the next three highest positions on the tally. Three cuts taken from the band's comeback album From Zero, including its recently-released deluxe edition, are on the rise. 'Up from the Bottom,' "The Emptiness Machine," and "Heavy Is the Crown" each ascend slightly, landing at Nos. 4, 5, and 6, respectively. Ghost nearly matches the feat managed by Sleep Token and Linkin Park, but just misses out on joining them. The metal act sits at Nos. 9 and 10 with "Peacefield" and "Satanized," respectively. Last week, "Lachryma" was at No. 10, but this frame it swaps positions with "Satanized," dipping to No. 11 and outside of the region. Disturbed keeps Ghost from a trio of top 10s, as the band's "I Will Not Break" jumps from No. 12 to No. 8, returning to the uppermost tier.
