Latest news with #TA
Focus Malaysia
14 hours ago
- Business
- Focus Malaysia
TA downgrades Westports as tariff threat escalates
TWO days away from President Trump announcing final trade tariffs for every nation, TA Securities remain hopeful that the Malaysian government will secure a more favourable deal within the next 48 hours, though the odds appear slim. 'Should negotiations fall through, we believe the looming 25% export tariff would significantly undermine Malaysia's trade competitiveness, putting the country at a distinct disadvantage,' said TA. More critically, TA expect tariff-inflated U.S. imports to dampen consumer spending in quarter four 2025, particularly given that many consumers likely stocked up during the 90-day tariff reprieve. Recently, President Trump has indicated that all countries will face tariffs ranging from 15% to 50%. As such, Malaysia would be able to minimise the impact from the structural change only if the tariff is set at 20% levels or near to its peers, that is, Vietnam (20%), the Philippines (19%), Indonesia (19%), Japan (15%) and EU (15%). As the access to US' high-tech chips and China's rare earth minerals and magnets would remain the key concerns of both countries and subject to export restrictions, we believe the rule of origin would also be applied to Malaysian exports as Malaysia is one of the important transhipment hubs in the strait of Malacca. In other words, higher tariff could be imposed on goods transhipped through Malaysia like the trade deal between US-Vietnam, which includes a 40% tariff on transhipment. We keep our FY25-27 earnings unchanged at this juncture and maintain Westports' financial year 2025 (FY25) transhipment and gateway volume growth assumptions of 3% and 2% respectively, pending the tariff outcome in Aug-25. TA downgrades Westports to Sell ahead of the looming risk from the trade tariff. —July 30, 2025 Main image: BusinessToday
India.com
21-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
8th Pay Commission Big Breaking: Modi government breaks silence on Salary hike, says implementation would be taken up once…, Finance Ministry plans to…
8th Pay Commission update: Will salary of government employees increase three times? Know all details 8th Pay Commission: Addressing the concerns of lakhs of Central government employees and pensioners over the 8th pay panel, the Modi government on Monday said that the appointment of members and the chairperson would be finalised once the commission is notified by the government. It is important to note that the 8th Pay Commission is pending since the finance ministry is yet to finalise the Terms of Reference (ToR), which will form the basis for the revision in salaries and pensions for over 1 crore central government employees and pensioners. Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, in the Lok Sabha, replied to queries raised by parliamentarians T R Balu and Anand Bhadauria. Members asked the government whether it has notified the 8th Pay Commission which was announced in January 2026. They also questioned the reasons for not setting up the 8th pay panel even after lapse of six months of announcing the commission. Ministry of Finance Pankaj Chaudhary in Parliament: Chaudhary said, 'It has been decided by the government to constitute the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC). Inputs have been sought from major stakeholders, including Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Personnel & Training and from states.' According to a recent report by Ambit Capital, the new pay structure could lead to a 30–34 percent hike in overall remuneration, impacting over 1 crore employees and retirees nationwide. Some of the key allowances that central government employees get are house rent allowance (HRA), transport allowance (TA) and child education allowance (CEA). Curious about how these revisions may look for employees in Grade Pay levels 2400, 4200, 4800, 7600, and 8700 under 1.92x and 2.57x fitment factors? Check out our projections for a detailed breakdown: At 1.92 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 54,528 HRA: Rs 13,086.72 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 71,214.72 NPS: Rs 5,452.80 CGHS: Rs 250 Net salary: Rs 65,511.92 At 2.57 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 72,988 HRA: Rs 17,517.12 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 94,105.12 NPS: Rs 7,298.80 CGHS: Rs 250 Net salary: Rs 86,556.32 At 1.92 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 73,152 HRA: Rs 17,556.48 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 94,308.48 NPS: Rs 7,315.20 CGHS: Rs 250 Net salary: Rs 86,743.28 At 2.57 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 97,917 HRA: Rs 23,500.08 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 1,25,017.08 NPS: Rs 9,791.70 CGHS: Rs 250 Net salary: Rs 1,14,975.38 At 1.92 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 1,12,512 HRA: Rs 27,002.88 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 1,43,114.88 NPS: Rs 11,251.20 CGHS: Rs 650 Net salary:Rs 1,31,213.68 At 2.57 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 1,50,602 HRA: Rs 36,144.48 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 1,90,346.48 NPS: Rs 15,060.20 CGHS: Rs 650 Net salary: Rs 1,74,636.28 At 1.92 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 1,53,984 HRA: Rs 36,956.16 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 1,98,140.16 NPS: Rs 15,398.40 CGHS: Rs 650 Net salary: Rs 1,82,091.76 At 2.57 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 2,06,114 HRA: Rs 49,467.36 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 2,62,781.36 NPS: Rs 20,611.40 CGHS: Rs 650 Net salary: Rs 2,41,519.96 At 1.92 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 1,85,472 HRA: Rs 44,513.28 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 2,37,185.28 NPS: Rs 18,547.20 CGHS: Rs 650 Net salary: Rs 2,17,988.08 At 2.57 fitment factor Revised basic pay: Rs 2,48,262 HRA: Rs 59,582.88 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 3,15,044.88 NPS: Rs 24,826.20 CGHS: Rs 650 Net salary: Rs 2,89,568.68 (Disclaimer: These are projections. Actual revised amounts may vary.) Ambit Capital estimates that the fitment factor for the 8th Pay Commission could be in the range of 1.83 to 2.46. This implies that the minimum salary, currently at Rs 18,000, could increase to Rs 32,940 (at 1.83) or even Rs 44,280 (at 2.46).
Time of India
21-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Territorial Army vs Regular Army: Understanding the right career path in 2025
In 2025, defence career aspirants in India are increasingly exploring multiple entry points into the armed forces. Among the most commonly compared options are the Territorial Army (TA) and the Regular Army. While both serve under the Indian Army 's structure and uphold the same code of discipline and honour, their roles, commitments, and eligibility frameworks are distinct. Understanding the differences is essential for making an informed, long-term career decision. Structural and operational differences The Regular Army is the standing, full-time military force responsible for national defence, border security, and strategic operations both during peacetime and conflict. It demands complete professional commitment, with recruits undergoing rigorous training at institutions such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers Training Academy (OTA), or National Defence Academy (NDA). Service in the Regular Army is typically a full-time career, involving frequent transfers, postings in high-risk zones, and long stretches away from family. In contrast, the Territorial Army is a part-time voluntary force that supports the Regular Army during emergencies, natural disasters, internal security operations, and peacetime administrative tasks. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo TA personnel are trained soldiers, but they are not required to serve continuously. Most continue with their civilian professions and are called up for service as needed. This model is designed to leverage the capabilities of trained citizens without requiring a full-time commitment. Eligibility and recruitment The Regular Army has a structured recruitment process, including entry-level exams such as NDA and Combined Defence Services (CDS) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Depending on the entry scheme, candidates may join as commissioned officers or through technical and non-technical routes. The selection process includes a Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, medical examinations, and detailed background checks. Territorial Army recruitment, on the other hand, is open to employed professionals and self-employed individuals aged 18 to 42 years. In 2025, the selection process involves a written exam conducted by the Indian Army, followed by a preliminary interview board (PIB) and SSB interview for officer-level entries. The requirement of being "gainfully employed" distinguishes TA recruitment, as it aims to enlist citizens who can contribute without leaving their primary careers. Career progression and deployment Officers in the Regular Army have defined ranks, promotion pathways, and pension benefits based on years of service and performance. They are posted across the country and, in some cases, in foreign missions. The career is structured, hierarchical, and comes with extensive training in military tactics, leadership, and operations. Territorial Army officers may rise in ranks based on their engagement and years of service, but their progression is generally slower and does not offer the same long-term career structure. TA personnel may be deployed during national emergencies or operations such as counter-insurgency, disaster relief, or ceremonial duties, but they are not typically posted in forward combat roles on a permanent basis. Which path aligns better with career goals? The Regular Army is ideal for those seeking a lifelong commitment to military service, complete with structured progression, leadership responsibilities, and immersion in operational defence roles. The TA, however, suits individuals who wish to serve the nation while continuing civilian careers, especially in fields like law, medicine, administration, or corporate leadership. Both offer the chance to serve the country with honour. The right choice depends on one's long-term professional goals, lifestyle priorities, and willingness to adapt to a military framework full-time or part-time. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
NDTV
21-07-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
How To Join Territorial Army Like MS Dhoni, Sachin Pilot, Anurag Thakur
If you've ever dreamt of serving the nation in uniform without leaving your current job, the Territorial Army (TA) might be the ideal path. Known as the "citizen's army," the TA allows professionals, politicians, sportspersons, and civilians to serve in the military while continuing their regular careers. Famous Faces In The Territorial Army Several well-known Indians have been part of the TA over the years: MS Dhoni was conferred the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary) in 2011 with the 106 TA Battalion (Para) of the Parachute Regiment. Kapil Dev received the same honorary rank in 2008 with the 150 TA (Infantry) Battalion of the Punjab Regiment. Sachin Pilot, a Member of Parliament, became the first sitting MP to be commissioned as a regular officer in the TA with the rank of Lieutenant. Anurag Thakur joined as a Lieutenant in 2016 and was later promoted to Captain. Abhinav Bindra was inducted as Lieutenant Colonel in a TA battalion of the Sikh Regiment in 2011. These honorary appointments recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation in their respective fields. What Is The Territorial Army? The Territorial Army is part of the Regular Indian Army. It is designed for citizens who wish to serve the nation while continuing their civilian jobs. TA personnel support the military during natural disasters, national emergencies, and in essential services. With around 50,000 personnel, the TA includes both Departmental Units (such as Railways, ONGC, IOC) and Non-Departmental Units (like Infantry and Ecological Battalions, Engineer Regiments). TA units have participated in major military operations including the 1962, 1965, and 1971 wars, as well as Operation Pawan (Sri Lanka) and Operation Rakshak (Punjab and J&K). They have also assisted during natural calamities like the Latur earthquake, Uttarkashi floods, and the Odisha Super Cyclone. In addition, the Eco Task Forces under the TA have planted more than 6.65 crore trees across 66,000 hectares, helping to restore degraded and hilly areas. How To Join The Territorial Army There are various ways to become part of the TA: Honorary Commission Individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the country in fields such as sports, public service, or the arts may be conferred honorary ranks by the President of India, as seen with personalities like MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev. This is a ceremonial role that recognizes national service and distinction. Join as a Jawan / JCO (Junior Commissioned Officer) Eligibility • Age: 18 to 42 years • Education: Minimum Class 10 (Matriculation); exceptions may apply in some cases Application Process Candidates must report to a TA unit or Recruiting Office on scheduled dates. The process includes a physical test, medical board, and police verification. Notifications are usually published in newspapers and on the official Indian Army website. Join as a Commissioned Officer (For Civilians) Eligibility Criteria • Nationality: Indian (male or female) • Age: 18 to 42 years (as of 10 June 2025) • Education: Graduate from a recognized university • Physical Standards: Must be medically and physically fit • Employment: Should be gainfully employed in government, public, private sector, or self-employed Selection Process This entry is through a written exam, followed by a Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, medical examination, and document verification. Admit cards are issued provisionally, and final eligibility is checked only after clearing the exam. Important Tips for Aspiring Candidates • Regularly check the Indian Army website for recruitment notifications • Prepare well for written and physical tests • Keep all required documents (educational, medical, employment) in order • Understand that field training and military discipline are part of the role • Be mentally prepared for temporary deployments when needed Joining the Territorial Army offers a rare opportunity to contribute to national service while continuing your professional career. Whether you are a civilian, a working professional, or someone admired for national achievements, the TA opens the door to serve the country in uniform - just like MS Dhoni, Sachin Pilot, and many others.
New Statesman
16-07-2025
- Politics
- New Statesman
Keir Starmer's credit arrears
Photo byKeir Starmer will need to do more than play a wine-pouring genial host to charm ministers at a Chequers cabinet away day. Many have been feeling distinctly unappreciated, as he increasingly resembles a distant and disapproving Victorian father. Failing to notice Rachel Reeves' teary misery, never mind comfort the visibly distressed Chancellor, wasn't the first – and proved not to be the last – occasion this Prime Minister has failed to spread the love. Cabinet colleagues noticed President Emmanuel Macron name-checked Home Secretary Yvette Cooper as well as his interior minister, Bruno Retailleau, during the recent state visit, for negotiating the small boats deal. Starmer, standing alongside visiting Manu, didn't. Dishing out credit goes a long way in politics, whereas hogging the glory breeds disenchantment. Jury service is a civic duty that meant Matthew Pennycook, the Housing Minister, missed a slew of affordable-home announcements while dispensing justice. He's one of three government frontbenchers plus a group of other MPs summoned to decide the guilt or innocence of the criminally accused. One of their number who was called up joked it's part of a plot by Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood to convince colleagues that the courts system is broken and requires radical reform after the retired judge Brian Leveson proposed curtailing jury trials. Serving is believing. Strike-threatening doctors are giving Wes Streeting a headache and we hear the Health Secretary is increasingly unpopular with peers. Twice, a noisy Wesleyite army has invaded the Lords end of the terrace, including the Friday the assisted dying bill cleared the Commons. MPs and peers jealously guard their turf. A snout growled that on both occasions merry members of Wes's crew adopted don't-you-know-who-we-are attitudes when challenged. Reform shape-shifter Lee Anderson doesn't know whether he's coming or going. The Tory defector walked into the wrong lobby during a welfare bill vote. A north-west England Labour MP clocked the hard-right party's deputy leader, Richard Tice, hoiking '30p Lee' out of the voting line. Anderson is supposed to be chief whip of Reform's four MPs. Awks. There are mutinous whispers among senior ranks of James Cleverly's Territorial Army (TA) regiment over the former Tory foreign secretary's promotion to colonel. The TA veteran delivered a speech to a regimental dinner of the 100 (Yeomanry) Regiment Royal Artillery to celebrate his elevation from the lesser rank of lieutenant colonel. Not satisfied with being knighted, he clearly wants more people to have to call him 'sir'. According to one senior officer present, eyebrows rocketed and jaws plummeted when it sounded during the speech as though 'not very' Cleverly believed the post would come with a salary. It doesn't; it's honorary. 'We weren't sure whether he was joking or seriously naive,' groaned a snout. No money tree there. Sir! 'Farage Assistance Group' was wealth-tax champion Neil Kinnock's barbed-if-polite suggestion for the name of Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana's new left collaboration. It wasn't his first thought, though. On hearing of the party plan, Labour's former leader growled: 'Are they going to call it the Fruit and Nut Party?' Raisin' the bar for puns there, Neil. With Starmer now expected to shuffle the pack for the first time in September, Westminster is awash with speculation over likely winners and losers. While the Prime Minister has personally reassured the Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, that her job is safe, Tech Sec Peter Kyle has been spoken of as a replacement. But Labour insiders warn those fancying a bump up not to make it too obvious. Back in 2023, one recalls, it was Lucy Powell and Darren Jones who battled for the shadow tech brief. The winner? A Labour leader who loathes off-the-record briefings gave the job to the aforementioned Kyle. Subscribe to The New Statesman today from only £8.99 per month Subscribe Boris Johnson's erstwhile Substack-ing svengali Dominic Cummings once said Lisa Nandy would be a far better Labour leader than poor old Keir Starmer. The guru's blog is often peppered with references to 'brilliant women' he used to work with in the civil service. He often contrasts these with useless male duffers who didn't – remember 2020? – know what epidemiology was. Cummings is now in the process of setting up his own party. Names suggested for the project include the 'Third Force' and the 'Start-Up Party'. Only one problem so far. All of the first members are men, observes a snout. No women want to join, however 'brilliant' they are. Polls keep telling us that Reform is on course to be the largest party after the next general election. While that election is (probably) four years away, that means the party is scrambling to find suitable candidates. Who's on the list for 2029 then? One snout whispers that the ex-Mumford & Sons banjo maestro turned culture wars 'independent YouTuber' Winston Marshall could be interested in a seat. Marshall, whose dad, Paul, just happens to be a major shareholder in GB News – home to Reform leader Nigel Farage's prime time show – surely wouldn't need to sing for a plum constituency. Snout line: Got a story? Write to tips@ [See also: The Tories are responsible for the Afghan resettlement fiasco] Related
