Current Socio-Economic Problems Ban on export of non-basmati white rice The Union government banned the export of non-basmati white rice. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade under the Union Commerce Ministry announced that the ban would come into effect immediately and exemptions would be given only if the loading of non-basmati rice on the ship had commenced before the notification, or the shipping bill was filed and vessels had already berthed or arrived and anchored in Indian ports. The step was taken to ensure adequate availability of non-basmati white rice in the domestic market and to curb the price rise. Non- basmati rice was exported under the category 'Free with export duty of 20%’. Export duty of 20% on non-basmati white rice was imposed last year to lower the price and to ensure availability in the domestic market. This sharp increase in exports can be ascribed to high international prices due to geo-political scenario, El Nino sentiments and extreme climatic conditions in other rice-producing countries, etc. Indices Henley Passport Index Index lists the world's passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. It is released by Henley & Partners, a global leader in residence and citizenship planning. Key findings Singapore has replaced Japan for having the world's most powerful passport, allowing visa-free entry to 192 global destinations in the top of the indices. India ranked at 80th, allowing visa-free travel to 57 destinations. Indian passport holders need a visa to enter 177 destinations across the world.
