Problem in Conduct of Public Election Electoral Bonds (EBs) It is a bearer instrument, like a promissory note, that is payable to the bearer on demand to donate their contributions to political parties. SBI is the only bank authorised to sell these bonds. Working of Electoral Bonds A citizen of India or a body incorporated in India is eligible to purchase the bond. EBs are issued/purchased for any value, in multiples of Rs.1,000, Rs.10,000, Rs.1,00,000, Rs.10,00,000 and Rs.1,00,00,000 from the specified branches of the State Bank of India (SBI). EBs have a life of only 15 days during which it can be used for donating only to the registered political parties. The bonds shall be available for purchase for 10 days each in January, April, July and October as may be specified by the Central Government. The bond can be encashed by an eligible political party only through a designated bank account with the authorised bank. Rationale behind the introduction of EB Shift from cash-based to digital transactions to curb unaccounted or black money in political funding. Ensure donor anonymity to promote broader participation in political funding. Formalize political contributions through the banking system for transparency and accountability. Electoral bond scheme mandates disclosure of bond donations in party financial statements to improve funding transparency.
POLITICAL SCIENCE
India’s Foreign Policy Defence Minister Rajnath bilateral ties with Malaysia Mr. Singh arrived in Kuala Lumpur on a three-day official visit to Malaysia. This is the first bilateral visit after the establishment of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership, which was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Malaysia in 2015. Recognising defence exports as a key pillar of sustainable growth of the Indian defence industry, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Regional Office of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Kuala Lumpur. This Regional Office will facilitate close defence industrial collaboration between India and Malaysia. It will also serve as a hub for the HAL’s engagement with the wider South-East Asian region and act as a window for other Indian Defense PSUs, the defence ministry said in New Delhi. Incidentally, Malaysia has evinced interest in procuring Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA) indigenously designed and manufactured by the HAL. About Malaysia Prime Minister - Anwar Ibrahim Capital - Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Currency - Malaysian Ringgit Latest Court Verdicts SC asks ED chief to quit, but upholds amendments. The Supreme Court asked Enforcement Directorate (ED) Director Sanjay Kumar Mishra to quit four months before his third extension ends in November even as it upheld statutory amendments that facilitate the tentures of Directors of the Central Bureau of Investigation and the ED to be stretched “piecemeal”. CBI and ED chiefs have fixed tenures of two years. However, amendments introduced in 2021 to the Central Vigilance Commission Act, the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act and the Fundamental Rules allow them three annual extensions. About Enforcement Directorate Executive Director - Sanjay Kumar Mishra HQ – New Delhi Ministry – Finance (Revenue Department) Founded - 1 May 1956 Validity of Places of Worship Act The Supreme Court gave the Centre ‘sufficient time’ till October 31…
