Hope vs uncertainty
The budgetary initiative in this regard will spill over into the coming year. The foreseeable future spells tough times. But the nation has developed a new understanding that it must stand together.

The sugar mess
The minister for consumer affairs and public distribution ruled out a rise in basic customs duties on imported sugar. Domestic producers have for long been demanding effective duty protection

Money-laundering bill -- Step in right direction
About a year ago, the Prevention of Money-Laundering Bill 1998 was introduced, but because of serious objections against some of its provisions and due to instability in the government, the Bill could not become an Act. This Bill, with some modifications, has been placed before the Parliament and may soon become a law.

Public interest and elusive political will
It is often expected that the government of the day should act in the public interest. However, a government that seeks to act in the public interest, say, provide welfare amenities for the poor, has to overcome substantial difficulties.