Big News: Ministry of Power proposes a mechanism to bring down the cost of power; Delhi releases its draft master plan; Maharashtra approves the state’s global climate fund; Andhra Pradesh issues show-cause notices to electricity distribution companies; Karnataka announces an increase in electricity tariffs; and more.

Industrial Policy & Business Regulations

Nothing critical to report this week

Land Acquisition & Labor Regulations

Nothing critical to report this week

Infrastructure & Governance

Andhra Pradesh sanctions $197 million for the development of Krishnapatnam Industrial Node under the Chennai Bengaluru Industrial Corridor. Source: Hindu Business Line; In detail: Tender Documents

Delhi releases its draft master plan Master Plan of Delhi 2041, which sets the roadmap for the city’s development for the next two decades. The plan aims to minimize air pollution through key strategies, including a switch to greener fuels for public transport. Source: Saur Energy; In detail: Draft Master Plan of Delhi-2041

Climate Change

Maharashtra cabinet approves its global climate fund. The initiative aims to restore mangroves, corals, and the coastal watershed area within the state. Source: Hindustan Times; In detail: Cabinet Decisions (In Marathi)

Maharashtra cabinet approves the formation of the Maharashtra Tree Authority, which will make all decisions regarding the protection of trees. Source: Indian Express; In detail: Cabinet Decisions (In Marathi)

Oil & Gas

Nothing critical to report this week

Water & Sanitation

Nothing critical to report this week

Power & Renewable Energy

Andhra Pradesh issues show-cause notices to all the three electricity distribution companies (discoms) in the state for buying power at prices higher than the prescribed rate. Source: Times of India

Karnataka announces an increase of $0.00411 per kilowatt-hour in electricity tariffs. The hike is applicable from April 1, 2021. Source: Times of India; In detail: Tariff Schedule

Health

Nothing critical to report this week

Business Negative Reforms

Nothing critical to report this week

Any Other

Nothing critical to report this week

Center – State Relations

The Ministry of Power issues a discussion paper on market-based economic dispatch of power. The paper proposes a new mechanism to bring down the cost of power for discoms and consumers. Source: Mercom; In detail: Notice

The goods and services tax (GST) council reduces the GST rates on most medical supplies used in Covid-19 relief and management. The tax cuts will be applicable until September 30, 2021. Source: NDTV; In detail: Press Release