Understanding the New Bihar Financial Rules: A Boost for Local Businesses

On July 16, 2024, the Government of Bihar amended the Bihar Financial Rules, 1950, through the Bihar Financial (Amendment) Rules, 2024. The key update is:
Rule 131B: The Bihar Government can now create special policies to prioritize local businesses for procurement of goods and services. These policies will take precedence over existing and future procurement rules.

FSSAI Issues New Labeling Rules

On July 6, 2024, the FSSAI approved an amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. Key points include:
Enhanced Display: Total sugar, salt, and saturated fat must be displayed in bold and larger font on food labels.
RDA Information: Percentage contributions to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for these nutrients must also be shown in bold.
Regulatory Specifications: Regulations 2(v) and 5(3) outline the requirements for serving size and nutritional information.

The Central Pollution Control Board Issues New Updates to Draft Report on Classification of Sectors in Red, Orange, Green, White and Blue Categories

On July 11, 2024, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) invited comments on updates to the Draft Report on Sector Classification. Key changes include:

Revised Section 6: Updated from “Types of sectors based on their activities” to “Types of sectors considered for classification.”
New Section 9: Added after Section 8, detailing incentives for sectors adopting measures for improved environmental performance.

Assam Skill University (Amendment) Ordinance 2024

On July 4, 2024, the Government of Assam issued the Assam Skill University (Amendment) Ordinance 2024, amending the Assam Skill University Act 2020. The amendment revises the time period for the appointment of the first Vice-Chancellor by the Chancellor on the advice of the State Government.

West Bengal Governments New GST Amendment

On July 16, 2024, the Government of West Bengal revised the minimum wages for employees in 30 scheduled employments. The updated rates will be effective from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.