Midday Newsfeed

Weekend headlines for your leisurely perusal:

• Inflation rates in India rose to a 13 month high of 6.7% for the week ending on March 15th. Economists predict a sharp rise in prices of food and energy following. In response, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi told a press conference on Saturday that “it is in the interest of the country, the poor and also the party to check the price rise.” 
• In related news, India has raised the minimum export price for non-basmati rice. The announcement comes in an effort to discourage rice exports in light of rising domestic prices. 
• The state government of Tamil Nadu has earmarked Rs. 1 crore for India’s first center dedicated to monitoring climate change. The center will focus on revamping drainage systems, rethinking hydroelectric power, changing crop patterns and agricultural practices, and investing in “research and development for crops suitable for new conditions.”
• The Chennai corporation is looking to turn public conveniences into profitable enterprises by inviting bids for the demolition and construction of 34 toilets that allow contractors to use the outer walls for advertising.  
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) recently approved an allocation of Rs. 3,870 crore for the development of 90 rural minority concentration districts in the country. The proposal is part of a “Multi-Sectoral Development Programme” for minority development, and will include critical infrastructure building like roads, health facilities, and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).