Latest Kerala Local News: Decision of the Municipality of Maradu not to collect the buildings traversed

The Local Government Department (LSGD) suspended Maradu Municipality’s decision not to collect the increased building tax.

In a letter sent to the secretary of the local body, the department said the decision made by the council on May 1 must be suspended, until further notice. The communication from the department’s undersecretary had cited the dissenting memo referred to by the secretary against the council’s decision not to collect the building tax increase from the government.

The Congress led municipality had decided not to levy the increased tax based on a suggestion by the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) not to pass the burden on to the public in the civic bodies in which the party is in power.

The council will discuss the objection raised by the Department of Local Self-Government and take necessary follow-up action, said city chairman Anthony Asanparambil. The tax increase dealt a blow to the common man, who was already hit by inflation and other budget constraints due to the government’s anti-grassroots policies, he said.

The council had previously recommended that the old rate for buildings up to 300 square feet be retained. He had also asked the authorities to keep the old tax rate of 120 per square foot for lodges, hotels, commercial buildings and godowns. The government had included the increased tax structure in the online system from April 1. The council had asked the department to replace it with the old tax tiles.

Mr Anthony recalled that the Government had opposed some of the welfare measures initiated by the previous council, including free funerals/cremation at the Civic Corps Crematorium and boat services to the public. Despite this opposition, we invoked the powers entrusted to local bodies to move forward and implement the plans decided upon, he said.

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An Overview of Global Events in 2023

In 2023, the world witnessed a myriad of events that left a lasting impact on global affairs. From political developments and economic shifts to environmental challenges and breakthroughs in science and technology, the year was marked by significant changes and a sense of urgency for collective action. Here’s an overview of some of the latest world news in 2023.

Political Unrest and Diplomatic Strides:
In the political arena, several regions experienced unrest and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continued to dominate headlines, with efforts towards peace and stability remaining elusive. However, there were also moments of diplomatic breakthroughs as nations engaged in dialogues to ease tensions and work towards lasting solutions.

Economic Transformations:
The global economy faced both challenges and opportunities. Trade disputes between major powers affected markets, while some countries grappled with debt crises. On the other hand, emerging economies showed resilience and promising growth, fueling optimism for a more balanced global economic landscape.

Technological Advancements:
Innovation surged forward in the tech industry, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. Quantum computing achieved milestones, promising radical transformations across industries. Renewable energy sources gained traction, with many countries setting ambitious goals to combat climate change.

Climate Crisis and Environmental Resilience:
As the climate crisis intensified, extreme weather events wreaked havoc in various parts of the world. Wildfires, hurricanes, and floods reminded humanity of the urgent need for climate action. In response, governments and communities across the globe doubled down on efforts to reduce carbon emissions, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect biodiversity.

Health and Pandemic Management:
Health remained a global priority as countries continued to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of new variants, vaccination efforts and public health measures remained crucial to curbing the spread of the virus. There were also significant advancements in medical research and technology, offering hope for better preparedness in handling future health crises.

Sports and Cultural Milestones:
Amidst the challenges, the world found moments of joy and unity through sports and culture. International sporting events brought together athletes from diverse backgrounds, promoting solidarity and camaraderie. Cultural exchanges and celebrations showcased the richness of human diversity and fostered mutual understanding.

In conclusion, the year 2023 was a dynamic period filled with significant events that shaped the course of history. From political unrest to technological advancements and environmental challenges, the world witnessed the complexities of the global landscape. While obstacles remained, there were also encouraging developments and collaborative efforts towards a more sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all nations. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these events serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and cooperation to address shared global challenges.