India will offer up to $5 billion (roughly Rs. 42,221 crore) in incentives to companies to make components locally for gadgets from mobiles to laptops, two government officials said, in a bid to bolster the burgeoning industry and wean off supplies from China.

India’s electronic production has more than doubled in the last six years to $115 billion (roughly Rs. 9,71,095 crore) in 2024, led by growth in mobile manufacturing by global firms such as Apple and Samsung. It is now the world’s fourth-largest smart phone supplier.

But the sector faces criticism for its heavy reliance on imported components from countries such as China.

“The new scheme will incentivise production of key components like printed circuit boards that will improve domestic value addition and deepen local supply chains for a range of electronics,” one of the two officials said.

The incentives are likely to be offered under a new scheme expected to be launched in two to three months, said the officials, who asked not to be identified as details of the scheme are not yet public.

The scheme is likely to offer incentives totalling between $4-$5 billion to global or local firms which qualify.

The plan, designed by the India’s electronics ministry, has identified components eligible for incentives and is in its final stages.

The finance ministry will approve the scheme’s final allocation soon, the first official added, with the sources expecting it to be launched in the next 2-3 months.

India’s electronics ministry and finance ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

India is aiming to expand its electronics manufacturing to $500 billion (roughly Rs. 42,22,075 crore) by the fiscal year 2030, including production of components worth $150 billion (roughly Rs. 12,66,629 crore), according to the government’s top policy think tank Niti Aayog.

India imported electronics, telecoms gear, and electrical products worth $89.8 billion (roughly Rs. 7,58,334 crore) in the fiscal year 2024, with more than half sourced from China and Hong Kong, according to an analysis by private think tank GTRI.

“This scheme is coming at a time when it is critical to promote component manufacturing that will help us aim for a global-scale of electronics production,” Pankaj Mohindroo, head of India’s Cellular and Electronics Association, said.

© Thomson Reuters 2024

India will offer up to $5 billion (roughly Rs. 42,221 crore) in incentives to companies to make components locally for gadgets from mobiles to laptops, two government officials said, in a bid to bolster the burgeoning industry and wean off supplies from China.

India’s electronic production has more than doubled in the last six years to $115 billion (roughly Rs. 9,71,095 crore) in 2024, led by growth in mobile manufacturing by global firms such as Apple and Samsung. It is now the world’s fourth-largest smart phone supplier.

But the sector faces criticism for its heavy reliance on imported components from countries such as China.

“The new scheme will incentivise production of key components like printed circuit boards that will improve domestic value addition and deepen local supply chains for a range of electronics,” one of the two officials said.

The incentives are likely to be offered under a new scheme expected to be launched in two to three months, said the officials, who asked not to be identified as details of the scheme are not yet public.

The scheme is likely to offer incentives totalling between $4-$5 billion to global or local firms which qualify.

The plan, designed by the India’s electronics ministry, has identified components eligible for incentives and is in its final stages.

The finance ministry will approve the scheme’s final allocation soon, the first official added, with the sources expecting it to be launched in the next 2-3 months.

India’s electronics ministry and finance ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

India is aiming to expand its electronics manufacturing to $500 billion (roughly Rs. 42,22,075 crore) by the fiscal year 2030, including production of components worth $150 billion (roughly Rs. 12,66,629 crore), according to the government’s top policy think tank Niti Aayog.

India imported electronics, telecoms gear, and electrical products worth $89.8 billion (roughly Rs. 7,58,334 crore) in the fiscal year 2024, with more than half sourced from China and Hong Kong, according to an analysis by private think tank GTRI.

“This scheme is coming at a time when it is critical to promote component manufacturing that will help us aim for a global-scale of electronics production,” Pankaj Mohindroo, head of India’s Cellular and Electronics Association, said.

© Thomson Reuters 2024

Last Updated:November 21, 2024, 18:45 IST

California-based gastroenterologist Dr Lance Uradomo advises avoiding distractions like phones, magazines, or books in the toilet.

It can lead to haemorrhoids and weaken pelvic muscles.

Using phones in the toilet is a common habit, but studies suggest it can harm your health. Dr Lai Zhu, a colon surgeon at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, explains that prolonged time on the toilet can increase the risk of haemorrhoids and weaken pelvic muscles. Dr Farah Monjour from Stony Brook Medicine recommends limiting bathroom time to 5–10 minutes and leaving phones outside to maintain a healthy routine.

The design of toilet seats contributes to health problems. Their open oval shape puts pressure on the waistline while gravity affects the lower body, increasing pressure in the rectal area. This can lead to swollen blood vessels and nerves around the anus, raising the risk of haemorrhoids. Sitting too long also strains the back and pelvic muscles, potentially causing other issues like piles and musculoskeletal problems.

California-based gastroenterologist Dr Lance Uradomo advises avoiding distractions like phones, magazines, or books in the toilet. He also recommends not straining for more than 10 minutes if you experience difficulty passing stool. A short walk can help stimulate bowel muscles, aiding digestion. A diet rich in fibre and water is crucial for healthy bowel movements. The National Academy of Medicine suggests drinking 2.7 to 3.7 litres of water daily and consuming 14 grams of fibre per 1,000 calories.

Persistent constipation or prolonged toilet use can signal serious issues like colorectal cancer, which is increasingly affecting young people. Blockages in the colon from growths can cause difficulty passing stool, constipation, and even bleeding. If symptoms persist for more than three weeks, seeking medical advice is essential.

Maintaining a healthy bathroom routine involves staying hydrated, eating fibre-rich foods, and avoiding prolonged sitting. Adopting these practices can prevent unnecessary health risks while promoting better digestion and overall well-being.