THE Union Budget 2017-18 was preceded by the Economic Survey, 2017-18 which comprehensively outlines the long term economic strategy of the government. Though the survey is rigorously researched and referenced by the chief economist, it displays a strong ideological commitment and focus to pushing India into the next phase of neo-liberal reforms, both in terms of policy and societal changes.

TAMIL NADU witnessed the mammoth struggle for Jallikattu which was not only spontaneous but also attracted each and every section of the people of the state. Never before in the recent memory there was such a massive struggle. The depth of the struggle can be gauged from some interesting manifestations. The Muslims and Christians also took part in large number giving the clear message that Jallikattu and Pongal festival belongs to all irrespective of religions.

THE fifth All India Girls’ Convention of SFI was held successfully in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh from January 27-29, 2017. This convention was happening in a context which is remarkably different from the previous girls convention held in Shimla in 2013. Today we have a government in centre, which is using the State power to further its destructive agenda of Hindutva. The impact can be felt in all spheres of life.

THE Kisan Sabha in West Bengal will adopt new ways to develop militant struggles of the peasantry. The state conference of the AIKS, after intensive discussion on the rural situation in the state, has called for new methods to deal with new emerging dangers in the countryside.Addressing the public meeting and the delegate session, Surjyakanta Misra, AIKS leader and CPI(M) state secretary emphasised on local level struggles. He said, firstly we will have to build up struggle within the village to achieve local level demands.

THE well-attended first meeting of the AIDWA central secretariat after the Bhopal all India conference held at Chennai last month gave a call for an intensive campaign against the disastrous impact of demonetisation on women. It also called for a massive observance of International Women’s Day on March 8 around these three slogans: Work for all and equal wages for equal work is our right; Rise against the Manuwadi and regressive ideology; Immediately pass the Women’s Reservation Bill.