Sovereign Gold Bonds: India’s Glittering Debt Trap By - Parminder Singh bhamba Gold has always been India’s obsession — a cultural anchor, a hedge against uncertainty, and a symbol of prosperity. In 2015, the government tapped into this sentiment with the Sovereign Gold Bond scheme. Citizens were told: “Don’t buy physical gold. Invest in bonds. We’ll recognize it as gold, and we’ll even pay you 2.5% interest.” It was marketed as a patriotic alternative to importing gold, reducing the current account deficit, and modernizing savings. But a decade later, the scheme’s glitter hides a growing shadow: a liability that has swelled nearly tenfold, threatening to weigh down public finances. --- The Numbers Tell the Story - In 2017, the government’s liability under SGBs was ₹6,664 crore. - By 2023–24, it had exploded to ₹68,598 crore — a 930% increase in seven years. - Current estimates put the burden at ₹1.5 lakh crore. ...
Trump criticized for his language calling India 'hell' - Kisan Congress Social Media Haryana State Convener Parminder Singh Bhamba expressed strong protest
Condemnation Statement Parminder Singh Bhamba State Co‑ordinator, Kisan Congress Social Media, Haryana Donald Trump’s recent amplification of derogatory language describing India as a “hellhole” is deeply offensive and unacceptable. Such remarks insult not only the dignity of our nation but also the millions of hardworking Indian immigrants who contribute positively to societies across the world. India is a land of resilience, culture, and innovation. To demean it with such language reflects ignorance and disrespect. Trump has already alienated friends in Canada and Europe through his divisive rhetoric, and now by targeting Indians, he risks further isolating himself from global communities that value mutual respect and cooperation. As Indians, we reject this toxic narrative. Our farmers, workers, professionals, and diaspora embody values of hard work, loyalty, and progress. No one has the right to belittle their identity or heritage....