Dr Ashwini Mahajan
Co-Convener, Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM)
Dr. Ashwani Mahajan is the National Co-Convener of Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM), an Indian political and cultural organisation. SJM is affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Dr. Mahajan is an author and columnist. He works as a researcher and activist on the World Trade Organization (WTO) and other international trade agreements.
Dr Ashwini Mahajan at the Harmonising ESG, CSR, CDR and SDGs, an India 2047 - Centre of Excellence Workshop
Dr Ashwini Mahajan
Co-Convener, Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM)
Key Points
- Technological advances are leading to irresponsible behaviour by digital or technology businesses.
- Introduction of GST on gaming has been a welcome move.
- E-commerce has been harming small shopkeepers, this requires regulation to protect petty businessmen interests.
- Gig workers do not have any social security. There is need for regulatory oversight and self-regulation.
- Negative effects of disruptive technologies and gaming on health.
- Vision 2047 should include responsible technological practices and safeguarding values.
Recommendations
Regulate Cryptocurrencies
- Establish clear legal definitions and frameworks for cryptocurrencies. Set up regulatory bodies to monitor and enforce these regulations.
- Promote the use of blockchain technology independent of cryptocurrencies. Develop guidelines that allow blockchain innovations while strictly regulating or even banning cryptocurrencies due to their risks.
Gaming Industry
- Implement regulations on games involving monetary stakes. Differentiate between casual gaming and gambling-like gaming where real money is involved.
- Maintain a 28% GST on gaming involving money to deter excessive gambling and reduce addiction risks.
- Regulate celebrity endorsements of gaming platforms, especially those that can lead to addiction.
- Enforce mandatory warnings about the addictive nature of such games.
Strengthen Responsibility Frameworks
- Encourage industries to adopt responsible practices, but with strong government oversight to ensure compliance.
- Set up an intelligence system to track complaints against digital platforms.
Protect Small Shopkeepers from E-commerce
- Continuously monitor and update regulations to close loopholes that e-commerce companies exploit to bypass existing rules.
- Provide support measures for small shopkeepers to compete with large e-commerce platforms, possibly through subsidies or digital training programs.
Enhance Social Security
- Develop comprehensive social security schemes for gig economy workers (e.g., Uber drivers, urban company workers). Ensure they have access to benefits like health insurance, retirement savings and job security.
- Implement regulations to protect consumers and vendors in the gig economy.
- Establish clear guidelines for dispute resolution and fair treatment.
