When it comes to anything do to with Indira Gandhi, even the Congress’ political opponents know which door to knock. The CPI(M)-led government in West Bengal wants the Centre to revise the Indira Gandhi Old Age Pension Scheme. So, the first thing the panchayat minister of the state, Anisur Rehman, did was to dial 10, Janpath (the residence of Sonia Gandhi) for an appointment. The Left knows that if it can convey the message to Sonia Gandhi, it will have the maximum impact. Rehman is awaiting a meeting with the Congress chief to convince her about the changes required in the scheme named after her mother-in-law. Although Union Panchayat Minister C P Joshi is quite open to suggestions and the minister of state is from West Bengal (Trinamool Congress’ Shishir Adhikary), CPI(M) wants to maintain its hotline with Gandhi.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
