## Revised Budget Estimates for Direct Tax Revenue Exceeded
The initial Budget Estimates (BE) for direct tax revenue in the Union Budget for FY 2023-24 were set at Rs. 18.23 trillion. However, these estimates were later revised, and the Revised Estimates (RE) were fixed at Rs. 19.45 trillion.
The provisional Direct Tax collections (net of the refunds) have surpassed both the BE and RE. Compared to the BE, the collections are 7.40% higher, and compared to the RE, they are 0.67% higher. This indicates a strong performance in direct tax collection for the financial year.
## Two Japanese Navy Helicopters Crash in Pacific Ocean
Two Japanese navy helicopters, each carrying four crew members, crashed in the Pacific Ocean south of Tokyo during a nighttime training flight. The helicopters, SH-60K choppers from the Maritime Self Defense Force, lost contact late Saturday near Torishima island, approximately 600 kilometers (370 miles) south of Tokyo.
One crew member was recovered from the waters but was later pronounced dead. Rescuers are still searching for the remaining seven crew members who are missing.
## US House Passes Security Assistance Package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan
The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives passed the first in a series of bills as part of a $95 billion legislative package. This package aims to provide security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, despite objections from party hardliners.
The Senate, which is currently majority Democratic, passed a similar measure over two months ago. Leaders from both parties, including Democratic President Joe Biden and top Senate Republican Mitch McConnell, have been urging embattled House Speaker Mike Johnson to bring it up for a vote.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked US lawmakers after they voted in favour of aid packages for their countries.
## Direct Tax Collections Show Significant Increase
The provisional figures of direct tax collections for the Financial Year (FY) 2023-24 indicate that net collections stand at Rs. 19.58 trillion, compared to Rs. 16.64 trillion in the previous financial year (FY) 2022-23, marking a significant increase of 17.70%.
## Opposition Parties Gear Up for Massive Show of Strength at Ulgulan Rally
Ahead of the remaining six phases of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, the constituent parties of the INDIA alliance are gearing up for a massive show of strength at the Ulgulan rally scheduled today in Ranchi. While the first phase of polling concluded on April 19, Jharkhand is set to begin its four-phased election from May 13.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife, Sunita Kejriwal is also expected to participate in the mega rally organized by the opposition parties.