<h4>Introduction to the Cooperative Movement in India</h4><p>The <strong>'Sahkar se Samriddhi'</strong> (Prosperity through Cooperation) program recently highlighted the significance of cooperatives in India.</p><p>This event was addressed by the <strong>Union Home Minister</strong> and <strong>Minister of Cooperation</strong>, underscoring the government's commitment to the sector.</p><p>It coincided with the <strong>102nd International Day of Cooperatives</strong>, a globally recognized observance.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li>The <strong>International Day of Cooperatives</strong> is celebrated annually on <strong>6th July</strong>.</li><li>The <strong>Theme for 2024</strong> is <strong>“Cooperatives Building a Better Future for All”</strong>.</li></ul></div><h4>Global Recognition and Future Outlook</h4><p>The <strong>2024 theme</strong> for the International Day of Cooperatives aligns well with the objectives of the upcoming <strong>UN Summit of the Future</strong>.</p><p>The <strong>UN Summit's theme</strong> is <strong>“Multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow”</strong>, emphasizing global collaborative efforts.</p><p>A significant <strong>2023 UN Secretary-General Report on Cooperatives in Social Development</strong> acknowledged the substantial contributions of cooperatives.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The report highlighted cooperatives' proven track record in promoting <strong>economic</strong> and <strong>social development</strong> for all people, including <strong>marginalized groups</strong>.</p></div><p>This sustained focus on cooperatives is building momentum towards the highly anticipated <strong>2025 International Year of Cooperatives</strong>.</p><h4>Understanding the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)</h4><p>While discussing broader economic administration, it's important to understand key regulatory bodies like the <strong>Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)</strong>.</p><h5>Composition and Selection of CBDT</h5><div class='info-box'><ul><li>The <strong>CBDT Board</strong> comprises <strong>six members</strong>.</li><li>Each member holds the rank of <strong>ex-officio Special Secretary</strong> to the Government of India.</li><li>The <strong>Chairman</strong> and <strong>Members</strong> are selected from the <strong>Indian Revenue Service (IRS)</strong>.</li></ul></div><p>This selection process ensures that the leadership is well-versed in <strong>tax administration</strong> and <strong>policy formulation</strong>.</p><h5>Key Functions of CBDT</h5><p>The <strong>CBDT</strong> plays a pivotal role in India's direct tax system, with several critical responsibilities:</p><ul><li><strong>Policy Formulation:</strong> It is responsible for formulating policies related to <strong>direct taxes</strong>, including <strong>income tax</strong> and <strong>corporation tax</strong>.</li><li><strong>Oversight and Administration:</strong> The Board oversees the functioning of the entire <strong>Income Tax Department</strong>, ensuring efficient administration and strict enforcement of <strong>tax laws</strong>.</li><li><strong>Legislative Proposals:</strong> The <strong>CBDT</strong> proposes changes in <strong>direct tax laws</strong> and <strong>rates</strong> to align with government policies and suggests necessary <strong>legislative amendments</strong> to enhance the overall tax system.</li></ul><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>While the primary topic is cooperatives, understanding bodies like <strong>CBDT</strong> is crucial for a holistic view of <strong>economic governance</strong> in <strong>UPSC Mains GS Paper 3</strong>.</p></div>