THE ECOHOLICS

MAG
Feb Edition
2025

Pilgronomics I Budget 2025

Economic Survey I Entrance Exam Guidance
Editor's
Note
The Ecoholics Magazine

Welcome to this edition, where we bring a mix of insights, analysis, and

guidance, spanning economic policies, cultural economics, and personal growth.
We begin with India’s Big Privatization U-Turn, exploring the government’s
shifting stance and its impact. The Economic Survey 2025 and Union Budget
2025-26 provide a deep dive into India’s fiscal outlook. Meanwhile, India’s
Business Growth Slows to a 14-Month Low and Key Indicators Released in Jan
2025 highlight economic trends.
Beyond mainstream economics, we explore Pilgronomics: Maha Kumbh 2025
and Temples of India as the Centre of Economic Activity, uncovering how
cultural and religious institutions drive economic growth.
For global affairs, What Happened in the World? summarizes key developments.
How to Overcome Procrastination? offers productivity tips.
Lastly, The Economics Entrance Exam Survival Guide helps aspirants navigate
exam preparation with strategy and confidence.
Whether you’re an enthusiast, student, or curious reader, this issue has
something for you.

Happy Reading!
ECOHOLICS.IN

TABLE OF
CONTENTS
01 06
India’s Big Privatization U Turn Pilgronomics: Maha Kumbh 2025

02 07
Economics Survey 2025 Temples of India as the
Centre of Economic Activity

03 08
India’s Business Growth Slows What Happened in World?
to A-14 Month Low

04 09
Key Indicators Released in Jan How to Overcome
2025 Procrastination?

05 10
Union Budget 2025-26 The Economics Entrance
Exam Survival Guide
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

INDIA’S BIG
PRIVATIZATION
U TURN!
The Indian government is hitting pause on its
privatization spree! Instead of selling off
state-run companies, they’re doubling down
on reviving them with big money moves.
In a surprising shift, the government is pouring
a $1.5 billion rescue package into two
struggling state-owned enterprises, including
Pawan Hans, India’s biggest helicopter
operator.
At the same time, privatization plans for at
least nine other public sector companies are
now on hold—all thanks to pushback from
different ministries.
So, what’s happening here?

A few years ago, the government was all in on

selling underperforming public sector
companies to cut losses and bring in fresh
private investments. But now, the plan seems
to be: “Why sell when we can fix?”

This means we could see a renewed push

for government-led investments, more job
security in state-run enterprises, and a
shift in economic strategy. But it also
raises a key question: Will taxpayers see
good returns on this investment?

page 8
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

ECONOMIC SURVEY 2025

Every year, the Economic Survey gives a sneak peek into how India’s economy
is shaping up before the Union Budget rolls out. The headlines this time? GDP
growth is projected between 6.3% and 6.8% for FY26, but there’s much more
happening beneath the surface.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s actually going on with inflation, jobs,
investments, and India’s position in the global economy.

Inflation Is Finally Under For months, rising prices have been

straining household budgets, but there’s
Control—For Now some relief—retail inflation has eased to
4.9% (April–December 2024), down from
5.4% last year. This means everyday
essentials aren’t getting pricier as fast as
before.

Better food supply management, stable

crude oil prices, and the RBI’s monetary
policy have played a role in this decline. But
the big question remains—will this trend
hold? Much depends on global commodity
prices, especially oil and food.

The Government Is Pouring

Money Into Infrastructure
Private investments have been slow, but the
government is making up for it by
increasing capital expenditure. Since the
elections, spending on infrastructure
projects—roads, railways, power, and urban
development—jumped 8.2% year-on-year
(July–November 2024).

page 8
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

ECONOMIC SURVEY 2025

The logic behind the act is simple: large-scale infrastructure projects create jobs,
boost demand, and attract private sector investment. However, if businesses don’t
follow up with their own investments, the economic momentum could slow down.

One of the most notable shifts in

The Job Market Is Changing the economy is the rise of self-
—More Self-Employment, employment. In 2017-18, 52.2% of
workers were self-employed, but by
Fewer Salaried Jobs? 2023-24, that number had risen to
58.4%.

This could mean two things:

1. More people are choosing freelancing, startups, and gig work over traditional
employment.
2. Formal, salaried job growth may not be keeping up with demand.
This shift is a double-edged sword. While it signals an entrepreneurial spirit, it also
raises concerns about job security and benefits.

India’s Global Role Is Expanding

India is no longer just an outsourcing hub. The number of global leadership roles
in India’s Global Capability Centres (GCCs) is expected to grow four-fold to
30,000 by 2030.

Companies are no longer just outsourcing routine

tasks to India; they are bringing high-value roles
in AI, biotech, research, and finance. This is a
strong indicator that India is becoming a key
player in the global knowledge economy.

page 8
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

ECONOMIC SURVEY 2025

Global Uncertainties Could Slow Things Down
The survey highlights a major concern—the golden era of globalization may be
fading.

Trade restrictions, geopolitical tensions, and shifting supply chains are making it
harder for export-driven economies to thrive. While domestic consumption
remains strong, a slowdown in global trade could impact India’s long-term growth
prospects.

Is It Time for Big Reforms?

India cannot rely solely on external factors to drive its next phase of growth. The
survey strongly emphasizes the need for land and labor law reforms to sustain
economic momentum..

Final Thoughts: Where Are We Headed?

The Economic Survey 2025 presents a mixed picture. Inflation is easing,
infrastructure spending is rising, and India’s global position is improving. However,
private sector investments and job creation need more attention.

page 8
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

INDIA’S BUSINESS
GROWTH SLOWS TO
A 14-MONTH LOW
January wasn’t a great month for India’s business activity.
The Composite Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), which
tracks business activity in manufacturing and services, fell to
57.9 from 59.2 in December, marking the slowest growth
since November 2023.

The slowdown was largely due to weakened demand in the services sector, which
saw its PMI drop to 56.8, the lowest in over two years. In contrast, manufacturing
held strong, with PMI rising to 58.0, its highest in six months. This divergence
suggests that while factories are still running at a good pace, consumer and
business spending in services—like IT, finance, and hospitality—is slowing down.

A falling PMI doesn’t mean the economy is in trouble, but it does signal a loss of
momentum. If businesses aren’t growing as fast, hiring could slow down, corporate
earnings might take a hit, and investors could become more cautious. With inflation
under control and government spending high, this might just be a temporary dip. But
if demand continues to weaken, policymakers may need to step in with measures to
stimulate growth and confidence in the economy.

page 8
 KEY INDICATORS
RELEASED IN JAN 2025
INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT GROWTH IN INDIA (2024)
The IIP serves as a barometer for India's
industrial activity. As of November 2024,
the IIP registered a year-on-year growth
of 5.2%, up from 3.7% in October 2024.
This upward trajectory was propelled by Growth of 5.2%,
significant contributions from the Nov 2024
manufacturing and mining sectors.

TRACKING RETAIL AND WHOLESALE INFLATION

The CPI measures the average change
over time in the prices paid by consumers
for goods and services. In December
t 4.6%
CPI Stood a 2024, India's CPI inflation rate stood at
Dec 2024 4.6%, a slight increase from 4.3% in
November 2024. This rise was primarily
driven by higher food and beverage
prices.

The WPI reflects the price changes at the

wholesale level. In December 2024, the
WPI inflation rate was recorded at 2.8%, up
from 2.5% in November 2024. This
WPI at 2.8%
increase was mainly due to elevated prices Dec 2024
in the primary articles and fuel & power
segments.

By December 2024, the fiscal deficit

had reached 58.9% of the annual
target, compared to 50.3% in the
Fiscal Deficit at 58.9%
same period the previous year.. This
Dec 2024
indicates increased government
spending, particularly in infrastructure
and social sectors.
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

UNION BUDGET 2025-26

On February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget, themed ‘Sabka
Vikas’, outlining transformative reforms across six key sectors:
Taxation
Power Sector Total Receipts (Excluding Borrowings)
Urban Development
₹34.96 lakh crore
Mining
Financial Sector
Regulatory Reforms Total Expenditure
₹50.65 lakh crore

Capital Expenditure
₹11.21 lakh crore (3.1% of GDP)

ESTIMATES
2025-26

BUDGET
Fiscal Deficit
4.4% of GDP

Revenue Deficit
₹5.23 lakh crore (1.5% of GDP)

Transfers to States/UTs
₹25.6 lakh crore

Net Tax Receipts

₹28.37 lakh crore
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

FOUR ENGINES OF DEVELOPMENT

1. AGRICULTURE
National Mission on High Yielding Seeds : Developing 100+ seed varieties with
advanced research & commercialization.
Enhanced Credit via KCC: Loan limit raised from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh under the Modified
Interest Subvention Scheme.

Aatmanirbharta in Pulses: A 6-year mission focusing on Tur, Urad, and Masoor,

with procurement by NAFED & NCCF.

Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: A new Agri Districts Programme

covering 100 districts to boost productivity and benefit 1.7 crore farmers.

Urea Plant in Assam: A 12.7 LMT capacity plant to be set up in Namrup, Assam.

Makhana Board in Bihar: Enhancing production, processing, and marketing of

Makhana.

Mission for Cotton Productivity: A 5-year mission to boost yield & sustainability,
with a focus on extra-long staple cotton.

Fisheries Framework : Sustainable fishing in Exclusive Economic Zones, focusing on Andaman,

Nicobar & Lakshadweep.

2. MSMEs
Footwear & Leather Focus Scheme: Aims to employ 22 lakh, generate ₹4 lakh crore
turnover, and ₹1.1 lakh crore exports.
Micro Enterprise Credit Cards: ₹5 lakh limit, 10 lakh cards to be issued in the
first year.
Support for First-time Entrepreneurs: Loans up to ₹2 crore for 5 lakh women,
SC/ST entrepreneurs over 5 years.
MSME Classification: Investment and turnover limits raised to 2.5x and 2x,
respectively.
Manufacturing Mission: Strengthening "Make in India" across industries.
Startup Fund of Funds: ₹10,000 crore allocated for expanded scope.
Toy Sector Boost: Scheme to make India a global toy hub.
Food Processing: National Institute in Bihar.
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

3. INVESTMENT

In People In Economy In Innovation

Saksham Anganwadi & PPP in Infrastructure: 3-year R&D & Innovation:
Poshan 2.0: Enhanced cost project pipeline, states encouraged ₹20,000 crore for
norms for nutrition support. to participate. private-sector-driven
Atal Tinkering Labs: 50,000 Support to States: ₹1.5 lakh crore research.
labs in government schools interest-free loans for capital Deep Tech Fund of Funds:
over 5 years. expenditure. To boost next-gen
Broadband Connectivity: Asset Monetization Plan 2025-30: startups.
BharatNet to connect ₹10 lakh crore for new projects. PM Research Fellowship:
government secondary Jal Jeevan Mission: Extended to 10,000 fellowships with
schools & PHCs. 2028 with increased funding. better financial support.
Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Urban Challenge Fund: ₹1 lakh crore Gene Bank: 10 lakh
Scheme: Digital Indian for smart cities, redevelopment, germplasm lines for food
language books for water & sanitation. security.
education. Nuclear Energy Mission: ₹20,000 National Geospatial Mission:
National Centres of crore for Small Modular Reactors Developing geospatial
Excellence for Skilling: 5 (5 by 2033). infrastructure.
centers with global expertise. Shipbuilding Reforms: Revamped Gyan Bharatam Mission:
IIT Expansion: Infrastructure financial assistance policy, large Conservation of 1 crore
to support 6,500 more ships added to HML. manuscripts.
students in 5 IITs. Maritime Development Fund:
AI in Education: ₹500 crore ₹25,000 crore fund with govt &
Centre of Excellence in AI. private participation.
Medical Education: 10,000 UDAN Scheme (Revamped): 120
new medical seats next year, new destinations, 4 crore
75,000 in 5 years. passengers in 10 years.
Day Care Cancer Centres: Greenfield Airport in Bihar: New
200 centres in district airport, Patna expansion, brownfield
hospitals by 2025-26. at Bihta.
Urban Livelihoods: New Western Koshi Canal Project:
scheme for socio-economic Financial support for Bihar's
upliftment of urban workers. irrigation project.
PM SVANidhi (Revamped): Mining Sector Reforms: Policy for
Enhanced loans, ₹30,000 critical mineral recovery from
UPI-linked credit cards. tailings.
Gig Worker Welfare: Identity SWAMIH Fund 2: ₹15,000 crore
cards, e-Shram registration, for 1 lakh housing units.
healthcare under PMJAY. Tourism Development: Top 50
sites developed in partnership with
states.
 E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

4. EXPORTS
EXPORT PROMOTION & FINANCIAL SECTOR REFORMS

Export Promotion Mission: Sectoral targets set by Commerce, MSME, and Finance
Ministries.

BharatTradeNet (BTN): Unified platform for trade documentation & financing.

National Framework for GCC: Guidelines to promote Global Capability Centres in

tier-2 cities.

FDI in Insurance: Limit raised to 100% for companies investing premiums in India.

Credit Enhancement by NaBFID: Partial Credit Enhancement Facility for infra bonds.

Grameen Credit Score: PSBs to develop credit score framework for SHGs & rural
borrowers.

Pension Sector Reforms: Coordination forum for regulatory and product

development.

Regulatory Reforms: High-Level Committee to review non-financial sector

regulations.

Investment Friendliness Index: To be launched in 2025 for competitive federalism.

Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0: Decriminalization of 100+ legal provisions.

PER RUPEE COMES FROM PER RUPEE GOES TO

Customs Non-Debt Capital Subsidies Pension
4% Receipts 6% 4%
Union Excise Duties Defence States' Share of Taxes
1%
5% 8% and duties
Borrowings & 22%
Non-Tax Receipts Centrally Sponsored
9% Other Scheme
Liabilities 8%
24%
Other Expenditure
Corporation tax
8%
17% Interest Payments
20%
Income Tax Finance Commission
22% and Other Transfers Central Sector Scheme*
GST & Other Taxes
18% 8% 16%
*(Excluding Capital Outlay on Defence and Subsidy)
E c o h o l i c s f o r E c o n o m i c s

MINISTRY-WISE ALLOCATION
DEFENCE
₹4.92 lakh crore

U N I O N
RURAL DEVELOPMENT
₹2.67 lakh crore
HOME AFFAIRS
₹2.33 lakh crore
AGRICULTURE
₹1.71 lakh crore

B U D G E T
EDUCATION
₹1.29 lakh crore
HEALTH
₹0.98 lakh crore
URBAN DEVELOPMENT
₹0.96 lakh crore
IT AND TELECOM
₹0.95 lakh crore
2 0 2 5 - 2 6
ENERGY
₹0.81 lakh crore
COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
₹0.65 lakh crore
SOCIAL WELFARE
₹0.60 lakh crore
SCIENTIFIC DEPARTMENT
₹0.55 lakh crore
MAHA KUMBH
Ancient Beliefs with Modern-Day Reach
Hindu mythology tells us the Kumbh Mela’s origins are tied to the “churning
of the ocean of milk” (Samudra Manthan), where drops of the immortal nectar
(amrita) fell on these four holy sites. While the mythological backstory is
ancient, the tradition itself continues to adapt. Over centuries, the Kumbh has
transformed from a purely religious gathering to a well-organized event with
real-time crowd management, digital ticketing for certain amenities, and
global media coverage.

Pilgrimage and Collective Ritual

For devotees, the draw of Kumbh goes far beyond economics—it’s a deeply
personal or spiritual quest, often one shared with extended families or entire
communities. People travel thousands of kilometers by train, bus, or on foot,
braving chilly weather and crowded conditions, to take a ceremonial dip in
the river. This collective ritual fosters a sense of shared identity and
belonging—an invisible bond that can override conventional cost-benefit
calculations.
The Economic Impact
A Temporary ‘Pop-Up City’
During the Kumbh Mela, the host city morphs into something of a temporary
megacity. Tents, food stalls, medical facilities, and security posts spring up to
accommodate millions of pilgrims. These pop-up infrastructures require
significant investment, much of it from government bodies and private
contractors. While much of it is dismantled post-event, the economic ripple
effects are substantial.

Spending and Demand Generation

Pilgrims require food, lodging, transport, and various religious paraphernalia—
from puja items to souvenirs. Local shopkeepers see a surge in demand,
while temporary stalls also pop up to serve the influx. Many brands took their
business at the sight to offer devotees the services.

Economic Factor Amount (₹ Crore)

Total Estimated Economic Impact 200,000

Government Budget Allocation 12,670

Projected Revenue from the Event 25,000

Behavioral Economics at Play
Faith Over Finance
Kumbh Mela is a striking example of how non-monetary incentives—faith,
tradition, family, community—can outweigh purely rational considerations like
cost or convenience. Devotees often save for months, sometimes years, to
afford the journey and related expenses. This points to the idea that human
decision-making isn’t solely driven by price or immediate benefit; cultural
and religious values can be just as powerful.

Collective Euphoria
There’s also a kind of “shared experience” effect: being part of a massive
crowd engaged in a deeply spiritual act can feel transformative and communal.
Psychologically, this encourages more people to make the trip, even if it means
financial strain or physical inconvenience.

Looking Ahead
From an economic standpoint, the Kumbh’s immediate windfall is undeniable.
The crucial question is whether it leads to lasting economic vitality or if it’s a
short-lived surge. In an ideal scenario, the event’s global spotlight will
encourage year-round tourism, prompt infrastructure upgrades, and leave
local economies better off.
 TEMPLES OF INDIA AS THE
CENTER OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY
By Kanishka Dwivedi
It is well known throughout the world that Indian temples have been a significant
source of spirituality for people. However, little is known about temples' significance
as hubs of commerce. There is a whole lot history attached to how temples took the
centerstage of the economic activities of whole town.

Early Vedic Period (1500–500 BCE): Rise of the Temple culture (Post-Vedic Era):
Temples were not common physical Temple construction appeared by the later
structures. The major religious activities Vedic era and the Mauryan Empire (322–
were yajnas (sacrificial rites) in public 185 BCE). Through donations, Buddhist
areas and nature worship. stupas and monasteries served as centers of
the economy, setting the stage for temples
The Gupta Period (From 320 to 550 for group events.
CE): Temples were institutionalized and
given agricultural lands during the
Gupta era. Temple operations were
supported by the money from these
lands, and trade and craft production
were encouraged by the artisans and
merchants who gathered around
temples.
The Middle Ages (7th–12th Century CE)
South India: Temples like Brihadeeswara
developed into major economic hubs
during the Chola, Pallava, and other
dynasties. They served as banks, provided
loans to farmers and traders, held
marketplaces, and had sizable labor forces.

North India: Under the Gupta, Pratihara, and

Rajput dynasties, temples created jobs
through architectural endeavors,
redistributed wealth, and supported the
arts.

The Economic Evolution

of Temples in India
Temples in ancient India were not just
houses of worship; they were also hubs of
commerce, greatly influencing the
socioeconomic environment.

One of the most fascinating aspects of

ancient temples was their function as
proto- banks. These institutions accepted
wealth in the form of donations like gold,
grain and other valuable resources from
devotees, which was reinvested to support
artisans, finance agriculture projects and
maintain infrastructure. This approach
exemplifies early practice of wealth re-
distribution and resource management
highlighting the temple's vital role in
sustaining economic activities.
The economic influence of temples was further strengthened through land
endowments made by wealthy patrons and rulers. These lands generated
revenue from agricultural activities, which was then re-invested into
community welfare, infrastructure development and employment creation.

Temples also served as major Functioning as financial institutions,

employment centres, offering temples also lent their stored wealth to
livelihoods to priests, artists, traders and farmers serving as
Guards and labourers; these intermediaries that facilitated trade,
institutions fasted secondary agriculture and small enterprises. This
economic activities by early form of banking laid the
encouraging the production of groundwork for more sophisticated
crafts and establishing markets, financial systems in later centuries,
which created ripple effects in demonstrating the temples' multifaceted
local economies. role in fostering economic growth.

Moreover, temples were instrumental in investing in public goods and

infrastructure projects such as irrigation systems, water tanks, and rest areas.
These investments boosted agricultural productivity and also facilitated trade
and mobility. The Dravidian style of temple architecture, with its intricate water
management systems and public facilities, stands as a testament to this
tradition of infrastructure development.

The economic significance of temples extended to the economy of pilgrimage..

Pilgrims were drawn to major temples, which increased demand for products
and services like housing, transportation, and crafts. As a result, prosperous
markets and local economies flourished. Present day Ayodhya and Ujjain are
prominent examples
CHINA’S TRADE SURPLUS HITS RECORD
HIGHS—BUT IS ITS ECONOMY SLOWING?
China’s trade surplus jumped to $104.84 billion in December 2024, up from
$97.44 billion in November, reaching one of its highest levels ever. For the full
year, the country recorded a staggering $992.2 billion trade surplus, the
biggest in history. (Source: Trading Economics & Statista)

At first glance, this seems like a This raises a bigger question—is China’s
sign of economic strength. Exports economy actually slowing down?
surged by 10.7% in December, as Domestic spending has remained weak,
Chinese manufacturers rushed to businesses are cautious, and the property
ship goods before potential U.S. sector—once a key growth driver—is
tariffs. But imports grew by just struggling. The country is becoming
1.0%, reflecting weak domestic increasingly dependent on exports, a
demand. (AP News) risky strategy when global demand is
uncertain.

For India, this shift matters. If China’s domestic economy remains weak, it may
start aggressively pushing exports into global markets, including India. This could
mean cheaper Chinese goods flooding Indian markets, making life tougher for
local manufacturers. At the same time, if China’s import demand slows further,
Indian exporters could face challenges selling to one of their biggest trading
partners.

With global trade tensions rising and the U.S. and Europe reconsidering their
China strategies, the coming months will test how long China can sustain this
export-driven growth—and how India should navigate the impact.
TRUMP’S SECOND TERM KICKS OFF
WITH AN AGGRESSIVE ECONOMIC PITCH
Donald Trump is back in the White House, and his first global address at the
World Economic Forum in Davos made one thing clear—he’s doubling down on
his America-first economic strategy.

His demands? Lower oil prices, immediate interest rate cuts from global central
banks, and more foreign investment in U.S. factories. And to make sure the world
listens, he’s once again using tariffs as leverage.

This signals a more aggressive, unilateral approach to economic policy. While it

might be great for U.S. businesses in the short run, it raises concerns about how
it could disrupt global trade rules and economic cooperation. With rising
protectionism already straining international relations, the question now is—will
other countries push back, or will they play along?
WORLD ECONOMIC
FORUM (WEF) 2025
Every year, the world's movers and shakers gather at the World Economic
Forum in Davos, and January 2025 was no exception.

The WEF's Annual Meeting took place from January 20 to 24, 2025 This year's
theme, "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," emphasized the need for global
cooperation in an era dominated by technology and innovation. The event
convened nearly 3,000 leaders from over 130 countries, including 60 heads of
state and government. Discussions ranged from the impact of artificial
intelligence on jobs to strategies for sustainable economic growth.

Why Should You Care?

The WEF might seem like a distant elite gathering, but the ideas and policies
debated there can trickle down to everyday life. For instance, global agreements
on trade can affect the prices of goods you buy, and discussions on climate
policies can influence the air you breathe. It's like a backstage pass to the
decisions that shape our world.

A significant focus was on geopolitical tensions, with armed conflict identified as

the top global risk in 2025. Discussions emphasized the need for renewed global
collaboration to navigate these challenges.
Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump's address highlighted a shift towards
deregulation and fossil fuel usage, contrasting with global calls for climate action.
This divergence prompted debates on the future direction of corporate
sustainability efforts.

Implications for the Indian Economy

The insights from the WEF, combined with domestic economic indicators,
suggest a cautiously optimistic outlook for India's economy. The positive
trajectory in industrial production and stable inflation rates are encouraging.
However, global geopolitical tensions and policy shifts, especially from
major economies like the U.S., could introduce uncertainties. Continuous
monitoring and adaptive strategies will be essential for sustaining economic
growth.

In summary, while India's economic fundamentals appear strong, external

factors highlighted during the WEF discussions underscore the importance
of resilience and proactive policy measures in the face of evolving global
dynamics.
 Student’s Corner

HOW TO OVERCOME
PROCRASTINATION?
WELCOME TO THE
Mentor’s Toolkit: Tips That
Actually Work (No Fluff!)

PROCRASTINATION 1. The Two-Minute Rule Remix

OLYMPICS
If it can be done in 2 minutes, do it NOW.
Seriously. Replying to an email, jotting
down lecture notes, or reading the first
Ever found yourself scrolling
paragraph of that econ chapter—it all
through memes, rearranging
counts.
your desk for the 14th time,
or contemplating the meaning “Unless it’s eating an entire pizza.
of life—all while an Economics That takes at least 10 minutes and
lecture is due in 3 hours? serious determination.”
Yeah, same. Procrastination
isn’t just a bad habit; it’s 2. Pomodoro Technique (with a Meme-
practically a student sport. But Worthy Twist)
don’t worry—we’re here to Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute
coach you out of it. break. Repeat 4 times. After that, take a
longer 15-minute break.
Why Procrastination
Pro Tip: Reward yourself smartly.
Happens?
Think cat videos, not doom-
Procrastination isn’t just about scrolling. Or, for the brave souls,
being lazy. Nope, it’s more maybe a light dose of economic
sophisticated than that: news (*only if you're feeling
adventurous*).
Fear of Failure: “What if I
mess up this econ paper 3. Worst First Strategy (a.k.a. The
so badly that Keynes Superhero Move)
himself rolls in his grave?” Tackle your scariest task first thing in the
Perfectionism: “If it’s not a morning. Get it done before your brain
magnum opus worthy of a realizes what’s happening.
Pulitzer, why even start?”
Overwhelm: “Where do I “It’ll make everything else feel like
even begin with this a leisurely stroll through memes.”
mountain of tasks?”
Just Plain Fun: “But
watching 10 hours of cat
videos IS productive...
right?”
4. Opportunity Cost Reminder Remember, even baby steps count. You’ve
Remember economics 101: got this. And if you mess up? Hey, that’s
Every choice has a cost. just data for your next success. After all,
Spending 2 hours crafting the failure is just *economic research with a
perfect playlist means 2 fewer high learning yield.*
hours to ace your assignment.
What’s the better ROI (Return Stay awesome—strategically, of course.
on Investment)?

“Time is money.
Spend wisely, friends.”

5. Procrastination Buddy
System
Find a friend, make a pact. “If I
don’t start my project today,
you have full permission to
spam me with embarrassing
memes.” It works—trust us.
Our Ecoholics Pokemon does
this to poke students and get
them back to their studies.

Your
Procrastination
Challenge
Here’s your mission (if you
choose to accept it):

1. Pick ONE scary task you’ve

been avoiding.
2. Set a timer for 25 minutes.
3. Dive in. Even if it’s messy.
4. Share your victory with your
friends—or just bask in your own
glory.
 Student’s Corner

B.A., B.Sc.,
B.Com?

THE ECONOMICS ENTRANCE

EXAM SURVIVAL GUIDE
(No Tears Required)
The moment you step into the world of university admissions, you're met
with a maze of choices—CUET-UG, private university entrance exams, or
direct admissions. It can feel overwhelming, but the key to unlocking the
right path is clarity. This decision isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s
about shaping the next few years of your life and building a foundation for
your career.

Breaking the Myth How to Choose the Right

Economics Program?
If you come from a commerce or
science background, you may
1. Identify Your Strengths
think that your only option is
& Interests
B.Com or B.Sc. But that’s far from
the truth. Economics is a powerful Start by asking yourself: Do I
field that intersects with finance, enjoy statistics and data
public policy, business strategy, analysis? Am I interested in
and even technology. If you enjoy understanding financial markets?
understanding how the world’s Do I want to work in
financial and social systems policymaking, banking, research,
function, an economics degree can or business strategy?
open doors you never imagined. Economics degrees differ in
focus—some are more
Courses like B.A. (Hons) mathematical (like B.Sc.
Economics, B.Sc. Economics, and Economics), while others
even specialized degrees like emphasize policy and qualitative
B.Com (Hons) in Economic analysis (like B.A. Economics). Be
Administration and Financial honest with yourself about what
Management offer an excellent excites you.
mix of theoretical and practical
applications. Each university offers
a different spin on these courses,
so it’s essential to research their
syllabi before making a decision.
 3. Check University
2. Research the Curriculum
Admission Process &
in Depth
Cut-offs
Not all economics degrees are the Once you've identified your
same. Some focus on quantitative ideal course, list down the top
skills, while others emphasize universities offering it. Some
economic theory, policy analysis, universities admit students via
or international economics. Check CUET-UG, while others conduct
if the course includes subjects like: independent entrance exams
(like Delhi University, Ashoka
Microeconomics &
University, or Shiv Nadar
Macroeconomics
University). Research their cut-
Statistics & Econometrics
offs, eligibility criteria, and
Financial Markets &
entrance requirements early on
Investment Analysis
to avoid last-minute surprises.
Development Economics &
Public Policy
Behavioral Economics & Game 4. Prioritize Industry
Theory Exposure & Internships
Digital Economics & AI in
Academics matter, but what
Finance (in modern courses)
gives you an edge is real-
world experience. A great
A strong curriculum will shape how
university will offer internships,
prepared you are for future job
research projects, and industry
opportunities and higher studies.
collaborations. Check if your
target university has:
Partnerships with corporate
firms or economic research
centers
Internship opportunities
with financial institutions or
government bodies
Placement Support and
Research Opportunities
 5. Engage with Current Your Future Starts Here
Students & Alumni
Your undergraduate years lay
No brochure or website can tell you the foundation for the career
the real experience of studying at a you will build. Take your time,
university. Reach out to current explore your options, and
students or alumni through LinkedIn choose wisely. There’s no ‘one-
or student forums. Ask about size-fits-all’ approach—find the
faculty engagement, class sizes, path that excites and challenges
competitiveness, campus culture, you. And remember, you’re not
and job opportunities after alone in this journey—seek
graduation. Their insights will help guidance from mentors,
you make an informed decision. professors, and industry
professionals. This is your
moment to carve out the future
Final Steps: Setting Your you desire—make it count!
Goal & Application Strategy
Wishing you success in your
Once you’ve shortlisted your
economics journey!
preferred course and university, set
a goal-oriented plan:
By Mitali Sharma
1. Check CUET-UG or University- Ecoholics Mentor
specific entrance dates.
2. Understand the exam syllabus &
preparation strategy.
3. Align your application strategy
with cut-off trends &
admission requirements.
4. Keep track of deadlines,
document requirements, and
SOPs (if needed).
 FIND US
ON

THE
ECOHOLICS
FEB 2025 ISSUE