What is the duration for an asset to be considered a short-term capital asset in the context of capital gains tax on shares?

Which section of the Income Tax Act, 1961, specifically addresses the tax liability on gains from equity shares and related instruments?

Are short-term capital gains on shares exempt from taxation?

Can individuals offset short-term capital losses on shares against other capital gains?

What is the maximum duration for which individuals can carry forward short-term capital losses on shares for tax adjustment purposes?