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Budget 2026-27: The Sunday budget needs Monday energy
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2026-27 amidst global trade tensions and domestic economic complexities. Expectations are high for increased public spending to boost growth, while maintaining fiscal discipline. Industry bodies urge focus on infrastructure, innovation, and export support, balancing resilience with growth enablement.
Bonkers Corner founder Shubham Gupta, who overcame family bankruptcy, pitched his Rs 100 crore streetwear brand on Shark Tank India. Seeking Rs 1.5 crore for 0.5% equity, Gupta impressed sharks with his resilience and ambition. Namita Thapar ultimately sealed the deal, investing in Gupta's vision for future growth.
Sunetra Pawar elected as NCP Legislative Party Leader, to take oath as Maharashtra's Deputy CM today
Sunetra Pawar is poised to become the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. She has been selected as the NCP Legislative Party Leader. This move follows the untimely demise of Ajit Pawar. Sunetra Pawar will take the oath today. She is known for her work in sustainable development and rural empowerment.
Delhi riots case: Court acquits man accused of arson, rioting
A Delhi court acquitted Faizan alias Aryan in a 2020 Delhi riots case. The court cited major inconsistencies in the prosecution's evidence. The sole witness's testimony was deemed unreliable. Faizan was accused of arson at Arun Modern Public Senior Secondary School. The prosecution failed to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt.
Kerala budget full of unfulfilled promises, economy in crisis: BJP state chief
BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticizes the LDF government's budget. He claims it contains only unfulfilled promises from the past decade. Chandrasekhar alleges economic mismanagement and a Ponzi scheme economy. He highlights significant debt burdening the state's population. Several central government schemes have not been implemented in Kerala. Farmers and students are also reportedly neglected.
Budget 2026 Live: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 202627 on Sunday, February 1, at 11 am IST. The speech, expected to last 1-1.5 hours, will outline the government's fiscal strategy, including key announcements on taxation and spending. Watch live on Sansad TV, DD National, or online via their YouTube channels and indiabudget.gov.in.
Quote of the day by Alexander the Great: 'There is nothing impossible to him who
Alexander the Great, born in 356 BCE, was a legendary Macedonian king and military genius. He conquered vast territories, including the Persian Empire and Egypt. His campaigns extended to the Indian subcontinent. Alexander spread Greek culture and ideas throughout his empire. He died at the young age of 32 in 323 BCE. His legacy as a great empire-builder endures.
Budget 2026 should address VDA tax losses as crypto gains taxed at 30%: SAM Partner
As Budget 2026 approaches, investors in virtual digital assets are seeking relief on taxation, particularly the ability to claim losses, as gains remain taxed at 30%. Foreign investors are also demanding tax certainty in international taxation, especially with India's transition to a new Income Tax Act.
Australian Open Prize Money: The 2026 Australian Open boasts a record AUD $111.5 million prize pool, a nearly 16% increase from 2025. Singles champions will each receive AUD $4.15 million, with substantial prize money distributed across all rounds and doubles events. This year marks the largest prize money jump in the tournament's history.
Ajit Pawar was eager to reunite NCP factions, merger planned for Feb 12: Jayant Patil
Senior NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil revealed late NCP chief Ajit Pawar sought reunion with his uncle Sharad Pawar. Patil stated Ajit Pawar held multiple meetings and expressed a desire to overcome past differences. A formal merger announcement was planned for February 12. Ajit Pawar's untimely death stalled these reunion efforts.
Shark Tank India judge was once laid off from his job. Today, his net worth will make your jaws drop
Anupam Mittal, a successful entrepreneur and Shark Tank India judge, faced significant uncertainty after losing his job during the 2001 dot-com crash. This period of self-doubt led him to question his identity and purpose. He ultimately found direction by asking himself what he would create without fear, sparking the idea to build his own ventures, including the wedding platform Shaadi.com.
PM Modi speaks to Venezuela's acting Prez Rodriguez, agrees to take bilateral ties to new heights
A lectern is a practical stand for speakers. It holds notes and books, aiding comfort and organization during presentations. Originating from Latin for 'reading stand', it is a familiar sight at speeches, classrooms, conferences, and religious services. News reports often mention lecterns during political addresses and graduations. This simple object facilitates public speaking across various formal events.
In 1953, India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru captained a parliamentary cricket team against Vice President S Radhakrishnan's XI in a two-day exhibition match. The game, played to raise funds for flood relief, saw political rivals unite on the field, raising nearly Rs 1 lakh and highlighting a tradition of parliamentarians supporting social causes through sport.
PM Modi to visit Punjab on February 1, rename Adampur airport after Guru Ravidas
Prime Minister will visit Adampur airport, where he will unveil the new name of the Airport as 'Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Airport, Adampur. He will also inaugurate the Terminal Building at Halwara Airport in Ludhiana, Punjab.
Higher excise, health cess to kick in on tobacco products, pan masala from February 1
New taxes on cigarettes, tobacco, and pan masala begin February 1. This marks a major tax change for these products. Excise duties and a health and security cess are introduced. GST rates are adjusted, and a new MRP-based valuation system for tobacco products aims to curb evasion. Steeper duties and tighter compliance measures are now in effect.
Shaquille O'Neal, a basketball legend, once shared a powerful life philosophy. He believes in preparing for all outcomes, emphasising personal responsibility. This approach helps navigate life's uncertainties. O'Neal's journey highlights reinvention beyond sports. Read on!
Injured Pat Cummins out of T20 World Cup, Dwarshuis in Australia squad
Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins will miss the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup due to a back injury. Ben Dwarshuis has been named as his replacement for the global tournament. Cummins was part of the provisional squad with hopes of playing in the Super Eight stage. Australia is currently preparing for the World Cup with a T20 series in Pakistan.
An Alberta-based separatist group has met with US State Department officials to discuss independence, seeking a $500 billion line of credit. This outreach mirrors India's long-standing concerns about Khalistani separatism operating from Canada, raising diplomatic and political pressure on Ottawa.
Higher excise, health cess on cigarettes and pan masala from Feb 1
The changes include additional excise duty on cigarettes, a health and national security cess on pan masala, and an MRP-based GST valuation system for tobacco products
Bushfires in New South Wales have caused smoke to blanket Sydney and surrounding regions, leading to poor air quality. Firefighters are working to contain a 432-hectare blaze near Medowie, which is now contained, while a 916-hectare fire near Nerong remains out of control. Smoke is expected to clear throughout the morning.
Countdown to Gaganyaan: ISRO gearing up for first uncrewed flight
India's space agency ISRO is preparing for the first uncrewed Gaganyaan mission. This is a vital step towards sending astronauts into space by 2027. Three uncrewed flights are planned before the human spaceflight. ISRO is rigorously testing all systems to ensure astronaut safety. Lessons from recent mission setbacks are being incorporated to enhance reliability.
Union Budget 2026: Economists expect focus on jobs, agriculture, MSMEs, green economy
India Budget 2026-27: Economists foresee Union Budget 2026 focusing on job creation, agriculture, and digital growth. Key sectors like defense, infrastructure, and rural development may receive significant investment. Experts also call for equitable distribution of capital, benefiting smaller industries and all states. Welfare schemes need better targeting to reach the truly needy. GST reforms and private sector engagement are also discussed.
Couple get the biggest shock when they meet their baby daughter, plan to sue IVF centre
A Florida couple undergoing fertility treatment discovered their newborn daughter was not biologically related to them. Despite loving their child, they are now seeking her biological family, fearing another family may be unknowingly raising their conceived child. The uncertainty of Shea's future weighs heavily on the parents.
Defence expert Douglas MacGregor believes India will not always align with US interests. He criticizes US President Donald Trump's approach to trade relations. MacGregor highlights India's historical ties with Russia and downplays expectations of war with China. India is currently negotiating trade deals with the US and other nations.
Indias OctJan sugar output up 18.35% to 19.50 million tonnes
Maharashtra led the surge, with output jumping 42% to 7.87 million tonnes, supported by an increase in operational mills
Epstein offered ex-prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor meeting with Russian woman: files
Late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein proposed introducing a Russian woman to King Charles III's brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, newly released documents showed Friday. In a 2019 interview with the BBC, Andrew claimed he had cut ties with the sex offender after December 2010, but court documents revealed later showed he continued to communicate with him.
Vin Diesel, Hollywood's action star, built a global brand on muscle and emotion, with Dominic Toretto in the Fast & Furious franchise becoming his most iconic role. Beyond cars, Diesel showcased his range in diverse films. Read on to know more about him.
Budget 2026: Too many customs disputes, too little closure. Can an amnesty clear the air?
Union Budget news: India faces a significant backlog of customs disputes. A Customs Amnesty Scheme could offer a one-time settlement for eligible cases. This would reduce litigation, ease pressure on courts, and improve revenue collection. The scheme would focus on non-fraudulent disputes, drawing lessons from successful GST and DGFT initiatives. This reform aims to benefit the government, industry, and judiciary.
US govt heads toward partial shutdown as Congress fails to reach funding deal
Surajkund Mela 2026 Dates: Faridabad's Surajkund Mela, now in its 39th edition, opens today, January 31, showcasing crafts and culture until February 15. Egypt is this year's partner nation, promising a vibrant spectacle with enhanced lighting and renovated grounds. Expect diverse arts, performances, and global cuisines at this annual cultural extravaganza.
Magha Purnima 2026: Date, timings, fasting and puja rules, & mantras to chant
Magha Purnima, a spiritually significant full moon day observed in early February 2026, marks the culmination of the holy month of Magha. Devotees observe fasting, take sacred baths in holy rivers, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and the Moon God. Charity and good deeds are strongly emphasised, as they are believed to multiply spiritual merit and bring divine blessings.
India gets Ramsar tag for 2 wetlands, PM Modi lauds efforts
Two Indian wetlands, Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch, are now Ramsar sites. This brings India's total to 98. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the local communities and conservationists. These sites are vital habitats for many bird and animal species. The government reaffirms its commitment to biodiversity protection and ecosystem preservation.
Adani Green clarifies company not party to US SEC civil case against Gautam, Sagar Adani
Adani Green Energy Limited has issued a clarification regarding a civil case filed by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The company stressed that it is not a party to the proceedings. No charges have been brought against Adani Green Energy Limited itself. The case pertains only to directors Gautam Adani and Sagar Adani in their personal capacity.
Shark Tank India: Anupam Mittal questions weight loss products price: Its not worth Rs 500
Shark Tank India witnessed a tense pitch from OutLive founder Varun, who promised significant weight loss through a five-day guided fasting program. Investors questioned the 25 crore valuation, the 7,000 product price, and scientific backing. Despite claims of a user study, sharks like Namita Thapar and Anupam Mittal expressed skepticism, leading to no investment deals.
Confident Group chairman Dr C.J. Roy, a real estate tycoon, passed away on January 30. Besides his real-estate business, he also ventured into film production, backing high-budget Malayalam and Kannada movies like Casanovva and Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea. Read on to know more about it.
From Katrina Kaif to Ananya Panday: Co-ord Sets to Watch
Co-ord sets dominate celebrity wardrobes for their effortless polish, easy styling, and versatility perfect for travel days, red carpets, brunches, and statement appearances.
CREDAI National felicitates Marina Skies, highlighting Hyderabads move toward sustainable housing
Hyderabad's real estate shines as Marina Skies by CYBERCITY Builders & Developers clinches the 'Best Residential Project Mid Segment' at the CREDAI National Awards 2025. This accolade highlights the project's superior planning, execution, and liveability, reflecting Hyderabad's growing appeal for modern urban living and well-crafted residential spaces.
Bahraini rapper Flipperachi's Arabic track Fa9la, featured in the Hindi film Dhurandhar, has achieved a Guinness World Record for topping the Arabia Charts on the most billboards. The song's infectious beat resonated widely in India, even with its original lyrics. Read on to know more about it.
Prabhas' highly anticipated film, The Raja Saab, which underperformed at the box office, is now set for its digital premiere. The pan-Indian project, featuring a mix of horror, romance, and comedy, will be available in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. Read on to know when and where to watch the movie online.
US Ambassador Sergio Gor congratulates Air India on 30 Boeing 737 MAX jet order
Air India has announced an order for 30 additional Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, comprising 20 737-8 and 10 737-10. This latest purchase brings the airline's total orders with Boeing to 250, reinforcing its fleet expansion and modernization strategy as a world-class global carrier.
TN TET Result 2025 PDF: The Teacher Recruitment Board (TRB) has released the TN TET 2025 results and final answer key, announcing a 5% cut-off mark reduction for reserved categories. This move offers relief to many candidates, with eligibility certificates available online from February 2.
Can Budget take a leaf out of China's BYD story to give India its own EV giant?
India's EV market is growing, but faces challenges like a two-wheeler sales slowdown and financing issues. From Budget 2026, the industry seeks structural reforms, including GST rationalization, component-level PLI support, and a national charging roadmap, to foster domestic manufacturing and achieve mass adoption.
Boosting Indias livestock sector: How health, infrastructure, credit can drive rural prosperity
With coordinated publicprivate action, India can not only feed its vast domestic demand but also emerge as a global leader in livestock productivity and animalderived products
Agriculture in Budget: Why the next leap must be strategic, not incremental
The question before policymakers, however, is not one of intent or aggregate spending, but of whether budgetary choices are aligned with the sectors structural needs
Union Budget 2026: What Indias fertiliser trade needs to remain globally competitive
Indias fertiliser trade policy needs strategic recalibration and the upcoming Budget presents a critical opportunity
Following recent remarks about facing communal bias in Bollywood, A.R. Rahman will appear on The Great Indian Kapil Show. He joins the cast of 'Gandhi Talks' for an episode featuring light-hearted banter and humorous interactions with host Kapil Sharma and co-stars.
Delhi: With average AQI of 307, 2026 sees second-best January in 5 years
Delhis air quality in January 2026 has slightly worsened compared to last year, with an average AQI of 307 versus 306 in January 2025, according to CREA. This makes January 2026 the second-best since 2022, which had an average AQI of 279.
Climate change vs harvest: How extreme weather is reshaping crop yields
The key challenge now is to ensure the transition includes and supports strong R&D, responsive policies, accessible technology, and timely support for farmers
Southeast Asias tobacco toll meets Indias tough tax move
Tobacco causes more deaths in Southeast Asia than any other preventable factor, claiming 3.2 million lives annually. India is using fiscal policy to curb consumption, raising GST on tobacco products from 28% to 40% starting February 1, a move shown to reduce use, especially among youth and low-income groups, while offsetting healthcare costs.
Beloved Canadian actress Catherine O'Hara has died at the age of 71. Known for her roles in Home Alone and Schitt's Creek, the iconic star was a distinctive performer. She shared a private life with her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons. Her career spanned decades, leaving a legacy of laughter and memorable characters. Read on!
India News Live: Sunetra Pawar set to take oath as Maharashtra's first woman Deputy CM today
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick planned trip to Epstein's island
Howard Lutnick, President Donald Trumps commerce secretary, planned a visit to Jeffrey Epsteins private island in December 2012, documents released by the Justice Department show. Lutnick, who has said he cut ties with Epstein years earlier, emailed Epstein asking if he and his family could join a Caribbean lunch gathering.
Three teenage girls from Quebec have been rescued from a Richmond Hill home. Police acted on intelligence suggesting they were victims of sexual exploitation. A Toronto man and a teenage boy have been arrested and face human-trafficking related charges. Investigators believe there may be more victims. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police.
Rani Mukerji returns as the formidable cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 3, which has opened on a decent note on its first day. Despite not reaching the heights of its predecessor, the film's serious narrative and Mukerji's powerful performance are drawing appreciation, with all eyes now on its weekend performance. Read on!
Brian Thompson murder case: Federal Judge holds death penalty of Luigi Mangione
UN says it could have zero cash by July as US withholds dues
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned member states that the United Nations faces an imminent financial collapse due to unpaid dues and rigid budget rules, according to a letter seen by Reuters.
S&P 500 Dow Nasdaq January performance: US stocks ended lower Friday, with tech shares under pressure. Investors reacted positively to President Trump's nomination of Kevin Warsh for Fed Chair, boosting the dollar and Treasury yields. Gold and silver prices crashed after a year-long rally, with silver experiencing its worst day on record. Despite volatility, major indexes finished January higher.
Kevin Warsh set to face early reality check as Trumps man at the Fed
Kevin Warsh has been nominated by President Donald Trump as the next chair of the US Federal Reserve and faces an early test as he seeks to deliver on promises of major policy change. Warsh has pledged to shrink the Feds balance sheet and argued that artificial intelligencedriven productivity gains will keep inflation low, creating room for lower interest rates. After three rate cuts late last year, the Fed paused in January amid persistent inflation and a steady labour market, with markets not expecting another cut before June.
Aditya Birla Group among top 4 in Sprng Energy race
Aditya Birla Group has entered the race to acquire Shell's renewable energy platform, Sprng Energy, joining NIIF, KKR, and Sembcorp. The conglomerate's late entry places it among four shortlisted entities now conducting due diligence. This potential acquisition could represent the year's largest M&A deal in the renewable energy generation sector.
Euro zone trumps growth forecast in tariffying times
The Euro zone economy showed surprising strength at the end of last year. Growth exceeded expectations, defying trade tensions. Countries like Spain and Germany performed well. Inflation is stable, aligning with the European Central Bank's target. This economic resilience offers a positive outlook for the region's financial stability.
Inflation basket rejig: AirPods gain weight, food portion cut
India's inflation measurement is getting a significant upgrade. New items like AirPods and hand sanitisers are joining the Consumer Price Index. The base year is shifting to 2024 from 2012. This overhaul aims to provide a more accurate picture of price changes. The changes will help the Reserve Bank of India make better monetary policy decisions.
I-T officials solely responsible for CJ Roys death, says Bengaluru real estate tycoons brother
Confident Group owner CJ Roy tragically died by suicide, with his family accusing Kerala income tax officials of causing immense pressure and harassment. Roy's brother alleged repeated scrutiny despite his claims of compliance, leading to unbearable stress. The family plans to discuss filing a complaint against the officials involved.
Gold silver prices: Silver's dramatic surge has pushed the gold-to-silver ratio to multi-year lows, significantly outperforming gold. This shift is attributed to broader economic and geopolitical uncertainties, coupled with robust industrial demand for silver. Analysts suggest this trend could continue, though individual investment decisions require careful consideration of risk.
Why are US stocks falling down and who are biggest losers and gainers? US stocks closed lower as investors reacted to President Donald Trumps Federal Reserve nominee, inflation data, and a sharp fall in gold and silver prices, while select tech and consumer stocks limited losses.
'Speaker Johnson, I won't forget this!': Sen Graham warns shutdown over Arctic Frost 'backstabbing'
Catherine OHara cause of death: Beloved actress Catherine OHara has passed away at 71. Emergency services responded to a medical situation at her Los Angeles residence early Friday. She was taken to a hospital where she was pronounced dead hours later. Her agency stated she died after a brief illness. OHara was celebrated for her iconic roles in Schitts Creek and Home Alone.
A job seeker's year-long quest for a Finance Analyst position ended successfully. He applied to 250 jobs and sent 550 cold emails. His strategy involved tailored applications and contacting multiple people at companies. Crucially, he used LinkedIn Premium for cold outreach. This approach led to interviews and ultimately, an offer. His journey highlights the power of persistence.
Why is gold price nosediving by over 12% and will it go below $4,724 or rise again? Gold prices fell after the U.S. dollar strengthened following Kevin Warshs Federal Reserve nomination. Reduced safe-haven demand triggered heavy selling. Citi expects some risks to fade in 2026, keeping gold volatile around key levels.
US Justice Department releases new Jeffrey Epstein files under transparency law
The US Justice Department has released new Epstein files under a transparency law. Millions of records were shared online. The data includes documents, videos, and images linked to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Some details were removed to protect victims. The move aims to increase public trust and show what officials knew earlier.
IDBI Bank bidders have a post-Budget deadline
Companies bidding on a recent opportunity must submit an unconditional offer, according to bid documents. Any conditions attached to an offer will make it invalid. The documents also state that bidders will not have the right to make changes to the share purchase agreement after it is submitted to the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (Dipam). This information comes from people familiar with the matter.
Thought of the day by Maurice Setters shares a quote about silver lining and gold. The explainer covers the meaning of the thought of the day, details about Maurice Setters, and why the quote still matters today.
Wingo app blocked as MHA moves to bust fraud SMS network
The Ministry of Home Affairs has blocked servers and promotional channels linked to the 'Wingo' app, identifying it as a 'telecom mule' platform. The app was allegedly used to send fraudulent SMS messages from users' phones without consent. Citizens are warned against downloading or using such applications.
Bumrah and Varun form Indias bowling axis, providing eight overs of control and wicket-taking threat
T20 cricket has changed how batsmen play. They now aim for big shots, taking calculated risks. This shift has also liberated bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy are highlighted as India's bowling stars. They use their skills to take wickets. Their focus is on wickets, not just economy rate. India is fortunate to have them.
Like to travel solo? You have company, but no one's a pair
Indian solo travelers are increasingly exploring the globe, with companies like Scapia reporting nearly 40% of bookings from independent adventurers. This growing segment, dominated by younger demographics, shows a preference for curated experiences and spends significantly more per trip. Destinations from Vietnam to the USA are gaining traction, signaling a shift beyond quick getaways.
Receiving a job offer that is below expectations can be both confusing and frustrating, even when the organization is prestigious. A Redditor shared their experience of receiving an offer $15,000 lower than anticipated from a Big 4 firm, at the bottom of the mentioned salary range. While the position offered completely remote work and slightly better benefits, the salary matched their current salary.
Budgets tribal push: Health & sports hubs, creches planned
The upcoming Union Budget 2026-27 is set to boost the social sector with new welfare schemes for vulnerable groups. Key initiatives include health observatories in eight states to combat diseases, community-managed tribal creches, and sports hubs in schools. The budget also focuses on employment generation, malnutrition, and infrastructure development in remote areas, while preserving tribal culture.
Why elephants are considered as engines of economic revival in monsoon land
Lakshmi stands serene as elephants pour water over her. Water is not merely a decorative motif; it symbolises the monsoon. The elephants represent the return of movement, the restoration of economic life. The image is a visual metaphor: prosperity arrives when you have the strength and capability to navigate the monsoon of life, to rebuild paths and to reconnect markets. The elephants are not servants; they are partners in wealth creation.
EY, PwC Chinese Walls under spotlight amid insider trading allegations
Allegations of insider trading against EY and PwC partners in India have raised concerns about the effectiveness of 'Chinese walls' and internal controls within professional services firms. These firms' deep involvement in deal-making, including IPOs and M&As, creates risks of price-sensitive information leakage.
Catherine OHara: Beloved actress Catherine OHara, celebrated for her unforgettable roles over five decades, has passed away at 71 after a brief illness. Known for iconic performances in Home Alone, Beetlejuice, and her Emmy-winning turn as Moira Rose in Schitt's Creek, O'Hara left an indelible mark on comedy. Her manager confirmed her death, with details of the cause remaining undisclosed.
NCP picks Sunetra to replace Ajit Pawar as Maharashtra Deputy CM
Sunetra Pawar is set to become the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The NCP legislative party will vote for her leadership on Saturday. Leaders met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to propose her name. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Saturday evening. Discussions are ongoing regarding Ajit Pawar's former portfolios.
Menstrual health part of Right to Life under Article 21: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has declared menstrual health a fundamental right under Article 21, mandating free biodegradable sanitary pads for girl students in all schools. States and UTs must also ensure functional, gender-segregated toilets with water and soap, and establish menstrual hygiene management corners. This ruling aims to uphold the dignity and right to education for adolescent girls.
Sharad Pawar faction pushes for NCP merger, Ajit camp hits pause
The two NCP factions are unlikely to merge soon. A powerful section wants Sunetra Pawar to strengthen her hold before any merger. The Sharad Pawar faction pushed for a quick merger. A merger now could mean Sharad Pawar controls party affairs. This is not acceptable to the Sunetra Pawar camp.
Budget 2026: Full coverage on ET Now
Get ready for an in-depth analysis of Budget 2026 with ET NOW! Join us Sunday, February 1, starting at 7 am for preliminary insights before the Finance Minister takes the stage at 11 am. Our lineup of financial experts, including the insightful Swaminathan S Anklesaria Aiyar, will interpret the crucial announcements and fiscal strategies unfolding throughout the day.
Wealth quote of the day by Paul Collier, The greatest danger to the market economy is not recessions or bubbles, but the erosion of trust in the fairness of the system Economist Paul Collier warns the real threat to markets is declining trust in fairness. U.S. income inequality now favors the top 10 percent, while public confidence drops sharply. Colliers research links legitimacy to inclusive growth, corporate ethics, and policy reform. He offers data-backed solutions for equitable markets. Read on to explore his actionable insights and global impact.
India well placed to mediate Israel-Palestine dispute: FM Varsen Aghabekian Shahin
Arab foreign ministers met in Delhi to discuss the Israel-Palestine conflict, with a two-state solution and Gaza reconstruction on the agenda. Palestine's foreign minister suggested India could mediate, citing New Delhi's support and clear stance on international law. The meeting also addressed economic ties and the US President's peace board.
New viability gap funding in the works for energy storage
A new governmental initiative is on the horizon, focused on establishing a funding scheme to enhance energy storage viability. Designed to fortify grid stability and promote the swift integration of renewable resources, this plan encompasses both pumped storage projects and advanced battery systems.
RRBs told to expand agri & MSME loans
In a bold stride towards economic empowerment, Regional Rural Banks are ramping up their financial support for agriculture and small enterprises. This initiative comes on the heels of a notable surge in net profits, coupled with an impressive capital to risk-weighted assets ratio, showcasing their financial resilience and commitment to fostering growth in rural landscapes.
Essar Oil & Gas to invest $100 million to expand Raniganj CBM output
The proposed investment marks the next phase of development at Raniganj East, where EOGEPL currently produces around 1 million standard cubic metres per day (MMSCMD) of natural gas, making it the largest CBM-producing block in India.
Budget may unveil plan to transform PSBs
In a bold move towards economic revitalization, the government is preparing to launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revamping public sector banks. This strategic plan is a cornerstone of the ambitious Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, aspiring to position these banks among the top 20 globally competitive financial institutions.
