The Economic Times

Iran's supreme leader has issued a stark warning to the United States, stating any war initiated by them will escalate into a regional conflict. Meanwhile, Iran's parliament speaker has designated all European Union militaries as terrorist organizations. These developments occur amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East and Iran's planned military drills in the Strait of Hormuz.

In the Union Budget 2026-27, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed a hike in Securities Transaction Tax (STT), on both futures and options, by up to 150%. After the announcement, the shares of BSE, Angel One, and Groww tanked and there was a bloodbath on Dalal Street. Here is a complete explainer of what STT, F7O trading are, and why the hike left traders worried.

The government will now concentrate on developing tier II and tier III cities, including temple towns. These areas will receive modern infrastructure and basic amenities. A budget of Rs 5000 crore per city economic region is proposed over five years. This initiative aims to boost economic growth by enhancing urban potential.

Budget 2026-27 introduces a significant package for livestock, fisheries, and high-value agriculture. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced measures to boost rural incomes beyond traditional farming. These include zero duty on marine catch, support for inland fisheries, and increased veterinary professionals. High-value crops like coconut and sandalwood will also receive attention.

Budget 2026-27 embraces younger Indians' priorities. It recognizes the creative economy, promoting careers in animation and gaming. Tourism shifts to experiences and sustainability. Cheaper global consumption acknowledges evolving consumer habits. AI integration is highlighted across sectors. Mental health receives national attention, reflecting a significant cultural and economic shift.

The Union Budget 2026-27 significantly increased the Ministry of Home Affairs' allocation to Rs 255,233.53 crore, with a substantial portion directed towards central police forces. Key allocations were also made to Jammu and Kashmir, the national capital, and various Union Territories, alongside funding for Census work and modernization of police forces.

The Union Budget 2026-27 has allocated over Rs 2,000 crore to NCRTC for the RRTS project, a decrease from previous years. This funding aims to decongest the Delhi-NCR and reduce pollution via faster public transport. The project's Phase I includes three major corridors, with a 55-km section of the Delhi-Meerut corridor currently operational.

In a shocking federal case, Real Brokerage CEO Tamir Poleg is accused of offering employee Paige Steckling over 27 crore ($3.2M) to end her marriage. Her husband, Michael Steckling, has filed a 45 crore ($5M) lawsuit against the CEO, alleging alienation of affection and the systematic destruction of his family.

Quote of the day today encapsulates a leadership philosophy rooted in action. Margaret Thatchers career demonstrated that authority, once assumed, demands accountability and execution.

The Union Budget 2026-27 allocates Rs 299 crore for training government employees domestically and internationally. An additional Rs 65 crore is designated for administrative reforms, including e-governance and public grievance redressal. Mission Karmayogi, a major civil services capacity building initiative, receives Rs 126 crore.

Delhi Police receives a significant budget boost for 2026-27. The Union Budget allocates Rs 12,503.65 crore, a 4.79% rise. These funds will support daily operations and key initiatives. Projects include developing a model traffic system and enhancing communication networks across the NCR region. Upgrades to technology and personnel training are also prioritized.

India's Union law ministry has received significant funding for voter identity cards and to settle Lok Sabha election expenses. With a voter base of 99 crore, Rs 250 crore is allocated for voter identity cards, a cost shared between the Centre and states. An additional Rs 500 crore is designated for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Budget 2026-27 prioritises durable growth through manufacturing, infrastructure and MSMEs, eschewing headline-grabbing tax giveaways for stability amidst global fragility. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman focuses on long-term economic foundations, including fiscal discipline and a new debt-to-GDP anchor, aiming for resilience over immediate applause.

The Union Budget 2026-27 earmarks Rs 1,102 crore for key government offices. This includes substantial funds for the Council of Ministers, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Cabinet Secretariat. Hospitality and entertainment for state guests also receive an allocation. The National Security Council Secretariat and the Principal Scientific Advisor's office see budgetary provisions.

The government is launching an Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund to support lenders and boost private developer confidence. Capital expenditure for infrastructure creation will see an 11% increase. Focus will be on developing infrastructure in Tier II and Tier III cities. A new scheme will also promote domestic manufacturing of construction and infrastructure equipment.

The government is significantly boosting funds for roads and highways. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways receives Rs 3.10 lakh crore for the upcoming fiscal year. This increased allocation will drive the development of national highways and expressways. Maintenance of existing road networks also receives a substantial focus.

Union Budget, presented by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday, shows 62% increase in budgetary allocation to the ministry of skills development and entrepreneurship at Rs 9885.80 crore as against Rs 6100 crore allocated in 2025-26 to take up sector-specific skilling in a big way.

Union Budget of India 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has introduced a groundbreaking Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund designed to empower lenders through partial credit guarantees. Recognising the potential of Tier-II and Tier-III cities, the government is committed to fostering infrastructure development in these areas.

India faces a warmer and drier February after an unusually warm January. This weather pattern poses risks to key winter crops like wheat, rapeseed, and chickpeas. Higher temperatures could accelerate crop growth, leading to yield losses. This situation may increase India's reliance on imported cooking oils. Farmers have planted record areas of wheat and rapeseed.

India has not allocated funds for the Chabahar port project in its Union Budget. This move comes as the US has imposed sanctions on Iran. India has been a major partner in developing the port. The US had granted a waiver on sanctions for Chabahar, which ends soon. India is discussing the project with the US.

The government's annual subsidy expenditure on food, fertilizer, and fuel is projected to decrease by 4.47% to Rs 4,10,495 crore in FY27. This reduction is driven by lower estimates for food, fertilizer, and petroleum subsidies, with the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana remaining a significant allocation for food support.

Moody's Ratings described India's annual federal budget as tactical rather than a breakthrough. While planned fiscal consolidation will narrow the budget gap, it won't alter India's credit profile, as the deficit remains wider than pre-Covid levels. The agency affirmed India's stable outlook last year, citing economic strength and domestic funding.

The Union Budget 2026-27 has boosted funding for government housing initiatives. However, the affordable housing sector did not receive new sector-specific announcements. This has caused concern as affordable housing sales have declined significantly since the pandemic. Increased allocations for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana schemes aim to address housing needs across rural and urban areas.

Canadian actress Catherine O'Hara has died at 71. Her manager confirmed the news. O'Hara was known for her comedy and wisdom. A quote from her about laughter resonates with fans. She believed laughter helps in difficult times. Her career spanned decades, including SCTV and Schitt's Creek. Read on!

India has strongly denied Pakistan's claims of Indian interference in Balochistan. New Delhi stated these allegations are a tactic to divert attention from Pakistan's internal problems. India highlighted Pakistan's history of human rights violations in the region. Recent counter-terrorism operations in Balochistan resulted in significant casualties on both sides.

India Budget 2026: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a significant urban development push, creating city economic regions (CERs) to boost growth in Tier II and III cities and temple towns. Each CER will receive Rs 5,000 crore over five years for development plans, implemented through a competitive, results-based financing mechanism.

The Union Budget 2026-27 is set to redefine real estate demand by fostering urbanisation and expanding economic reach beyond major metros. New City Economic Regions and high-speed rail corridors will drive growth in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, supported by infrastructure development and public sector land recycling through REITs.

A powerful cool change is sweeping across Australia's south-east. This brings relief to millions after a brutal heatwave shattered temperature records. Power networks were strained and emergency services pushed to the brink. Milder conditions are expected to continue into next week for parts of the country. Record-breaking heat scorched Victoria and South Australia.

The government plans to boost healthcare by upgrading allied health institutions and training one lakh professionals over five years. Caregiver training will also expand. Five regional hubs will be established to promote medical tourism. New Ayurveda institutes and upgrades to AYUSH facilities are also planned to meet global demand.

India's federal budget has significantly boosted GIFT City, doubling its tax holiday for new businesses to two decades. This move aims to attract global reinsurers and position the financial hub as a key gateway for international capital. Following the tax-free period, companies will face a flat 15% tax rate, a substantial advantage over the 35% rate elsewhere.

Across films, photoshoots, and vacations, John Abrahams shirtless moments became cultural events, proving discipline, confidence, and charisma never go out of style.

The Union Budget 2026-27 signals a major policy shift, focusing on healthcare as a key economic growth driver. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced significant measures to improve access and affordability. New initiatives include expanding mental health infrastructure with NIMHANS 2.0 and enhancing trauma care. The budget also offers relief on cancer drugs and supports rare diseases.

Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian American astronaut and the first Indian woman in space, inspired many with her courage and perspective. Her historic journeys aboard Space Shuttle Columbia offered a profound realization of Earth's fragility and interconnectedness. Tragically, she perished in the 2003 Columbia disaster, leaving a legacy of humility and responsibility for our planet.

Union Budget 2026 Costlier List: The budget introduces changes impacting household expenses and business costs. Penalties for income tax misreporting have been raised to 100% of the tax amount. Non-disclosure of movable assets now attracts a penalty.

The Finance Minister unveiled plans to boost rural economies. Initiatives will support livestock, fisheries, and high-value agriculture. This includes expanding veterinary services and developing fisheries value chains. Schemes will promote animal husbandry entrepreneurship and enhance coconut, cashew, and cocoa production. Sandalwood cultivation and nut farming in hilly regions will also receive support.

Actor Ram Charan and wife Upasana Konidela have welcomed twins. News of the newborns' arrival was shared by grandfather Chiranjeevi. However, Ram Charan faced a difficult situation at a Hyderabad hospital. He was mobbed by fans while arriving with his daughter Klin Kaara. The incident caused concern among fans and sparked discussions. Read on!

Union Budget 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the India Budget. Key proposals focus on clean energy, industrial growth, and regional development. Incentives are planned for lithium-ion cell manufacturing and solar glass production. Biogas-blended CNG will see excise duty relief. An East Coast Industrial Corridor is proposed. Investments will boost the Northeast with e-buses and tourism development.

India Budget 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that a single window for cargo clearances will be operational by year-end, streamlining approvals. The validity period for advance customs binding will be extended to five years, and duty exemptions will be provided for fish catch by Indian vessels. Baggage clearance rules for international travelers are also being revised.

The Grammy Awards 2026 are set for February 2 in Los Angeles. Indian viewers can watch live on JioHotstar. Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, and Bruno Mars and others will perform. Emerging artists will also showcase their talent. Read on to know more about the award show in detail.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans for five regional medical tourism hubs. A Rs 10,000 crore Biopharma Shakti program will boost domestic production of biologics and biosimilars over five years. This initiative includes new NIPERs and upgrading existing ones. The plan also aims to establish 1,000 accredited clinical trial sites and strengthen drug regulation.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has set a significant gross tax revenue target for the 2026-27 fiscal year. This projection relies on sustained economic expansion and enhanced tax compliance. Tax collections have shown resilience, boosted by strong Goods and Services Tax inflows and better direct tax adherence. The government aims to broaden the tax base while rationalizing rates.

Ankur Warikoo shares his past struggles with stress and mental fatigue. He found that dramatic breaks were not the answer. Instead, simple five-minute actions like movement or deep breathing provided relief. These small resets help release tension and clear the mind. Warikoo emphasizes that feeling better is often just minutes away, offering a practical approach to managing everyday stress.