The Times of India

India and Malaysia are set to bolster security cooperation, including counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in Kuala Lumpur. He emphasized India's unwavering stance against terrorism, stating there will be o double standards and no compromise.

Employees in the UAE facing redundancy must serve their notice period. Skipping this can lead to financial penalties. Employers also have obligations regarding notice. The law applies to both employer-initiated terminations and employee resignations. Job search leave is available during the notice period. Understanding these rules ensures a smooth transition.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to expedite sanctioned railway projects in the state. Stalin highlighted delays in fund releases by the Ministry of Railways, impacting land acquisition and causing uncertainty for landowners. He requested full and priority funding for ongoing projects and the revival of those in abeyance.

The US has accused China of a covert nuclear test on June 22, 2020, shortly after the deadly Galwan Valley clash. This allegation, coupled with the expiry of the New START treaty, highlights the urgent need for a new global arms control framework.

India and the US have finalized the first phase of a trade deal, leading to reduced reciprocal tariffs on Indian exports to 18%. This move benefits labor-intensive sectors like textiles and leather, while India has carefully opened up to American imports, protecting sensitive agricultural and dairy products. Several Indian food items will also gain zero-duty access to the US market.

India and the US have agreed to an interim trade framework granting zero-duty access for diamonds and colored gemstones. This move is seen as a critical inflection point for the Indian gems and jewellery sector, aiming to reverse a significant decline in exports to the US market and restore competitiveness.

An interim India-US trade arrangement offers clarity to India's pharma sector, keeping medicines out of reciprocal tariffs. Washington has signaled negotiated outcomes for generics under the Section 232 investigation, which examines imports for national security threats. This agreement is seen as reassuring for strengthening the partnership and ensuring medicine security.

A landmark Indo-US trade deal is poised to significantly boost India's aerospace exports, potentially doubling sourcing for giants like Boeing. Zero-duty access for components will place India on par with established aerospace supply chains, with Indian carriers expected to place substantial aircraft orders.

India and the US are strengthening economic security alignment to enhance supply chain resilience and innovation, addressing non-market policies of third parties. This move signals a synchronized strategy to reduce China's global manufacturing dominance in key sectors like semiconductors and green energy, building on previous commitments.

US auto giants Harley Davidson, Jeep, and Tesla are poised to benefit from a new trade deal with India. The agreement offers reduced import duties on specific high-engine capacity motorcycles and cars, with concessions for Harley Davidson's 800-1,600cc bikes and a phased duty reduction for vehicles over 3,000cc, potentially boosting Tesla and Jeep's market presence without impacting domestic manufacturers.

India and the US have reached a breakthrough interim trade agreement, a significant shift from recent tensions. This deal, a precursor to a larger pact, offers advantages to India's MSME and labor-intensive sectors. Negotiators successfully resisted pressure on sensitive agricultural imports, a move likely to please the US president's base ahead of mid-term polls.

India aims to import $500 billion in US goods over five years, but success hinges on American suppliers meeting demand. While oil and coal imports are set to rise, high-tech items like chips and aircraft face supply chain challenges. Indian buyers and US sellers must collaborate to achieve this ambitious trade target.

India's decision to import animal feed like DDGs and soybean oil from the US has sparked farmer concerns, who fear the products originate from genetically modified crops. While the government assures that all domestic crops remain safe and GM traces are eliminated post-processing, farm organizations are seeking greater clarity on the agreement's implications for local agriculture and farmer incomes.

India has reached a trade agreement with the US on agricultural products. Tariffs will be reduced on several American food items like tree nuts and fruits. However, India will maintain protection for its dairy and genetically modified crops. This deal aims to balance trade interests for both nations, opening new avenues for Indian exports.

A US-India joint statement signals a potential trade deal, with the US set to significantly drop import duties on Indian goods. This move is expected to boost India's labor-intensive sectors, while India will reduce tariffs on US agricultural products and industrial goods, fostering mutual benefit.

Congress criticized the India-US trade deal framework as a surrender, citing concerns over unspecified additional products for tariff reductions. Leaders argued the deal is heavily tilted towards the US and will negatively impact farmers, highlighting a lack of transparency in the agreement's details.

India and the United States have reached an interim trade agreement. This deal is expected to boost India's economic growth and manufacturing sector. Government leaders stated that the agreement safeguards the nation's core interests. It aims to create more jobs and opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses across the country.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted recent trade agreements with the US and other nations as proof of growing global trust in India. He emphasized the country's shift from a mere market to an investment and trade hub, fostering 'Make in India' and creating jobs. These deals, he stated, reflect a dynamic partnership and commitment to innovation and shared prosperity.

The income tax department has released draft rules aimed at simplifying tax filing and compliance for individuals and companies, effective April 1. These rules emphasize faceless assessments and reduced disputes, with simplified language and redesigned forms for easier taxpayer understanding. The draft is open for public feedback until February 22.

Sonia Gandhi Saturday termed a criminal revision petition against a magisterial order as politically motivated and frivolous. The petition alleges her name was included in electoral rolls in 1980 using forged documents, despite her acquiring Indian citizenship later. Gandhi argued citizenship and electoral roll issues fall outside criminal court jurisdiction.

Prime Minister Modi lauded Tamil culture at a Kuala Lumpur event, highlighting its global reach and the significant presence of Tamilians in India's leadership. He announced UPI's upcoming availability in Malaysia and the opening of India's first consulate there, strengthening bilateral ties and community outreach. Modi also pledged a new Thiruvalluvar Centre to honor shared heritage.

Government spending on major schemes lags significantly, with only 41.2% of the budgeted amount disbursed in the first nine months. Revised estimates for 47 out of 53 large projects are lower than initially planned. Several key initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission, show drastically reduced spending, raising concerns about project execution and fund utilization.

India's Defence Acquisition Council is set to consider a major proposal to purchase 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore. This significant procurement, with a substantial portion to be manufactured in India, aims to bolster the Indian Air Force's fighter squadron strength amidst rising regional security concerns.

Jammu & Kashmir welcomed over 1.7 crore tourists in 2025, including more than 36,000 international visitors. While no specific targets are set for 2026, the government is actively working to boost tourist numbers through various initiatives. The Home Stay program has proven successful and is slated for expansion, despite facing challenges like awareness and infrastructure gaps.

Union home minister Amit Shah reviewed Jammu and Kashmir's development projects. He also stressed hydropower potential and welfare scheme saturation. Aggressive tourism marketing and sports infrastructure development were highlighted. The region will receive 50-year interest-free loans for capital projects. The government aims for a developed Jammu and Kashmir by 2047.

A three-storey building collapsed in Rajasthan's Kota on Saturday. The incident occurred in the Talwandi area where a restaurant was located. Several people are feared trapped under the debris. Police and rescue teams are on the scene. Five individuals have been rescued so far and taken to the hospital for treatment.

Haryana's BJP government faces sharp criticism for allegedly withholding diet allowances for 37,000 players for ten months. Senior AAP leader Anurag Dhanda also highlighted the denial of pensions to over 75,000 elderly citizens, citing absurd income criteria. This has left athletes and seniors struggling, questioning the government's commitment to their welfare.

A wealthy Indian-origin restaurateur in London has been found guilty of spiking a friends drink at Annabels, an exclusive private members club in Mayfair. He was caught on CCTV camera spiking the drink with gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) a Class B controlled substance often described as a date-rape drug

Tragedy struck the Surajkund Mela in Faridabad Saturday evening when a swing ride collapsed, killing a police inspector and injuring thirteen others. The brave officer lost his life attempting to rescue people as the ride tilted. Authorities have vowed swift action against the operator, with an FIR to be registered.

In her Union Budget 2026 speech on February 1, FM Nirmala Sitharaman had said, The simplified Income Tax Rules and Forms will be notified shortly, giving adequate time to taxpayers to acquaint themselves with its requirements. The forms have been redesigned such that ordinary citizens can comply without difficulty.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated the organization wasn't formed in opposition to any group and doesn't seek power or popularity. He highlighted over 1.3 lakh service projects by volunteers nationwide, funded by their own resources. Bhagwat also touched upon the challenging early life of RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar and his involvement in revolutionary activities during India's freedom struggle.

In an ambitious push for development, Delhi's municipal commissioner now wields expanded financial authority, increasing from Rs 5 crore to a hefty Rs 50 crore. This significant change, spearheaded by the Delhi government, aims to cut through bureaucratic red tape, ensuring that essential projects for roads, sanitation, and civic amenities are launched and completed swiftly.

Devotional music concerts are experiencing a surge in popularity, attracting younger audiences with their blend of spiritual chants and contemporary arrangements. These gatherings offer a unique, immersive experience, fostering community and emotional grounding amidst urban life. Prime Minister Modi even highlighted this growing trend, calling it 'bhajan-clubbing,' as traditional practices find new relevance.