The Times of India

India's push for trade agreements has ignited a debate over importing refurbished medical equipment. Domestic players warn of patient safety risks and unfair competition, while MNCs advocate for a globally aligned framework with stringent oversight. The health ministry's committee to frame a policy has intensified industry concerns, particularly amid India-US trade talks.

Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover have inaugurated a new greenfield facility in Tamil Nadu, set to become a key assembly hub for JLR vehicles, including electric models. This Rs 9,000 crore investment aims to scale production to 2.

Shareholder advisory firm InGovern has urged Zee Entertainment to appoint a professional MD and conduct a forensic audit of related-party transactions, citing a governance vacuum. Despite promoters holding less than 4% equity, they maintain operational control, a situation InGovern deems a crisis of confidence. Zee has refuted the allegations as factually incorrect and misleading.

The Centaur Srinagar, one of the last two Centaur Hotels, has been taken over by The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts for a 60-year lease. Leela is investing Rs 300 crore in a major renovation, aiming to reopen the property with 170 larger rooms and branded houseboats by the end of next year.

Coforge and Persistent Systems are bucking a trend of slowing growth in mid-tier IT, reporting robust double-digit revenue increases. While others like Tata Technologies and Cyient face headwinds from industry slowdowns and delayed R&D, Coforge leverages BFSI strength and acquisitions, and Persistent benefits from AI investments and product engineering. This divergence highlights strategic agility in the competitive IT landscape.

New income tax rules aim to simplify compliance by reducing forms and declarations, especially for seniors over 75 who may no longer need to file returns. The changes also significantly cut down on non-PAN declarations and speed up PAN issuance. Transaction limits for quoting PAN have been raised for cash deposits, vehicle purchases, and property transactions.

Brands are introducing protein-rich products to meet growing health consciousness in India. Starbucks now offers protein-infused cold foam for iced drinks. This move aims to integrate wellness into daily routines. A standard iced coffee already contains significant protein, and the added foam boosts it further. Starbucks is also providing zero-sugar options. This trend targets health-aware consumers who value their lifestyle.

India's oil sourcing strategy will prioritize national interest, avoiding dependence on any single country, stated Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Petroleum companies make purchasing decisions based on market conditions, availability, pricing, and risk assessment. The government's primary goal is to ensure adequate, reliable, and fairly priced energy for Indian consumers.

The Enforcement Directorate has formed a special investigation team to probe alleged money laundering of Rs 40,000 crore against Anil Ambani and Reliance Group companies, following a Supreme Court directive. The probe includes investigating a Rs 70 crore Manhattan apartment purchase, with Tina Ambani potentially being summoned again.

Russia has become a major concern for Indian students abroad, with over half of all global complaints regarding exploitation and racial discrimination originating from the country. Data reveals a sharp surge in such incidents, raising serious safety worries for students, particularly those pursuing medical education. Many fear reporting issues due to potential expulsion and visa complications.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman refuted DMK MP P Wilson's claim that Tamil Nadu was ignored in the Union Budget. She highlighted several initiatives for the state, calling his allegations baseless. Wilson had argued that Tamil Nadu, a high-performing state, was being discriminated against in tax devolution and project allocation.

P. Chidambaram criticized the Union Budget 2026-27 in the Rajya Sabha, labeling it 'forgettable' for cutting capital expenditure. He highlighted stagnant capital investment, a collapse in net FDI, and withdrawing foreign portfolio investors, questioning the government's reform momentum. Chidambaram noted a decline in nominal growth and a lack of private investment despite companies holding significant cash.

India's strategic petroleum reserves can currently cover 74 days of demand during global crises, according to Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. While the International Energy Agency recommends 90 days, Puri expressed confidence in the current level, noting potential for future increases. This reserve is crucial for economic stability and energy security as India experiences rapid growth.

The Supreme Court has ordered the West Bengal police chief to personally respond to serious allegations from the Election Commission. The EC claims ruling party TMC members are deliberately obstructing the revision of electoral rolls. The court emphasized the importance of constitutional laws and the EC's authority during elections.

A recent survey by VVGNLI reveals that a majority of workers anticipate improved working conditions, including better rest periods and income security, with the implementation of four new labor codes. Employers also foresee enhanced ease of doing business. The codes are expected to bolster protection for women workers and improve social security access and portability for various worker categories.

India has announced a $175 million economic package for Seychelles, including a $125 million line of credit and a $50 million grant, to support projects in housing, health, and defence. The two nations also signed seven pacts, strengthening maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean. This collaboration aims to enhance regional stability and counter transnational maritime challenges.

Satellite data reveals Uttarakhand's Himalayan vegetation is showing signs of strain, with a gradual decline in greenery despite seasonal revivals. Researchers link this to deforestation, pollution, and climate change, warning of threats to wildlife and livelihoods. This analysis highlights the urgent need for monitoring to prepare for environmental challenges.

DMK MP Tiruchi Siva has filed a breach of privilege notice against Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. Siva alleges Goyal shared details of an interim India-US trade deal during a press conference while Parliament was in session. The Rajya Sabha Chairman stated he would review the matter, noting Goyal had already made a statement in the House.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla defended his decision to advise Prime Minister Narendra Modi against speaking on February 4, citing grave disorder and threats from opposition MPs. He refuted claims of no danger, detailing how MPs used unparliamentary language, tore papers, and aggressively approached the PM's seat, creating an unsafe environment.

Congress women MPs accused Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla of making false, baseless and defamatory allegations against them under government pressure. They stated Prime Minister Modi's absence from the House was an act of fear, not a threat from them. The MPs urged the Speaker to act impartially, highlighting alleged pressure from the ruling party.

Tata Steel expects domestic steel prices to rise this quarter, while its CFO highlights margin protection amidst a challenging year. The EU's carbon border tax is seen as a positive for Tata Steel's European operations, leveling the playing field for carbon costs.

Punjab's commitment to law and order took a bold step forward with the launch of Operation Prahar-2. In an astounding first-day success, more than 1,200 wanted individuals were apprehended as over 2,000 police teams conducted sweeping raids. This extensive operation serves as a critical component of the states sustained effort to dismantle organized crime networks and combat gang activities.

India will grant duty concessions on automobiles and offer market access for alcoholic beverages under a trade pact with the US. Tariffs on $30.94 billion of Indian exports will be reduced, with reciprocal tariffs on $10.03 billion eliminated, significantly boosting price competitiveness.

Nearly 1,000 Google employees are demanding the company sever ties with the Department of Homeland Security, citing contracts with ICE and CBP. They allege Google's technology fuels state violence and repression. Employees seek transparency on contracts, a Q&A session, and protection for all workers, calling for an end to complicity in government actions.

CM Himanta's remark came after All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi lodged an official complaint with Hyderabad City Police seeking criminal action against Sarma over a ow-deleted video allegedly depicting violence against Muslims, describing it as genocidal hate speech. The BJP leader also said he didn't know anything about the video, adding that he would continue to oppose Bangladeshi infiltrators.

Trump has repeatedly argued that his tariff policies have helped rebalance global trade, contributed to international stability, and boosted economic prosperity in the United States through increased revenue from abroad.

The 8th Pay Commission was first announced in January 2025, and it was formally notified later through a Ministry of Finance notification issued on November 3, 2025.

Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta, alongside health minister Pankaj Singh, inaugurated a series of advanced medical facilities at GB Pant Hospital on Monday. The new additions include a state-of-the-art 256-slice CT scanner, a modern cardiac catheterisation lab, and a dedicated neurointensive care unit, all designed to significantly enhance diagnostic and critical care capabilities for cardiac and neurological patients.

Chandigarh witnessed chaos as police turned to water cannons to break up a protest organized by AAP leaders, among them ministers, in response to comments made by Congress figure Partap Singh Bajwa. His remarks, criticized as offensive to minister Harbhajan Singha former band playerignited strong backlash from AAP, who are now demanding a public apology.

On its part the Trump administration has claimed that India has committed to ending both direct and indirect imports of oil from the Russian Federation. The executive order by Trump says that the tariffs on Indian exports to the US could be increased if such crude imports resume.

Public sector banks achieved a record profit of over Rs 52,000 crore in the third quarter. This marks an 18 percent increase year-on-year. State Bank of India led the performance, contributing significantly to the overall earnings. Several other banks also reported strong profit growth. The aggregate profit for the nine months crossed Rs 1.45 lakh crore.

The recent IndiaUS trade engagement signals deeper agricultural trade integration ahead. As markets open further, Indian farmers will be more exposed to global price movements both opportunities and risks.

Indian IT shares have plummeted, losing Rs 2.5 lakh crore as AI automation threatens traditional outsourcing. New tools from Anthropic and Palantir, capable of rapid SAP migrations, have spooked investors. Analysts predict a significant revenue hit, though historical disruptions have ultimately spurred industry growth. Investors are now cautiously assessing the sector's AI-driven future.

India has adopted a phased tariff reduction approach for select products under the India-US trade deal, allowing duty elimination over 10 years for some items. Highly sensitive agricultural sectors, including meat, dairy, and certain fruits and pulses, remain fully protected. This strategy aims to boost Indian exports to the US while safeguarding domestic farmers.

In line with expectations, the new Income Tax Act 2025, which supersedes the long-standing Act of 1961, will now be effective from 1 April 2026. The new Act was drafted with a valiant attempt at simplification of provisions by reducing jargon and using layman language instead for easier comprehension.

Gold experienced significant gains on Monday, reaching Rs 1.57 lakh per 10 grams. This surge was driven by a rebound in global markets, a weaker US dollar, and increased demand for safe-haven assets. Silver also saw substantial increases in futures trading, climbing nearly 5%.

Long-duration and gilt categories saw their gains of the past three months wiped out in a single day. Market experts now believe that Indias rate-cutting cycle is over.

The Supreme Court pointed out that, although anticipatory bail under Section 438 CrPC is not a fundamental right but a statutory right, the delay in dispensing bail applications by the courts constitutes a direct implication of Article 21.

India is poised to lead G-20 economic growth, with real GDP projected to expand by 6.4% in fiscal 2026-27. Moody's anticipates a stable banking sector, supported by improving asset quality, strong capital, healthy profits, and ample liquidity. Despite challenges in deposit mobilization, government support will bolster public sector banks.

Gold, silver price today: Gold and silver prices have rebounded on Monday after last weeks crash. The yellow metal and white metal are up both in international and domestic markets.

Stock market recommendations: Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd recommends the top stock picks for the week starting February 9, 2026. These are: SAIL, and Ventive Hospitality. Heres a detailed analysis:

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are likely to remain volatile this week, says Manav Modi, Senior Analyst, Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd. The expert shares his outlook for gold prices in the near term: