The Times of India

The government has declared coking coal a critical mineral. This move aims to boost exploration and mining activities. India imports most of its coking coal despite having large domestic reserves. This reform seeks to reduce import dependence. It will strengthen the steel sector's supply chain. The policy also encourages private investment and advanced mining technologies.

India is piloting a digital food currency, a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), for its free ration scheme in select regions. Beneficiaries will receive digital food coupons in an RBI-enabled wallet, redeemable at ration shops by scanning QR codes. This aims to enhance transparency and prevent leakage in the food security program.

World Bank President Ajay Banga advised India to prioritize trade expansion over tariffs. He highlighted India's extensive trade agreements, including the recent India-European Union free trade deal. Global trade has grown significantly, with emerging markets like India playing a crucial role. This new pact will create a vast market connecting India and the EU.

Crop protection innovation is science-intensive, capital-heavy and inherently long-term. Developing a new molecule can take more than a decade, demanding sustained investment and regulatory certainty.

Indian markets mirrored global trends as US stocks traded near record highs amidst mixed tech earnings. Microsoft dipped despite strong results, while Meta surged. Gold continued its extraordinary rally, driven by safe-haven demand amid global uncertainties. Overseas markets saw gains, with South Korea's Kospi hitting a new peak.

Ports in the country handled 1,593.04 million tonne per annum traffic in fiscal 2025, clocking a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of ~4% over last five fiscals. Meanwhile, port capacity increased to 2,762 million tonne.

Silver prices in Delhi surged past Rs 4 lakh per kg, while gold hit a record Rs 1.83 lakh per 10 grams. This rally, driven by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, saw silver outperform gold due to strong industrial demand and a weakening US dollar. Global gold demand also reached a record high, fueled by investment.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and LoP Rahul Gandhi met with Shashi Tharoor to address internal concerns ahead of the Kerala assembly polls. The constructive and positive discussion aimed to quell speculation and ensure party unity. Tharoor emphasized moving forward together, dismissing discussions about a chief ministerial face.

Fundamentally, factors that shape the trade policy are changing. It is now majorly about security and political considerations rather than efficiency or multilateral rules.

Vijay's father, SA Chandrasekhar, urged Congress to ally with his son's TVK for the Tamil Nadu assembly polls, believing it would restore the party's past prominence. However, the state Congress chief dismissed the informal proposal, stating the party doesn't require external support. Vijay himself has indicated TVK's strength to contest independently.

India has declared coking coal a critical and strategic mineral. This move aims to cut reliance on imports for steel production. Faster approvals and improved ease of doing business are expected. The government seeks to boost domestic exploration and mining. This reform supports the National Steel Policy and Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. It encourages private investment and job creation.

Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, was cremated with full state honours in Baramati. He died in a chartered plane crash along with four others. The funeral took place at Vidya Pratishthan college ground. Many leaders from across the political spectrum attended the ceremony to pay their respects.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with Indian AI leaders, emphasising ethical use, data security, and indigenous solutions for national growth. He highlighted India's digital prowess, citing UPI as a model for AI development. The interaction aimed to foster collaborations and accelerate India's AI mission, with industry leaders backing self-reliance goals.

The Beating Retreat ceremony will formally conclude Republic Day celebrations today. This event showcases India's military heritage and the armed forces' dedication. Bands from the Army, Navy, and Air Force will perform at Vijay Chowk. Traffic restrictions are in place in central Delhi to ensure the ceremony proceeds smoothly. Commuters are advised to use alternative routes.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma defended his controversial remarks on Miya Muslims, clarifying he referred to illegal Bangladeshi migrants. Citing the Supreme Court on demographic concerns, Sarma stated his aim is to protect Assam's identity and security. Opposition leaders condemned his comments, warning of social disharmony and potential civil unrest.

Global payments giant Visa is restructuring its Middle East operations, creating dual hubs in Dubai and Riyadh. This strategic shift acknowledges Saudi Arabia's new 'regional headquarters' policy, which mandates local HQs for government contracts. The move reflects intensifying competition among Gulf states for foreign investment and economic influence, with Riyadh emerging as a significant corporate center.

Gold futures surged close to Rs 1.8 lakh per 10 grams, driven by geopolitical uncertainty and a weaker dollar. MCX gold and silver contracts saw significant gains, with international gold prices reaching a new record near $5,600. Local prices vary across major Indian cities.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget on February 1, a Sunday, marking her ninth consecutive presentation. This crucial document will detail the government's financial accounts, economic priorities, and policy direction. The Budget Session commenced on January 28, setting the stage for outlining the nation's growth roadmap and resource allocation strategies.

Indian markets are experiencing their weakest start to the year in a decade, with equities, the rupee, and bonds under pressure. Investors are anticipating the upcoming Union Budget to stimulate growth, boost consumption, and drive domestic manufacturing. Key areas of focus include increased defence spending, divestment in state-owned enterprises, and infrastructure development.

The Supreme Court found prima facie merit in concerns that the 2026 rules, especially the definition of caste-based discrimination under Regulation 3(c), were vague and open to misuse. The bench directed that the 2012 regulations would continue to apply until further orders and issued notices to the Centre and the University Grants Commission.

Kerala's finance minister presented a people-focused budget for 2026-27, allocating Rs 14,500 crore for social security and community programs. Key announcements include the formation of the 12th Pay Revision Commission and the Assured Pension Scheme, replacing NPS for eligible employees. The budget also boosts honorariums for ASHA and Anganwadi workers, and allocates funds for infrastructure projects like the RRTS.

India's trade talks with the US are nearing completion this year, potentially easing external uncertainties, according to the Economic Survey 2026. While progress has been slow, concluding these negotiations could boost investor sentiment. The survey also emphasizes India's need to enhance manufacturing competitiveness to fully leverage trade agreements amidst global economic headwinds.

The Economic Survey says that it does not hurt to have an undervalued rupee in these times, as it offsets to some extent the impact of higher American tariffs on Indian goods

The Economic Survey has been tabled days ahead of FM Sitharamans Budget speech which will be delivered on February 1, 2026. India is the worlds fastest growing major economy, on the way to become the third largest in the coming years, as per International Monetary Fund (IMFs) estimates.