Union Budget 2026: Cancer drugs cheaper, AI push, defence boost and MSME support
Union Budget 2026 brings relief with cheaper cancer drugs, a major push for AI and data centres, a 15 per cent hike in defence spending, Rs 10,000 crore for biopharma and targeted support for MSMEs, while triggering mixed political reactions
Epstein suspected of running global honeytrap linked to Russian intelligence
Jeffrey Epstein is suspected of operating a global honeytrap racket allegedly linked to Russian intelligence, according to a media report. Newly released documents reportedly mention Vladimir Putin, Moscow and alleged espionage links involving Epstein and the Maxwell family
Iran warns of regional war as Trump threatens military action
Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that any US attack would trigger a regional war, as President Donald Trump threatened military strikes and claimed India would shift oil purchases from Iran to Venezuela
Suns magnetic interior mapped for first time
A new study has reconstructed a 3D image of the Suns internal magnetic field using decades of satellite data, allowing scientists to track how solar magnetism evolves beneath the surface something never directly observed before
Union Budget 2026: No changes in income tax rates, slabs
Union Budget 2026 focuses on compliance reforms, higher education and health spending, women-led initiatives and medical tourism, while keeping income tax slabs unchanged. Markets fell sharply after a hike in STT on derivatives
New study reveals Roman era medicine used human excrement
A new study has found dark-brown flakes inside a Roman glass medicinal vial, offering the first direct evidence that human excrement was used to treat illnesses. The practice was linked to Galen of Pergamon, a renowned Roman physician
We must ensure that tourists arent fleeced
In her post, she alleged that she was scammed shortly after landing in Mumbai and also shared the registration number of the taxi
Union Budget 2026: An economic Dhurandhar
Several hits in this budget puts ease at front and centre; focus on dispute resolution and domestic strengthening; there is no change in slab rates, surcharge, or the four per cent education cess
How Bharat Intelligence uses AI to solve farm labour crisis in Maharashtras villages
Mumbai-based agritech startup Bharat Intelligence has created a digital model of villages across Maharashtra, where its AI engine deploys labourers to farmers with accuracy.
Union Budget 2026: A quiet budget with loud intent
Budget 2026 signals trust over control; the most important reform is the comprehensive simplification and liberalisation of the Customs and tax administration
Red-hot Padikkal hits ton, guides Karnataka to quarters
Mohali, Feb 1: Skipper Devdutt Padikkal continued with his run-scoring spree as his 85-ball-120 took Karnataka into the quarterfinals of Ranji Trophy, with a five-wicket victory over Punjab in their final Group B encounter here on Sunday. Karnataka (27 points), thus joined Madhya Pradesh (28 points) who had already beaten Maharashtra on Saturday, to make []
Budget will benefit Maharashtra amid rapid urbanisation: Fadnavis
Minimum temp likely to drop on Feb 6-7: IMD
Will not campaign for Maharashtra zilla parishad elections, says chief minister Devendra Fadnavis
Bike thief flees lock-up, held
Union Budget 2026: Why did the stock market see a bloodbath on Budget Day
Union Budget 2026: Markets turned volatile on Budget Day as Nifty and Sensex fell sharply after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a steep hike in STT on futures and options trading, triggering panic selling and heavy losses in large-cap stocks
BMC explores bond route to finance major water & coastal projects
Pro Wrestling League Proves Wrestling Doesnt Need Stars To Shine
Uttar Pradesh Wrestling Association: Noida witnessed a packed house on Sunday evening as fans filled the Noida Indoor Stadium for the high-octane Pro Wrestling League final between Delhi Dangal Warriors and Haryana Thunders. It was the leagues first final since 2019, marking its return after a long suspension triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the absence of several top international wrestlers and familiar Indian stars, the Pro Wrestling League drew strong crowds throughout the tournament, underlining its enduring connection with Indian wrestling fans. The finale began on a spiritual note, with renowned musician Rasraj Ji Maharaj (Raj Kumar Gaur) holding the audience spellbound with devotional performances dedicated to Lord Shri Ram and Lord Hanuman. The evening was attended by several dignitaries, including PWL chairman Dayaan Farooqi, CEO Akhil Gupta, Wrestling Federation of India president Sanjay Singh, former WFI president Brij Bhushan Singh and Uttar Pradesh Wrestling Association president Karan Bhushan Singh. Making a much-anticipated comeback after six years, the league had last been staged in 2019 before being forced off the calendar due to the pandemic. This time, however, the organisers ensured the revival lived up to expectations, keeping fans engaged with vibrant on-ground entertainment and a steady presence of celebrities. Actress Zoya Afroz and Punjabi film star Sonam Bajwa attended the first semi-final, while Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan was present during the second. The final was set to feature multiple celebrity appearances as well, including Bigg Boss star Shehnaaz Gill, social media influencer Elvish Yadav and Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer. On the mat, Haryana Thunders sealed their place in the final with a win over Punjab Royals in Fridays first semi-final. Delhi Dangal Warriors followed with a spirited comeback victory against Maharashtra Kesari in Saturdays second semi-final. Yet, beyond results and celebrations, the leagues successful return stood out as its biggest achievement. From day one, packed arenas and constant cheering set the tone, proving that the bond between wrestling and its supporters remains strong. Yet, beyond results and celebrations, the leagues successful return stood out as its biggest achievement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Fast-paced bouts, high-intensity contests and edge-of-the-seat drama were enough to draw fans in, reinforcing the idea that the sport does not depend on star power alone. As the league reached its grand finale, it stood as proof that wrestlings grit, energy and competitive fire continue to be its biggest stars. Article Source: IANS
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed surprise regarding any potential merger talks between NCP factions, stating Ajit Pawar always confided in him. This follows Sharad Pawar's claim that Ajit Pawar had set February 12 for a merger announcement. Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra Pawar, was recently sworn in as Deputy CM.
Visibility drops, experts say smog to stay for some days
Himanta Biswa Sarma says, `15 Bangladeshis pushed back from Assam`
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said 15 Bangladeshi immigrants were pushed back across the border as part of the states ongoing crackdown on illegal migration. He reaffirmed the governments commitment to act firmly against infiltrators
Not appointed as NCP president, says Praful Patel
Praful Patel has denied media reports naming him Nationalist Congress Party National President. He stated such decisions require consultation with senior leadership and party members. Union Minister Piyush Goyal also retracted his earlier statements based on incorrect information. Maharashtra NCP president Sunil Tatkare confirmed due procedure will be followed.
Union Budget 2026: Smartphones get cheaper, cigarettes and alcohol to cost more
Smartphones and sports equipment may become cheaper, while cigarettes, alcohol, and futures and options trading will see higher costs, even as income tax slabs remain unchanged. The changes will come into effect from April 1
Union Budget 2026: FAQs, key numbers, and themes to watch
In her first Budget in 2019, Sitharaman replaced the decades-old leather briefcase with a traditional red bahi-khata, symbolising a shift in presentation style. Continuing the practice of recent years, the Union Budget 202627 will be paperless, marking the fifth consecutive digital Budget
Union Budget 2026: Whats getting costlier, whats getting cheaper for you
Union Budget 2026 brings changes affecting household expenses and consumer choices. Smartphones, sports goods, select drugs, and capital equipment may get cheaper, while alcohol, tobacco, and stock futures trading become costlier
'No Compromise': BJP Leader Tells Netflix To Reconsider AR Rahman Episode On Kapil Sharma Show
Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane, writing on X, said the composers comments had hurt the sentiments of India, history, and Hindu society.
Union Budget 2026: Defence allocation raised to Rs 7.8 lakh crore
Union Budget 2026 boosts Indias defence spending to Rs 7.8 lakh crore, a 15 per cent jump year-on-year. Capital outlay for military hardware rises 21.8 per cent, with duty waivers on aircraft raw materials to support Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Lack of tyre awareness behind fatal road accidents in Pune: Expert
Principal of IDTR said tyres are the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road, bearing the entire weight of the vehicle and playing a critical role in braking, stability and control
Union Budget 2026 highlights: Key announcements by FM Nirmala Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented Union Budget 2026, focusing on reforms, fiscal consolidation, high-speed rail corridors, rare earth and biopharma initiatives, and targeted tax relief for individuals and businesses
Interest on motor accident compensation exempt from income tax
In a major relief move, Union Budget 2026 exempts income tax on interest earned from motor accident compensation claims. The decision removes TDS, ensuring victims and families receive the full awarded amount without deductions
Govt extends Khelo India for 10 years, boosts sports manufacturing push
Union Budget 2026 extends the Khelo India Mission for 10 years and boosts funding for sports goods manufacturing. The move aims to strengthen infrastructure, nurture talent, generate jobs, and prepare India for global events like the 2036 Olympics
Fresh snowfall in higher reaches of South Kashmir, rains in plains
Parts of Kashmir received fresh snowfall in higher reaches and rain in the plains as night temperatures rose above freezing in Srinagar and other areas, while Gulmarg remained the coldest place. The weather department has forecast cloudy conditions with the possibility of light rain or snow over the next two days
Union Budget 2026: FM proposes extending revised ITR filing deadline to March 31
Presenting the Union Budget 2026 in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman said the time limit for submitting revised income tax returns would be extended from December 31 to March 31, subject to the payment of a nominal fee
Mumbai-Pune to Delhi-Varanasi: Union Budget maps seven high-speed rail corridors
Sitharaman said the proposals are driven by Yuvashakti and anchored in what she described as the governments three kartavyas, aimed at accelerating growth while maintaining reform momentum
Here`s what Finance Minister Sitharaman has proposed for the education sector
The Finance Minister announced the setting up of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years to promote innovation, scientific temper, and hands-on learning among students
Budget 2026: Govt proposes major overhaul of direct tax prosecution framework
The changes, announced as part of her speech on direct taxes, aim to decriminalise certain procedural non-compliances, reduce the severity of punishments, make penalties more proportionate, and ease the compliance burden on taxpayers
Budget 2026: No change in income tax slabs for salaried employees
The Finance Minister did not propose any revisions to Income Tax slabs or rates under either the old or new tax regime for FY 2026-27. The most important announcement for taxpayers is the rollout of the New Income Tax Act, 2025, which will replace the Income Tax Act, 1961, from April 1, 2026
Income Tax slabs after Budget 2026: What has changed?
While there is no revision in slabs, the Budget addresses several long-standing concerns of middle-class taxpayers through targeted relief measures, including a reduction in TCS rates and the introduction of new dividend-related deductions
Union Budget 2026: Rs 10,000 crore allocated to make India biopharma hub
Presenting the Budget in Parliament, Sitharaman said the initiative is aimed at creating a robust ecosystem for biopharma and biosimilars, strengthening domestic capabilities and boosting Indias global competitiveness in high-value pharmaceutical manufacturing
Union Budget 2026: New income tax law to come into force from April 1
Sitharaman said the new law will replace the six-decade-old Income Tax Act of 1961, with all changes announced in the current Budget being incorporated into the fresh legislation
Gaza civil defence says Israeli strikes kill 32 despite ongoing ceasefire
Israeli air strikes killed at least 32 people, including women and children, across Gaza on Saturday, according to the territorys civil defence agency. The attacks targeted residential buildings, shelters and a police station, despite a ceasefire entering its second phase earlier this month
Blast in Iran port city kills 1, injures 14 ahead of Hormuz naval drill
The blast happened a day before a planned naval drill by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all oil traded passes. The US military has warned Iran not to threaten its warships or commercial traffic in the strait, on which Bandar Abbas sits
US Embassy in India limits social media activity amid partial govt shutdown
The US Federal Government went into a partial shutdown early on Saturday (local time), hours after the US Senate met a last-minute deadline to approve a revised package of government-funding bills
Pakistan repatriates seven Indian prisoners via Attari-Wagah border
Earlier in January, India has repatriated a Pakistani national, allegedly imprisoned in India, via the Attari-Wagah border, Pakistan High Commission in India said
Earthquake of magnitude 3.0 strikes Bangladesh
As per the statement, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 20 km. The earthquake`s latitude was reported to be 24.85 North, and the longitude was reported to be 92.07 East
Nirmala Sitharaman delivers 84-minute speech in historic ninth Union Budget 2026
Despite the relatively shorter duration, Sitharaman continues to hold the distinction of delivering the longest Budget speech in Indian parliamentary history
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has cancelled his campaign for the upcoming Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. The elections, originally scheduled for February 5, will now take place on February 7, with counting on February 9.
UPI transactions surge 28 percent at 21.70 billion in Jan: NPCI
UPI transactions in January surged 28 percent year-on-year to 21.70 billion, with transaction value rising 21 percent to Rs 28.33 lakh crore. Daily transactions averaged 700 million, driven by strong growth in person-to-merchant payments and widespread QR adoption
Western Railway schedules five-hour fast line block, Mumbai commuters face disruptions
Mumbai commuters face disruptions Sunday as Western Railway schedules a five-hour block on fast lines between Churchgate and Mumbai Central for essential maintenance. Expect trains to reroute to slow lines, leading to some cancellations and short-terminations. Check station masters for a full list of affected services.
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for a shooting outside director Rohit Shetty's Mumbai residence, issuing a violent threat to Bollywood. This incident, mirroring past attacks, has prompted a large-scale police investigation and a review of security for industry figures. The gang warned of further escalation if their demands are not met.
Mumbai local services hit as Central Railway operates megablock
Central Railway's Mumbai division will implement a megablock on Sunday for essential engineering and maintenance work. The block will affect both the Main Line and Harbour Line, causing diversions and delays for suburban and mail/express services. Passengers are advised to note the timings and route changes.
FM raises outlays for electronics compenent production to Rs 40,000 cr
The second phase will focus on producing equipment and materials, developing full-stack Indian intellectual property, and enhancing the semiconductor ecosystem. Sitharaman also highlighted plans for industry-led research and training centres to develop advanced technology and a skilled workforce
Man detained from Pune for firing outside Rohit Shettys Juhu home
Police have detained a man from Pune in connection with a shooting outside film producer Rohit Shetty's Mumbai residence. Five rounds were fired early Sunday morning. The Lawrence Bishnoi group has claimed responsibility for the incident. No one was injured. Investigations are ongoing, and security has been increased.
Watch: Sunetra Pawar: From social work to Maharashtra Deputy CM
Sunetra Pawar, former Rajya Sabha MP and social activist from Baramati, has been named Maharashtras Deputy Chief Minister following Ajit Pawars death. Her rise reflects both her familys political legacy and her growing influence within the NCP and Maharashtra politics.
Cabinet approves Union Budget 2026 ahead of Parliament presentation
Following the Cabinets nod, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to table the Budget in the Lok Sabha, marking her ninth consecutive Budget presentationa record in itself
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis will present this years state budget
In a landmark moment for Maharashtra, Sunetra Pawar has been appointed as the state's first woman deputy chief minister, following the legacy of her late husband, Ajit Pawar. Curiously, her uncle, the veteran politician Sharad Pawar, was not made aware of this transition.
Malwani police have registered a case against the director of a de-addiction centre, his wife, and two others following allegations of rape against an underage girl. The victim, around 15, claims repeated sexual assaults by the director and molestation by two male staff members. Her complaint also states the director's wife offered no support when approached.
Delhi AQI stays `very poor` as IMD issues yellow alert for thunderstorms
According to the IMD, the rainfall marks the onset of an active weather phase, with thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and hail expected to impact several parts of north and central India over the course of the day
Ahead of Union Budget 2026, Nirmala Sitharaman meets President Droupadi Murmu
Ahead of the crucial address, Sitharaman was seen carrying her now-familiar digital bahi-khataa tablet wrapped in a red cloth embossed with the national emblemcontinuing a tradition she has followed since moving away from the colonial-era briefcase
Nirmala Sitharaman creates history, to present 9th consecutive Union Budget
With the presentation of the Union Budget for 2026, Sitharaman becomes the first finance minister in independent India to deliver nine budgets in an unbroken sequence
Household LPG rates remain same, 19kg commercial LPG cylinder rise by Rs 49
Oil marketing companies have increased the price of 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders by Rs 49, effective February 1, impacting hotels, restaurants and other commercial users. In Delhi, the revised price stands at Rs 1,740.50. However, prices of 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinders remain unchanged, continuing relief for household consumers
Sunetra Pawar took oath without Sharad Pawars knowledge: NCP (SP)
Mumbai: NCP (SP) Maharashtra President Shashikant Shinde has claimed his party chief Sharad Pawar and other leaders had no prior knowledge about NCP leader Sunetra Pawars swearing-in as the states Deputy Chief Minister. He also said that after the recent civic elections in the state, a decision was made to pursue the unification of the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Will Novak Djokovic have enough LEFT in the tank?
After his marathon clash with Sinner, there will be many rooting for the Serb, but itll take another humongous effort to beat Alcaraz in a best of five sets encounter
Chhari-Dhand Bird Sanctuary becomes Gujarats fifth Ramsar site
An official release said more than 21 per cent of the countrys total wetland area is in Gujarat, the highest among all states. Gujarats wetlands are spread over approximately 3.5 million hectares, accounting for 17.8 per cent of the states total geographical area, it added
Hyderabad: Bike taxi driver dupes women of lakhs in digital arrests; held
The accused, identified as Jala Sai Ram Reddy, a resident of Telanganas Karimnagar district, was apprehended by the SR Nagar police following a complaint registered on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
Result of Didis corruption: Amit Shah attacks TMC over WOW! Momo fire
BJP demands an SC-monitored probe into West Bengal factory blaze, calls it man-made disaster; questions inaction by factory CEO, alleges close ties to CM saved him
Catherine OHara, Home Alone and Schitts Creek star, dies at 71
OHara died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, according to a statement from her agency, Creative Artists Agency. Further details were not immediately available
UK man steals GBP 28,000 from mother with dementia, spends it on Lego
Martyn Walker stole more than Rs 35,00,000 from his mother with dementia to pay for his Lego obsession; the Norwich Crown Court was informed that Walker had tried to help with managing his mothers finances after she was placed in a care facility in 2022.
Veteran mahjong players and teachers share their views on Bombays current craze for the game
Firing outside filmmaker Rohit Shettys Mumbai home; heavy police deployed
Shots were fired outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty's Mumbai residence early Sunday morning. Unidentified individuals discharged four rounds at the Juhu property, though no injuries were reported. Police and forensic teams are actively investigating the incident, with enhanced security now in place around the building.
From early Vedic times, the sun is also tied to humanity and death. Surya has two sons who frame the human condition
Uhm, Lobo Lobo, any reason why youre dressed with this coloured headgear?
Pressure mounts on CM to take up admin, legislative roles too
Supriya meets Ashatai before leaving for Delhi
Maharashtra's Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar faces ongoing legal scrutiny in the Rs 25,000 crore MSCB scam, with the ED objecting to a clean chit. She and Ajit Pawar were also investigated under Benami Properties law, with properties worth Rs 1,000 crore attached, though they later received relief. The scam involved rule violations in loan disbursements to cooperative sugar factories.
Baramati plane crash: Cracks appear in Pawar family again; NCP 'merger talks' on 'backburner'
Merger talks between the Ajit Pawar-led NCP and Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) have stalled following Sunetra Pawar's appointment as deputy CM. Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule's absence from the oath-taking ceremony highlights the deepening political divide within the family, despite earlier displays of unity.
HC Quashes CISF Candidates Disqualification Over Subtle Lisp
Thane Municipal Corporations former deputy mayor appointed as BJPs group head
Maharashtra: Illegal cough syrup, cash worth Rs 1.8 lakh seized, mobile repairman held
Maharashtra: Dispute over car deposit in Shilphata kills one, 3 held in 2 hours
Maharashtra: Borivli man gets 1-year imprisonment in Rs 30 lakh cheque bounce case
TMC MP Slams Shah For Attacking Didi
Rejecting Mr Shahs complaint of corruption, the Diamond Harbour TMC MP alleged, They talk about investigating corruption but we have seen examples of BJPs so-called fight against corruption, from Suvendu Adhikari here to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma to Narayan Rane in Maharashtra.
Maharashtra: Thane crime branch arrests 4 for theft, solving 18 inter-city burglary cases
Maharashtra: 2 men from Gujarat and 1 woman arrested for stabbing man to death
Charter operator VSR was benched by EU regulator before Ajit Pawar plane crash
European aviation safety regulators suspended Indian charter firm VSR Ventures' authorization over a year ago due to a serious safety finding. This followed the company's repeated failure to provide crucial documents concerning a September 2023 Learjet crash. Despite a recent fatal crash involving another VSR Learjet, the operator has not cooperated with safety investigations.
Maharashtra: Drugs worth Rs 6 lakh seized in Diva, three held
Infrastructure push to ease traffic congestion, says Maharashtras deputy CM Eknath Shinde
