Chickens Neck used as intimidation tactic for decades: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
India plans underground railway tracks along a 40-km strategic corridor including the 'Chicken's Neck'. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated the narrow Siliguri corridor has been used for intimidation. The proposed rail link aims to create a secure transportation route connecting the Northeast with the rest of India. This initiative addresses a long-standing strategic vulnerability.
Indias Modi praised for US trade deal as opposition questions impact on agriculture
NEW DELHI, February 3, 2026 (AP) Indian lawmakers from the ruling coalition praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday for striking a deal with the U.S. that seeks to reduce tariffs on Indian goods, while the opposition raised questions on the impact on sensitive sectors such as agriculture. President Donald Trump on Monday announced he plans to reduce import tariff on India, six months after imposing steep taxes to punish New Delhi for its unabated purchase of Russian oil that he claimed helped fuel Moscows war machine against Ukraine. In a social media post, Trump said Modi has agreed
Rupee jumps 122 paise to close at 90.27 against US dollar on India-US trade deal
Mumbai, Feb 3 (PTI) The Indian rupee emerged as the best-performing Asian currency on Tuesday, registering a gain of 122 paise or 1.33 per cent in a single trading session to settle at 90.27 (provisional) against the US dollar, after India and the US agreed to a trade deal. Forex traders said the Indian rupee rose to the highest levels in two and a half weeks and rallied by around 1.5 pc on the trade deal between India and the US. Domestic indices also surged by around 2.75 per cent, boosting domestic market sentiments. Further, weakness in crude oil prices
The Chief Minister of Assam said the strategic vulnerability of the narrow strip of land should have been addressed in the aftermath of 1971
Rahul authenticates article on ex-army chiefs memoir on India-China conflict; LS impasse remains
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday authenticated a copy of an article in the Lok Sabha which cited former army chief M M Naravanes unpublished memoir but it failed to end the impasse over the matter, leading to a brief adjournment. With Gandhi insisting on raising the issue in the Lok Sabha, Chair Krishna Prasad Tenneti moved on to other Speakers and asked Harish Balayogi of the TDP, an NDA constituent, to speak on the Presidents address after three opposition MPs refused to speak, showing solidarity with Gandhi. As Balayogi spoke, opposition MPs
Bihar, Assam, Chhattisgarh lead the way in installing smart electricity meters: Govt in Rajya Sabha
February 8, 11am: Himanta Biswa Sarma Sets Date With Media To Expose Political Conspiracy
The Assam chief minister said oppositions government---whose only hope is Miya politics---would never be formed in the state
Assam to host IndiaKyrgyzstan joint military exercise this month
Indian and Kyrgyzstan special forces will conduct a joint military exercise in Assam from February 4 to 17. The 13th edition of Exercise Khanjar will focus on urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations. This exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense cooperation between the two nations. The event will be held at Misamari, Assam, further deepening the military partnership.
India-Bhutan Railway: KokrajharGelephu line to be completed in three years
Guwahati: Work on the proposed railway line connecting Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan is expected to be completed within three years once construction begins, senior Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) officials said, highlighting Assams relatively smooth progress compared with delays in West Bengal. Speaking at a press conference, NFR General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava [] The post India-Bhutan Railway: KokrajharGelephu line to be completed in three years appeared first on NorthEast Now .
India agrees to buy petroleum, defence goods, aircraft from US, official says
NEW DELHI, Feb 3 (Reuters) India has agreed to buy petroleum, defence goods, electronics, pharma and telecom products as well as aircraft from the U.S. under a trade deal, a government official told Reuters on Tuesday. U.S. President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with India on Monday that slashes U.S. tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from 50% in exchange for India halting Russian oil purchases and lowering trade barriers. Get the latest news from India and how it matters to the world with the Reuters India File newsletter. Sign up here. Trump said India agreed BUY AMERICAN
ChatGPT in classrooms. How should educators now assess student learning?
Calgary (Canada), Feb 3 (The Conversation) Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is now a reality in higher education, with students and professors integrating chatbots into teaching, learning and assessment. But this isnt just a technical shift; its reshaping how students and educators learn and evaluate knowledge. Our recent qualitative study with 28 educators across Canadian universities and colleges from librarians to engineering professors suggests that we have entered a watershed moment in education. We must grapple with the question: What exactly should be assessed when human cognition can be augmented or simulated by an algorithm? Research about AI and
Railways allocates 11,486 crore for Assam and Northeast in 2026-27
About 1,900 km of new tracks have been laid, while five NE states are fully electrified and Assam has achieved 98 per cent electrification, with 2,839 km electrified across the region: Railways
Congress asks govt to take Parliament into confidence on US, EU trade deals
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) The Congress on Tuesday demanded that the Modi government should take Parliament into confidence and the text of both the EU and US trade deals must be laid on the table of both Houses and debated. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said that from the information President Donald Trump has provided, it is abundantly clear that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completely surrendered. He said that almost exactly a year ago, Prime Minister Modi landed at the White House to greet President Trump on his re-election. His trademark huglomacy was on full display.
Stock markets cheer India-US trade deal: Sensex jumps over 5 pc; Nifty nears all-time high
Mumbai, Feb 3 (PTI) Stock market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty surged in early trading session on Tuesday after India and the US agreed to a trade deal under which Washington will bring down the reciprocal tariff on Indian goods to 18 per cent from current 25 per cent. The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 3,656.74 points to 85,323.20 in opening trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty surged 1,219.65 points to 26,308.05. Later, both the benchmark indices further extended their winning momentum. The BSE benchmark zoomed 4,205.27 points or 5.14 per cent to 85,871.73. The Nifty jumped 1,252.8 points or 4.99 per
Trump plans to lower tariffs on Indian goods to 18% after India agreed to stop buying Russian oil
WASHINGTON, February 3, 2026 (AP) President Donald Trump said Monday that he plans to lower tariffs on goods from India to 18%, from 25%, after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil. The move comes after months of Trump pressing India to cut its reliance on cheap Russian crude. India has taken advantage of reduced Russian oil prices as much of the world has sought to isolate Moscow for its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Trump said that India would also start to reduce its import taxes on U.S. goods to zero and buy $500
India plans 40 km of underground railway tracks along the strategic Chicken's Neck corridor connecting West Bengal and the Northeast. This development comes amid concerns over Chinese involvement in a WWII airbase near the Indian border. The government has allocated a record Rs 11,486 crore for railway projects in Assam and the Northeast.
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind moves SC against Assam CMs Miya remarks
New Delhi: The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has moved the Supreme Court against some recent public remarks made by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, terming them communal, deeply divisive, and contrary to the spirit of the Constitution. The plea filed by Maulana Mahmood Madani, President, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, through senior advocate M R Shamshad, urged the court to 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 .
Cong-Raijor Dal understanding not genuine : Himanta
GUWAHATI, Feb 2: Amid political speculation overa possible understanding between the Opposition Congress and Raijor Dal ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has dismissed the proposition as an emergency political arrangement as opposed to a genuine alliance. Addressing the media, Sarma alleged that Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi is reaching []
Silver slides for 3rd straight day to Rs 2.6 lakh/kg; gold drops to Rs 1.52 lakh/10g
New Delhi, Feb 2 (PTI) Silver prices extended its steep fall for the third straight day, tumbling Rs 52,000 to Rs 2.60 lakh per kg in the national capital on Monday, while gold fell to Rs 1.52 lakh per 10 grams amid weak global trends and a firm US dollar. According to the All India Sarafa Association, the white metal nosedived Rs 52,000, or nearly 17 per cent, to Rs 2,60,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes). On Saturday, the metal tanked 19 per cent, or Rs 72,500, to Rs 3.12 lakh per kilogram. In the last three sessions, silver
Not being allowed to quote from ex-army chiefs book as it indicts PM, defence minister: Rahul Gandhi
New Delhi, Feb 2 (PTI) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday claimed that he was not being allowed to quote from former army chief M M Naravanes unpublished book in the Lok Sabha because it indicts Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for letting down the army during the 2020 conflict with China. Speaking to reporters in the Parliament House complex here, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha said the government is afraid of a line that he wants to quote from the former army chiefs book and asserted that he would state it
The Union Railways has launched the option days after a row erupted over no non-vegetarian meal option in the new Vande Bharat sleeper train running from Bengal to Assam.
White-collar hiring up 3 pc in Jan driven by non-IT sectors, fresher recruitment: Report
Mumbai, Feb 2 (PTI) Indias white-collar hiring began with a steady foot with a 3 per cent year-on-year increase in January mainly driven by non-IT sectors and fresher hiring, a report said on Monday. White-collar hiring began 2026 on a steady footing, with the Naukri JobSpeak Index witnessing 2,637 points in January a 3 per cent YoY rise from 2,550 points in January 2025 Naukri said in a report. Non-IT sectors were the primary drivers of this growth, with BPO/ITES surging 21 per cent, hospitality/travel climbing 15 per cent, insurance advancing 7 per cent, and healthcare gaining 5
Wearing black, Mamata along with SIR-affected families meets CEC in Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 2 (PTI) Wearing black shawls as a mark of protest, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee along with some SIR-affected families and party leaders on Monday met Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar here. Last week, CEC Kumar had given time to Banerjee, who has been demanding a halt to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in poll-bound West Bengal, for a meeting on Monday. Banerjee, who reached the national capital on Sunday, was being accompanied by Trinamool Congress MPs Abhishek Banerjee and Kalyan Banerjee, who is also an advocate. Addressing reporters earlier in the day,
Gold futures rebound to Rs 1.48 lakh/10g after early slump; silver extends losses
New Delhi, Feb 2 (PTI) Gold prices recovered to Rs 1.48 lakh per 10 grams in futures trade on Monday after an early sharp fall that triggered the lower circuit level, while silver extended losses to witness heavy selling for the third consecutive day. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold futures for April delivery opened on a weak note and plunged Rs 10,688, or 7.2 per cent, to hit a low of Rs 1,37,065 per 10 grams during early trade. Later, the metal rebounded strongly, erasing all of its losses to trade higher by Rs 259, or 0.18 per
Etihad Guest , the award-winning loyalty programme of the UAE’s national carrier, Etihad Airways, today announced a new partnership with The Postcard Hotel , Asia’s acclaimed luxury hospitality brand. This marks a significant milestone for the programme as it expands its network of premium partners and embarks on a new chapter in redefining luxury travel. Etihad Guest’s new hotel partnership in South Asia underscores the airline’s deep commitment to the region and its discerning travellers. (L to R) Mr Anirudh Kandpal, Co-Founder and Senior Vice President, The Postcard Hotel, and Mr Mark Potter, Managing Director, Etihad Guest - celebrate the launch of the new partnership Through this collaboration, Etihad Guest members can now earn Miles each time they book and stay at any of The Postcard Hotel’s distinctive properties across India, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka - unlocking more rewarding ways to experience authentic, destination-led luxury. Etihad Guest members staying two or three nights at any Postcard property will earn 2,000 Miles, while those staying four nights or more will receive 4,000 Miles plus a complimentary night stay. The partnership brings together The Postcard Hotel’s signature brand of intimate luxury with Etihad Guest’s globally celebrated rewards programme, offering travellers meaningful and memorable journeys. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways , said, “ At Etihad our commitment has always been to deliver exceptional customer service and Etihad Guest stands as a testament to the same. Our connection with India and the region goes far beyond our network - it reflects a shared appreciation for culture, hospitality, and meaningful travel. We’re delighted to welcome The Postcard Hotel to Etihad Guest, expanding the breadth of the programme in the region. This collaboration is a strategic step in deepening our engagement with the Indian subcontinent, offering travellers distinctive experiences that celebrate the region’s richness while enhancing the value of being an Etihad Guest member .” Kapil Chopra, Founder and CEO of The Postcard Hotel, remarks, “ We are delighted to join hands with Etihad Airways, a brand whose ethos of excellence and guest-centric service mirrors our own. This alliance enables Etihad Guest members to immerse themselves in the world of The Postcard Hotel—where every moment is designed to transcend expectations and deliver authentic, unforgettable luxury and experience our award-winning hospitality .” Founded in 2018 by Kapil Chopra, with a team of experienced hoteliers, The Postcard Hotel has redefined modern Indian hospitality through its philosophy of intimate, immersive, and destination-led experiences. Each of its 11 properties across India, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka reflects the local culture and surroundings — from tranquil beaches to lush hillsides and heritage enclaves. Guests enjoy unparalleled flexibility, including anytime check-in and check-out, and breakfast served at leisure, ensuring a stay that feels personal and unhurried. Deepening Etihad’s Commitment to India This announcement further highlights Etihad’s ongoing investment in India — from strategic partnerships and sponsorships with Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai City FC, to locally inspired cuisine and Hindi-language digital experiences reaffirming its long-standing relationship with the Indian traveller. India remains one of Etihad’s most important markets, with more than two decades of operations and a rapidly expanding base of Etihad Guest members. The airline operates 185 flights per week to 11 Indian gateways, connecting travellers seamlessly between India, Abu Dhabi, and destinations across its global network. Etihad Guest continues to expand its global partner ecosystem, offering members the opportunity to earn and redeem Miles across an extensive network of travel and lifestyle brands . About Etihad Airways Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was formed in 2003 and quickly went on to become one of the world's leading airlines. From its home in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Together with Etihad's codeshare partners, Etihad's network offers access to hundreds of international destinations. In recent years, Etihad has received numerous awards for its superior service and products, cargo offering, loyalty programme and more. To learn more, visit etihad.com. About The Postcard Hotel Founded in December 2018 by Kapil Chopra along with accomplished hospitality leaders Akanksha Lamba, Anirudh Kandpal and Raman Bansal, The Postcard Hotel was born of a desire to re-imagine luxury travel through design, authenticity and service. With a portfolio of luxury resorts across Goa, Kochi, Gir (Gujarat), Leh (Ladakh), Durrung Tea Estate (Assam), Maravanthe Beach (Karnataka), Thimpu (Bhutan), Galle (Sri Lanka), and Chitwan (Nepal) and beyond, the brand is known for crafting intimate and immersive stays that reflect their surroundings and offer understated refinement. The Postcard Hotel is now opening a new luxury hotel every quarter, making it the fastest growing hotel brand in the world. In a recent triumph at the World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2025 in Hong Kong, The Postcard Hotel was named Asia’s Leading Boutique Hotel Brand 2025, with its distinctive properties across India collectively securing 11 prestigious awards—a testament to the brand’s growing leadership in luxury experiential hospitality.
A video has gone viral which shows Chief of Army staff General Upendra Dwivedi dancing with Assam Regiment soldiers on the iconic regimental song 'Badlu Ram ka Badan'. The light-hearted moment was captured during the 2026 Republic Day celebrations and the internet is loving the energy of General Upendra Dwivedi. The Army Chief not only encouraged the soldiers with the dance but also doubled their enthusiasm by joining in their traditional dance.
Traders in power in Assam, Centre marginalised Adivasis: Jharkhand CM
Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren alleged that those in power at the Centre and in Assam were traders and not politicians, and that they marginalised the tribal community and were focused only on extracting resources. In Assam, where elections are due in March-April, Soren claimed that tea tribes were marginalised despite their significant contribution 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 .
Himanta Biswa Sarma says he has no ambition to enter national politics for another five years
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will focus on state politics for the next five years. He stated his commitment to Assam's development and ensuring no infiltrators remain. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also emphasised this goal. Sarma expressed confidence in the BJP securing a third consecutive term.
Uttarakhand secure bonus point win vs Assam, join Bengal in QF
Dehradun, Feb 1: Uttarakhand thrashed Assam by an innings and 42 runs to clinch a bonus-point victory in their final league match here on Sunday and join Group C table-toppers Bengal in the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals. Bengal (36 points) had already secured their knockout berth and stayed unbeaten in the group, completing a commanding 188-run []
Assam government accused of letting corporate houses take over tribal lands
Political parties and social organisations in Dima Hasao district cite the allotment of more than 9,000 bighas of land for limestone mining to feed cement plants and a proposed mega hydropower project
Leaders from poll-bound Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu slam Union Budget, Assam CM welcomes it
While Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman did not make any big-ticket announcements for the poll-bound states in her Budget speech, there were proposals for high-speed rail links for Chennai, an ecologically-sustainable mountain trail at Podhigai Malai in the Western Ghats and a rare-earth minerals corridor in southern states.
Tea Board allocation rises 36% to 380 crore in Budget 2026-27
The Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana for tea worker welfare has been extended to FY27, targeting education and health interventions, especially for women and children in Assam and West Bengal
Indias budget boosts infrastructure spending while vowing fiscal discipline
NEW DELHI, February 1, 2026 (AP) Prime Minister Narendra Modis government presented its annual budget to Parliament on Sunday, focusing on sustaining the countrys economic growth despite volatile financial markets and trade uncertainty. In a speech introducing the budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the governments plans to boost investments in infrastructure and domestic manufacturing while sticking to fiscal prudence. The budget for the 2026-27 financial year, which starts April 1, comes as major economies grapple with high interest rates, geopolitical tensions and renewed protectionism that has weighed on global trade and capital flows. India has so far withstood
Muslim panel seeks suo motu action against Assam CM
Rupee fastest falling Asian currency, faith of investors shaken: Congs Amitabh Dubey
New Delhi, Feb 1 (PTI) Congress leader Amitabh Dubey on Sunday claimed the Budget was just a series of flashy announcements and alleged that the Modi governments policies had shaken investor confidence and led to a fall in the value of the rupee. One has to be sceptical of the announcements, given the governments past track record on implementation, he said. Dubey, the in charge of research and monitoring in the partys communications department, also slammed the government over the falling rupee and said there was a combination of reasons for it, one of them being that the faith of
Assam CM sticks to his Miya remarks
Referring to his earlier remark that if a Miya rickshaw-puller charges 5 as fare, he should be paid 4, CM Sarma said, I had, in fact, spoken for their benefit. If one goes by the law, they cannot work here.
Spoke for their benefit, claims Assam CM on controversial Miya remark
Goalpara (Assam): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday, February 1, said Miyas will face trouble as long as he remains in power, asserting that they should face persistent problems so that they leave the state. He maintained that as Miyas are illegal Bangladeshis, they should not be allowed to work in the state. 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 .
Ranji Trophy: Karnataka, Jharkhand, Andhra, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir Qualify For Quarter-finals
IS Bindra Stadium: Karnataka, Jharkhand, Andhra, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir sealed their places in the Ranji Trophy quarter-finals after getting favourable results on the last day of their seventh round league matches. At the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, Karnataka captain Devdutt Padikkal smashed an unbeaten 120 off 85 balls to steer his side to a stunning chase of 250 in just 27.5 overs against Punjab and clinch the last quarter-final spot. The left-hander, elevated to captaincy after Karnataka suffered a heavy defeat to Madhya Pradesh in the last game, aced the chase with a commanding knock and was supported by Mayank Agarwals brisk 53 off 36 balls. Saurashtra, who had beaten Chandigarh by an innings and 56 runs, looked set to hold the last quarter-final berth from Elite Group B after Madhya Pradesh sealed their spot. But their hopes hinged on Karnataka failing to win in Mohali. Padikkals emphatic knock ensured otherwise happened. Karnatakas bowlers had earlier restricted Punjab to 256 in the second innings, but the effort took 101 overs, leaving time a factor. Padikkal responded with urgency, racing to his first fifty in 42 balls and his second in just 32 deliveries, before sealing victory by hitting the winning runs. In terms of Elite Group A, Jharkhand, Andhra and Vidarbha were locked on 31 points at the top of Group A. But bonus point wins separated them, Jharkhand advancing with three, Andhra with two, while defending champions Vidarbha bowed out with only one against their name. Though Vidarbha beat Uttar Pradesh in Nagpur, they will miss the knockouts by a whisker and that means a new Ranji Trophy champion will be crowned this season. Vidarbha will be ruing the loss they had at the hands of Andhra, which ultimately proved to cause their downfall. In terms of Elite Group C, after Bengal beat Haryana to become table-toppers and enter the knockouts in Rohtak, Uttarakhand followed them into the quarter-finals after beating Assam by an innings and 42 runs. Mayank Mishra picked up 6-86 as Uttarakhand bowled out Assam for 278 after forcing them to follow-on. Captain Kunal Chandela's double-century in the first innings handed Uttarakhand the initiative early and they never let go of it in a dominating clash in Dehradun. In Elite Group D, with Mumbai forced to draw against Delhi, thanks to visitors skipper Ayush Doseja making an unbeaten 159, Jammu and Kashmir marked their progression into the knockouts as the second best side. J&K had taken a massive lead of 603 runs in the first innings against Himachal Pradesh, who were bowled out for 168 in the first innings and were in trouble at 26/2 in their second essay. But due to overnight rain, no play was possible on day four at the Amtar cricket ground in Nadaun. Ranji Trophy quarter-finals schedule to be held from February 6-10 Quarterfinal 1 Jharkhand versus Uttarakhand Quarterfinal 2 Madhya Pradesh versus Jammu & Kashmir Quarterfinal 1 Jharkhand versus Uttarakhand Also Read: Live Cricket Score Quarterfinal 4 Mumbai versus Karnataka Article Source: IANS
Scheme for Buddhist circuit in Northeast India announced in Budget
Union budget 2026-27- The Union Budget 2026-27 has proposed to launch a scheme for the development of Buddhist circuits in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura
Union Budget 2026: States, UT going to polls this year get benefits
The central government has ensured all poll-bound states receive a substantial share in the Union Budget 2026-2027 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday, February 1. This year, Assembly elections will be held in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and the Union Territory (UT) of Puducherry. Except for Assam, all other states are 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 .
Seems to have missed the ball: Tharoors cricketing analogy to slam Budget
New Delhi, Feb 1 (PTI) Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday used a cricketing analogy to express his disappointment with the Union Budget, saying Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman seems to have missed the ball. In an interview with PTI at the news agencys headquarters, Tharoor said Sitharamans Budget speech seemed to have lots of subheadings but very few specifics, and was completely short of an overall vision. As a Kerala MP, Tharoor said, he had nothing to be happy about in this Budget. Tharoor asserted that the biggest unanswered question remains jobs, noting that there was little in the
Reforms will boost tourism, healthcare, education: Northeastern states hail Union Budget 2026
The Union Budget 2026-27 is set to bring significant benefits to Assam and the Eastern region. It balances global ambitions with grassroots development. The budget emphasizes healthcare, education, and tourism. Initiatives like developing India as a medical tourism hub and establishing new secondary schools are highlighted. Tourism development, focusing on eco-sensitive models and digital documentation, is also a key aspect.
Budget 2026: FM plans Purvodaya tourism hubs, Buddhist Circuits in North-East
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed five new tourism destinations in the Purvodaya States, the launch of Buddhist Circuits across Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, and provision of 4,000 e-buses
Bengal not mentioned in Budget, govt sees us as Bangladeshis: Abhishek Banerjee
New Delhi, Feb 1 (PTI) Trinamool Congress National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Sunday accused the Centre of branding people of West Bengal as Bangladeshis and lambasted the finance minister for not mentioning the state in her Budget speech. Asked about the Budget, Banerjee said it has no solutions for any community, and called it a faceless, baseless and visionless Budget. The Budget speech was 85 minutes long 5,100 seconds Bengal was not even mentioned. Forget Bengal; farmer, youth there was nothing concrete for anyone. They talk about AI, Skill India, technological advancement; how would youth get employment,
India hands Apple a win by letting foreign firms fund equipment for manufacturers
NEW DELHI, Feb 1 (Reuters) Indias government on Sunday handed a major win to Apple by allowing foreign companies to freely provide machines to their contract manufacturers set up in certain areas for five years, without fearing any tax risk. Smartphone manufacturing is a key plank of Prime Minister Narendra Modis agenda, but Apple had been lobbying Indias government to modify its income tax laws to ensure the company is not taxed for ownership of high-end iPhone machinery it provides to its contract manufacturers. In India, unlike China, Apple was concerned that if it paid for machines for its
India budget tactical, not breakthrough, Moodys Ratings says
MUMBAI, Feb 1 (Reuters) Indias annual federal budget was tactical but not a breakthrough, Moodys Ratings said in its reaction to a government roadmap for the next financial year. Planned fiscal consolidation, which will bring the budget gap to 4.3% from 4.4% in the current year, will not change Indias credit profile, Christian de Guzman, senior vice president at Moodys Ratings, told Reuters. (Despite Indias) lengthening track record of deficit consolidation or fiscal discipline, this deficit is still wider than what it was prior to Covid, Guzman said. We havent seen the fiscal metrics improve sufficiently enough to actually
Budget 2026: Whats In It For Poll-Bound West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam And Kerala
Sitharaman unveils Budget 2026 with high-speed rail for Bengal and Tamil Nadu, Buddhist circuits for Assam, Rare Earth Corridors, and SME Growth Fund to boost poll-bound states.
India to borrow record 17.2 lakh crore rupees in fiscal year 2027
MUMBAI, Feb 1 (Reuters) Indias central government will borrow a record 17.2 lakh crore rupees ($187.6 billion) in fiscal year 202627, with the bond supply higher than most market estimates, the annual budget showed on Sunday. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a budget that makes a fresh bet on the local manufacturing sector in Asias third-biggest economy, pledging to accelerate growth amid a volatile global environment. The gross borrowing will be 17% higher than the current fiscal years 14.61 lakh crore rupees. The net borrowing will rise to 11.73 trillion rupees next fiscal from 11.33 lakh crore rupees for
4 from Assam found dead in Karnataka room - Times of India
4 from Assam found dead in Karnataka room Times of India
Toxic fumes? 4 Assam workers dead in Bengaluru; stove smoke filled sealed room
Four young security guards from Assam's Mising community were found dead in their Bengaluru room, suspected to be from carbon monoxide poisoning due to a stove. The incident occurred overnight after they closed their room while cooking. The Assam government is coordinating with Karnataka authorities to expedite the return of the bodies.
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.
4 Labourers From Assam Found Dead Near Bengaluru, Suffocation Suspected
They worked as warehouse loaders.
2 held in Rs 1.42-cr digital arrest scam
NT Reporter Panaji The Goa police have arrested two persons from Assam in connection with a Rs 1.42-crore digital arrest cyber fraud case. The accused Ashadul Islam (24) and Yasmina Ahmed (32), were traced to Nagaon district in Assam and arrested by a special team of the Crime Branch following an investigation, Crime Branch Superintendent []
Goa Police Arrest Two From Assam Over Rs 1.42-Crore 'Digital Arrest' Fraud
The Cyber Crime Police Station, Goa, has arrested two persons in connection with a major inter-state cyber fraud case involving a digital arrest scam worth Rs1.42 crore, police said on Saturday.
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi Joins Assam Regiment Soldiers In Traditional Dance | Watch
The soldiers danced to Badlu Ram Ka Badan, a popular regimental folk-style song often played during informal celebrations.
'I will file at least 100 cases': Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Harsh Mander's complaint
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced he will file over 100 cases against writer Harsh Mander. This comes after Mander filed a complaint against Sarma for alleged hate speech targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims. Sarma also accused Mander of damaging the NRC process in Assam. He stated he has sufficient material to pursue these cases against Mander.
Oil India was awarded nine blocks in the erstwhile round of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) which spanned across Assam Shelf basin, Mahanadi basin, Krishna Godavari basin and the Cambay basin
Assam CM dragging Supreme Court into his anti-Miya narrative: Gaurav Gogoi
The State Congress president and MP said that after he raised the issue of contempt of court, Himanta Biswa Sarma went quiet.
Sulibele Police have filed an Unnatural Death Report (UDR) and a probe is underway to see whether there was negligence on the part of the employer or contractor in providing unsafe accommodation to the workers
Migrant workers' death: Himanta to raise matter with Karnataka CM
Four migrant labourers from Assam were found dead at their rented accommodation in Sulibele area in Hoskote taluk in a suspected case of suffocation, police said
Ranji Trophy: Saurashtra Secure Huge Win Over Chandigarh, Bengal Beat Haryana
Ranji Trophy Elite Group: Saurashtra defeated Chandigarh by an innings and 56 runs in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B league match at the Cricket Stadium, Sector 16, on Saturday. With this win, Saurashtra pocketed seven points and strengthened their position in the group standings. Resuming their second innings at the overnight score of 31 for no loss on day three, Chandigarh were bowled out for 261 in 64 overs. Pace-bowling all-rounder Rajangad Bawa top-scored with 55, while Shivam Bhambri (48) and Vaibhav Narang (47) chipped in with useful contributions. For Saurashtra, Chirag Jani was the most successful bowler, returning figures of 4-78 in 13 overs. Dharmendrasinh Jadeja also picked four wickets while conceding 53 runs in 12 overs. Jaydev Unadkat and Chetan Sakariya chipped in with a wicket apiece. Earlier, Saurashtra had taken a commanding lead in the first innings, which proved to be decisive. Wicketkeeper-batter Harvik Desai, who played a crucial role in the teams dominance by hitting a dominating double century, was adjudged Player of the Match. The victory has lifted Saurashtra to the top of Group B temporarily with 7 points, though they may slip to second once the Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh game concludes in Indore. Karnataka, meanwhile, still have a chance to overtake them if they secure an outright win against Punjab, though fog interruption in Mohali has complicated the matter. In a Group C fixture at the Chaudhary Bansi Lal Stadium in Lahli, Bengal registered a comprehensive 188-run win over Haryana to qualify for the quarterfinals as an unbeaten side and table toppers. The victory has lifted Saurashtra to the top of Group B temporarily with 7 points, though they may slip to second once the Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh game concludes in Indore. Karnataka, meanwhile, still have a chance to overtake them if they secure an outright win against Punjab, though fog interruption in Mohali has complicated the matter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The defeat also marked Haryanas third straight home loss, leaving them vulnerable in second place. Uttarakhand, currently at third spot, are in command against Assam at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun and could displace Haryana depending on the final result. Article Source: IANS
Doing what CM asked us: Assam woman gives Rs 4 to rickshaw puller instead of Rs 20
Three days after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made a series of controversial statements targeting Miya voters, particularly him saying, If a rickshaw asks Rs 5 as fare, give them Rs 4, a video has emerged where a young woman hands over Rs 4 instead of Rs 20 to a rickshaw puller in 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 .
Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveils Rs 1,715 crore projects in Assam
The HM laid the foundation stone for the Rs 284 crore second legislative assembly complex and MLA hostel as a part of the governments efforts to establish Dibrugarh as the second administrative hub
BJP to fight Assam polls on twin planks of development, secure state
GUWAHATI, Jan 30 : In a bid to win the Assam Assembly elections for the third time in a row, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday advised the state BJP brass to fight on twin planks: development and a secure state. Shah, who wound up a two-day visit to Assam, held a nearly two-hour-long meeting with senior leaders of the BJP state unit at the party headquarters here, with a focus on discussing strategy for the state elections, expected [] The post BJP to fight Assam polls on twin planks of development, secure state appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
No infiltration in 10 years, expulsion drive in next 5, says Amit Shah in Assam
Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted no infiltration occurred during the past decade of BJP governance in Assam. He promised to detect and expel all infiltrators within the next five years. Shah highlighted the BJP's commitment to securing Assam from illegal entry. He urged voters to support the BJP for continued safety and development.
Opposition in Assam protests vote theft through SR; slams Himanta, BJP
Guwahati: The united opposition on Friday held a protest against alleged irregularities in the draft electoral rolls and vote theft through the Special Revision (SR) ahead of assembly elections in Assam. A large number of workers of several opposition parties gathered at Chachal in Guwahati and raised slogans against the BJP government, led by Chief 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 .
Amit Shah Sets Secure Assam Agenda In Guwahati Strategy Meet
In the 126-member Assam Assembly, the BJP now has 64 legislators, while its allies AGP, UPPL and BPF have nine, seven and three members, respectively.
Dibrugarhs resurgence underlines NE's transformation under PM Modi: Sarbananda Sonowal
Dibrugarh is set to become Assam's second capital with the foundation stone laying for several key infrastructure projects. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, along with Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects worth Rs 1,715 crore.
NHPC to begin commercial operation of 250 MW unit at Subansiri hydro project on Sunday
State-owned NHPC is set to commence commercial operations for the third 250 MW unit of its massive 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project on Sunday, February 1, 2026. This significant milestone marks another step forward for India's largest hydroelectric undertaking, a run-of-river project costing approximately Rs 27,000 crore and situated on the Arunachal Pradesh-Assam border.
Indias real-estate firm Confident Group founder C.J. Roy dies by suicide, local police said
Jan 30 (Reuters) C.J. Roy, the founder and chair of real-estate firm Confident Group, died by suicide in the southern city of Bengaluru on Friday, local police said. Roy shot himself and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, Bengaluru city police chief Seemanth Kumar Singh told the media in a briefing. Initial reports suggest that there was an ongoing tax raid, Singh said, without disclosing further details. Authorities were conducting income tax raids against the group in Bengaluru when Roy shot himself and was rushed to Narayana Hospital, several Indian media outlets said. Founded nearly two decades ago,
Assam To Rewrite History Textbooks, CM Himanta Sarma Questions Ahom Warrior's Role
Himanta Biswa Sarma has ordered Assam's Education Department to rewrite history textbooks, questioning Bagh Hazarika's role with Lachit Barphukan against the Mughals.
New Delhi, Jan 30 (PTI) Declaring the right to menstrual health as part of the right to life under the Constitution, the Supreme Court on Friday directed all states and Union Territories to provide free oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins to girl students and functional, gender-segregated toilets for all the students. In a landmark judgment to ensure gender justice and educational equity, a bench comprising Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan issued a slew of directions to all states and UTs to ensure that these facilities are provided in schools irrespective of whether they are government-run, aided or private. The verdict,
Gold plunges by Rs 14,000, silver by Rs 20,000 in a single day on profit-taking, stronger US dollar
New Delhi, Jan 30 (PTI) Gold prices tumbled by Rs 14,000 per 10 grams and silver prices tanked by Rs 20,000 per kg in the national capital on Friday as investors booked heavy profits amid weak global trends and a rebound in the US dollar. According to the marketmen, gold of 99.9 per cent purity plunged by Rs 14,000, or 7.65 per cent, to Rs 1,69,000 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes). The precious metal had hit an all-time high of Rs 1,83,000 per 10 grams on Thursday, after rising by Rs 12,000. Silver tumbled by Rs 20,000, or
Trump names former Federal Reserve official Warsh as the next Fed chair to replace Powell
WASHINGTON, January 30, 2026 (AP) President Donald Trump said Friday that he will nominate former Federal Reserve official Kevin Warsh to be the next chair of the Fed, a decision likely to result in sharp changes to the powerful agency that could bring it closer to the White House. Warsh would replace current chair Jerome Powell when his term expires in May. Trump chose Powell to lead the Fed in 2017 but this year has relentlessly assailed him for not cutting interest rates quickly enough. I have known Kevin for a long period of time, and have no doubt
Ranji Trophy: Akash, Shahbaz Pick Five Wickets Each, Put Bengal In Pole Position Against Haryana
At Maharaja Bir Bikram College: Pacer Akash Deep and left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed picked five wickets each to bowl out Haryana for 100 and put Bengal firmly in control of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group C match at the Chaudhary Bansi Lal Stadium in Lahli on Friday. Akash returned with figures of 5-40 off 15 uninterrupted overs, his seventh five-wicket haul in first-class cricket, while Shahbaz picked 5-42, also his seventh five-wicket haul in the format, as Haryana folded inside 32 overs. The duos efforts helped Bengal take a 93-run first-innings lead. In reply, Sudip Gharami (61) and Abhimanyu Easwaran (61 not out) stitched a 109-run stand for the second wicket to take Bengal to 155/3 in 41 overs at stumps on day two and extend the lead to 248 runs. At the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun, captain Kunal Chandela struck 207 off 297 balls - his maiden double century in first-class cricket as Uttarakhand declared at 460/7 in 120 overs against Assam. Mayank Mishra then picked three wickets to leave Assam struggling at 91/4 and trail Uttarakhand by 369 runs. The duos efforts helped Bengal take a 93-run first-innings lead. In reply, Sudip Gharami (61) and Abhimanyu Easwaran (61 not out) stitched a 109-run stand for the second wicket to take Bengal to 155/3 in 41 overs at stumps on day two and extend the lead to 248 runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score At Palam A Ground in New Delhi, Railways ended day two at 168/6 in 40.4 overs and trail Services, who made 343 in their first innings, by 175 runs. For Railways, Ravi Singh top-scored with 55 while Zubair Ali was unbeaten on 45, while Arjun Sharma was the standout bowler for Services with 3-45 in 11 overs. Article Source: IANS
WHO says Nipah virus risk low in India with no sign of spread
GENEVA, Jan 30 (Reuters) A World Health Organization official said on Friday that the risk of the spread of the Nipah virus is low, saying that none of the over 190 contacts of the two people infected in India had tested positive or developed symptoms of the disease. Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam are among the Asian locations that tightened airport screening checks this week to guard against such a spread after India confirmed infections. The risk on a national, regional and global level is considered low, Anais Legand, an official with WHOs Health Emergencies Programme, told
Rahul Gandhi strong voice against communalism: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 30 (PTI) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Friday lauded party leader Rahul Gandhi as a sincere person who was a strong voice on various issues like communalism in the country. Tharoor said that everyone likes Rahul as he constantly speaks against the politics of communalism, hatred and divisiveness in the country. I do not have a different opinion on that, the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram told reporters here. Tharoor also said that he had never agreed with any wrong comment against Rahul, saying he is a sincere leader. His remarks come a day after he met party president
Assam: Amit Shah unveils 825 cr development projects in Dibrugarh, promises to oust infiltrators
How a global 3D startup took shape far from Indias usual tech hubs
From a personal tragedy to global recognition, Harsha Pedekas 3D startup shows how innovation can emerge from Assam. Backed by state support and driven by emotion, his journey reflects the Northeasts growing place in Indias startup story.
Infosys Foundations Kala Dhwani art & culture fest in Bengaluru open till February 1
Infosys Foundation: Building on the success of its inaugural edition, Kala Dhwani 2026 includes experiences from five regions of India represented by Assam, Kerala, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, with Karnataka as the host state, Infosys said in a statement.
Rupee hits lowest-ever level of 92.02 against US dollar; ends with marginal gain
Mumbai, Jan 30 (PTI) The rupee on Friday hit its record low of 92.02 before ending a tad higher at 91.97 against the US dollar, amid a firm American currency and volatile geopolitical cues. Forex traders said sustained withdrawal of foreign funds and a negative trend in domestic equities weighed on investor sentiment. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 91.89 and gained ground, touching 91.82 against the greenback during intraday trade. The currency touched its lowest-ever level of 92.02 before ending the session at 91.97 against the dollar, registering a gain of just 2 paise form previous
Assam tea to reach Europe duty-free under EU-India FTA : Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the EU-India free trade agreement will allow Assam tea exports to Europe at zero tariff, boosting the states global trade. He praised tea garden workers for establishing Assams international tea identity, highlighted recent laws granting them land ownership, and criticized Congress for neglecting their welfare
Amit Shah unveils development projects worth Rs 1,715 crore in Assam
EU-India trade pact opens Europe to Assam tea at zero tariff: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the EU-India free trade agreement will allow Assam tea to reach European countries without tariffs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promoted Assam tea across the European bloc. The pact aims to boost tea exports. Shah thanked tea garden workers for their contribution to Assam's identity and economy.
Union home minister Amit Shah accused the Congress of altering Assam's demography, claiming infiltrator numbers rose significantly during their rule. He urged voters to elect the BJP for a third term to combat infiltration and protect the state's identity, highlighting the Mising community's role in this effort.
'Why northeast politically orphaned': Congress poses 10 questions to BJP on Assam
Congress leader Pawan Khera said Amit Shahs visit was a welcome step from a party that is known to ignore the sufferings of northeast
'Disrespected northeast by not wearing gamosa': Amit Shah blasts Rahul Gandhi in poll-bound Assam
Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized Rahul Gandhi for refusing to wear a gamosa presented by President Droupadi Murmu. Shah stated this showed disrespect to North East culture. He also accused the Congress of fueling conflict and using infiltration for vote bank politics. Shah asserted that the BJP government has stopped infiltration in Assam and will deport illegal immigrants.
'Why Is Assam Congress Silent': Amit Shah Targets Rahul Gandhi Over Gamucha Row
Amit Shah questioned why Congress remained silent when Rahul Gandhi did not wear the traditional gamucha at the Presidents Republic Day reception.
Guwahatis Narangi Station hosts massive career expo for ex-servicemen
Ex-servicemen found new career paths at a Guwahati job fair organized by DGR. Over 50 companies offered around 700 jobs. Meanwhile, Assam Petrochemicals Limited partnered with Deendayal Port Authority for a major e-methanol project in Gujarat. This initiative marks Assam's growing role in national projects.
