parliament
Opposition to raise tariff issue in Parliament on Monday
Opposition parties plan to address the government's response to the US push for reciprocal tariffs in Parliament, along with concerns about population-based delimitation and the new language policy. The Congress questions whether Indian interests have been compromised in tariff negotiations, demanding clarity from Prime Minister Modi.
Congress leaders to meet on Monday to chalk out strategy for Parliament's Budget session
Senior Congress leaders will strategize for the upcoming Budget session of Parliament. Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi will attend the meeting to focus on key issues like the duplicate voter I-card issue and the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The Congress and opposition bloc INDIA intend to oppose the bill and highlight election irregularities.
Delimitation issue: DMK MPs resolve to raise matter in Parliament, to coordinate with other parties
DMK MPs resolve to address the population-based delimitation of Lok Sabha seats that adversely affects Tamil Nadu and other states, including Odisha and West Bengal. Under Chief Minister M K Stalin's leadership, they plan to raise the issue in Parliament and seek support from other affected states to ensure Tamil Nadu does not lose any Lok Sabha seats.
Take Parliament into confidence: Congress to PM on Trump's India cutting trade tariff claim
The Congress demanded PM Modi to clarify Trump's claim that India has agreed to lower trade tariffs. Opposition leader Jairam Ramesh raised concerns about the potential impact on Indian farmers and manufacturers, calling for transparency in Parliament. Trump asserted that India imposes massive tariffs, hindering US trade.
Budget session set for 'EPIC' showdown; budget, Waqf bill top priority for govt
Parliament's Budget session is resuming with an anticipated confrontation between the government and opposition over key issues like electoral roll manipulation and violence in Manipur. The government's priorities include passing the Waqf Amendment Bill and completing the budgetary process. Opposition parties plan to raise significant concerns including the handling of duplicate EPIC numbers.
World Leaders Conclave & Awards 2025: A premier global leadership summit in the UK Parliament, London
The World Leaders Conclave & Awards 2025, held at the UK Parliament, will gather global leaders to address critical challenges and foster solutions for sustainable development and international cooperation. Eminent speakers and networking opportunities will drive forward-thinking strategies and impactful global partnerships.
Engineer Rashid moves Delhi court seeking interim bail to attend Parliament
Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid has requested interim bail from a Delhi court to attend the upcoming Parliament session. The court has directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to submit its response by March 5. Rashid's regular bail application is still pending.
Delhi court asks NIA response after Engineer Rashid seeks to attend Parliament
A Delhi court asked the NIA to respond to Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid's plea to attend the upcoming Parliament session. Rashid, arrested in 2019 for a 2017 terror funding case, sought relief to fulfil his duties. A decision on his bail plea is pending, with the Budget session starting on March 10.
Govt bound by promise made in Parliament: Farooq Abdullah on J-K statehood restoration
Farooq Abdullah reiterated that the Indian government must restore Jammu and Kashmir's statehood as promised in Parliament. He also condemned rising crimes against women and advocated for their proactive role in society. Abdullah emphasized women's participation in governance and pledged to push for greater economic and social opportunities for them.
'Not a security threat': Engineer Rashid's tells Delhi court, seeks custody parole
Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid, currently jailed, has requested custody parole to attend the upcoming Parliament session, asserting that he poses no security threat. Rashid's counsel argued that his duty as an elected representative necessitates his presence in Parliament to represent his constituency. The court has scheduled a decision on March 7.
Centre wants to set 'Hindu-Muslim' narrative via Waqf amendments: Sena (UBT) MP
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant accuses the Centre of attempting to create a Hindu-Muslim narrative through amendments to the Waqf Act. He alleges the parliamentary panel, led by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, bypassed proper discussion and included RSS affiliates in hearings, raising concerns over the representation on the Waqf board.
Iran's parliament fires minister of economy over plummeting rial, mismanagement
Iran's parliament has impeached Economy Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati, resulting in his removal from office amid the crashing rial and mismanagement accusations. President Pezeshkian emphasized the battle with the West and called for unity. The rial's value has drastically dropped, exacerbated by sanctions and economic instability.
Opposition unites against PM Modi's plan to redefine constituencies
Opposition politicians in southern India protested Prime Minister Modi's plans to redraw constituencies based on the 2011 census, fearing northern states' dominance in parliament. They want the exercise based on 1971 population levels until 2056, to protect proportional representation and fair southern representation.
Congress will follow 'all democratic routes' to oppose Waqf bill, coordinate with INDIA allies: Ramesh
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh announced his party's opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, citing undemocratic processes and widespread political dissent. Coordinated efforts within the INDIA bloc will ensure resistance when Parliament reconvenes. Consultations among opposition leaders are underway to collectively challenge the bill, emphasizing its controversy and the flawed joint committee process.
Actor Vijay's TVK party criticises potential delimitation based on population
Actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam warns that Parliament's potential population-based delimitation post-2026 may unfairly reduce southern states' representation. They emphasize the necessity of balancing equal state representation and addressing immediate concerns like inflation, unemployment, and basic infrastructure needs.
Putin ally says UK will have to return Russia money that London has 'illegally' gifted to Ukraine
Russia's lower house speaker Vyacheslav Volodin claimed that Britain will have to return frozen Russian assets, which London had transferred to Ukraine to support its military. Volodin argued that this action violates international law and could permanently damage confidence in Britain's financial system.
CM Naidu bats for demographic dividend, says "India and Indians will be great" by population management
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is now supporting population growth, seeing it as beneficial for India's future. He believes managing India's demographic dividend will support the nation's growth. Naidu also suggested learning multiple languages for global opportunities. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin urged couples to have children immediately for better representation in Parliament.
Independence in focus in Greenland vote, with Donald Trump as backdrop
Greenland's legislative elections focus on independence from Denmark, influenced by recent US interest. Most parties support sovereignty but differ on timelines. Current government sees economic self-sufficiency as a prerequisite, while social issues like education, health, and economic development remain priorities for many residents.
"They want to create Hindia": Kamal Haasan slams Centre’s delimitation plan, says non-Hindi states will always suffer most
Kamal Haasan criticises the Union government's parliamentary constituency delimitation plan, arguing it could jeopardise India's federal structure and diversity. He voices concerns about penalising states that controlled population growth and warns against promoting a homogenised 'Hindia' vision, reiterating the importance of democracy and federalism.
Greenland's road to independence, explained
Independence has been the focus of campaigning ahead of Greenland's legislative elections Tuesday, a prospect foreseen by the Danish constitution with legislation already in place outlining how to make it happen. "The general understanding is that it would be possible to give away part of the country, or for Greenland to become independent, without a constitutional amendment and without changing the Danish constitution," Frederik Waage, a professor at the University of Southern Denmark, told AFP. Greenland's 2009 self-rule law, "establishes basically a road map for independence", he said.
Delimitation: What it means, why it's done, its history, and why Tamil Nadu is opposing it
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin suggests families have children early to maintain Tamil Nadu's influence in delimitation. Delimitation adjusts parliamentary constituencies based on population changes. Southern states worry they will lose representation due to lower population growth. Delimitation impacts political influence and economic contribution. The 2031 Census will guide the next delimitation exercise, shifting seat distribution.
'Give birth to a child immediately': Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin urges citizens to increase birth rate
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin encourages couples to have children soon to boost the state's representation in Parliament. This comes in response to the Centre's plans for constituency delimitation based on population. Stalin criticizes the NEP, delimitation, and Hindi imposition, urging all parties to attend a meeting on delimitation and defend the state's interests.
Lok Sabha delimitation: TN CM Stalin moots Joint Action Committee of MPs
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin suggested a Joint Action Committee with MPs and party members from southern states for Lok Sabha seat delimitation. He emphasized using the 1971 Census as the basis for any increase in Parliament seats and for delimitation from 2026 for 30 years.
Give details on removal, lowering disqualification of convicted politicians: SC to ECI
The Supreme Court has requested the Election Commission of India to provide details of instances where it has reduced or removed disqualification periods for convicted leaders under Section 11 of the Representation of People Act, 1951. The court aims to address concerns about the criminalisation of politics.
China says wars should not be fought, cannot be won; tones down ready to fight with US remark
China has toned down its stance on engaging in any type of conflict with the US, asserting that wars cannot be won. This comes amidst ongoing tensions over tariffs and strategic competition, as both nations gear up their military capabilities and rhetoric.
Thousands in Nepal want monarchy back as public frustration with politics grows
Thousands of supporters gathered in Kathmandu to demand the reinstatement of Nepal's monarchy and return of Hinduism as the state religion. Frustration with the republic and political instability has led to renewed support for former king Gyanendra Shah, despite his slim chances of returning to power.
BJP govt not comfortable with southern states: Karnataka minister
Karnataka Minister Sharan Prakash Patil voiced concerns over the proposed delimitation, demanding protection of southern states' parliamentary seats. He criticized the BJP for allegedly sidelining the south. An all-party meeting led by Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin opposed delimitation based on population, which threatens Tamil Nadu's representation.
China will increase loans to real estate projects on 'white lists', NDRC report says
China plans to increase loans to real estate projects under its "white lists" program, implementing measures to reduce debt risks and swap hidden debts.
DeepSeek's progress shows rise of China's AI companies, says Chinese official
DeepSeek's progress reflects the rise of Chinese companies in artificial intelligence, a spokesperson for China's parliament told media. Lou Qinjian, responding to a question on China's progress in AI, said what DeepSeek's young team had achieved was "commendable".
German defence boost but no debt brake reform in outgoing parliament, Merz ally says
Germany's outgoing parliament may still approve a special fund to enhance defence spending, but reforms to borrowing limits will be left to the new parliament. Election winner Friedrich Merz must navigate coalition talks while dealing with an obstructive parliament, potentially hindering Germany's military enhancement plans amidst tensions with the US, Russia, and China.
Insurance nomination does not override succession laws, says Karnataka HC; calls for clearer legislation
The Karnataka High Court has decided that insurance policy nominees do not have absolute rights over benefits if legal heirs stake a claim. The court emphasized that personal succession laws supersede nominations under the Insurance Act, with inheritance determined accordingly. The ruling follows a dispute involving a deceased man's insurance payout.
Tamil Nadu's all-party meeting requests PM Modi's assurance on delimitation based on 1971 census
An all-party meeting chaired by Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin unanimously opposed constituency delimitation based on the current population. The meeting highlighted the unfair impact on states like Tamil Nadu that have successfully implemented family planning. The resolution urged PM Modi to follow the 1971 census for the next 30 years.
PM Modi to underline SAGAR vision during his visit to Mauritius
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to reinforce the SAGAR vision during his visit to Mauritius for its National Day celebrations on March 12. The visit highlights India's commitment as a primary responder in the Indian Ocean Region, underlining strong defence ties and strategic partnerships.
Andhra Assembly Speaker rejects Jagan's demand for LoP status
Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker C Ayyannapatrudu rejected YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's demand for Leader of the Opposition status, citing the party's insufficient number of MLAs. He emphasized that the recognition follows constitutional provisions, requiring a minimum strength of 18 members.
NREGS may get extra funds to meet higher work demand
The finance ministry is considering releasing additional funds for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) to meet higher-than-expected demand in 2024-25. With 106% expenditure of the allocated ₹86,000 crore already, an increase will be deliberated in Parliament's supplementary demands for grants. The plan aims to manage funds without inflating overall fiscal spending.
"Drug menace in Kerala now becoming extremely serious": Shashi Tharoor calls for united effort to address the issue
Tharoor has proposed a multi-pronged approach to address the issue. He advocated for a "war on drugs" in Kerala, with a focus on consciousness-raising efforts that unite people across religions and political parties. The MP also appealed to the public to come forward and report instances of drug abuse.
Ukrainian MP Oleksandr Dubinsky demands Volodymyr Zelensky’s removal, citing ‘diplomatic failure’ with Donald Trump
Ukrainian MP Oleksandr Dubinsky has called for the impeachment of President Volodymyr Zelensky after a tense meeting at the White House with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Dubinsky criticised Zelensky for what he termed a “diplomatic failure” that resulted in Ukraine losing unconditional US support. He urged parliament to take action, citing foreign policy failures, leadership missteps in the war, and suppression of opposition. The call comes amid a resurgence of pro-Russian political figures in Ukraine, complicating the country’s political landscape.
ICAI submits suggestions to LS committee on new Income Tax Bill; proposes simplification
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) suggested simplifying the new Income-tax Bill to the Lok Sabha Select Committee. Suggestions include reducing sections from 536 to 436 and simplifying language to cut litigation. Additionally, ICAI expressed interest in participating in the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme to train youth in accounting and finance.
"Sword of delimitation hanging over our heads," MK Stalin warns of state losing Lok Sabha seats in delimitation
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin raised concerns about the upcoming 2026 delimitation of parliamentary constituencies, fearing it could reduce the state's representation due to its effective population control measures. He urges a fair approach, as southern states may lose out under the proposed system.
China shares waver, HK bounces as Beijing vows more support for consumption, AI
Among sector-specific policies, the government said it will support the application of large-scale AI models - marking the first time AI models were mentioned in the government work report - in what appeared to follow from the global fanfare over Chinese AI startup DeepSeek.
Centre opposes PIL seeking life ban on convicted politicians
The Centre has opposed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking a lifetime ban on convicted politicians, stating that such a disqualification falls within Parliament's domain. The government maintains that the existing six-year disqualification period after conviction is sufficient and constitutionally sound.
China maintains defence spending increase at 7.2%
China will increase its defence spending by 7.2% this year, maintaining the same growth rate as last year. This move comes amid economic challenges and geopolitical pressures including Taiwan and Ukraine. The total budget has more than doubled since 2013. Notably, this comes despite corruption scandals within the People's Liberation Army affecting high-ranking officials.
India's north-south divide over Modi's plan to redraw constituencies
India's southern states are opposing Prime Minister Modi's plan to redefine parliamentary constituencies based on population, fearing it will reduce their political representation. Southern states argue they are being penalized for population control efforts, while northern states with higher populations may gain influence. Despite assurances from the government, southern leaders remain skeptical and continue to protest.
Want Budget benefits? Gig workers must do this now
The Ministry of Labour and Employment has urged gig and platform workers to register on the e-Shram portal to access benefits announced in the Union Budget 2025-26. These include identity cards and healthcare coverage under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. A committee has been formed to suggest a framework for social security for gig workers.
China says it will increase support for AI, science and tech innovation
China announced plans to enhance support for AI model applications and foster technologies like biomanufacturing and quantum technology. The government aims to promote innovation by establishing national labs, supporting young scientists, and improving data systems, as outlined at the National People's Congress. The initiative highlights China's push towards technology self-reliance.
China says it will increase support for AI, science and tech innovation
The country wants to foster "industries of the future" including biomanufacturing, quantum technology, embodied AI and 6G technology, the report said. To do so, China plans to explore new models for national laboratories as well as give strong support and "important responsibilities" to young scientists and engineers.
Functioning of RERA disappointing, says Supreme Court
The Supreme Court of India has criticized the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) for its disappointing performance. Senior advocate K Parameshwar argued that the RERA Act has failed in implementation, suggesting that a single builder's project failure impacts the entire sector and urging the court to strengthen regulatory mechanisms.
Assault on Federalism: Tamil Nadu CM Stalin writes to 7 CMs for JAC meet on March 22
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin has announced a Joint Action Committee with political parties from multiple states to oppose the Centre's delimitation exercise, which he labels as an assault on federalism. He claims the initiative penalizes states excelling in population control and governance. A meeting is scheduled for March 22 in Chennai.
India will emerge as a world leader in AI: Union Minister Nishikant Dubey
Dubey was speaking to after a meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology at Parliament House Annexe here in Delhi, which he chaired as the Committee's Chairman, and was attended by officials from different ministries.
Banking sector must continue to innovate, lead amid changing global landscape: FM Nirmala Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the need for the banking sector to innovate and lead amidst a changing global landscape. She expressed confidence that SBI will embrace technology, sustainability, and inclusivity. Speaking at SBI's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, she highlighted SBI's evolution and its position as a market leader, catering to a large customer base and driving sustainable growth.
New Telecom Act to be fully implemented by June-July: DoT's Neeraj Mittal
India’s Telecommunications Act 2023, aimed at reforming the telecom framework, will be fully operational by mid-2024. The new law simplifies licensing for service providers, reduces entry barriers for new players, and includes provisions for satellite spectrum allocation and optimal use of radio waves.
Himachal govt in favour of reservation for women: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasised the state government’s support for women’s reservations at an International Women's Day event in Kangra District. He highlighted various initiatives, including increased reservations for women in police recruitment, amendments to land laws for daughters, and financial support programs for widowed women’s children.
Election Commission to resolve issue of duplicate EPIC numbers within three months
The Election Commission of India plans to resolve issues related to duplicate Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers within three months. This decision follows comprehensive technical discussions and aims to ensure each elector has a unique national EPIC number, addressing concerns raised by inconsistencies and alleged voter list manipulation.
PM Modi only interested in 'tareef', not concerned about tariffs: Jairam Ramesh's dig on 'US threat'
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh criticizes Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not addressing US President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariff threats. Ramesh accuses the External Affairs Minister of acting like a US spokesperson and emphasizes the need for a collective resolve to tackle this serious issue.
Parliament panel examining Income Tax Bill holds first meeting
The Finance Ministry briefed the members of a Select Committee on the new Income Tax Bill, which aims to simplify the six-decade-old Act and make it user-friendly. The Bill, introduced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, will replace terms like "assessment year" with "tax year". The 31-member committee, led by BJP MP Jay Panda, will report by the Monsoon session.
China hints at hiking defence budget; says peace can only be secured with strength
China indicates a possible increase in its defence budget to safeguard peace and sovereignty through strength. Last year, it increased its defence budget by 7.2 percent to about USD 232 billion, amid ongoing military modernisation efforts, including the construction of advanced naval ships and modern aircraft.
US anger mounts over global reach of EU’s ‘hostile’ ESG rules
Proposed revisions still affect US firms, leading to calls for diplomatic engagement and clarity, as companies navigate regulatory complexities.
US-Japan alliance unequal, Trump complains
In response, government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi said Friday that Japan trusts Washington to keep its obligation to the two countries' security treaty.
'What has Modi government agreed to?' Jairam Ramesh questions Centre on Trump's tariff statement
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh has questioned India's decision to reduce tariffs following Donald Trump's statement. With Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Washington, Ramesh is concerned about possible compromises affecting Indian farmers and manufacturers. This situation demands transparency from the Modi government, as it is seen as compromising national interests.
EC moves to eliminate voter list duplication in 2 months
The Election Commission is initiating a mission-mode exercise to remove duplicate EPIC numbers in voter databases within two months. Triggered by Trinamool Congress allegations, the EC will instruct state and UT Chief Electoral Officers to eliminate duplications and correct errors to ensure unique EPIC numbers are assigned to all electors.
Bharat fastest growing global economy in last decade: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted India's exponential economic growth in the last decade, making it the fastest growing global economy. He emphasized the country's infrastructure development, policy transparency, and accountable governance while also addressing the divisive political climate and urging for dialogue and parliamentary functioning.
What does Greenland's election mean for Trump and can US President buy it?
Greenland is heading to the polls on March 11 amid increased U.S. interest in the island, spurred by President Trump's recent remarks. While a majority of Greenlanders support independence from Denmark, they are concerned about potential economic impacts. The U.S. values Greenland for its strategic location and resources, whereas Denmark aims to strengthen ties and offers substantial subsidies.
Youth will now be able to write their CAPF exam in all languages in eighth schedule, including Tamil Nadu: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that under PM Narendra Modi’s vision, CAPF exams can now be written in all eighth schedule languages, including Tamil, aiming to strengthen mother tongues and provide equal opportunities. He also emphasized CISF’s vital role in India's progress and security.
Delhi govt to open Janaushadhi Kendras near hospitals, says CM Rekha Gupta
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced plans to expand the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendras across the city. Additionally, she highlighted issues faced by the business community and infrastructure challenges, vowing that the upcoming Delhi Budget 2025-26 will address these concerns and move closer to PM Narendra Modi's vision of Viksit Delhi.
Rich Indians scramble to apply for EB-5 Visa
Rich Indians are rushing for the EB-5 visa to secure US permanent residency amid uncertainties around President Trump's proposed $5 million Gold Card program. The EB-5 visa offers a more affordable and established pathway, creating a surge in applications before potential policy changes.
Electric mobility remains focus area for government: Ashwini Vaishnaw
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw laid the foundation stone for four manufacturing units at the Electronics Manufacturing Cluster in Telangana. This initiative aims to boost EV manufacturing and infrastructure. The companies involved, including Amara Raja, are set to invest Rs 10,574 crore, creating substantial employment opportunities and contributing to regional socio-economic development.
Third Eye: Tobacco spit in UP assembly, Women's Day fitness dose, and window bees
UP assembly Speaker, Satish Mahana, expressed anger at an MLA for spitting tobacco inside the House, identifying the culprit via CCTV. Additionally, the sports ministry is prioritizing fitness activities for Women's Day, including marathons and yoga sessions, under the 'Fitness ka dose, Aadha ghanta roz' initiative.
Big tech opposes YouTube exemption from Australia's ban on social media for children
YouTube stands to be exempted from the ban set to take effect by the end of the year as it is considered a key educational tool and is the only service allowed for children as part of a family account with parental supervision rights. But Meta said a young person with a YouTube account experiences the features outlined by the government to justify the ban, including algorithmic content recommendations, social interaction features and exposure to harmful content.
Russia wants migrants from new countries to help plug labour shortage, Interfax reports
Russia is considering attracting migrant workers from Asian countries like Myanmar to address labor shortages, according to Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov. This comes as unemployment hits a record low of 2.3%, and traditional sources of migrants from former Soviet republics are no longer sufficient.
Donald Trump’s Congress Speech: Date, time, and what to expect in the joint address
While formal addresses to Congress are usually carefully structured, Trump is known for his unscripted, free-flowing style, often shifting between topics.
PM Modi bats for Uttarakhand tourism, appeals to people to visit in winter
Prime Minister Narendra Modi promoted Uttarakhand's winter tourism, urging pilgrims, tourists, corporate professionals, and the film industry to visit the state during the winter season. He highlighted the potential benefits to the state's economy and announced several infrastructure projects, including ropeways for Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib.
Ladki Bahin Yojana: Eligible women beneficiaries to receive 8th, 9th instalments of Rs 3000 ahead of International Women's day
Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin Yojana will deposit pending instalments into the bank accounts of 2.52 crore eligible women by March 7, 2025. Women aged 21-65 who meet specific criteria will receive Rs 1,500 monthly, fostering economic independence and social security through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Iran's Khamenei slams 'bullying' after Trump threats
Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized US President Donald Trump's threat of military action if Iran refuses nuclear talks, calling it bullying. Khamenei stated the negotiations aimed at domination rather than solutions. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed no letter from Trump had been received. Iran, committed to the JCPOA, resumed uranium enrichment after US withdrew from the deal.
Singapore becomes more flexible on foreign workers; adds Bhutan to list of manpower supplying countries
Singapore is revising its work permit framework to better attract and retain skilled foreign workers, effective from mid-2024. Changes include adding Bhutan as a source country, removing employment length restrictions, and raising the maximum employment age while increasing the qualifying salaries for S Pass holders.
Maiya Samman Yojana: Rs 2,500 to be credited in only these women's accounts; check date and eligibility
The Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana provides financial assistance of Rs 2,500 per month to economically weaker women aged 18 to 50 years. Eligible beneficiaries must hold a ration card issued by the Jharkhand government, with funds directly transferred to their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.
"Spreading imaginary fear...": BJP to boycott all-party meeting called by CM Stalin to discuss delimitation issue
The Bharatiya Janata Party will boycott the all-party meeting convened by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK. Stalin on March 5 to discuss the proposed delimitation's impact on Tamil Nadu, the State BJP chief K Annamalai informed the Chief Minister in a letter to him on Saturday.
'Dhobi ka kutta': Shama Mohamed shares Kangana Ranaut's old tweet on Rohit Sharma, says #JustAsking
Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed faced backlash for calling Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma "fat" and "unimpressive." After deleting her tweet, she highlighted an old critical tweet from BJP MP Kangana Ranaut about Sharma. The controversy has sparked political debate, with BJP and Congress accusing each other of double standards regarding comments made by their members.
M K Stalin asks why Centre has not set up institution to teach Tamil in northern states
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin criticized the BJP-led Centre for Hindi imposition and questioned why there has been no establishment of institutions to teach Tamil or other South Indian languages in North India. He highlighted Mahatma Gandhi's vision for bilingual unity, noting the absence of a northern equivalent to the Dakshina Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha.
China studying countermeasures to US tariff threat
China is preparing countermeasures in response to the U.S. tariff threat set to take effect on Tuesday, according to state-backed Global Times. These countermeasures are expected to include both tariffs and non-tariff measures, with U.S. agricultural and food products likely to be targeted.
Tuhin Kanta Pandey takes over as Sebi chairman
Tuhin Kanta Pandey has been appointed as the eleventh chairman of Sebi. He takes over from Madhabi Puri Buch, whose tenure ended on Friday. Pandey emphasized the importance of trust, transparency, teamwork, and technology in maintaining Sebi’s robust market institution status. The Sebi chief expressed the aim to continue building the world’s best market institutions.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor backtracks on his stance on Kerala's industrial growth
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed disappointment over Kerala's start-up ecosystem, citing the shutdown of 42,000 MSMEs in nine years affecting over 1,03,764 workers. State Industries Minister P Rajeeve refuted these claims, stating the figures are baseless and presented Kerala's MSMEs survival rate as better than the national average.
Philip Morris weighs cigar sale amid smoke-free shift
Philip Morris International is considering a sale of its US cigar business, with hopes of fetching over $1 billion. This move aligns with their shift towards smoke-free products, with 40% of sales already originating from such products. The transition includes acquiring Zyn nicotine pouches and surpassing Marlboro with IQOS heated tobacco products.
Arvind Kejriwal to make Parliament debut? AAP's recent bypoll pick sets off the buzz; party clarifies
The Aam Aadmi Party has nominated Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora for the Ludhiana West assembly bypoll, sparking speculation that Arvind Kejriwal might return to the Upper House. Arora thanked the party for their faith in him. Kejriwal’s potential move to Punjab is being closely watched following AAP’s loss in Delhi.
EU emissions reprieve for carmakers may slow EV shift
The European Commission proposes to ease emission targets for automakers, granting them three years to meet the 2025 CO2 reduction goal. This move aims to safeguard profit margins and avoid fines amid struggling EV sales and Chinese competition, but may hinder Europe's climate progress and EV adoption.
PM Modi has forgotten his guarantee of cleaning Ganga, his govt only cheated Maa Ganga: Congress chief Kharge
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failing to fulfill his promise of cleaning the Ganga, highlighting the unspent funds and incomplete projects under the Namami Gange scheme. Kharge also pointed out significant pollution levels and operational failures in the sewage treatment plants.
100-Day TB Elimination Campaign: How ASHA workers fighting to rid tuberculosis of social stigma
ASHA workers like Ranjana Chaudhary are tackling social stigma about tuberculosis in India's rural regions through the 100-Day Intensified Campaign to Eliminate TB. The campaign has screened over 11 crore vulnerable individuals, with significant efforts from health workers, TB survivors, and government support to drive awareness and testing.
Out of your scope: Law ministry to parliamentary panel on ONOE on reverting to ballot papers
The joint parliamentary committee's mandate on simultaneous elections does not cover the suggestion to revert to ballot paper voting. The law ministry clarified that this is outside the committee's scope, emphasizing the focus on evaluating the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill.
Germany set for massive rearmament as divide with US widens
Germany plans to significantly increase defence spending with 100 billion euros annually, indicating its readiness to strengthen military capabilities and address EU security concerns. The move, led by likely next chancellor Friedrich Merz, marks a significant shift in Germany's fiscal policy and its role in European defence.
Ali Taqueer Sheikh case: Assam CM Sarma hints at bigger probe, possible Interpol involvement
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma indicated the probe into Pakistani national Ali Taqueer Sheikh's activities might involve Interpol. Sheikh is accused of anti-India activities and alleged links with Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's wife. The Special Investigation Team has found significant preliminary evidence.
US mulls plan to disrupt Iran's oil by halting vessels at sea
President Trump's administration is considering stopping and inspecting Iranian oil tankers at sea to disrupt oil exports and hinder Iran's nuclear capabilities. The plan aims to delay crude deliveries and impact Iran's revenue, leveraging international cooperation under the Proliferation Security Initiative.
China's Xi says economy 'faces numerous difficulties' ahead of major meeting
Chinese President Xi Jinping has admitted the country's economy still faces "numerous difficulties" in an article set to be published this week ahead of a major political meeting in Beijing, state media said Friday. "At present, the unfavourable impact of changes in the external environment has deepened, and China's economy still faces numerous difficulties and challenges," Xi wrote in an article in Qiushi.
DMK also responsible for 'wrong' of 1974, says Governor Ravi over travails of fishermen
Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi urges the state government to adopt a constructive approach regarding the fishermen's issue instead of politicizing it. He met protesting fishermen seeking the quick release of those arrested in Sri Lanka, blaming an insensitive 1974 agreement. Law Minister S Regupathy criticized Ravi, calling for the governor to take up the matter with PM Modi.
