Aadhaar Card

Need to change your name in EPF? No documents required for Aadhaar-linked UAN

EPFO has simplified updating member profiles for those with Aadhaar-validated UANs, eliminating the need for documents in many cases.

Govt allows Aadhaar-enabled face authentication in private entities' mobile apps

The government permits Aadhaar-enabled face authentication in private mobile apps, enhancing service access. A new Aadhaar Good Governance portal streamlines authentication approval following a January 2025 amendment. This change aims to improve transparency and inclusivity while easing access to services like healthcare, e-commerce, and education through the Aadhaar verification mechanism for both government and private entities.

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.

NEET 2025 application form correction: NTA to open window on March 9, check last date, how to edit and what can be edited

The NTA will open the correction window for NEET 2025 applications from March 9 to March 11, allowing candidates to edit specific fields and upload documents. Changes can include candidate category, exam medium, and qualification details, but fields like mobile number and email address are unalterable. No additional fee is required unless category changes affect the application fee.

Treating demographic details on Aadhaar cards as the final word is a recipe for trouble

Sixteen years after Aadhaar's launch, issues like the Perpetual Aadhaar Alignment Problem persist. Multiple spellings and data entry discrepancies create difficulties for people trying to match their Aadhaar information with other identity documents. The situation is particularly challenging for marginalized communities and schoolchildren in India.

Delhi CM approves Rs 2500 monthly aid in cabinet: How women can apply for it, documents required; check details

The BJP government in Delhi has approved the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana to provide Rs 2,500 monthly to economically weaker women aged 21-60. Announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on International Women's Day, the scheme has a budget of Rs 5100 crore.

Deadline to activate UAN for EPFO's ELI Scheme extended again; here is how to activate your UAN and avail benefits

The UAN activation and linking of bank account with Aadhaar is necessary to avail of benefits under the EPFO's Employment-Linked Incentive Scheme

Born to one, rejected by another: How a 4-month-old Mumbai baby lost both 'mothers' after being diagnosed HIV+

A four-month-old baby was abandoned after being illegally adopted using false identification in Mumbai. The baby, delivered using another woman's Aadhaar card, was later found HIV positive. The adoptive mother revealed the secret and abandoned the child. Authorities have charged both women under juvenile protection laws, highlighting the need for stricter adoption rules.

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).

Going abroad? How to handle your EPF when you move to another country

It is crucial to manage your EPF account before relocating abroad for work, as you can withdraw the balance immediately. The process includes submitting the appropriate forms, and retaining the account could be beneficial for temporary relocations. Additionally, some countries have Social Security Agreements with India to avoid dual contributions.

Babbar Khalsa International terrorist with ISI links held in UP, Punjab Police joint operation

An alleged Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist with links to Pakistan's ISI, Lajar Masih, was arrested in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh. Authorities recovered explosives, illegal arms, and other items from his possession. Masih had escaped from judicial custody in Punjab in September 2024.

KVS Admissions 2025 Starts: Check key dates, required documents, eligibility, how to apply for Class 1 and Balvatika

KVS Admissions 2025: Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan has started the admission process for the 2025-26 session. Applications for Class 1 and Balvatika open on March 7, 2025, and close on March 21, 2025. Higher class applications open on April 2, 2025, and close on April 11, 2025. The first list of selected candidates will be announced on April 17, 2025.

Not received PM Kisan 19th instalment? Get this money in your bank account after doing e-KYC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the 19th instalment of the PM Kisan Yojana. The PM-Kisan scheme provides Rs 6,000 annually in three installments. Farmers can now complete e-KYC via OTP, biometric, or face authentication methods. The process ensures transparency and prevents misuse.

Birth certificate now mandatory for these passport applicants

From October 1, 2023, individuals must provide birth certificates as proof of birth when applying for passports, according to the updated Passport (Amendment) Rules, 2025. Those born before this date can still use alternative documents. The change follows the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023.

India's digital economy to account for one-fifth of GDP by 2029: Report

India's digital economy is expanding at twice the pace of its overall economy and is set to comprise 20% of the GDP by 2029, as per a report by Prosus and ICRIER. India's ranking as the third most digitised nation highlights its successful adoption of technologies and digital infrastructures.

How to lock or unlock your biometrics using the Aadhaar portal

EPFO employees can now shift from National Pension System (NPS) to Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

The 112th meeting of the executive committee (EC) of the central board of trustees, EPF under labour and employment secretary Sumita Dawra on Tuesday formally adopted the unified pension scheme (UPS) for EPFO employees. The UPS is expected to ensure financial security post-retirement, offering a minimum guaranteed pension along with additional benefits such as family pension provisions and dearness relief adjustments, the ministry of labour and employment said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

Now get home loan interest certificate for tax saving via DigiLocker for loans from this bank

Indian Overseas Bank allows customers to obtain their home loan interest certificates online through DigiLocker, simplifying the process of accessing important financial documents. Check step by step process to download home loan certificate.

These PNB bank account holders won’t be able to operate savings accounts if they don’t do this soon

Punjab National Bank (PNB) has urged select account holders to update their "Know Your Customer" (KYC) information, in accordance with RBI norms. It asked them to complete the KYC before the specified date to ensure seamless account operations.

What is Aadhaar Mandatory Biometric Update, charges, where should it be done?

Abhishek Banerjee skips key TMC meeting on voter list issues, sparks speculation

Abhishek Banerjee's absence from the TMC's voter list verification meeting has sparked speculation about internal party dynamics. His cited reason was involvement in welfare activities in his constituency. Meanwhile, TMC leaders focused on addressing alleged BJP voter list manipulations, pushing for a 'Unique ID' for voter cards.

AI can supercharge India's digital stack: Ashwini Vaishnaw

The combination of AI and DPI could be a big win for India which already has the basic layer of AI within the DPI - that is quality and quantity of training data, he said in conversation with Rajesh Nambiar, president, Nasscom.

Rs 5,000 monthly stipend to Rs 6,000 grant: PM Internship Scheme 2025 registration ends next week

The PM Internship Scheme (PMIS) 2025 has begun accepting applications for its second round, providing opportunities for hands-on experience at top companies. Eligible candidates must apply by before last date, to gain industry skills, a monthly stipend, and insurance coverage.

India’s digital economy expanding at twice the speed of overall economy: report

Per the ‘State of India's Digital Economy (SIDE) 2025’ report, the digital economy will account for a fifth of the economy by 2029. India ranks as the third most digitised nation globally, after the US and China. Yet, among the G32 countries, India ranks 11th in AI research and 16th in AI infrastructure.

Is RBI's CBDC initiative just another digital mirage?

Launched by RBI in 2022, CBDC aimed to reduce India's reliance on the dollar and counter cryptocurrencies. Despite lackluster adoption, fintech companies like CRED and MobiKwik are introducing CBDC wallets, envisioning potential to challenge UPI giants like PhonePe and Google Pay.

EPFO retains 8.25% interest on PF deposits for 2024-25, benefiting 7 crore subscribers

EPFO retains the 8.25% interest rate on provident fund deposits for 2024-25, benefiting over 7 crore subscribers. The rate, previously raised from 8.15% in 2022-23, reflects an income increase. Subscribers can check EPF balances via the Umang app, EPFO portal, or missed call.

Indian Overseas Bank launches Aadhaar-based account opening, API banking services

Indian Overseas Bank has introduced Aadhaar-OTP based account opening and API Banking services to enhance customer experience on its 89th Foundation Day. These initiatives aim to provide simplified and secure banking solutions for both individuals and corporates, aligning with the bank's commitment to digital transformation.

Power of digital public infra could multiply 100 times if used with AI: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

Speaking at IT industry body nasscom's technology and leadership forum NTLF 2025 here, Vaishnaw said the government has already begun using the AI tools along with DPI (digital public infrastructure).

PM Modi releases 19th PM Kisan Samman Nidhi instalment; how to check beneficiary status, eligibility, eKYC process

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 19th instalment of PM-Kisan scheme for eligible beneficiaries. Under this scheme, each beneficiary gets an annual benefit of Rs 6,000, in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 every four months.

Top tech and startup stories this week

Welcome to a new edition of ETtech Unwrapped – our weekend newsletter packed with the most important stories this week. Let’s take a look.

India is pillar of certainty for Europe in increasingly uncertain world: EU chief Ursula von der Leyen

EU President Ursula von der Leyen lauds India's role as a "pillar of certainty" for Europe amid growing global uncertainties. She highlights the collaboration on digital technologies, AI, and security, emphasizing interoperability and the importance of India's competencies. The cooperation aims to enhance trade, technology, and defense, setting the stage for a successful summit hosted by India.

Digital currency wallets to be used for study loan subsidies

The government is collaborating with banks to implement a system for routing and settling interest subsidies on education loans through digital currency wallets. This initiative aims to integrate with the Unified Portal for Education Loan, enhance the efficiency of subsidy claims, and reduce fraud by using Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).

This bank introduces Aadhaar OTP-based account opening & API banking services

Indian Overseas Bank offers Aadhaar OTP-based online account opening and API banking for seamless transactions. Customers can open savings accounts with minimal paperwork and upgrade to full accounts through in-person verification.

Net formal jobs under EPFO up 2.5% in December to 1.60 million: Payroll data

As per the provisional EPFO payroll data, released by the ministry of labour and employment on Tuesday, December 2024 witnessed a month-on-month increase of 9.58% compared to 1.46 million formal jobs created in November 2024. Net new subscribers added to EPFO stood at 1.28 million in April, 1.35 million in May, 1.39 million in June, 1.61 million in July, 1.58 million in August, 1.88 million in September and 1.34 million in October 2024.

Cos get time till March 31 to register SIM dealers

The Department of Telecommunications has extended the deadline for mobile phone operators to register their agents until March 31, due to BSNL needing more time. This initiative aims to curb fraud and spam by ensuring only verified Point of Sale agents can issue SIM cards. From April 1, 2025, only verified agents will be allowed to enroll customers.

New SEBI rule: Revamped mutual fund and demat account nomination rules come into effect from today; things you need to know

SEBI nomination rules: Revamped nomination rules for mutual fund and demat account comes into effect from today i.e. March 1, 2025. These rules aim at improving the experience of investors and potentially solve legal succession related disputes. Experts say these rules can also help in legal heir and succession planning too if certain steps are taken. Read below to know more.

TMC accuses EC officials, BJP of conspiring to include names of outsiders in Bengal's voters' list

The Trinamool Congress accused Election Commission officials of conspiring with the BJP to include outsider names in West Bengal's voter list, benefiting the BJP. They claimed that officials are adding names without proper verification, especially in border areas, and demanded that the Centre address the issue.

PM Kisan 19th instalment: How to find next instalment date and beneficiary list online; check eligibility, eKYC process

Under the PM Kisan Yojana, an income support of Rs 6,000 per year in three equal instalments will be provided to all land holding farmer families. This is payable in three equal 4-monthly installments of Rs.2000/- each.

Money gaming companies flout rules, fish for more time

Real money gaming companies are struggling to comply with new Tamil Nadu regulations prohibiting minors and imposing 'blank hours.' They face technical challenges in swiftly implementing these laws. Some firms seek more time or are considering legal action, while potential criminal liability looms for non-compliance.

Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS) once again opens for applications: What is the monthly financial assistance, eligibility, last date to apply?

PMIS is an initiative by the Government of India to offer paid internship opportunities to young individuals in the country's top 500 companies. The scheme focuses on individuals aged 21 to 24 years who are currently not engaged in any full-time academic programme.

Market slump spooks startups; Blinkit gets a Rs 1,500-crore top-up

Happy Tuesday! The recent stock market downturn has sounded an alarm for IPO-bound new-age companies. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.

Deadline to activate UAN for EPFO's ELI scheme is February 15: How to activate UAN to avail ELI benefits

The deadline to activate the Universal Account Number (UAN) and link your bank account with Aadhaar for the EPFO's Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme is February 15, 2025. UAN activation enables access to EPFO's online services.

Simplifying Bitcoin Futures: How Pi42’s INR-Based Trading Model Benefits Indian Traders

Pi42 introduces INR-settled Bitcoin futures, simplifying the trading process for Indian investors and eliminating currency conversion hassles. This model offers tax efficiency, ease of use, and minimal compliance concerns, aiming to enhance the crypto trading experience and foster market adoption in India.

REET admit card 2025 released at reet2024.co.in: Step-by-step guide to download hall ticket pdf, and check exam details

The Board of Secondary Education Rajasthan has released the REET Admit Card 2025. Candidates for the Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teachers can download their hall tickets online. The exam is scheduled for February 27, 2025, in two shifts. Ensure to check all details on the admit card and carry a valid ID proof to the exam center.

Modi govt gave impetus to cooperative sector, made it marketable: Amit Shah

Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah highlighted the Centre's efforts to boost India's cooperative sector at the diamond jubilee of Janata Sahakari Bank in Pune. He emphasized the role of cooperatives in achieving PM Modi's vision of a developed India by 2047. Shah also announced new initiatives, including a cooperative university bill and enhancements for Urban Cooperative Banks.

Simplifying Bitcoin Futures: How Pi42’s INR-based trading model benefits Indian traders

“Our model simplifies the process. You deposit INR from your bank account, complete KYC, go long or short on futures, and withdraw profits or losses back into your bank account in INR. This makes the process very smooth. Prices are more or less aligned with international markets, minimizing slippage.”

The Naxal story: A shrinking red citadel, road to March 2026 deadline

In January 2024, the People Liberation Guerilla Army, led by Naxal commander Mandvi Hidma, attacked security forces trying to establish a forward operating base in Bijapur. Subsequent strategies and measures have been implemented to counter Naxal activities, significantly reducing their stronghold in the Bastar region.

How to book IPL ticket 2025 online and offline: Here is a complete guide

IPL tickets 2025: BCCI announced the schedule for the TATA IPL 2025, starting on March 22 and concluding on May 25. A total of 74 matches will be held across 13 venues. The opening match will be between KKR and RCB in Kolkata. Tickets can be booked online or offline. Details for the playoffs and key matches are provided.

IPL 2025: Match schedule, how to book tickets online and offline, and everything you need to know

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has released the schedule for IPL 2025, featuring 74 matches across 13 venues from March 22 to May 25. Fans can book tickets online through platforms like BookMyShow and Paytm. Opening match and final will be held in Kolkata, with multiple cities hosting exciting fixtures.

View: Apart from simplifying matters, the new Income-Tax Bill is a big step for the system to rewire itself

India's Income-Tax Bill 2025 introduces a simplified and transparent tax framework, aiming to ease business operations and reduce tax disputes. The bill emphasizes digital processes to enhance efficiency and compliance, building on the country's digital advancements in taxation and identification systems.

Tamil Nadu notifies e-gaming rules; to come into force immediately

Tamil Nadu released regulations for online real-money gaming, banning minors and requiring Aadhaar verification, playtime warnings, and deposit limits. Experts say enforcing state-specific rules is challenging, calling for a unified national framework.

KYC, Unlock Kar Diya Jaye: Customer ID verification framework is making life difficult for the poor

Poor people are facing increasingly more challenges due to stringent KYC norms, leading to many being unable to access their bank accounts. Urgent revisions to the KYC framework are necessary to prevent similar tragedies.

EPFO likely to fix 8.25% as interest rate for FY 2024-25: How to check EPF balance, interest for previous years

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) may revise the interest rate on provident fund deposits for 2024-25 to between 8% and 8.25%. Members can check their EPF balance through the Umang app, EPFO portal, missed call, or SMS.

MoSPI Secy bats for digitalisation & data innovation

Saurabh Garg, secretary of MoSPI, emphasized the need for digitalisation and e-governance to address rising public expectations and enhance data collection. He highlighted the integration challenges and opportunities of unique identifiers like GST and Aadhaar. Garg also noted the potential of alternative data sources and underscored India's new role in the United Nations Statistical Commission.

There should be no bias against Rohingya kids' education: SC

The Supreme Court stated there should be no discrimination against Rohingya immigrant children in education during a PIL hearing by NGO Rohingya Human Rights Initiative. The NGO seeks government benefits and school admissions without insisting on Aadhaar cards and irrespective of citizenship status. The court asked for residence details to consider relief for the refugees.

Disbursed Rs 2,026 cr to depositors of Sahara Group of Coop Societies so far: Shah tells Lok Sabha

Rs 2,025.75 crore has been disbursed to 11.61 lakh Sahara Group Cooperative Societies' depositors until January 28, 2023, through the CRCS-Sahara Refund Portal, Amit Shah said. Each depositor is receiving up to Rs 50,000 in their Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts, with a resubmission portal open from November 15, 2023, to address deficiencies in applications.

SC to hear on Feb 10 plea seeking access to public schools and hospitals to Rohingya refugees

The Supreme Court will hear an NGO's plea urging the Centre and Delhi government to grant Rohingya refugees access to public schools and hospitals. The NGO argues that the refugees, lacking Aadhaar cards, are being denied these services despite having UNHCR cards. The court has requested details on their settlement locations to understand the nature of relief needed.

7,000 individuals allowed entry into India from Myanmar border after FMR scrapped

Over 7,000 individuals have entered India after verification since the scrapping of the free movement regime along the India-Myanmar border. The decision followed escalating turmoil in Myanmar, ethnic strife in Manipur, and increased smuggling activities. India has identified 43 entry points, with 22 currently operational, and is enhancing border security with fencing and surveillance systems.

NBFCs seek easier terms for financing to tide over crunch

NBFCs urged the RBI governor to increase the ECB limit, ease regulations on alternative vehicle financing, and accelerate eKYC permissions. They also requested the ability to utilize SARFAESI for loans below ₹20 lakh and flagged issues affecting MFIs and green financing policies.

Deadline to activate UAN for EPFO's ELI Scheme extended to this date: Here is how to activate UAN to avail ELI benefits

The UAN activation and linking of bank accounts with Aadhaar is necessary to avail of benefits under the EPFO's Employment Linked Incentive Scheme.

Aadhaar amendment for private sector does not violate SC order: Ashwini Vaishnaw

The Aadhaar amendment allowing private entities to use UIDAI authentication is not against the Supreme Court's privacy ruling, according to IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. While some critics argue it re-legislates a struck-down law, the government insists data security measures prevent misuse.

Ladli Behan Yojana: Rs 1,250 of 21st instalment to be released today, announces MP chief minister

Madhya Pradesh: Transfer of funds to the accounts of beneficiaries of Ladli Behna Yojana, Social Security Pension and Kisan Kalyan Yojana in a program organized by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav in Sonkachh, District Dewas. Read below to know more about Ladli Behan Yojana and who is eligible for this money.

UPSC brings changes in online application process following complaints by civil services aspirants

The UPSC has implemented changes in its online application system for the 2025 civil services preliminary exam after candidates reported technical issues. Certain key fields in the one-time registration are now non-editable, while provisions for changing contact details under specific conditions have been introduced. The exam registration deadline has been extended to February 18, 2025.

These central govt pensioners will get a Fixed Medical Allowance: Know the eligibility and other rules to avail benefits

FMA is a monthly allowance given to retired central government pensioners to cover their outpatient medical expenses if they live in areas not covered by the Central Government Health Scheme

I-T dept to share data with Food Ministry to weed out ineligible PMGKAY beneficiaries

The income tax department will collaborate with the Food Ministry to eliminate ineligible beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. Data such as Aadhaar and PAN will be shared to verify income thresholds. The scheme offers free ration to the poor and has been extended for five years starting January 2024.

Are you working with Zomato, Blinkit as a gig worker? Know Budget 2025 proposals for your benefit; register on e-Shram

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in the 2025 Union Budget that the government will issue identity cards and facilitate e-Shram portal registration for 1 crore gig workers. They will receive healthcare benefits under PM Jan Arogya Yojana, offering Rs 5 lakh insurance cover per family annually. This initiative aims to provide social security to unorganized sector workers.

PM Kisan Samman Nidhi 19th instalment to be released soon: Check registration details, e-KYC modes, eligibility

The 19th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana will be disbursed by the end of February 2025. To receive the benefits, eligible farmers must complete the e-KYC process. The PM-Kisan scheme provides Rs. 6000 annually to beneficiaries in three installments.

Banks eye fintech turf; Sluggish year for edtech investments

Happy Wednesday! Banks are intensifying competition with fintechs in merchant payments and beyond. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.

Over 1.55 crore MGNREGS workers' names deleted between 2022-2024: Govt

The government informed Parliament that over 1.55 crore active workers have been removed from the MGNREGS between 2022 and 2024 due to reasons like fake, duplicate or incorrect job cards. An SOP has been issued to streamline the deletion process while ensuring transparency and protecting workers' rights. Aadhaar seeding of 99.47% of active workers was also completed.

Govt amends norms to restore Aadhaar verification process for private entities

The government has amended the Aadhaar Act, allowing private entities to use Aadhaar authentication for services upon approval. This move aims to enhance transparency, innovation, and access to services across various sectors like e-commerce, health, and travel, while ensuring voluntary participation.

Mahakumbh: Schools in Varanasi's urban areas to hold online classes for students up to class 8 till Saturday

Schools in Varanasi's urban areas are closed until Saturday due to a rise in the number of pilgrims amid the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Classes up to 8th grade will be conducted online. Government and aided schools will continue with administrative tasks and scheduled training. Teachers and staff are required to be present to oversee these activities.

Aadhaar authentication extended to private entities

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has extended the voluntary use of Aadhaar authentication to private sectors like e-commerce, travel, tourism, hospitality, and health. This amendment, under the Aadhaar Act, aims to enhance service delivery and ensure compliance with privacy standards, allowing both government and private entities to use Aadhaar for authentication purposes.

Maharashtra govt mandates fishermen leaving ports for fishing to carry QR-coded Aadhaar cards

Fishermen in Maharashtra must carry QR-coded Aadhaar cards before venturing into the sea, as per a new government directive aimed at boosting coastal security. Compliance with this order is necessary for the renewal of fishing licenses, and the registration numbers must be painted on fishing trawlers.

Govt to upgrade e-NAM platform to promote inter-state and inter-mandi trade: Chouhan in Rajya Sabha

The Centre is upgrading the e-NAM platform to include logistic service providers for better inter-state and inter-mandi trade efficiency. This enhancement aims to reduce logistical challenges, increase trading speed, and improve farmer incomes. As of December 2024, 1,410 mandis and 1.78 lakh farmers are linked to e-NAM.

Top startup and tech stories this week

Welcome to a new edition of ETtech Unwrapped – our weekend newsletter packed with the most important stories this week. Let’s take a look.

12 lakh ITR filers for FY2023-24 have not got tax refund despite income tax dept releasing it: Check how to fix issue

ITR filing: No tax refunds was paid to 12 lakh Income Tax Return (ITR) filers for AY 2024-25 despite 3.94 crore verified ITRs claiming tax refunds. Minister Pankaj Chaudhary said that the main reasons for pendency of tax refunds in these 12 lakh ITRs is because reply is awaited from taxpayers in respect of notices issued for defective ITRs and others. Read below to know how to fix defective ITRs.

Employee Provident Fund: How to delink wrong member ID linked to your UAN

Delhi Assembly Elections: Pakistani Hindu refugees use right to franchise for first time

186 Pakistani Hindu refugees, now Indian citizens under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, voted for the first time in the Delhi Assembly polls. Their struggles for identity and stability continue, but the experience instills hope for better living conditions and rights.

Delhi Elections 2025 voting: Voting time, schedule, and other key details for today

Delhi Elections 2025 voting: Delhi votes today, February 5, in the crucial 2025 Assembly elections. Polling begins at 8 AM and runs until 6 PM across 13,500 polling stations. Voters must carry valid ID for verification. With key parties in a heated contest, the results will shape the capital’s political landscape. Security has been heightened to ensure smooth voting.

Budget 2025: Export promotion mission, Bharat Trade Net in works to boost trade

India's BharatTradeNet aims to streamline trade documentation and financing by integrating key stakeholders into a unified digital platform. The Export Promotion Mission, with an outlay of ₹2,250 crore, will support MSMEs and facilitate export credit and cross-border factoring, aligning with international practices.

Revamped Central KYC system to be launched: Expected to ease KYC for investors

Central KYC: The government has announced that the central KYC registry is set to be revamped in 2025. Central KYC Records Registry said in an official communique dated October 17, 2024, “To enhance data security, the KYC Identifier shall now only be available to registered reporting entities (REs) when the KYC record is successfully downloaded from CKYCRR using an authentication factor

MGNREGS: 220.11 crore person days of employment generated so far in 2024-25

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) generated 220.11 crore person days of employment until January 10 in 2024-25, down from 389.1 crore in the pandemic year of 2020-21. The scheme has been enhanced with multiple efficiency reforms and converged with various initiatives to promote sustainable rural development.

Census, NPR unlikely in 2025 too as only Rs 574 crore allocated in budget

Union Budget 2025: With only Rs 574.80 crore allocated in the 2025-26 budget, the decadal census appears unlikely to be conducted in 2025. The entire census and National Population Register (NPR) exercise is expected to cost over Rs 12,000 crore, but remains postponed since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eco survey calls for Ease of Doing Business 2.0 but silent on GST 2.0, ending 'tax terrorism': Congress

The Congress criticizes the BJP-led Centre for the latest Economic Survey, highlighting its call for Ease of Doing Business 2.0 yet silence on GST reforms and public health issues. They also question reduced MGNREGA allocations and increased Chinese imports despite significant funds spent on projects like PLI.

Many foreigners submit wrong tax numbers to banks in India

Banks in India have found that many foreign nationals, including US citizens, have opened accounts using incorrect tax identification numbers (TINs). The tax office has alerted banks to these anomalies. To avoid non-compliance, Indian banks want regulations requiring foreign nationals to provide authentic documents verifying their TINs, as per FATCA and CRS standards.

UP man held for cyber fraud in Kerala's Kochi

According to police, the accused orchestrated the fraud by sending an APK file, disguised as an Aadhaar update request from a major bank, to the victim’s phone. When clicked, the file gave the accused access to the OTP sent by the bank. Using this, Giri allegedly stole Rs 10 lakh through multiple transactions.

SC orders cops to stop issuing pre-arrest notices through WhatsApp

The Supreme Court has mandated that police cannot issue pre-arrest notices via WhatsApp or other electronic means under Section 41A of the CrPC or Section 35 of the BNSS. Notices must be served through prescribed modes only. The court also considered aiding poor undertrial prisoners with verified Aadhaar cards for bail.

As China's DeepSeek disrupts Wall Street, can India turn the AI tide in its favour?

China's DeepSeek has emerged as a leading force in AI foundation models, delivering cutting-edge capabilities at lower costs. This progress marks a shift from China's traditional manufacturing role and highlights the need for countries like India to bolster their AI research and infra significantly.

DeepSeek's AI success has India staring at a big question - Can it catch up?

China emerges as a key player in AI foundation models with DeepSeek's advanced large language models. India, divided on its AI strategy, must enhance infrastructure, invest in R&D, and foster collaboration to compete globally. Emphasis on indigenous tech and commoditizing hardware is crucial for progress.

Sam Pitroda's comment on illegal migrants creates political stir

Chairman of Indian Overseas Congress, Sam Pitroda, sparked controversy by advocating for the inclusion of illegal migrants in India. Criticizing the government's focus on migration over pressing issues like global warming, Pitroda's remarks drew sharp reactions from BJP. They accused the Congress of historically supporting illegal settlement, further intensifying the political debate ahead of Delhi's Assembly elections.

Uttarakhand's UCC portal goes live in 23 languages – Here’s how to register

Uttarakhand has become the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), standardising personal laws across all communities. The government has launched the UCC portal to facilitate the registration process for residents, ensuring easy access to legal information on marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships. This initiative, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, is seen as a significant legal reform aimed at promoting equality and transparency in civil matters.

NRIs' expectations from Budget 2025: 9 changes that NRIs want in income tax rules

The simplification of ITR forms has been a welcome change for NRIs. However, e-verification of ITR form to successfully complete the filing process continues to pose certain challenges. Read our story to know more about the expectations among NRIs of changes in government policies.

Budget 2025-26: MSMEs’ digital integration is crucial to economic growth

The Union Budget 2025-2026 has the potential to drive India’s DPI into a new era of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. The government can make India a DPI leader by solving problems and encouraging innovation through public-private collaboration.

EPF members can now use Digilocker to submit Joint Declaration (JD) requests for profile related changes

The EPFO intends to increase processing speed and accuracy by lowering paperwork and facilitating digital submissions using Digilocker. The revised process will ensure that even members in special circumstances such as deceased members or members of closed establishments can finish their declarations in paper form.

Nagaland governor highlights progress on Naga political issue and entrepreneurship initiatives

Nagaland Governor La Ganesan on Sunday said the state government has spared no effort to resolve the decades-old Naga political issue

Saif's attacker entered India 7 months ago, used Bengal resident's Aadhaar card to get SIM: Police

A Bangladeshi national, Shariful Islam Shehzad Mohammad Rohilla Amin Fakir, was arrested for the knife attack on actor Saif Ali Khan. Fakir illegally entered India, used a West Bengal resident's Aadhaar card to procure a SIM card, and worked in Mumbai. He made several calls to Bangladesh before the incident.

Relief for EPF members: No documents required in new simplified process by EPFO to update these profile related details

EPF Members can update details such as name, date of birth, gender, nationality, father or mother's name, marital status, spouse's name, joining and departing dates, and date of birth, without having to upload any supporting documents.

BJP claims forms for Mahila Samman Yojna dumped with scrap dealer; false story, says AAP

The BJP accused AAP of disregarding privacy by dumping thousands of filled forms for the ‘Mahila Samman Yojna’ at a scrap dealer, exposing women’s personal data. AAP countered, stating BJP's allegations are unfounded and result from their inability to match Arvind Kejriwal's popularity.

No reason both India and China markets can’t shine at the same time; find Make in India, affluent India themes attractive: Timothy Moe

Timothy Moe from Goldman Sachs explains that investing in India and China is not an either-or choice, as both markets can rise for their own reasons. He highlights the role of domestic money in driving market rallies, suggests financials may face challenges, and touts India's growing entrepreneurial landscape and IT sector as growth opportunities.

5 major EPF changes in 2025: Easy PF transfer, joint declaration process, CPPS, pension for higher wages and more

5 major EPF changes in 2025: The Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has introduced key service updates. Here are the details of each of these changes, knowing which can help you in managing your EPF more effectively.