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.
Delhi High Court issues notice to NIA on MP Engineer Rashid's plea seeking permission to attend Parliament
The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the NIA regarding Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh's plea to attend the ongoing Parliament session. Rashid, accused in a terror case, earlier had his custodial parole plea rejected by a special NIA Court and now seeks interim bail or custody parole.
DMK MPs to oppose delimitation in Parliament
DMK MPs resolve to protect southern states' rights, focusing on delimitation and the imposition of Hindi. They aim to base delimitation on the 1971 census to avoid losing Lok Sabha seats. The meeting emphasizes collaboration with impacted states, rallying support to address these issues in Parliament.
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.
Parliament likely to see stormy session over Waqf Bill, delimitation & US tariff
The budget session of Parliament, resuming Monday, is expected to be contentious as the government aims to push through the budget process and the Waqf Amendment Bill amid opposition concerns over U.S. reciprocal tariffs and the political issues surrounding language and delimitation of constituencies.
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.
Govt seeks Parliament nod to spend Rs 51,463 cr extra in current fiscal
The government has requested Parliament's approval to spend an additional Rs 51,462.86 crore in the remaining financial year, with significant allocations for pensions and fertiliser subsidies. The overall gross additional expenditure is rs 6.78 lakh crore, with most of it being balanced by savings and receipts.
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.
Tongue out, chair in hand: Trudeau's bizarre exit from Parliament, netizens ask 'what's this circus?'
Justin Trudeau was seen leaving the Canadian Parliament with a chair on Monday in a hilarious way, which has gone viral on social media. The picture shows the outgoing Canadian Prime Minister holding a chair and walking out and his tongue sticking out. Netizens were quick enough to notice this.
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.
Delhi HC issues notice to NIA on plea of Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid seeking parole to attend Parliament sessions
The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) regarding Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh's request to attend the current Parliament session. Rashid, who is in judicial custody over a terror funding case, seeks temporary bail or parole. His previous request was denied by the special NIA Court.
Third Eye: Build-up for a longer 'Holi-day', Puzzled over balancing act, and Missing point
Parliament will take a holiday on March 13 for Holi celebrations, with an extra sitting on March 29 to compensate. Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu has confused party members by excluding certain loyalists from the MLC list, while TDP balanced seats among allies.
Parliament Budget Session: BJP MP Nishikant Dubey to present reports on Communications and IT in LS today
BJP MPs Nishikant Dubey and Anil Baluni will table reports on government actions regarding cable TV regulation, digital payment security, and data privacy. These reports pertain to previous recommendations by the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology. On Monday, opposition MPs staged a walkout during the Budget session over issues related to delimitation and the New Education Policy.
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.
Chinese parliament's annual meet ends amid rumours over missing Chairman, concerns over Trump tariff war
China's annual parliamentary meeting concluded with the notable absence of its chairman due to illness and economic concerns. Efforts to boost domestic consumption and the private sector were highlighted amidst a tense global environment marked by Trump's tariff war and Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The government is promoting consumer spending and private investments to tackle economic challenges.
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.
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.
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.
'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.
Oppn walks out of Rajya Sabha as chair refuses discussion on delimitation, EPIC issues
The Rajya Sabha witnessed a walkout by the Opposition after their notices to suspend business for discussing issues like duplicate voter IDs and delimitation were rejected. With the Chair dismissing the notices, parties like Congress, DMK, and Trinamool staged walkouts. The government expressed readiness to debate all matters and suggested the Opposition needs a refresher on parliamentary rules.
Only Tamil language in PM SHRI schools: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defends NEP and PM SHRI
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defends the National Education Policy and the three-language policy amid opposition from Tamil Nadu's DMK government. He emphasized no language imposition and accused DMK of dishonesty and politics at the students' expense. DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran denied any agreement to NEP, arguing against compulsory language learning, stressing optional Hindi learning.
Terror funding: Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid seeks custody parole in Delhi HC
Jammu and Kashmir MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, also known as Engineer Rashid, has sought custody parole to attend the ongoing Parliament session. Rashid, currently lodged in Tihar Jail and facing terror funding charges, previously received a two-day custody parole to attend the session in February.
India, US plan to negotiate trade pact, increase market access, cut duties: Govt to Parliament
India and the US plan to negotiate a multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement focusing on increasing market access, reducing import duty, non-tariff barriers, and enhancing supply chain integration. India aims to double two-way commerce to $500 billion by 2030 and continues to diversify trade baskets and export destinations.
Entire opposition wants discussion on voters list: Priyanka Gandhi
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi emphasized the urgency of addressing voter list manipulation ahead of elections, calling it dangerous for democracy. Rahul Gandhi also stressed the need for a detailed discussion in Parliament on the issue, following concerns raised by Trinamool Congress about identical EPIC numbers.
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.
Govt seeks House nod for extra ₹51,463 cr spending
The Indian government has sought parliamentary approval for an additional net expenditure of ₹51,463 crore for the current fiscal year, on top of a previous approval of ₹44,143 crore. Despite this, the fiscal deficit is expected to be contained at 4.8% of GDP due to higher nominal GDP estimates.
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.
No plan to create police district for Uri in J-K: Centre tells Parliament
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai stated that there is no plan to create a new police district for Uri in Jammu and Kashmir. He also mentioned that Lakshadweep has allowed accommodation to contract employees. Additionally, the Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025 was introduced, aiming to modernise and consolidate India's immigration laws.
NE budgetary grants see 153% rise compared to 2014-15: Shah
Union home minister Amit Shah announced a significant budgetary increase of 153% for the northeast since 2014-15. ₹90,000 crore has been allocated for road connectivity, including ₹41,000 crore for roads and ₹47,000 crore for rural roads, along with new air routes and railway infrastructure for all state capitals by 2027.
Chinese military seeks more civilian high-tech inputs in its modernisation as China makes strides in AI
Chinese military officials advocate for increased collaboration with the civilian sector, particularly in emerging technologies, to bolster the development of the armed forces. President Xi Jinping supports leveraging civilian resources to enhance military capabilities, highlighted by the rise in defence spending and the emphasis on AI developments like DeepSeek.
Made it habit to insult Tamil Nadu: DMK MP Kanimozhi slams Centre over NEP, Delimitation
DMK MP Kanimozhi criticized the Union Government for consistently insulting Tamil Nadu, highlighting recent derogatory remarks by the Education and Finance Ministers. Protesting the National Education Policy and its three-language formula, she accused the government of withholding funds meant for Tamil Nadu's children. Congress and RSP MPs also condemned the policy for being implemented without consulting state governments.
Budget Session: Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025 to be introduced in Lok Sabha
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025, set to be introduced in Lok Sabha, aims to modernize India's immigration laws. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will present the bill conferring powers to the government for passport and visa requirements. Additionally, the BJP will table reports on cable TV regulation and digital payment security.
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.
India steel minister says no decision on KIOCL, NMDC merger
The steel ministry had proposed a merger of the miners in January, but the divestment department informed that "there is no such decision" at present, Varma said.
Canadian PM Justin Trudeau’s bizarre exit from House of Commons: Tongue out, chair in hand goes viral; here's how netizens reacted and what he actually did
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was photographed leaving the House of Commons with a chair in hand and his tongue out playfully, after meeting with the new Liberal leader and prime minister-designate Mark Carney for a smooth transition of power. The picture went viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions from the public.
Duplicate voter card numbers a legacy issue: EC sources
The Election Commission (EC) has addressed concerns of duplicate voter ID card numbers, stating it's a legacy issue arising before the BJP-led NDA era. The EC commits to resolving such discrepancies within three months to ensure unique EPIC numbers for all voters, past and future.
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.
"Providing all assistance to support faster recovery of Manipur economy": Nirmala Sitharaman in Lok Sabha
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman assured Parliament of comprehensive assistance for Manipur's economic recovery amidst recent violence. The government has allocated Rs 1,861 crore for 2024-25, including Rs 500 crore in a contingency fund. Efforts to restore normalcy, recover looted arms, and provide relief to displaced persons are underway, alongside infrastructural and essential services support.
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.
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.
Russian lawmaker says any Ukraine deal will be on Moscow's terms, not Washington's
Konstantin Kosachev, a senior Russian lawmaker, stated that any ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine would need to be on Russia's terms. Kosachev emphasized that real agreements are shaped on the front lines, suggesting that Washington should understand this reality.
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.
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.
DPIIT recognises 1,61,150 entities as startups as of January: Government
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that of these, 28,511 entities have been recognised as startups in Maharashtra, while 16,954 are in Karnataka.
No peace in Manipur at gunpoint, urge PM to visit state: Gaurav Gogoi
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi criticized the Centre for failing to bring peace to Manipur, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the state and address people's concerns. Gogoi emphasized that a political solution, not a military one, was necessary.
Govt says cyber fraud cases jumped over four-fold in FY24, caused $20 million losses
Affordable data packs in the world's most populous country, starting as low as 11 rupees ($0.13) per hour, have increased internet access and created a $1 trillion mobile payments market for firms such as Paytm, Google Pay and Walmart-backed PhonePe.
Greenland election tests independence ambitions as US interest looms
Greenland is holding a crucial general election amid increased U.S. interest and geopolitical competition in the Arctic. U.S. President Trump has expressed willingness to invest billions if Greenland joins the U.S., intensifying debates over independence from Denmark, which currently supports Greenland's economy.
Prashant Kishor slams Bageshwar Baba for advocating 'Hindu Rashtra'
Prashant Kishor criticizes Acharya Dhirendra Shastri's call for India to be declared a 'Hindu Rashtra', emphasizing that the country's governance is based on the Constitution, not religious leaders. Kishor also censures BJP leaders for supporting such views and highlights the secular principles upheld by the Constitution.
There have been a few detections of Aflatoxin in rice consignments from India to EU
India has detected a few cases of Aflatoxin in rice exports to the EU, but continues to comply with the importing countries' requirements. Rice exports from India to the EU have surged significantly, with non-Basmati rice exports increasing by 500 per cent between 2019 and 2023.
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.
"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.
Trinamool raises duplicate voters' ID cards issue
Lok Sabha Trinamool Congress members raised concerns over duplicate voter IDs and irregularities with a call for electoral roll revision. BJP accused Trinamool of enrolling Bangladeshi Muslims and Rohingyas. Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge demanded Parliament debate. Trinamool plans to meet the chief election commissioner. The Election Commission identified duplicate EPIC numbers as an ongoing legacy issue.
Canada's Liberals will elect new leader to replace Trudeau as country deals with Trump's trade war
Canada's Liberal Party will announce a successor to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Sunday, with former central bank governor Mark Carney likely to be chosen. As the election approaches amid trade tensions with the U.S., Carney has gained endorsements due to his crisis management experience.
Opposition walks out of RS, Nadda says govt ready to discuss all issues
Opposition parties, led by Congress, walked out of the Rajya Sabha as their notices for urgent discussions were rejected. Union Minister J P Nadda criticized the walkout, calling it irresponsible and suggested the opposition should learn House rules for debates.
Repeat offenders beware: Three or more violations & you could lose your driving license in Delhi
Delhi may soon implement stricter traffic regulations, penalizing habitual traffic offenders with license cancellation. Approximately 178,000 lives are lost annually in road accidents in India, with many attributed to reckless driving. Stricter penalties aim to reduce road fatalities and enforce road discipline.
Third Eye: Speech continues nonetheless, have the cake and eat it too & warning for men in uniform
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh mistakenly referred to Trinamool member Sushmita Dev as Sushmita Sen, a former Miss Universe and actor, before correcting himself. Dev did not react and continued her speech. On prior instances, she has lightly remarked that she didn't mind this error, for which the Chair expressed regret.
No proposal to reintroduce quota for MPs in Kendriya Vidyalaya admissions: Pradhan tells Lok Sabha
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan confirmed in the Lok Sabha that there are no plans to reintroduce the quota for MPs in Kendriya Vidyalayas. The quota was removed in 2022 to maintain a healthy pupil-teacher ratio and achieve desired learning outcomes in alignment with the National Education Policy, 2020.
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.
An unexpected Donald Trump bump for the world's centrists
Global politics are being reshaped by President Trump’s policies, bolstering centrist leaders and destabilizing right-wing populists. Britain's Prime Minister Starmer has gained domestic approval through diplomatic efforts, while his rival Farage faces criticism. Similarly, Trump’s impact is felt in Canada, Germany, and beyond, where mainstream leaders are consolidating power against rising populist forces.
EU chief calls for defence 'surge', says 'time of illusions' over
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for a significant increase in European defence spending amid concerns over Russia and diminished US support. The Commission's plan aims to mobilise 800 billion euros for defence, with loans for European producers to boost industry capacity. Von der Leyen urges Europe to enhance its defence autonomy to ensure peace and unity.
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.
Lok Sabha debates Manipur budget; implement central schemes in a better way, urges MP
MP Alfred Kanngam S Arthur criticizes the poor implementation of central schemes in Manipur, highlighting unpaid dues under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. He urges ministers to visit the state to comprehend the ground realities, especially in the sectors of agrarian sustenance and infrastructure development.
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.
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.
Report says German military is ageing and shrinking as parties seek funding
Germany's military faces challenges with ageing personnel and falling numbers, despite increased defence spending. A new report highlights that significant funds have already been allocated, but equipment and infrastructure issues persist. Efforts to further boost spending face parliamentary resistance, complicating the path to strengthening the Bundeswehr.
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.
Govt committed to Tamil language...at times you have to be multilingual: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticizes the DMK government in Tamil Nadu over its rejection of the National Education Policy (NEP) and the three-language policy. He accuses the DMK of using language issues as a diversionary tactic and emphasizes the central government's commitment to multilingualism.
Dalai Lama says his successor to be born outside China
The Dalai Lama, in his new book, has announced that his successor will be born outside China, asserting the continuation of Tibetan leadership in the 'free world'. This decision challenges Beijing's claim that it will select the next Dalai Lama. He emphasizes the ongoing struggle for Tibetan freedom despite China's repressive rule.
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 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.
'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.
Only business mobility visas part of India-UK trade talks, House of Lords told
The UK government has clarified that only business mobility visas, not student visas, are being negotiated under the India-UK Free Trade Agreement. The focus is on concluding a high-quality deal that benefits both economies, amid calls for swift action to enhance the bilateral trading relationship.
To get past US tariffs, India to take FTA route; increased market access, lower duties on cards
India and the US are in negotiations for a mutually beneficial, multi-sector bilateral trade agreement focusing on market access, reducing import duties, and removing non-tariff barriers. Both countries aim to double their two-way trade to $500 billion by 2030, with the first part of the agreement expected by fall 2025.
Language debate: DMK MPs made Dharmendra Pradhan take back his words, says Stalin
Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin criticized Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan for his 'uncivilized' remarks. Stalin accused the BJP-led Centre of using the National Education Policy (NEP) to blackmail the state and vowed not to accept the policy despite monetary incentives.
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.
Congress holds strategy meet for 2nd half of Budget Session, to raise voter list 'manipulation' issue
Senior Congress leaders met to plan their strategy for the second part of the Budget session, focusing on voter list manipulation, opposing the National Education Policy 2020 and the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, and addressing economic issues like unemployment and price rise. Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and other key figures attended the meeting.
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.
Opposition members in RS accuse govt of forcibly thrusting NEP on states, impinging upon their autonomy
Opposition members in Rajya Sabha have accused the government of forcibly imposing the National Education Policy on states and withholding funds for educational programs. They criticized the centralization of education policies and the removal of important scientific topics from the curriculum, impacting state autonomy and educational development.
GST evasion of Rs 1.95 lakh crore detected by CGST officers during April-January
Central GST officers detected Rs 1.95 lakh crore tax evasion in 25,397 cases between April and January of the ongoing fiscal. The government has taken multiple measures to prevent tax evasion, including intelligence inputs and the 'Project Anveshan' for early identification of fraudulent activities.
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.
Canada's next prime minister Mark Carney has managed the financial crisis, Brexit and now Trump's trade war
Mark Carney, former head of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, will become Canada's next prime minister following a significant victory in the Liberal Party leadership election. Carney, succeeding Justin Trudeau, faces the challenge of addressing a looming trade war with the U.S. and potential federal elections.
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".
TikTok says to add screen time limits for teens in these countries
TikTok said Tuesday it would allow parents to limit the time their teens spend on the app as the Chinese-owned social network confronts political fallout from rising claims that excessive screen time is damaging adolescents' mental health. The feature, set for immediate launch in the EU with the US to follow later, allows parents to set time limits or establish time windows for being on TikTok, the company said in a statement on its website.
Greenland in the spotlight: Why Trump wants to gain control of the 4,000-year-old civilisation
U.S. President Trump seeks control over mineral-rich Greenland, a self-governing region of Denmark home to diverse Inuit populations. Greenland's growing geopolitical significance and resources could lead to economic growth and increased political autonomy, as global interest in Arctic assets rises.
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.
Odisha: Congress MLAs protest in assembly premises against 'rise' in crimes against women
Congress MLAs protested in Odisha against rising crimes against women. Congress leader Bhakta Charan Das emphasized government responsibility for women's safety. Meanwhile, BJD MP Sasmit Patra accused the BJP of trying to erase former CM Biju Patnaik's legacy, citing attempts to rename state awards and alter significant dates linked to him.
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.
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.
BJP leader George claims 400 girls lost to 'love jihad' in Kerala's Meenachil Taluk
BJP leader P C George, facing a hate speech case, advised Christians to marry off daughters by age 24, alleging 'love jihad' incidents in Meenachil Taluk. He criticized parents for delaying marriage, linking it to a loss of girls to 'love jihad'.
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.
Greenland's pro-business opposition wins election amid Trump control pledge
Greenland's pro-business opposition Demokraatit party has won the recent parliamentary elections, defeating the incumbent coalition. The vote focused on independence from Denmark, influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump's interest in the island. While Greenlanders largely support gradual independence, they reject Trump's proposal and prefer maintaining their current Nordic welfare system.
